Dutch St. Maarten Taxi Association
The island's official Dutch-side taxi co-op — fixed zone fares, no meters, and drivers who know every beach turn-off.
Why Go
You've just cleared customs at Princess Juliana or stepped off a ship at the Philipsburg cruise terminal, and the first local you'll meet is almost certainly a DSTA driver in a uniformed shirt waving you toward a numbered van. This is the government-sanctioned Dutch-side taxi association — the folks who set the printed rate card every cruise line and hotel concierge quotes from, so you don't have to haggle in the parking lot.
The Experience
DSTA taxis are your friction-free way to move around the Dutch side and cross into the French side without renting a car (a real relief on an island where the roundabouts, one-way lanes through Philipsburg, and Simpson Bay bridge openings make first-time driving a headache). Cars are typically air-conditioned minivans seating up to eight, and drivers double as informal guides — expect running commentary on Fort Amsterdam as you climb out of Great Bay, or a pause at the Maho fence when a KLM 777 is on approach. Because fares are per-vehicle for the first two passengers and only nudge up for additional riders, families and small groups often find a taxi cheaper than a shuttle bus once you factor in the drop-you-at-the-door convenience. Drivers can also be booked by the hour for private island tours — a popular half-day loop hits Maho, Marigot, Grand Case, and Orient Bay before returning to the ship.
What to Try
Ask your driver to quote a **flat hourly rate for a two- or three-hour island tour** instead of point-to-point — you'll get the beach-hop itinerary most cruise passengers pay double for through shore excursions. If you're a plane-watcher, request a **Maho Beach drop with a return pickup timed to the next big arrival** (drivers know the schedule better than any app). For dinner in Grand Case, book the round-trip in advance so you're not stranded on the French side after 10 p.m., when the 25% evening surcharge kicks in.
Insider Tip
Fares are quoted in USD and are **per taxi for one to two passengers**, not per person — so grab a printed rate card from the dispatch booth at the airport or cruise pier and confirm the zone number before you pull away. Add $5 per extra rider beyond two, $5 per extra bag beyond one-per-person, 25% between 10 p.m. and midnight, and 50% from midnight to 5 a.m. If a driver quotes something off-sheet, politely ask to see the tariff — DSTA cars carry it. Tipping 10–15% is standard and appreciated.
The Practical Stuff
Dispatch (President Maya Friday): **+1-721-543-7814**. Islandwide hotline: **9247**. Airport Taxi Association (separate co-op that handles PJIA arrivals): **+1-721-542-1681**. Main stands: Princess Juliana Airport arrivals curb, Port St. Maarten cruise terminal, the Courthouse on Front Street in Philipsburg, and most major Dutch-side resorts. Payment: USD cash is universal; larger operators may accept cards but confirm before you ride. No Uber or Lyft on the island — DSTA and its French-side counterpart are the regulated options. The SXM Taxi app lists 200+ vehicles for smartphone booking if you'd rather not flag one down.
Pair It With
- 721 Brews & Bites — Grab a DSTA ride from the cruise pier straight to this Philipsburg spot for a craft beer and a plate before the walk back down Front Street.
- 2 Brothers Fishing Guide — Book a morning charter out of Philipsburg and have your driver waiting at the dock at pickup — no scrambling for a ride with wet gear.
- 978 Beach Lounge — A tailor-made round-trip from your hotel to Friars Bay saves you the tricky drive down the hillside road — negotiate a return pickup before you're dropped.
