One of the major pleasures of visiting Orient Bay is the opportunity to indulge in some serious scuba-diving. A short sail north from Oyster Pond brings you to Orient Bay, situated on the north-east coast of French St. Martin, which experts say has some of the best diving in the Caribbean. Take care when entering the bay as conditions can be tricky.  Coral and amazing sea-life, including turtles, eagle rays and barracudas, as well as dramatic underwater structures and wrecks are all waiting to be explored. There is a PADI-accredited dive school where instruction is available.

Jet-skis and windsurfers are available to rent, and the white sandy beach offers a full range of watersports from kite surfing to kayaking. If airborne thrills are more to your liking, think about an exhilarating (some might say heart-stopping) ride in one of the ultra-light aircraft that ply their trade here. Chic boutiques are plentiful and the beach has a good range of bars and restaurants. Chez Leandra’s garlic conch stew a particular favorite!

If lively nightlife is of interest, then you will find plenty in Orient Bay. There’s also a quieter side to the bay, including a secluded naturist beach on the eastern stretch of Orient Beach. At Orient Bay, spend your evening being sociable at a moorings in Green Cay, or simply hang out on deck in a peaceful anchorage such as Ile Pinel.