What's included
- Kayak or paddleboard depending on the option
- paddle
- CE-certified life jacket
- safety briefing
- route advice
- snorkel gear and water included on the guided tour
Kayak & paddleboard
Caribbean Paddling
Kayak, paddleboard and snorkeling to Pinel Island
Pinel Island pier, Cul-de-Sac, Saint Martin
Hours
09:30 - 12:30 / 15:30 - 17:00
Duration
approx. 2h00
From
$70 EUR
The easiest kayak launch for reaching Pinel Island
Caribbean Paddling is based right at the Pinel Island pier in Cul-de-Sac Bay. It is one of the most convenient ways to reach Pinel without a motorboat: the launch point faces the island, with roughly 800 meters of protected water to cross depending on conditions.
The company is best known for kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals, and also runs a 2-hour guided kayak and snorkeling tour. Guests receive gear, a safety briefing and route advice before heading toward Pinel, the main beach, the sandbar or easy snorkeling spots inside the nature reserve. For cruise travelers, Caribbean Paddling also promotes shore excursions with transfers from Philipsburg.
For visitors, the appeal is straightforward: more freedom than the standard Pinel ferry, less noise, and the feeling of arriving by sea. A morning departure is often the best choice for calmer water and better visibility. Bring reef-friendly sun protection, water, a secure hat, sunglasses with a strap and a dry way to store your phone and documents.
Best for
Families with swimming children, couples, active travelers, cruise passengers, easy-snorkeling fans and visitors who want a more independent way to reach Pinel.
Visitor tips
If you rent without a guide, always ask about the day's conditions before leaving. Wind can make the return paddle harder. For a quieter Pinel visit, start early and leave enough time to paddle back before closing.
Highlights
Direct launch facing Pinel Island
short crossing from Cul-de-Sac
kayak, paddleboard and snorkeling in the nature reserve
small guided tour group
1% for the Planet member
more active alternative to the Pinel ferry
Prices
Most popular
Guided Pinel kayak & snorkeling tour
2-hour small-group outing with kayak, guide, water and snorkeling gear.
Adult
$70
Child (3-12)
$50
Good to know
- Closed on Saturday
- activity depends on wind, sea conditions and sargassum
- swimming ability is required for the guided tour
- minimum age 8 for the guided tour
- arrive 15 minutes before departure
- online booking is recommended in high season
Gallery
Set course for Pinel by kayak or paddleboard
A simple, eco-minded and highly scenic way to explore Cul-de-Sac and Pinel Island.