How Much Does a Bartender Cost in SXM

So you're throwing a party in Sint Maarten and wondering what it'll cost to hire a proper bartender. Smart move – nobody wants to be stuck behind the bar at their own celebration, right?

The short answer? Most bartenders here charge between $35-55 per hour, but there's more to it than that simple number.

What you'll actually pay

Here's the reality: every bartender prices differently. Some charge flat rates for the whole gig, others go hourly. We've seen everything from $200 for a basic 6-hour wedding to $500+ for high-end villa parties.

Of course, everything depends on the kind of service you’re asking for. A simple beer-and-wine service for a backyard BBQ is a totally different job than a full-scale cocktail bar at a luxury villa. Some events need a bartender only, while others require mixology skills, glassware rental, shopping for ingredients, or even additional staff. The more complex your needs, the higher the quote. So when comparing prices, make sure you’re comparing the same type of service – it makes all the difference.

The price jumps around based on a few key things:

• How many people you're hosting

• What kind of drinks you want served

• Where your party is happening

• What time of year it is

  
  

Most pros won't take jobs shorter than 4-5 hours. Makes sense when you think about it – they've got to pack all their gear, drive to your spot, set everything up, then tear it all down again.

Related : JC, Your SXM Bartender: The Guy You Want Behind the Bar

Simple vs fancy makes a big difference

Want beer, wine, and basic rum punches? You're looking at the lower end of that price range. But if you're dreaming of craft cocktails with fresh-squeezed everything and fancy garnishes, expect to pay more.

One bartender we know offers three different packages:

• Basic: $35/hour (beer, wine, simple mixed drinks)

• Premium: $45/hour (craft cocktails, fresh ingredients)

• VIP: $55/hour (custom drinks, molecular mixology stuff)

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Location matters more than you'd think

Hosting at a resort with everything already set up? Easy job, standard rates. But if you're doing a beach party or villa celebration, that bartender needs to haul everything there themselves.

Remote spots often add $50-100 to the total cost. Some bartenders even charge extra if they need to rent a generator or special equipment.

Peak season reality check

December through March? Good luck finding anyone available last minute. Prices during Carnival and New Year's can double. We've heard of bartenders charging $75+ per hour during peak times simply because they can.

Book early or consider off-season parties if your budget's tight.

What comes with the service

Most decent bartenders include way more than just pouring drinks. You typically get:

• All the bar tools and shakers

• Professional setup and cleanup

• Menu planning help

• Ice and basic garnishes

  
  

Some even throw in custom drink recipes for your event. Always ask what's included – you might be surprised.

Finding the right person

Skip the random ads and work with a team that knows the island inside out — we’re JC Bar Company. Based in Saint-Martin, we specialize in private events and luxury villa experiences. Whether you're planning a relaxed sunset gathering or a full-scale celebration with signature cocktails, we bring expertise, style, and that extra touch of Caribbean flair.

From setup to cleanup, menu planning to custom drinks, we handle everything so you can enjoy your own party.

The real talk

Yeah, hiring a professional bartender costs money. But think about it – you're paying for someone who knows their stuff, shows up on time, and lets you actually enjoy your own party.

Plus, good bartenders often save you money on alcohol. They know exactly how much to buy and what works well together. No more buying random bottles that sit around afterward.

The going rate might seem steep at first, but when you factor in everything they bring to the table, most people find it worth every penny. Just make sure to tip well – these folks work hard to make your celebration memorable.