Getting ashore
Cruise ships berth at the Wathey cruise facility at Point Blanche, east of Philipsburg. Follow the marked exit through the terminal village to the taxi and water-taxi points. The port describes the walk into Philipsburg as about 15 minutes; allow longer from a distant berth or if you need rests.
An easy first visit
Head for Front Street and the Boardwalk beside Great Bay Beach. The courthouse, shops and waterfront cafés are close together. A town walk and a sit-down lunch make a useful short visit without a tour. You can return by water taxi if you prefer to avoid walking in the heat.
Water taxis and road taxis
Water taxis connect the port with Captain Hodge Wharf, Walter Williams Jetty and Bobby’s Marina. Check the current fare, ticket conditions and final return sailing before buying. At the road-taxi desk, ask whether a quoted fare is per person or per vehicle and agree the return pickup.
Beaches and trips across the island
Maho Beach has aircraft approaching close overhead, but it needs a road journey and traffic can delay the return. Stay well clear of the airport fence and jet blast. Orient Bay and Marigot are on the French side. For a short call, choose one outing rather than trying to circle the island. Carry the identification your ship requires.
Money and practical tips
The Caribbean guilder replaced the Netherlands Antillean guilder in 2025. US dollars are widely used, but ask which currency a price is in and how change will be given. Take water and sun protection. Save your terminal location and pickup details before leaving Wi-Fi; check your mobile provider’s roaming terms on both sides of the island.
Accessibility & mobility
The walk is exposed to heat. Water-taxi boarding involves a moving boat and may include steps; ask about boarding before buying a ticket. For a wheelchair user, arrange a suitable road vehicle in advance. Check gangway access with the ship.