Learn the island’s rum history and create a personalized spiced rum during a 90-minute private workshop in Philipsburg. Includes a pirate experience, guided tasting, and a bottle to take home.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off cobbled Front Street with salt on the air and the Caribbean sun pressing gently against the port’s pastel facades. Inside a shaded workshop just off the boardwalk, the scent of molasses and toasted oak rises from glass carafes and old barrels — the raw materials of an island story. Stations are arranged for hands-on blending; spices, citrus peels and bottled rums wait like tools on a chemist’s table.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; participants should be able to stand for short demonstrations and move around workstations.
Wildlife
History
Rum production on St. Maarten grew from colonial-era sugarcane farming and the island’s role in Caribbean trade; local flavors reflect Dutch, French and African influences.
Conservation
Reef and beach preservation are priorities; bring reusable bottles and avoid single-use plastics, and support tours that respect marine protected areas.
Reserve your spot on the Private Rum Making Workshop in Philipsburg today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring valid ID
You’ll sample and bottle alcohol — government-issued photo ID is required for service and tasting.
Book around cruise schedules
Philipsburg gets busiest when cruise ships dock; early morning or late afternoon slots feel calmer.
Pack your bottle securely
Use a padded sleeve or wrap in clothing to protect your take-home rum during travel, especially in hot weather.
Pace tastings
Sip small samples and hydrate — responsible tasting helps you dial in flavors for your custom blend.
Government ID
Required to participate in alcohol tastings and to receive your bottled rum.
Small tote or padded bottle sleeve
Protects your take-home bottle for the rest of your trip.
Light layers
Workshops can warm during demonstrations; a light layer keeps you comfortable.
summer
Notebook or phone for notes
Record your recipe and flavor ratios so you can recreate the blend at home.