When you’re cruising through the West Indies and only have a few precious hours to explore each port, the pressure is real—how do you pack the most adventure, culture, and beauty into a single day? On my recent cruise, St. Maarten was one of those whirlwind stops, and though we had to be back on board by 6 PM, I was determined to make every moment count.
Enter: Pelican Peak.
Located just steps from the cruise port, Pelican Peak is St. Maarten’s hottest—and newest—attraction, and it delivered the perfect mix of thrill, views, and local culture. This zipline tour isn’t just a ride—it’s a whole experience.

We started with a short, bus guided tour, and then hike up the mountainside. Along the way, our guides shared fascinating stories about St. Maarten’s rich history, including its colonial forts and the once-booming salt industry that shaped much of the island’s past. The higher we climbed, the more breathtaking the views became. From the top, we could see Philipsburg in all its colorful charm, the endless blue of the Caribbean Sea, and even neighboring islands off in the distance.
And then came the real fun—the zipline back down!
Soaring over the hillside with the sea breeze rushing past and panoramic views below was unforgettable. It was the perfect adrenaline rush and hands-down one of the best ways to take in the beauty of the island in such a short amount of time. If you ever find yourself docked in St. Maarten for just a few hours, don’t waste time wandering aimlessly—head straight for Pelican Peak. It’s adventure, culture, and killer views all in one. Short stop, BIG memories.
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