We've been going to the island of St. Maarten for more than 20 years. We spend about eight weeks a year on this eastern Caribbean island , so it's really become our second home.

We know our way around pretty well, and encourage anyone who comes here to rent a car and explore. It's a small island,with only three towns and 36 beaches, all quite different and most very beautiful.

But driving isn't the only way. Several boats can take you all around the island . In eight hours, a catamaran called 'Golden Eagle' sails out of the main harbor on the Dutch side of St Maarten, up the east coast to a French island toward the top of the island, over to the west for lunch , then to a swimming spot before completing the circle. It's a great way to see St Maarten from a different perspective than most will ever enjoy.

We sailed around the island just two weeks ago. Come along and see for yourself.