When Planning your trip:
- What Wetsuit to pack?
When diving St Maarten, The climate is warm all year around, and in our “winter season” (November – March) a 3 mm wetsuit should be plenty, some divers with little body fat or acclimatized to the tropics may appreciate having a hood or 5mm suit during this time. In our “summer season” (April – October) a shorty wetsuit should be enough with many divers using only a swimsuit.
Winter Temperature: AIR 73-85°F/24-30°C
WATER 77-80°F/25-27°
Summer Temperature: AIR 80-100°F/27-38°C
WATER 81-88°F/28-30°C
- Should I bring my dive equipment?
- Although there’s nothing better than using our own personalized scuba gear, many divers choose to leave their gear at home due to strict baggage regulations on airline carriers. We can supply equipment needed to dive. If you have personal items such as a flashlight, favourite mask, etc, you may want to bring those.
- You’ll find updated scuba gear in great shape and extremely well maintained at Ocean Explorers.
- You can always buy mask/snorkels/small items at great prices at our Boutique shop.
What do I absolutely need in order to go diving?
- The most important thing of all is your certification card, and be in good health.
- For those diving for the first time on one of our beginner programs, all you need is to be in good health or have a doctor’s release form in case of health issue. Make sure to check with us should you have any questions or concerns about a health problem you may have.
Your D.A.N card if you have one, is fantastic insurance for divers that can also work well as a travelers insurance.
IMPORTANT: Ocean Explorers will not take someone without a proper proof of dive certification when going a certified diver’s trip.
During your trip:
- What currency is used on the island?
As St Maarten / St. Martin has two different countries you will most likely deal with separate currencies. On the Dutch side, where Ocean Explorers is located, you’ll find the US dollar to be widely used even though local currency is the guilder. Most prices on shops and restaurants will show both prices. On the French side the currency is the fluctuated Euro and they may change US dollars at a daily rate, although many shops & restaurants will do 1Eu=1US$
When diving St Maarten with Ocean Explorers will accept either, as well as most major credit cards.