The two main cruise ports in St. Martin

Cruise ships in St. Martin dock at two ports: Pointe Blanche in the Dutch side (Sint Maarten) and Port Zante in the French side (Saint-Martin). Most large cruise ships use Pointe Blanche because it has deeper water and more dock space. Smaller ships and some specialty lines use Port Zante, which is in the capital of Marigot.

Both ports are within walking distance of town centers, shops, and beaches. The choice of which port your ship uses depends on the cruise line's schedule and the ship's size, not on where you want to go — your cruise line assigns the port when you book.

Key Takeaways

  • Pointe Blanche (Dutch side) handles most large cruise ships and has the deepest water and most modern facilities.
  • Port Zante (French side) serves smaller ships and is located directly in Marigot, the French capital.
  • Both ports are within walking distance of town centers, beaches, and restaurants, so you can explore without a tour.
  • Your cruise line decides which port you dock at based on the ship's size and the line's schedule, not your preference.
  • Tender boats are used only when the port is too crowded to dock all ships at once, which is rare at these two ports.

Pointe Blanche: the main cruise port

Pointe Blanche is on the Dutch side of the island, about 1.5 miles south of Philipsburg, the main town. The port has three cruise ship berths and can handle ships up to 5,000 passengers. It opened in its current form in 2006 and is the busiest cruise port on the island.

From Pointe Blanche, you can walk to Philipsburg in about 20 to 30 minutes, or take a taxi for a few dollars. The port itself has a small shopping area, but most passengers head into town for restaurants, beaches, and duty-free shops. The beach at Great Bay is directly accessible from Philipsburg's waterfront.

Pointe Blanche is operated by the Port Authority of Sint Maarten and handles ships from Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Disney, Norwegian, and most other major lines. The port has customs and immigration facilities on-site, so you clear security before leaving the dock area.

Port Zante: the French side port

Port Zante is in Marigot, the capital of the French side, and is smaller than Pointe Blanche. It has two cruise ship berths and typically handles ships with 2,000 to 3,000 passengers, though some larger ships do dock there. The port is directly in the town center, so you step off the ship into Marigot's main street.

Port Zante is newer than Pointe Blanche — it was rebuilt after Hurricane Irma in 2017 — and has modern facilities including a shopping arcade and restaurant. Because it is in the town itself, you do not need transportation to explore. The waterfront market, French restaurants, and shops are all within a five-minute walk.

Port Zante is operated by the Collectivité de Saint-Martin (the French local government) and is used by some Carnival ships, Disney ships, and smaller cruise lines. The port has its own customs and immigration area, separate from the Dutch side.

What to expect when you arrive

When your ship pulls into either port, you will go through a brief security check before disembarking. This is standard at all cruise ports and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes after the ship is fully docked. You do not need to show your passport again if you are staying on the island for the day — your cruise card is your ID.

If you are leaving the port to explore the island, bring your cruise card and a form of ID (passport or driver's license). The island is small enough that you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a shuttle service. Many passengers straightforward walk into town from either port.

Both ports have ATMs, currency exchange, and phone services. The Dutch side uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder (though US dollars are widely accepted), and the French side uses the euro. Most shops and restaurants on both sides accept US dollars and credit cards.

Tender boats and crowding

A tender boat is a small ferry that moves passengers from the ship to shore when the port is too crowded to dock all ships at once. St. Martin rarely uses tenders because the two ports have enough berths for the typical number of ships visiting on any given day. However, during peak season (December through March) or when multiple large ships arrive simultaneously, tenders may be used.

If your ship uses a tender, the process adds 30 to 45 minutes to getting ashore. The ship will announce tender operations the night before or early in the morning. Tender tickets are distributed by deck or cabin number, and you board in groups. The tender ride itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

Getting around from the ports

From Pointe Blanche, taxis wait at the port exit. A ride to Philipsburg costs about $3 to $5 per person. You can also rent a car at the port — several rental companies have desks there — or book a shore excursion through your cruise line. Walking to Philipsburg is possible but takes 20 to 30 minutes in heat and humidity.

From Port Zante, you are already in Marigot, so walking is the easiest option. Taxis are available if you want to go to other parts of the French side or to the Dutch side. A taxi from Marigot to Philipsburg costs about $10 to $15 per person, depending on the driver and time of day.

Both sides of the island are connected by a main road, so you can visit both in one day if you want. The drive between Philipsburg and Marigot takes about 15 minutes by car or taxi.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk from the cruise port into town?

Yes, from both ports. Pointe Blanche is about 20 to 30 minutes' walk from Philipsburg. Port Zante is in Marigot itself, so you can walk directly into the town center. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you are visiting during the hot months.

Do I need my passport to leave the ship?

No, your cruise card is your ID for the day. Bring a form of ID (passport or driver's license) if you plan to go to restaurants or shops, but you do not need to carry your passport. If you are renting a car, bring your driver's license.

Which port is better for shopping and restaurants?

Both have good shopping and dining. Philipsburg (from Pointe Blanche) has more duty-free shops and a wider range of restaurants. Marigot (from Port Zante) has French restaurants and a more European feel. Marigot is more walkable since the port is in the town center.

What if my ship is too big to dock?

St. Martin's ports can handle most modern cruise ships. Pointe Blanche accommodates ships up to about 5,000 passengers. If your ship is larger, it may anchor offshore and use tender boats, but this is uncommon. Your cruise line will tell you in advance if tenders will be used.

Can I visit both the Dutch and French sides in one day?

Yes. The island is small, and the two sides are connected by a main road. A taxi between Philipsburg and Marigot costs $10 to $15 and takes about 15 minutes. Many passengers visit both sides during a single port day.