Yoho Pirates St. Maarten – How Does It Compare To Rhino Safari?

What is Yoho Pirates in St. Maarten?

Yoho Pirates is one of those experiences that instantly makes you feel like you’re not just visiting St. Maarten — you’re actually part of it.

Instead of sitting back on a crowded boat, you’ll be driving your own small speedboat along the island’s coastline, following a guide and exploring some of the most beautiful spots from the water. No license, no experience needed — just a quick briefing and you’re good to go.

Within minutes, you’re cruising past mega yachts, heading out into the open sea, and realizing… you’re actually doing this yourself!

Along the way, you’ll:

• Follow a scenic coastal route
• Pass beaches, cliffs, and hidden caves
• Experience the famous jet blast at Maho Beach
• And stop for a swim in crystal-clear Caribbean water

It’s active, fun, and just the right mix of adventure and relaxation.

And honestly, that’s exactly why this type of tour has become one of the most popular things to do in St. Maarten.

Why Yoho Pirates is different (and why it’s getting attention)

At first glance, it might sound similar to Rhino Safari, a well established brand in St. Maarten — but there’s a story behind it.

Yoho Pirates was created by the original founder of Rhino Safari, who also launched successful versions of this concept in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Now he’s back on the island, but this time with a more refined, premium approach.

And you can feel the difference.

The boats are newer, more powerful, and noticeably smoother on the water. The groups are smaller, which makes the whole experience feel more personal and less rushed. And overall, it just feels more polished — from the briefing to the time out at sea.

It’s still the same core idea. But this version feels like it’s been upgraded in all the right ways.

And how do I know all these? I have done these speedboat tours in St. Maarten, Abu Dhabi and Dubai multiple times.

Yoho Pirates vs Rhino Safari – which one is better?

This is the big question — and honestly, it depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for.

Both tours follow a similar concept:

• You drive your own boat
• No license required
• You follow a guide along the coast
• You stop at places like Maho Beach and the caves

So you really can’t go wrong with either.

That said, there are a few clear differences.

Yoho Pirates feels more premium and refined overall. The boats are newer and well-designed, but what really stands out is the higher level of service — from the briefing to the time you spend on the water. Everything feels more personal and better organized once you’re out there.

Rhino Safari, on the other hand, is more established and usually a bit more affordable.

So what's thedifference between Yoho Pirates and Rhino Safari?

If you want the best version of the experience, with better comfort and a more exclusive feel, go with Yoho Pirates.

If you’re trying to save a bit and just want a fun ride, Rhino Safari is still a solid option.

But realistically… this is one of those experiences you’ll remember long after your trip.

Spending a little extra for the better version is something most people won’t regret. After all, you are on holiday.

Compare Yoho Pirates and Rhino Safari

Visit the product page of each tour for more information on both:

• Yoho Pirates excursion details
• Rhino Safari excursion details

What to expect on the Yoho Pirates tour

The tour lasts about 2 hours on the water, but it feels like a full-on adventure from start to finish.

You’ll begin in Simpson Bay Lagoon at Port de Plaisance, a high-end yacht marina. You will ease into things as you pass luxury yachts and waterfront villas. Then you head under the bridge and out into the open sea — where it really starts to get fun.

From there, the route takes you along some of the most iconic spots on the island:

• Simpson Bay Beach
• The “Washing Machine” wave zone (expect some laughs here)
• Maho Beach with planes flying low overhead
• Mullet Bay’s turquoise water
• The cliffs and caves around Cupecoy

And then comes one of the best parts — a swim stop in calm, crystal-clear water near Long Bay.

It’s the kind of experience that keeps changing pace, so it never gets boring.

How much does Yoho Pirates cost?

The tour is priced at $200-$250 per boat for 2 hours.

Each boat fits:

• 2 adults
• Or 2 adults + 1 child

If you are riding the boat alone, it costs $200, in case of double or triple occupancy, the price is $250 per boat.

So if you split the cost, it’s actually pretty reasonable.

Yes, it’s a bit more expensive than Rhino Safari.

But you’re paying for:

• Newer, better-designed boats
• More power and smoother handling
• Smaller groups
• A more premium overall experience

And when you’re on vacation in St. Maarten, this is exactly the kind of thing you don’t want to cheap out on.

Where to book Yoho Pirates in St. Maarten

Because the tour is still new, availability can be limited — especially on busy cruise days.

You can book Yoho Pirates on the following websites (check each of them for occasional promotions):

• Viator
• GetYourGuide
• Expedia

Or directly at the Yoho Pirates.

Insider tip: Book a few days in advance if you can, the best St. Maarten tours usually sell out weeks in advance on busy cruise ship days.

Best time to do Yoho Pirates

There are typically two departures:

• Morning (~10:00 AM)
• Afternoon (~2:00 PM)

The morning tends to have calmer water and less wind, which is ideal if it’s your first time driving a boat.

The afternoon is a bit warmer and more relaxed — great if you want to take your time and enjoy the swim stop.

You really can’t go wrong, but if conditions matter to you, mornings are usually the safest bet.

Do you need a license to drive the boat?

No — and that’s what makes this so accessible.

You’ll get a quick safety and handling briefing before departure, and the boats are surprisingly easy to control. The guide stays with you the entire time, so you’re never on your own.

If you can drive a car, you’ll pick this up in minutes.

Is Yoho Pirates safe?

Yes, and it’s clearly designed with beginners in mind.

The boats are stable, easy to handle, and run in a guided formation. Life jackets are provided, and the small group size makes everything feel more controlled and comfortable.

It’s adventurous — but never feels unsafe.

Who is the Yoho Pirates tour best for?

This is one of those rare tours that works for almost everyone:

• Couples
• Families with kids (6+)
• Cruise passengers
• First-time boat drivers
• Anyone who wants something more interactive than a typical tour

If jet skis feel a bit too intense, and regular boat tours feel too passive — this hits the perfect middle ground.

Is Yoho Pirates worth it?

Yes — especially if you want something a little more special.

You’re not just sitting on a boat taking photos. You’re actually part of the experience.

Driving, exploring, laughing through waves, stopping in hidden spots… it all adds up to something that feels genuinely memorable.

And with the upgraded boats and premium feel, Yoho Pirates has a strong chance of becoming one of the top tours in St. Maarten very quickly.