Excursion Two capitals and rum factory tour tour at Philipsburg

Discover the exquisite scenery, spirits, and flavours of the Dutch and French capitals of St. Maarten during this immersive, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Philipsburg, Boardwalk, Souvenir Shops, Free Time, Topper’s Rum

Depart the pier for the scenic drive en route to a visit to the capital cities of St. Maarten, Marigot (French) and Philipsburg (Dutch). Along the way, experience both cities first-hand. Upon arrival at Philipsburg, some free time is made available for a guided stroll along the picturesque boardwalk and small, charming souvenir shops. Afterward, re-board your coach and continue on to explore the ‘World’s Best-Tasting Rum’, Topper’s Rum, during a visit to its unique, approximately 6,000-square-foot (about 557-square-metre) facility, set in its iconic building with marble floors and an exquisite chandelier. This world-famous rum has won over 25 international awards, and 1st-place in USA Today’s ‘Ten Best Rum Distilleries in the Caribbean’ in 2019.

Guided Tour, Rum Production Process, Rum Room, Rum & Rum Punch Tastings

Upon arrival at Topper’s Rum, enjoy a Topper’s rum punch, then take a guided walking tour. Throughout the tour, taste over 20 samples of rum, including Topper’s signature flavours, their new sister brand, Sea Spot Rum, and small-batch speciality rums, which are only available for tasting and purchase in their distillery. Enjoy this behind-the-scenes look at how Topper’s Rum is fermented, distilled, and filtered, then blended and bottled with expert precision. Afterward, visit the lab to discover how Topper’s ensures its products meet the highest quality standards, and how they create their different flavoured rums. Following your tour, proceed to the Rum Room to sample Topper’s famous, homemade rum punch.

Gelato, Rum Cake & Other Tastings, Boutique, Free Time, Marigot, Marigot, Island Market

Next, sample a variety of freshly-prepared, rum-infused gelato, rum cake, and other artisanal products. At the boutique, browse a wide array of unique St. Maarten gifts and rum, including limited-edition flavours that are only available for purchase at the distillery. Leaving Topper’s Rum, some free time is made available to explore Marigot at your leisure. You can browse the local Island Market, which is peppered with market stalls and vendors selling fruit, vegetables, spices, meats, and souvenirs, and taste your way through the unique Dutch and French heritage of the island. Following your tour, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Philipsburg, Boardwalk, Souvenir Shops, Topper’s Rum, Guided Tour, Tasting Bar, Rum & Rum Cake Tastings, Gift Shoppe, Marigot, Free Time, Island Market

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking, at times over uneven and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach. Walking in Philipsburg and Marigot is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with food allergies, guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, bottled water, and US Dollars, Euros, or credit cards for purchases from the ship. Guests must be at least 18 years old to participate in tastings of alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.