ST Martin/ST Maarten to St Barth- the best ways
St. Martin / Sint Maarten to St. Barts: The Best Ways to Get There
St. Barts is just 20 miles from St. Maarten/St. Martin. Whether you prefer a thrilling short flight, a budget-friendly ferry, a stylish yacht, or a helicopter transfer — here are all the options with honest times and costs.
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Option 1: Inter-Island Flight (Recommended for Most)
The standard transfer for most visitors. Propeller planes (8–19 seats) flying from Princess Juliana Airport (SXM) to Gustaf III Airport (SBH) — one of the world’s most dramatic landings. The approach dives over a hill before touching down on a short runway. Luggage limit: typically 10–15kg. Book in advance during peak season; flights fill fast. No connecting flights — this is the stand-alone inter-island shuttle.
Option 2: Ferry (Best Budget Option)
Catamaran ferries depart from Marigot Bay on the French side of Saint Martin to Gustavia Harbor. No luggage restrictions. Budget-friendly. Can be rough in choppy conditions — not recommended if you’re prone to seasickness. Schedules vary seasonally; check ahead. The arrival directly into Gustavia harbor is picturesque.
Take a taxi or rental car from SXM airport to Marigot Bay — allow 30–45 minutes depending on traffic. The French and Dutch sides of the island are connected, but Marigot is on the French side.
Option 3: Private Boat Charter (Most Scenic)
Charter a private speedboat or catamaran from Sint Maarten for the crossing. The 24-nautical-mile passage is one of the finest short crossings in the Caribbean — trade winds, Atlantic swells, and the volcanic silhouette of St. Barts appearing on the horizon. With a private charter you can stop at a snorkeling spot en route, time your arrival perfectly, and avoid luggage restrictions entirely. Browse private boat charter options for the crossing →
Option 4: Helicopter Transfer (Most Dramatic Arrival)
A helicopter transfer from Sint Maarten to the St. Barts helipad. The aerial approach — seeing the island’s volcanic topography from above, the harbor revealing itself as you bank over the hills — is genuinely extraordinary. Expensive but worth it for a milestone trip or honeymoon arrival. Book directly with Saint Barth Hélicoptère well in advance.
After You Arrive: Getting Around St. Barts
Once on the island, your first priority is a rental car. St. Barts has approximately 30 taxis — not enough. Without a car you cannot reach most of the island’s best beaches, restaurants, or experiences.
The island’s fleet is small and sells out during peak season. Reserve immediately after booking your accommodation. Compare and book your St. Barts car rental →
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