FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

We have a fleet of 45 watercraft consisting primarily of RHINO RIDERS. And secondarily of SCOOBI-RAYs. These offer great stability and are almost impossible to capsize or tip over. The RHINO RIDER is a 10 ft. inflatable with a center console that can seat two people, one in front of the other. It is powered by a 25 HP outboard engine, and is controlled by a steering wheel and throttle lever. We also have available the SCOOBI-RAY craft which is ​a 12 ft. inflatable and is powered by a 30 HP outboard engine. It seats up to 3 people, two side by side in the back and one in the middle. It is also controlled by a steering wheel and throttle lever.

We have two full time mechanics that check our fleet daily. At the end of each day, the watercraft is taken out of the water, cleaned thoroughly, motors flushed from salt and given a mechanical check up.

If you're in a group of three, you can all fit on a SCOOBI-RAY, or take two RHINO RIDERs.

Yes, there are. Maximum for the RHINO RIDER is 400 lbs. and 450 lbs. for the SCOOBI-RAY

Anyone aged five years or older can participate. However, the person driving the watercraft must be at least 18 years old.

It's easy. If you can drive a car, and have a minimum flexibility, you can participate. Basic swimming knowledge recommended. We provide high flotation life vests. The tour is not recommended for persons with back problems or those who are pregnant.

No. Once you reach the snorkeling spot, you can stay in the boat, soak up the sun and sip on the complimentary drinks, or you can go for a little swim and hit land.

About 30 to 45 min. is spent snorkeling. That's plenty of time to meet the local underwater inhabitants.

You should be wearing your bathing suit under your clothes so that you don't need to change when you arrive. Bring a towel, sunglasses, and sunscreen. For extra protection from the sun while snorkeling, you can also wear a t-shirt or rash guard. As for anything else that you might have with you which you don't want to get wet (keys, wallets, etc.) we will provide you with baskets which will be securely stowed away during your tour.

Our boutique at the Rhino Base has many items you may want to buy like sunscreen, beach items, Rhino t-shirts & hats, souvenirs and digital photo package of all photos of you on the Rhino! And of course you'll have such a wonderful time that you'll want to leave a tip for your friendly Rhino Guide.

Only our SCOOBI-RAY craft have compartments. These are splash proof but not waterproof. The general rule of thumb is if you wouldn't dip an item in the water, don't bring it with you.

Rain in paradise? On average, there are just about 6 days in the year that we are forced to reschedule or cancel due to bad weather. It's very rare that it rains all day on St. Martin. If there is rain, it's usually a passing shower that's over in 20 min. Our watercraft are small and maneuverable that more often that not your guide will be able to steer your group between the clouds to avoid showers. As for snorkeling, the rain doesn't affect the clarity of the water or the fish population. And remember, rain or shine you will get wet.

You'll get accustomed to driving your watercraft within seconds. The watercraft is controlled by steering wheel, so it feels just like a car. There are no pedals to worry about either. Push the throttle up to go forward, pull it back in neutral to slow down and stop. And of course our guides and staff are always there to guide you through every step of the way.

Yes, we can arrange transportation for an additional fee. Please contact us for timing and cost. On the other hand, it's very easy and convenient on the island to grab a taxi. Just ask the driver to take you to Rhino Safari in Simpson Bay behind Pineapple Pete Restaurant.

Depending on traffic, we're about 20 to 25 min. by taxi from the cruise ship pier / Philipsburg.

From Philipsburg / the cruise ship pier, it's around $12 to $15 each way.

We're located on Welfare Rd., also known as the main road or Airport Road in Simpson Bay. You'll find us at the eastern end of the lagoon, across from Paradise Plaza Casino and Caribben Cinemas, right behind.

Weather-wise, all the departures are pretty much the same. If you take the 10:00 a.m. tour, you'll be back just before lunch and you'll have the rest of the day to enjoy the island. If you want to sleep in (you're on vacation after all), or if you're planning for a late breakfast, take the 1:00 p.m. tour. Whichever time you choose, you'll have a blast!

Rhino Rider watercraft
A Guide on his own Rhino
Snorkeling equipment
Life vest
Bottled water & soft drinks

We have several departures daily with morning, midday and afternoon tours. Please contact us for specific times.​

To confirm your booking, you can leave a deposit via PayPal or we require your credit card information via e-mail or telephone. No charges will be made to your account until the day of your tour. Payment will be made when you check-in for your tour at the Rhino Base. We accept cash, PayPal, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Travellers Cheque.

We must be notified of cancellations at least 24 hrs in advance of your tour or we will charge the full price of the tour on the card. Exclusion of the 24 hr. clause: if your tour date is the same one as your arrival date on St. Martin, and for various reasons you were not able to land that day, no penalties will be charged.