Sint Maarten

One island, two countries. Today was our first port day, and our stop was Saint Martin (the part belonging to France) or Sint Maarten (the part belonging to the Netherlands). We had booked a private tour and our guide Juliana was there waiting for us with her clean a/c van. It was a lovely tour with just enough of everything. Juliana gave us the interesting facts and stories about the island, and made stops at beaches, viewpoints as well as pointing out important landmarks. She was good natured and friendly but will not hesitate to say what she thinks! Our last stop was a lovely swimming spot which was surprisingly quiet given that 7000 passengers were onboard the ship! There was a restaurant right at the beach which was convenient as well as a freshwater shower/foot tap.

Tonight's show was Aqua Action, billed as a water spectacular held in the Aqua Dome. The start was promising with an exciting act on the wheel of death. The 2 acrobats were mesmerising. Unfortunately, it was downhill from there onwards. The music was fun and upbeat with a great arrangement but was WAY too loud. The remaining acts felt rudderless with no cohesive thread. Everything felt random. The acts themselves were also subpar. We appreciated the diver's skills but it didn't make captivating entertainment. Plus...the seats were so uncomfortable!

First views of St Martin

Ship docked!

Forced photo lol

One of the first off the ship. Good job team!

We're off!

Oyster Bay. Unfortunately there were still many parts of the island that has yet to recover from the 2017 hurricane

Jonah enjoyed looking for things on the beach

Iguana everywhere

Friar's Beach

Oma would be impressed with Julian. Excellent de-sanding tools for the car!!

One of 4 border crossings! One foot in France and one in Holland!

The sign says it all

And we're in France

Crazily busy Maho Beach, where people come to see planes fly low over the beach as they approach to land. 2 people were killed last year from the jet blast

Plane!

Drink and swim time!

Water was cool but not cold

Back on the ship!

Tonight's towelgami