The 2026 Great Bay Beach & Boardwalk Jamboree: Where Sailing Meets Island Celebration

If you’re planning to be in St. Maarten this winter, mark your calendar for Saturday, January 31, 2026 — the day Philipsburg’s Great Bay comes alive with one of the island’s most exciting seaside festivals: the 2nd Annual Great Bay Beach & Boardwalk Jamboree.

Set along the sparkling shoreline of Great Bay Beach, this full-day celebration runs from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM, blending the thrill of competitive sailing with beachside fun, live music, and that signature St. Maarten community spirit. It’s all part of the Caribbean Multihull Challenge, but you don’t have to be a sailor to enjoy every moment.

Watch the DIAM 24 Trimaran Races from the Beach

From noon to 3 PM, all eyes turn toward the turquoise waters just off the Dutch Blonde Beach Bar, where sleek DIAM 24 trimarans race across Great Bay. These fast, lightweight boats put on an incredible show — you can literally feel the energy of the competition from the sand. Grab a cold drink, find a shaded spot, and cheer on the racers as they slice through the surf.

Beach Games, Local Fun, and Island Camaraderie

Once the sails settle, the shoreline transforms into a lively playground. From 3 to 5:30 PM, you can join or just watch the beach games — volleyball matches, a good old-fashioned tug-of-war, friendly rounds of football (soccer), cornhole, and jou de boule, a favorite among locals.

It’s casual, colorful, and full of laughter — the kind of island fun that reminds you why St. Maarten is more than just a destination; it’s a community that loves to celebrate together.

The Seaview Beach Hotel: The Heart of the Jamboree

At the center of it all is the Seaview Beach Hotel, your hub for food, drinks, and the evening festivities. With its beachfront setup, pool and cabana area, and unbeatable location, it’s the ideal spot to take in the day’s events.

Starting at sunset, the Seaview turns into the island’s liveliest party spot — complete with music, dancing, happy hour specials, and an energetic after-party that rolls well into the evening. Expect local bands, DJ sets, and plenty of dancing barefoot in the sand.

Pro tip: If you’re visiting for the event, mention “CMC2026” when booking your stay at Seaview Beach Hotel to unlock special rates and perks during Jamboree weekend.

A Celebration of Sailing, Community, and Caribbean Joy

The Great Bay Beach & Boardwalk Jamboree isn’t just about racing — it’s about connection. Locals, visitors, and international sailors come together to share a day filled with friendly competition, good music, and pure Caribbean joy. Whether you’re watching the trimarans cut across the horizon or joining the dance floor at sunset, you’ll feel the heartbeat of St. Maarten in every wave and every song.

So come join the fun this January 31, 2026, and experience the island at its best — sunny, spirited, and full of life.