Imagine spending a whole day on the water, exploring uninhabited islands, snorkeling among vibrant fish, and enjoying a leisurely lunch with a chilled drink in hand. That’s essentially what the Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience offers—an 8-hour journey that promises fun, relaxation, and a peek into the Caribbean’s natural beauty.
We’ve looked into the reviews, itinerary, and features to give you an honest, comprehensive look at what this tour really delivers.
What we especially like about this trip is how it combines sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing into one seamless experience. Plus, the open bar and buffet lunch add a touch of indulgence many travelers will appreciate. On the flip side, some mention that the trip can be crowded or that the actual stops may differ from initial expectations, so it’s good to go in with a flexible attitude.
This tour is perfect if you love a full day of sun, sea, and scenic island views—especially if you’re traveling with family, friends, or anyone who enjoys a mix of activity and relaxation. However, it might not be ideal if you’re expecting to spend significant time on a beach or want a completely private experience.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Caribbean Day: Snorkeling gear, buffet lunch, and unlimited drinks make this a hassle-free adventure.
- Multiple Islands & Snorkeling Spots: Visit Prickly Pear Cays and Meads Bay, with options for swimming and bird-watching.
- Spectacular Views & Photo Opportunities: Enjoy scenic sailing past Anguilla and St. Maarten, including plane landings at the airport beach.
- Friendly Crew & Entertainment: The crew is consistently praised for attentiveness, fun attitude, and safety focus.
- Value for Money: For $149, you get a full day with food, drinks, snorkel gear, and guided sightseeing—many reviews say it’s well worth it.
- Weather & Conditions Matter: The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are rough, the itinerary may change or be canceled.
An In-Depth Look at the Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Maarten.
Starting Point & First Impressions
The day begins at Bobby’s Marina in Philipsburg, which is convenient and easy to find. Check-in is at 8:15 am, and you’ll need your passport and port fees ready—these are essential for immigration clearance. The check-in process is straightforward, and most travelers find it manageable, especially with the crew’s assistance.
Sailing departs from Simpson Bay, where you’ll get a chance to admire the large yachts and vibrant shoreline. The boat itself is a catamaran, offering space for relaxed lounging and socializing. As you leave the coast behind, the scenery becomes a blur of turquoise waters and distant islands—ideal for snapping some photos or just soaking it all in.
Snorkeling & Island Stops
The first major stop is Prickly Pear Cays, situated about 6 miles north of Road Bay. This uninhabited island is famed for its white sandy beaches, coral reefs, and clear shallow waters—perfect for snorkeling. The gear is provided, along with instructions, so even beginners can feel confident jumping in. Reviewers frequently comment on the abundance of marine life such as butterfly fish, snapper, and grouper.
One guest noted, “The shallow waters and soft sand beach make this island a great spot for seeing the native marine life,” which many agree with. It’s also worth mentioning that the island offers bird watching and hiking opportunities—though most visitors seem content just floating in the water.
The second stop is Meads Bay on Anguilla, an expansive beach known for its powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters. Here, the crew sets up a buffet-style lunch right on the boat, allowing guests to indulge while taking in breathtaking views. Many reviews highlight the quality of the food, including barbecue ribs, chicken, rice, and fresh salads, alongside sweet treats like banana cake.
Cruising & Sightseeing
After lunch, the journey continues along Anguilla’s shoreline, passing Cove Bay and Baie Longue. There’s plenty of opportunity to admire the scenic coastlines and luxurious homes. One of the tour’s highlights is riding past the airport beach, where you can see planes land—an exciting, if brief, thrill for photo lovers.
The return trip is just as scenic—passengers often toast the sunset with Champagne and enjoy grapes or snacks as the sky turns orange. Several travelers mention how beautiful and relaxing this part of the cruise is, with some describing it as the perfect way to end a day of adventure.
Crew & Atmosphere
Multiple reviews praise the crew’s professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness. They’re known for making everyone feel welcome and safe, which adds to the relaxed vibe. The crew’s effort to keep guests hydrated and entertained is a common theme, with many appreciating their sense of humor and knowledge.
Some travelers have mentioned that the boat can be crowded, especially during peak times, but most say the crew manages the space well. The open bar is unlimited, and the drinks are generally well-received—ranging from traditional beers to tropical rum punch and Champagne at sunset.
Food & Drinks
The buffet lunch is notably a high point for many. It features Caribbean staples like barbecue ribs, chicken, and local rice, complemented by salads and cheese. Sweets like banana cake cap off the meal. Guests comment on how the food is served at just the right time, keeping energy up for snorkeling or relaxing on deck.
The unlimited drinks, including rum punch, beers, and Champagne, keep the mood lively and festive. Several reviews highlight the crew’s skill in bartending and the quality of the beverages, enhancing the overall value.
Considerations & Potential Drawbacks
While many reviews sing praises, a few mention that the trip can be crowded—which might be uncomfortable if you prefer a more private, laid-back vibe. Some reviews note that the actual snorkeling stops may be brief, often around 45 minutes, and that the trip can sometimes be choppy, especially if the sea gets rough.
One reviewer pointed out that the trip is not a traditional “beach day” and that you won’t spend hours lounging on sand. Instead, it’s more focused on sailing, snorkeling, and sightseeing. Also, the tour does not include private transportation, and parking fees at Bobby’s Marina are extra, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This full-day cruise offers a great mix of scenic sailing, snorkeling, and Caribbean cuisine, all for a reasonable price. The spectacular views, good value, and friendly crew make it a standout option for anyone wanting to see the best of Anguilla and Prickly Pear without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.
It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun day out on the water. If you love snorkeling and scenic boat rides, you’ll appreciate the well-organized stops and high-quality amenities. However, if you prefer more beach time or a completely private experience, you might find the group size and itinerary less ideal.
This tour offers a well-rounded Caribbean experience—with plenty of chances to relax, explore, and enjoy delicious food and drinks. Just be prepared for the possibility of a busy boat and some weather-dependent changes.
Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience
FAQs
What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $149 per person, which includes snorkel gear, lunch, drinks, and entertainment. Additional government fees of $25 per person and parking fees are extra.
How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 8 hours, from check-in at 8:15 am until you return to the dock around 5 pm.
Do I need my passport?
Yes, bringing your passport is crucial since immigration processing is involved. Phone pictures or copies are not accepted.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkel gear—including vests and noodles—is included, along with instructions for beginners.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor, the trip may be canceled or scheduled for a different date, with a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Can I expect to visit Anguilla?
You will cruise past Anguilla, stopping at Meads Bay, but some reviews mention that the trip often involves riding past or near the island rather than landing on it. Snorkeling stops are the main focus.
Are drinks unlimited?
Yes, the open bar includes unlimited beer, rum punch, and Champagne during the cruise.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, but keep in mind that snorkeling is a key part of the experience. The crew is attentive, and the shallow waters make it accessible for non-swimmers, but comfort in the water varies.
In essence, the Ultimate Prickly Pear and Anguilla Experience delivers a lively, scenic, and tasty Caribbean adventure suited for those eager to see multiple islands, snorkel among coral reefs, and enjoy a day of sailing with good company. It’s a trip that balances fun and relaxation—perfect for travelers who want a memorable, all-inclusive day out on the water without breaking the bank.
