Destination Overview:
Saba is an emerald island in an aquamarine sea. The densely wooded flanks of an extinct volcano boldy rise nearly 3,000 ft above the Caribbean Sea. Although only a quick 15 minute flight from St. Maarten, the island is far from the cares of the modern world. You will not find mass tourism, all-inclusive resorts or miles of pearly white beaches, but you will find overwhelmingly beautiful nature, a fabulous underwater world and a local population who add a whole new dimension to the concept of hospitality. Soon after arriving, you’ll realize why the people of Saba refer to their island as ‘The Unspoiled Queen’.

Diving Details:
Saba is a volcanic island that rises steeply from the ocean. Lava tunnels and hot springs remind divers of the island’s dramatic origins. The extremely varied diving includes bizarre looking pinnacles rising straight up from unfathomable depths. A busy population of colorful tropical fish as well as large groupers and jacks inhabit the waters around Saba. Along the edge of Saba’s sheer wall dives, divers can sight turtles and rays of all shapes and sizes. The small leeward side hosts gentle, medium-depth, spur-and-groove formations.

Insider Information:
Down to a depth of 200 feet, the entire coastline around Saba falls under the protection of the Saba Marine Park, founded in 1987 and managed by the Saba Conservation Foundation. All dive operations abide by the rules of the park and benefit from its ongoing research and education programs. Weekly slide shows entertain and inform divers of Saba’s special marine life. The Saba Marine Park has received several honors and remains the only park of its kind in the world to be completely self sufficient in its operation.

Dive Operators

Dive Sites

Hotels

image Cottage Club
image Juliana's Hotel
image Shearwater Resort

Restaurants

Non-Diving Activities

  • Climb the 1,064 steps to the top of Mount Scenery (2,877 feet), not only the highest mountain on the island but the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands. On your climb you’ll see palm trees, ferns, orchids, banana plants, mahogany trees, oleander, hibiscus, Saba’s national flower the ‘Black-eyed Susan’, colorful birds, bashful tree frogs & innocent snakes. The earlier in the day you start, the better chance you have of a clear view from the summit.
  • Explore the tide pools at Flat Point
  • Explore the unique and uniform architecture of Saba…white wooden facades, green shutters, bright red sloped roofs and gingerbread woodcutting details.
  • Shop for Saba Lace and Saba Spice, the island’s famous liqueur
  • Visit the Harry L. Johnson Memorial Museum in Windwardside
  • Walk down (& back up) The Ladder, the only way to get supplies to The Bottom before Fort Bay was developed as a port
  • Take in the amazing sea views
image image image image image image image image

Frequently Asked Questions

Saba is a small island located between St. Maarten & St. Kitts in the Northeastern Caribbean.

Saba is a short 15 minute flight from St. Maarten. St. Maarten is approximately a 4 hour flight from Newark and a 3 hour flight from Miami.

Since January 1, 2011, the U.S. dollar has been the official currency.

Dutch & English

Yes, you will need a valid passport to enter Saba, as well as to re-enter the U.S. You are required to have an onward/return ticket, proof of sufficient funds and proof of lodging accommodations for your stay. The typical length of stay granted by immigration to U.S. citizens is thirty days, and may be extended to 180 days by the office of immigration. Always check www.travel.state.gov before traveling for the most current information.

Do I need shots/immunizations?
For legal reasons, we cannot make official recommendations regarding shots and immunizations. Please consult with your physician or visit www.cdc.gov for more information.

U.S. Standard (110 volts)

Please check with your airline for luggage requirements and restrictions.

Yes, unless otherwise specified, we will arrange for your transfers to and from the airport.

Saba is a volcanic island that rises steeply from the ocean. Lava tunnels and hot springs remind divers of the island’s dramatic origins. The extremely varied diving includes bizarre looking pinnacles rising straight up from unfathomable depths. A busy population of colorful tropical fish as well as large groupers and jacks inhabit the waters around Saba. Along the edge of Saba’s sheer wall dives, divers can sight turtles and rays of all shapes and sizes. The small leeward side hosts gentle, medium-depth, spur-and-groove formations.

77-85 degrees

75-125 ft

3/2 mm

Most dive sites are within a 15 minute boat ride of the harbor, allowing your dive day to start a little later than in other destinations.

You’ll be picked up from your hotel shortly before 9am and driven down to the harbor. Boats depart the harbor at 9:30am. After your first dive, the boat will moor at a beautiful, calm area where you can gaze at seabirds in the cliffs, snorkel, or simply take a nap. After a 60-90 min surface interval, you’ll enjoy a second dive, returning to the harbor at about 1:30pm. Afternoon dives are available upon request. Night dives are planned for every Tues, Thurs & Sun or upon request.

Marine Park Fee ($4/dive/diver), Nature Fee ($1/night/person), Saba Airport Departure Tax ($5/person), dive rental equipment, Nitrox (unlimited-$59/diver), meals/beverages other than those specified, dive insurance, travel insurance, gratuities

E-tickets and vouchers are sent approximately 3 weeks prior to your departure.