SXM Poker Run takes over island waters for day of boating excitement

Boating enthusiasts take to the seas for an islandwide adventure featuring poker competitions, beach gatherings and waterfront celebrations.

GREAT BAY--The waters surrounding St. Maarten and French Saint Martin are the setting for a day of boating excitement on Saturday, November 14, as the 2026 SXM Poker Run brings together powerboat enthusiasts, jet ski riders and marine recreation lovers for one of the island's signature boating events.

The annual event combines recreational boating, friendly competition and entertainment, taking participants along a route that includes several of the island's popular bays and coastal destinations. With activities scheduled throughout the day and into the evening, the Poker Run also provides an opportunity to showcase St. Maarten's marine tourism sector and its appeal to regional boating enthusiasts.

Unlike a traditional boat race, the SXM Poker Run is not determined by speed. Participants travel between designated locations, collecting playing cards at each stop. The objective is to assemble the strongest five-card poker hand by the end of the event, with prizes awarded to the leading competitors.

This year's activities began with registration, a captains' briefing and the first card draw at Taloula Mango's along the Philipsburg Boardwalk, which serves as both the starting and finishing point for the Poker Run.

From Great Bay, the published itinerary takes participants to Grand Case Bay on the French side for the second card draw, followed by a stop at either Simpson Bay or Mullet Bay, depending on weather conditions. The third stop includes a floating party, with music and refreshments available aboard a designated party barge.

Participants then continue to Plum Bay for their fourth card before returning to Great Bay for the afternoon finale.

The event's conclusion at Taloula Mango's is scheduled to feature a gathering of boats along the shoreline, the final poker card draw and the announcement of competition winners.

In addition to the poker competition, organizers have included several entertainment categories, including the selection of a Poker Run King and Queen, recognition for the best-dressed boat and crew, and a chicken wing eating contest.

The celebrations are scheduled to continue Saturday night with an official after-party at Nowhere Special in Simpson Bay, beginning at 10:00 p.m. A cooldown gathering is also planned for Sunday, November 15, at Boat'On Yacht Club in Nettle Bay, featuring additional entertainment and activities.

The SXM Poker Run has developed a regional following, attracting boating enthusiasts from St. Maarten and neighbouring territories. According to organizers, the 2024 edition welcomed more than 50 boats and jet skis, with participants representing St. Maarten, Anguilla, the British Virgin Islands and St. Barthélemy.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the event highlights the island's potential as a destination for marine tourism, bringing together boat owners, charter operators, visitors and local businesses.

Organizers have also emphasized responsible boating, reminding participating captains to comply with maritime regulations, observe speed restrictions and respect other vessels and coastal areas. The event is recreational rather than a speed competition, with safety remaining an important consideration throughout the route.

With its combination of on-water activities, coastal scenery and entertainment, the SXM Poker Run continues to promote St. Maarten as a Caribbean destination for boating enthusiasts while bringing together participants and spectators around the island's maritime culture.

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