AC Wathey Cruise Port
Gateway to Philipsburg, offering a clean, orderly arrival with easy access to beaches and shopping via a short walk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
AC Wathey Cruise Port
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Gateway to Philipsburg, offering a clean, orderly arrival with easy access to beaches and shopping via a short walk.
"Very nice dock for the ship. Clean neat and orderly. Right near town, 10 minute walk."
🚶♀️ Walk into Town
Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking the 1 mile to Philipsburg. It's a pleasant stroll! :athletic_shoe:
🏖️ Beach Day Essentials
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a modest fee on the beach. Perfect for a relaxing day. :beachwithumbrella:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Philipsburg Beachfront
1-mile walk from the port
Relax on the sand, rent chairs, and enjoy drinks with a view. The perfect spot to unwind after your cruise.
Port Shops & Souvenirs
Adjacent to the cruise port
Browse a variety of shops for unique souvenirs, magnets, and local crafts to remember your trip.
Steel Pan Performances
Port area
Experience spontaneous, vibrant steel pan concerts that bring the island's rhythm to life for arriving guests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk to Town is Your Best Bet
Embrace the Island Vibe Early
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk into Town
Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking the 1 mile to Philipsburg. It's a pleasant stroll!
:athletic_shoe:🏖️ Beach Day Essentials
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a modest fee on the beach. Perfect for a relaxing day.
:beachwithumbrella:🎶 Live Music Surprises
Keep an ear out for impromptu steel pan concerts – a delightful island welcome!
:musical_note:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Find unique magnets and local crafts right at the port. Great for last-minute gifts!
:gift:Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk into Town
Save money and enjoy the scenery by walking the 1 mile to Philipsburg. It's a pleasant stroll!
:athletic_shoe:🏖️ Beach Day Essentials
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a modest fee on the beach. Perfect for a relaxing day.
:beachwithumbrella:🎶 Live Music Surprises
Keep an ear out for impromptu steel pan concerts – a delightful island welcome!
:musical_note:🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Find unique magnets and local crafts right at the port. Great for last-minute gifts!
:gift:🚢 Multiple Ship Days
Port St. Maarten can welcome multiple ships, creating a lively atmosphere.
:ship:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
AC Wathey Cruise Port is praised for its clean and orderly facilities, making for a smooth arrival. Its prime location allows for an easy and recommended 1-mile walk into Philipsburg town and the beach, saving on taxi fares. While some find it a bit small, the convenience and immediate access to shops and services are definite highlights.
"It's about a 1 mi walk from the cruise port exit to the San Martin Beach. There's some construction and Roots but it's well worth the walk you don't need a taxi or any other type of transportation. The beach is fun. Runs a umbrella lounge chairs and drinks for a modest fee."
Jeffrey Scott
"Very nice dock for the ship. Clean neat and orderly. Right near town, 10 minute walk. Lots of shops when you arrive, taxis, tours etc.😁"
Bill Wilson
"Amazing island, probably my favourite of the lot!"
Darren Fusellier
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to walk! It's about a 1-mile, pleasant stroll directly to the town and beach area. Taxis are available but often unnecessary for this short distance.
While taxis are readily available, many travelers opt for the convenient walk into town. Public buses may operate on main routes but walking is generally preferred for its ease and scenic value.
The AC Wathey Cruise Port is located in Philipsburg, while the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is on the western side of the island. The drive between them typically takes about 20-30 minutes by taxi or pre-booked transport.
Yes, taxis are readily available at the AC Wathey Cruise Port. They are a convenient option if you prefer not to walk or are heading to destinations further afield than Philipsburg.
While not always advertised, some tour operators may offer shuttle services as part of their packages. However, for trips into Philipsburg, walking is the most popular and cost-effective method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the AC Wathey Cruise Port itself is generally free for cruise passengers. You only pay for services or purchases made within the port area or excursions booked.
Port facilities, including shops and information booths, typically operate during cruise ship docking hours. It's best to check your ship's itinerary for specific timings.
There are no additional fees for disembarking the ship at AC Wathey Cruise Port. Your cruise ticket covers your passage to the port.
Yes, numerous tour operators and vendors are available right at the port offering various excursions and activities on St. Maarten.
The beaches near the port, like Philipsburg Beach, are public. You may pay a modest fee for renting beach chairs and umbrellas, but access to the sand is free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The port offers a range of amenities including shops, restaurants, bars, restrooms, taxi services, and tour operator desks. It's designed for a convenient passenger experience.
Wi-Fi availability can vary. Some areas might offer free Wi-Fi, while others may require a purchase or be limited. It's advisable to check signage or inquire locally.
You'll find a variety of shops selling duty-free items, jewelry, souvenirs, local crafts, clothing, and beachwear.
Yes, there are several dining and drinking options available at the port, ranging from casual snack bars to more established eateries, offering local and international flavors.
The port is generally clean, orderly, and bustling with activity, especially on days when multiple ships are docked. You might even catch live steel pan music!
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant cruise ships against the blue Caribbean sky, the bustling port activity, and the colorful shops. The walk into Philipsburg also offers great street photography opportunities.
Absolutely! Cruise ships are a major feature, and taking photos of them from the dock or the surrounding areas is very popular.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, it's always wise to be mindful of security personnel and avoid photographing sensitive areas or individuals without their consent.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday sun can be harsh.
As you walk towards Philipsburg, you'll get increasingly scenic views of the coastline and the turquoise waters. The beach itself offers classic Caribbean photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Philipsburg: Beyond the Port
Beyond the shopping, Philipsburg boasts a beautiful beachfront promenade that stretches along Great Bay. Here, you can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for a modest fee, perfect for a relaxing afternoon soaking up the Caribbean sun. The atmosphere is lively, with beach bars serving refreshing drinks and local snacks. For those interested in the port's operations, the Port St. Maarten Group actively promotes its role in creating memorable experiences, even highlighting its CEO and community events.
Travelers often rave about the ease of accessing Philipsburg from the port, emphasizing that a taxi is rarely needed for this short journey. The combination of shopping, beach access, and the general island ambiance makes Philipsburg a must-visit destination directly accessible from the AC Wathey Cruise Port. The port itself is noted for being clean, neat, and orderly, providing a welcoming first impression.
The AC Wathey Cruise Port Experience
The port actively works to create a positive and memorable experience for visitors. They often host events and initiatives, such as their annual #WeekofLove, showcasing their commitment to community and guest engagement. On days with multiple ship arrivals, the port can be quite lively, with a significant number of passengers disembarking and exploring. One delightful surprise that some visitors encounter is spontaneous steel pan concerts, adding an authentic Caribbean musical flair to the arrival experience. This blend of efficient port operations and engaging cultural elements aims to set a positive tone for the island visit.
While the port itself is well-equipped, the real magic often begins just a short walk away in Philipsburg. However, the port's organization and the immediate availability of services make it a convenient starting point for any St. Maarten adventure.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit