Photo: Minhas Kamal (CC0), via Wikimedia Commons
Saint Martin's is a calm, friendly island, and most problems come from the sea, the tide and the sun. Here's how to stay safe, from the people who live and work near Chera Dip.
People often ask us whether Saint Martin's Island is safe. For most visitors the risks aren't about people: they're the tide, sharp rocks, strong sun and the sea itself. A little planning takes care of nearly all of them. Here's what we tell our own guests at El Marena Eco Resort near Chera Dip.
Know the tide
The walk to Chera Dip only works at low tide; at high tide the sea cuts it off. Check the tide times for your day before you set out, go early, and start back well before the water rises. If the timing doesn't work, take a boat from the main jetty instead. Our Chera Dip guide has more.
Mind the rocks
The shore and Chera Dip are covered in coral rocks: sharp, uneven and slippery when wet. Wear sandals or water shoes, walk on firm sand and bare rock, and never step on living coral. Keep off the rocks in the dark.
Swimming
- Don't swim at night.
- Don't swim alone, and stay where you can stand.
- Keep away from the rocks when there are waves.
- If the sea looks rough, stay out. Ask locals or at your resort before you go in.
- Keep small children within arm's reach near the water.
Sun and water
There's little shade on the shore and at Chera Dip, and only a couple of tea stalls there. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and plenty of water in a refillable bottle (polythene bags are banned on the island). Winter days are sunny, but evenings by the sea are cool, so pack a light jacket too.
After dark
The south of the island has very few lights. That's what makes the stars so good, but it also means you need a torch or headlamp to get around. Don't walk far along the shore or on the rocks at night, and keep valuables with you. The island's rules also ban lights, loud music and barbecue parties on the beach at night.
On the ship
- Keep your ticket with its QR code and your photo ID in one easy pocket.
- If you get seasick, sit in the middle of the ship, look at the horizon and eat lightly before you board.
- Bring water and something for the sun if you'll sit on the open deck.
- Be back at the jetty in good time for the return ship, which left at about 3 to 3:30 pm last season.
If the weather turns
The open season is in winter, with dry days and calmer seas, but the weather can still change. If it turns windy or wet, stay off the rocks and out of the sea, and follow official announcements about the ships. If you're staying with us, tell us on WhatsApp and we'll help you plan around it.
With children
Hats, sunscreen and water shoes for everyone, an adult within arm's reach near the water, and no rocks after dark. Our family trip guide has a packing list for little ones.
Staying near Chera Dip
El Marena Eco Resort is near Chera Dip beach, at the quiet southern end of the island, so you can walk to Chera Dip at the best time of the tide instead of rushing from the jetty. Ask us about the tide before you set off. Send us your dates on WhatsApp to book.
