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Dutch vs French St. Martin: Cheap Lagoon Living… Then We LEFT
February 7, 2026 · 16 min · 126K views · Simpson Bay Lagoon
Catamaran Hinano's floats near Marigot Bay's damaged shore
What this video covers
Cruising the Dutch side of St. Martin offers affordable dockage during the low season, with easy dinghy access to shops, marine stores, and restaurants in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.7:21 Dock rates in the lagoon can drop to $50 per day or less between June and November.7:52 Navigating the island by dinghy avoids traffic, though docks often become crowded.6:02 Sailing from the Dutch side to the French side requires clearing customs and immigration at both ends.8:23 The 10-mile passage around the island to Marigot Bay involves a downwind sail, often manageable under genoa alone.10:21 Marigot Bay features narrower bridge access and more derelict vessels compared to the Dutch side, though it offers high-quality French dining.11:06 Further north, Grand Case provides additional beachside dining and a popular dinghy dock.13:28 The owner of the Ta Chaio Shipbuilding Co. (TAIWAN) Ct-56, Naughty Dogs, is listing the vessel for $160,000 following a raffle winner's choice of a cash payout.14:45
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