St. Thomas vs. St. Maarten: Which is Best for Your Family Cruise?
As the Family C.E.O., your Eastern Caribbean itinerary often includes stops at two iconic islands: St. Thomas vs. St. Maarten. While both offer beautiful beaches and duty-free shopping, they present very different experiences for a large, multi-generational family. Choosing the right one for your shore excursion can make all the difference in your family's enjoyment.
Let's break down St. Thomas vs. St. Maarten to help you decide which island is the best fit for your family cruise day.
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands: Classic Caribbean Charm & Natural Beauty
St. Thomas is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and postcard-perfect beaches. It’s the kind of island where relaxation and breathtaking views take center stage.
- Pros for Families:
- Magens Bay: Consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches, its calm, shallow waters are ideal for toddlers and young children. There are restrooms, food vendors, and chair rentals.
- Skyride to Paradise Point: An accessible aerial tram offers panoramic views that will impress all ages, including grandparents. It’s a low-effort way to get a spectacular perspective.
- Duty-Free Shopping: Charlotte Amalie offers extensive shopping for adults, from jewelry to electronics, all tax-free.
- U.S. Territory: For U.S. citizens, there's no need for passports (though always recommended for cruises) and you deal with U.S. currency, making logistics simpler.
- Cons for Families: While beautiful, the main activities are often centered around beaches or shopping, which might not offer enough “adventure” for some older teens.
St. Maarten/St. Martin: Dual-Culture Adventure & Variety
St. Maarten stands out for its unique dual-nation identity (Dutch Sint Maarten and French Saint Martin) and its diverse array of activities. It offers a blend of European flair with Caribbean vibrancy.
- Pros for Families:
- Diverse Beaches: From the plane-spotting excitement of Maho Beach (for teens and adults) to the calmer waters of Orient Bay (clothing-optional on some parts, so choose carefully) or Great Bay Beach (right near Philipsburg), there's a beach for every preference.
- Island Exploration: Renting a car or taking a tour allows you to experience both the bustling Dutch side (Philipsburg) with its casinos and shopping, and the tranquil French side (Marigot) with its gourmet food and European ambiance. This appeals to curious, exploring families.
- Adventure Activities: For teens and active adults, St. Maarten offers zip-lining (e.g., Flying Dutchman), snorkeling, and even sailing excursions.
- Cons for Families: The dual-nation aspect can mean more travel time between different attractions, and it's generally a more bustling, less tranquil experience than St. Thomas.
Which is Best for Your Family?
- Choose St. Thomas if: Your family prioritizes stunning, calm beaches, easy relaxation, simple logistics (U.S. territory), and classic Caribbean beauty, appealing especially to families with very young children or those seeking a more serene day.
- Choose St. Maarten if: Your family craves variety, adventure, unique cultural experiences, and wants to explore two different sides of an island, perfect for active teens and adults who enjoy a faster pace.
Ultimately, both islands are incredible Eastern Caribbean gems. Your choice depends on your family's desired pace and primary interests for their day in port.
Your choice of port deeply impacts your cruise experience. For an overview of how St. Thomas and St. Maarten fit into broader itineraries, read our Ultimate Guide to the Best Caribbean Itineraries for a Large Family here.
Once you've decided between St. Thomas and St. Maarten, make sure you have a plan for your other historic port. Discover the best family-friendly activities in Old San Juan here.
