The Steepest Zipline in the World!
Adventure Day at Rainforest Adventures – St. Maarten
We decided to have an Adventure Day at Rainforest Adventures during our recent trip to St. Maarten. And let us just say, the steepest zipline in the world DID NOT disappoint! We opted for the Big Three Full Experience, which provided a host of adventure-filled thrills and created a fun-filled day for us. It was an amazing time—totally unique and totally unforgettable.
Getting There & Starting Off
Rainforest Adventures is tucked into the lush hills of Rockland Estate, and as it's very popular, everyone knew how to get there, Including every taxi driver we had the entire trip. We booked the Big Three Full Experience ahead of time (which we definitely recommend—you can BOOK HERE), and check-in was smooth. After completing a waiver, a short intro and safety briefing, we were ready to roll.
Sky Explorer: A Peaceful Climb to the Peak
The day kicks off with the Sky Explorer chairlift, which slowly lifts you through the treetops to top. It’s a quiet ride with beautiful views. It’s supposed to be a perfect warm-up for what’s to come. However, this may have been the most turnt up part of the day. Slow yes...maybe a little too slow...slightly scary... And if you do opt for the Big Three, it is your ride to each of the activity stops. We got on, went a little way up the mountain, and our first stop was the Schooner Tubing Ride.
Schooner Ride: Tubing, But Make It Wild
Our first stop, we hopped off to try the Schooner Ride, part 1 of The Big Three. The Schooner Ride is basically an inner-tube slide, but felt more like a tube roller coaster. You twist and spin your way down a slick track in a big inflatable tube. It’s fast and a ton of fun—definitely not just for kids.
Sentry Hill Ziplines: A Mid-Air Cruise
After getting back on the Sky Explorer to head back up the mountain, we took a quick flight on the Sentry Hill Ziplines, the second of The Big Three. This is a series of zips that send you gliding from platform to platform across the hillside. It’s not as intense as the Flying Dutchman, but it’s still a thrill and the scenery is top-tier. During our visit, one of the two rope courses was closed due to brake maintenance. The staff gave us the option to do the open course twice to make up for the closed course, but we decided not to. The one course was just enough.
A Quick Break at the Bar with Benji
Before the final ride, we took a little breather at the bar at the top of the mountain for a little bit of liquid courage and we're so glad we did. The views from the deck are worth the stop alone, but the real gem was the bartender, Benji. She was so friendly and welcoming, with great vibes and even better drinks. Whether you just need a sip of water, or a little liquid courage, this is the spot to soak it all in before your final descent.
Flying Dutchman: The Main Event
The grand finale was the Flying Dutchman—aka the steepest zipline in the world. For 45 seconds, you’re harnessed into a seated position, and once they let you go, it’s a straight shot down more than 1,000 feet. The speed is wild, but it somehow still feels safe and smooth. It’s one of those bucket-list experiences that completely lives up to the hype.
Bonus Stop: Emilio Wilson Museum
Back at the base, we wrapped up our day with a walk through the Emilio Wilson Museum. It’s located inside the restored estate house and gives a powerful glimpse into the island’s past. It’s a quieter, reflective moment that offers a lot of context to the land around.
What to Know Before You Go
- Book in advance – especially during peak season. The Big Three can fill up quickly.
- Wear closed-toe shoes – and dress for movement. Think athletic wear.
- Bring water – and take breaks (like at the bar!).
- Give yourself time – Plan for 2-4 hours depending on how busy it is. We went on a day when it was not that busy, with virtually no wait time at all and we were able to do everything in about 2 hours. Check the peak times.
- Pack Light - There are lockers at the Sentry Hill ZipLines and a zipper pouch attached to your seat at the Flying Dutchman. But don't overpack.
- Ready to Go?
You can book the Big Three Full Experience directly through our partner link here. It includes everything—Sky Explorer, Schooner Ride, Sentry Hill Ziplines, the Flying Dutchman, and access to the museum.
This was one of our favorite days in St. Maarten—an ADVENTURE DAY to remember for sure.