What is the "Fake Island Tour Operator Near Cruise Pier" scam in Sint Maarten / St. Martin?

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Accepted Answer

Touts near the Philipsburg cruise dock sell "island highlights" minivan tours at cut-rate prices. The tours often skip major sites (Orient Beach, Marigot Market), rush stops to under 10 minutes, and the driver may double as a commissioned salesperson making stops at shops that pay kickbacks. Book island tours through your cruise line's excursion desk or your hotel concierge, or use a highly-rated operator from TripAdvisor. A legitimate half-day tour includes several stops of at least 30 minutes each and does not require purchases at any retail location.

Tour & Activity Scams in Sint Maarten / St. Martin

Fake Island Tour Operator Near Cruise Pier

Experienced a scam here?