We chartered the Paasat sailing schooner and it was a great decision. We were a group of 10 and paid roughly the same amount as 10 shore excursions thru the cruise line. Beauty is we had the entire boat to ourselves! Beautiful sail around the French side with a very nice lunch onboard with nice wine, rum punch and beer. We could have snorkeled but were happy with a nice long swim and float in the sea. Interesting to learn about the history of the 100 yr old boat and even sailed past a perfect view of the famous St. Martin airport, watching the planes land and take off (without being sandblasted). Best day of our cruise!