ARC Europe 2024 - St Maarten Tour and Beach BBQ

ARC Europe 2024 © World Cruising Club

Day two of the ARC Europe 2024 program of events offered a half day tour around the island of St Maarten. Starting from the marina, driver Conrad navigated an enthusiastic group of rally participants in a VIP bus through both the Dutch and French side of this island.

Full of history, fascinating facts and local stories were by expertly provided by tourist guide Devine. The group learned how land mass areas and bays were originally formed and how they have progressed through to modern times. Driving past old plantations, cotton plants, salt lakes to new fancy 5-start resorts they saw how day to day living operates on this island surrounded by beautiful turquoise waters.

There were a couple of opportunities to walk around the towns of Philipsburg (Dutch) and Marigot (French) which are both very different, one being focused on holiday makers and cruise liners and the other having a very French and local culture.

After a fun and very interesting 3-hour tour, the late afternoon wrapped up, or just began, with a BBQ party in Mullet Bay which is just one of the islands 36 white sandy beaches. Welcomed by steel pan the rum punch was quickly flowing, delicious local fare was enjoyed and entertainment included a spectacular array of fire dancing.

Our gratitude goes to St Maarten Tourism Bureau for providing a fantastic tour and for hosting a truly exceptional evening on the beach.