Anguilla sits just 8 miles north of St Maarten — close enough to see clearly from the beach on a clear day, yet entirely separate in character. The short crossing between the two islands is one of the most common travel questions for Caribbean visitors, and the answer depends on your priorities: speed, budget, or a luxury seamless experience.
This guide covers every option for making the St Maarten to Anguilla journey, from the public ferry to private boat charters, with timings, costs, and tips on arranging ground transport once you arrive in Anguilla.
The Three Ways to Get From St Maarten to Anguilla
There is no bridge or tunnel between the islands — every crossing is by water or by air. The three main options are: the public ferry, a private boat charter, or a small plane.
The Public Ferry (Most Popular)
The public ferry from Marigot Bay in French St Martin to Blowing Point Ferry Terminal in Anguilla is the most common option for tourists and day-trippers. The crossing takes approximately 20–30 minutes and costs around $30–40 USD per person each way.
Ferries are operated by several companies including Funtime Ferries and GB Express, and run multiple times daily — typically from early morning until late afternoon. There is a departure tax payable at the terminal.
The Marigot Bay terminal is located on the French side of St Maarten (Saint Martin), accessible from Princess Juliana Airport by taxi (approximately 20–30 minutes). The Blowing Point terminal in Anguilla is the arrival point for all passengers entering by ferry.
Private Boat Charter (Most Luxurious)
For travellers who prefer a private, door-to-dock experience, a private boat charter is the definitive option. The vessel is yours alone — no shared ferry, no fixed schedule — and the boat departs from an agreed point on the St Maarten side.
A private charter from the Simpson Bay area typically takes 35–50 minutes depending on sea conditions. The cost starts from $2,100 per trip (not per person), making it best suited to groups or those for whom the experience is the priority.
On the Anguilla side, a chauffeur vehicle meets guests at the landing point and transfers them directly to their resort or villa — making the private charter the most seamless option for guests checking into Four Seasons Anguilla, Cap Juluca, Malliouhana, or a private villa estate.
Small Plane (Fastest)
Several operators run scheduled and charter flights between Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St Maarten and Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) in Anguilla. The flight takes approximately 10 minutes.
This is the fastest crossing, but involves a full airport check-in process on both sides and is more expensive than the ferry per person. It is well suited to guests with heavy luggage or those for whom the water crossing is not desirable.
At Clayton J. Lloyd Airport in Anguilla, a chauffeur with meet and greet can be pre-arranged to transfer guests directly to their resort, handling all luggage.
Quick Comparison: St Maarten to Anguilla
| Option | Duration | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Ferry | 20–30 min | ~$30–40/person | Budget-conscious travellers |
| Private Boat Charter | 35–50 min | From $2,100/trip | Groups, luxury guests, privacy |
| Small Plane | ~10 min | Varies by operator | Speed, heavy luggage |
Arranging Ground Transport in Anguilla
Anguilla has no public bus system serving tourists, and taxis at the ferry terminal or airport can be inconsistent in quality and availability — particularly during busy arrival windows. Pre-booking a private chauffeur transfer is strongly recommended for guests arriving at resorts such as Four Seasons, Cap Juluca, or Malliouhana.
A private chauffeur transfer from Blowing Point Ferry Terminal to any Anguilla resort starts from $130 and includes a meet and greet at the terminal, luggage assistance, and a climate-controlled vehicle. Transfers from Clayton J. Lloyd Airport start at the same rate.
For guests taking the private boat charter, a chauffeur vehicle is included as part of the transfer package — meeting guests at the Anguilla landing point and completing the resort or villa transfer.
Private Transfer Service
Book Your SXM → Anguilla Transfer
Private boat charter from St Maarten to Anguilla from $2,100. Private chauffeur from Blowing Point or Anguilla airport from $130. Available 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from St Maarten to Anguilla?
The three main options are the public ferry from Marigot Bay (French St Martin) to Blowing Point in Anguilla (~20–30 minutes), a private boat charter from the Simpson Bay area (35–50 minutes), or a small plane from Princess Juliana Airport (~10 minutes). A private chauffeur transfer within Anguilla can be arranged from any arrival point.
How long is the ferry from St Maarten to Anguilla?
The public ferry from Marigot Bay to Blowing Point Ferry Terminal takes approximately 20–30 minutes. Multiple companies operate the route with regular departures throughout the day.
How much does it cost to get from St Maarten to Anguilla?
The public ferry costs approximately $30–40 USD per person each way. A private boat charter starts from $2,100 per trip. Small plane fares vary by operator. A private chauffeur within Anguilla from Blowing Point starts from $130.
Do I need a passport to travel from St Maarten to Anguilla?
Yes. Anguilla is a British Overseas Territory and passport control is enforced. All visitors — including US and EU citizens — must present a valid passport when entering Anguilla, whether arriving by ferry, boat, or plane.
Can I arrange a private chauffeur to meet me at Blowing Point ferry terminal?
Yes. A private chauffeur can be pre-booked to meet you at Blowing Point with a name board, handle your luggage, and transfer you directly to your resort or villa anywhere on the island.