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Saba Conservation Foundation
PO Box 18, The Bottom
Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
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The Nature of Saba
Visitor Information
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The Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF) is a not-for-profit organization
established in 1987 with a mission to preserve and manage Saba’s natural
and cultural heritage. Committed to the belief that a stronger island economy
will result from the sustainable use of Saba’s rich and virtually unspoiled
resources. The organization carries out the majority of nature management
for the island.
In order to achieve its goals, the SCF promotes the development of parks
and protected areas, manages a network of hiking trails, encourages the
preservation of historic buildings and promotes supportive scientific research
and education. The SCF owns Saba’s Terrestrial Park and oversees the
operations of the Saba National Marine Park and the Saba Bank National Park.
Vegetation Types
Physiography and geography
The Summit of Mt Scenery
Dense vegetation with a variety of species covers the top of Mount Scenery and upper
sections of the slope. The Elfin Forest covers about 8 hectares (20 acres) with the dominant tree being the (1) Mountain Mahogany. (2) Epiphytes grow on trunks, branches
and leaves of other plants. (3) Orchids are among the most common epiphytes present.
They have special structures that allow them to absorb water quickly when available.
Other epiphytes include (4) Liverworts, (5) Bromeliads, (6) Mosses and (7) Ferns. In
addition, (8) Mountain Cabbage or Palm and several species of shrubs including (9)
Wild Plantain, (10) Tree Ferns and Mountain Manna are very common. At present, the
low cover and height of the trees are a result of severe disturbances by hurricanes,
especially Hurricane Georges in 1998.
High hilltops and lower slopes
Just below the top, but still high on the mountain, are Mountain Palms and different
species of Tree Ferns. (11) Elephant Ears and Wild Plantain trees are abundant. Lower
down on the slopes, the fairly tall vegetation usually shows no distinction between the
tree and shrub layers. The average cover and number of species are considerably less
than that of the vegetation higher on Mt. Scenery. Redwood and (12) Mountain Fuchsia
are wild tree species that grow in this zone. Cactus species including the (13) Prickly
Pear Cactus and (14) Sea Grape trees with edible purple fruits can also be found.
Meadows and cliffs
Grassy meadows with scattered shrubs are mainly found on the lowest southern
and eastern slopes of Saba. This small patch of meadows to the northeast of the
old sulfur mine differs from the other meadows of this species-composition. The
grass Botriochloa pertusa is the most abundant. Shrubs such as Marron and Baye
Withe are found scattered in this zone. Steep cliffs surround the island of Saba and
are mostly barren slopes: partly rubble and partly rocky. The steep terrain, sheer
bluffs dropping almost straight down to the ocean’s edge, prevents the formation of
mangrove swamps or the establishment of much shore zone vegetation.
The island of Saba forms part of the inner arc of
islands stretching between the Virgin Islands and
Venezuela. All of these islands are of volcanic origin
resulting in an extremely mountainous topography.
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Saba is approximately 13 square kilometers (5 square
miles) in area with Mt. Scenery as its highest elevation at 877 meters (2877 feet) above sea level. The
slopes of the peaks and domes are steep, in some
places exceeding 60º. Several valleys or ravines
locally known as “guts” run down the slopes of the
mountain. A few level plateaus can be found, the largest being the valley of The Bottom and Flat Point.
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Cloud covered Top of Mt. Scenery
The average annual rainfall for Saba is about 1,000 millimeters (40 inches). Precipitation varies depending on
elevation and exposure to the eastern trade winds. The
dry season is normally between December and July.
Cliffs along Well’s Bay
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Flora and Fauna
Flora
Saba’s plant life is a mixture of species brought in by the early colonists and native
species. Introduced species include Mango, Avocado, (15) Sour Lemon and other fruit
trees that now grow wild. Saba’s national flower, (16) the Black-eyed Susan, is a native
of South Africa probably brought in by Dutch colonists and is commonly found along
the trails. The wide variety of flowering plants range from prolific (17) Oleander and
(18) Hibiscus found in gardens, to wild flowers and orchids in the rainforest. The (19)
Wild Begonia and (20) Wild Raspberry are also common along the rainforest trails.
Reptiles and Amphibians
The island’s small lizards seen along footpaths from sea level up to the top of Mt.
Scenery are a species of (21) Anolis lizard found only on Saba. The color differences
between males and females are unique. The male has black leopard spots and displays
an orange-yellow dewlap during courtship, while the females are smaller and usually a
drab olive color. The non-poisonous and harmless (22) Black Racer (Red-bellied Racer)
snake is a common encounter along the trails and roadsides. Although it typically
disappears quickly into a nearby bush, it will sometimes remain undisturbed waiting to
stalk prey and you can approach it quite closely. The species is only found on Saba and
St. Eustatius.
Black Racer snake
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Large Iguana lizards are also sometimes seen along the roads and most often on a hike
to Old Booby Hill. (23) The Lesser Antillean Whistling Frog is a tiny tree frog that is
more often heard than seen. After sunset, the sounds of the tree frogs blend harmoniously with the distinctive noises of crickets.
Birds
Saba is home to at least 100 bird species, many of which are sea birds. Bridled
Terns, Sooty Terns, and Brown Noddies breed every year in late spring on Green
Island, a small cay just off the north coast. Red-billed and White-tailed Tropicbirds
nest in the holes and crevices of the high cliffs while Frigatebirds and Brown Boobies
soar near the coast.
Saba’s diverse vegetative zones provide habitat for a wide variety of land birds. Five
species of doves and pigeons live on the island and several others have been known to
visit. The small Common Ground-dove can be found at the dry lower elevations whereas
the secretive Bridled Quail-dove frequents the higher wet forest. Red-tailed Hawks can be
seen on the lower slopes while Thrashers, Hummingbirds, and Bananaquits can be found
at higher elevations. The (24) Pearly-eyed Thrasher is one of the most common birds
seen both in the villages and in the forests.
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Saba is located within the Caribbean hurricane belt.
The hurricane season starts in July and normally
lasts until November. Temperature, humidity, and
rainfall vary significantly with altitude on high
volcanic islands such as Saba. The vegetation varies within distinctive zones which are also related
to altitude and humidity. Several vegetation types
exist on the island. Clouds often cover the top of
Mt. Scenery, resulting in cloud forest vegetation.
Slightly lower in a belt where high rainfall occurs,
rainforest vegetation is present. Still lower on the
slopes where humidity decreases, the vegetation
gradually becomes drier. Plants and
trees found closer to shore often
adapt to the salty environment. The species found
at higher elevations
would not survive
at sea level.
Black-Eyed Susan
Saba’s Nature Trails
A. The Ladder
I. North Coast Trail
Access: from The Bottom, follow the road past the hospital towards Well’s Bay. Bear
left at the junction by the lookout gazebo. After a short distance down the steep road
you will see the trailhead sign on the left.
Time: 1 hour round trip
Degree of difficulty: strenuous (on the way back up)
Special features: historic step road by which cargo was hauled up from Ladder Bay to
The Bottom. Mahogany trees, Cinnamon trees, beautiful vistas.
Access: from the main trailhead in Lower Hell’s Gate.
Time: 3½ hours one-way
Degree of difficulty: strenuous - must be accompanied by a guide
Special features: Spectacular ocean views, ruins of Mary’s Point
Note: Due to erosion, only guided hikes are allowed beyond the All Too Far junction
or past Mary’s Point, when starting from Well’s Bay.
B. Crispeen Track
Access: from the Mt. Scenery steps just below the end of the Mountain Road (at the first
shelter) or from the road from The Bottom to Windwardside, just above The Bottom.
Time: 30 minutes to Crispeen, one hour to Rendezvous from The Bottom.
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: Views of The Bottom and secondary rainforest.
Access: from the junction at either the North Coast Trail or the Sandy Cruz Trail.
Time: 1-2½ hours one-way (depending on hiking the trail up or down).
Degree of difficulty: moderate-strenuous
Special features: this trail connects the North Coast Trail with the Sandy Cruz Trail. It
meanders through dry scrub vegetation and lush rainforest, with spectacular views of
the Pirate Cliffs.
C. Mas’ Cohone’s Hill Trail
K. Bottom Mountain Trail
Access: Look for the trailhead signboard on your left as you head up to Mt. Scenery
from Windwardside.
Time: 20 minutes one-way
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: a short alternative for those who don’t want to undertake the
climb to the top of Mt. Scenery, with great plant diversity and a wonderful view of
Windwardside.
Access: from the road opposite Queen’s Gardens Hotel or the junction at Rendezvous.
Time: 1½ hour
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: secondary forest, transition to rainforest, occasionally farmed land,
Mango trees, Mammee Apple trees, and views of The Bottom.
D. Mount Scenery Trail
Access: from Windwardside opposite the Trail Shop. Alternative access is from the end
of the Mountain Road (this will reduce hiking time by about 25 minutes) or from the
Bud’s Mountain Trail, which joins the Mt. Scenery trail at the highest shelter.
Time: 2½ hours
Degree of difficulty: strenuous
Special features: 1,064 steps to the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Unique cloud forest (Elfin Forest) vegetation at the top.
Note: the steps near the top are always slippery; even shaded portions of the trail at
lower elevations can be slippery. A hiking stick is highly recommended!
E. Sandy Cruz Trail
Access: the trailhead is at the end of the first dead end road that winds through Upper
Hell’s Gate (Zion’s Hill). If you are walking to the trailhead, signs will direct you from
the main road. Or you can start from the road on Troy Hill, which will increase the
hiking time by about half an hour.
Time: 2½ hours
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: lush rainforest, abandoned farmland, great views, trail crosses Saba’s
Terrestrial Park.
F. Sulfur Mine Trail
Access: going down from Upper Hell’s Gate (Zion’s Hill) towards the airport, follow the
second side road (the one that branches sharply to the left); the trail starts at the end
of the paved road.
Time: 40 minutes one-way
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: part of Saba’s Terrestrial Park; location of the old McNish Sulfur Mine;
great views of cliffs and airport; seabird watching (bring your binoculars!).
Note: Exploring the mine is possible when permitted. Flashlights are essential.
Temperatures and humidity inside the mine are high. Enter at your own risk. Maximum
stay in mine should not exceed 15 minutes. Upper levels have been blocked.
G. Flat Point (The Tidepools) Trail
Access: from the road below the airport to Cove Bay.
Time: 30 minutes
Degree of difficulty: an easy walk to the bluff overlooking the tidepools; a steep
scramble over rocks to get down to the pools
Special features: lava flows; colorful saltwater pools with abundant marine life; ruins of
an indigo boiling house.
Note: Mind the ocean! Don’t climb too far down when the sea is wild.
H. Spring Bay Trail
Access: from the Agriculture Center in English Quarter (along the road from
Windwardside to Hell’s Gate/Zion’s Hill) or from Kelbey’s Ridge near the Airport.
Time: 2 - 3 hours one-way
Degree of difficulty: strenuous
Special features: dry forest and dry scrub vegetation; beautiful vistas; ruins of a sugar
cane boiling house.
Note: Take enough water and sunblock—this is a long and hot hike; Cooler due to
shade if started in the early afternoon. Beware of Manchineel trees along the trail. Don’t
seek shelter under them and don’t eat their poisonous fruits!
Trail Map
J. All Too Far Trail
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L. Bud’s Mountain Trail
Access: from the Bottom Mountain Trail or opposite the last (3rd) rest shed on the Mt.
Scenery Trail
Time: 1½ hours up hill
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: good example of secondary rainforest.
Note: This trail is a nice alternative on the way down from Mount Scenery.
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M. Tara Ground Trail
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Access: from the Bottom Mountain trail.
Time: 45 minutes from the junction on the Bottom Mountain trail to the junction on the
Crispeen Track
Degree of difficulty: moderate-easy
Special features: dense secondary forest with large mango trees.
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N. Parish Hill Trail
Access: the trail starts at the beginning of the road from The Bottom down to Fort Bay,
next to the Cable Office or behind the Hospital.
Time: 1½ hours
Degree of difficulty: moderate
Special features: Parish Hill is one of the younger volcanic domes (less than 100,000
years old); great views of The Bottom and St. John’s; deep caves.
Note: Caves should only be entered with an experienced guide and adequate equipment.
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O. Gile’s Quarter Trail
Access: from the Dancing Place Trail on top of the ridge or the dirt road below the
stone crusher at the eastern end of Fort Bay.
Time: 2 hours
Degree of difficulty: strenuous
Special features: great ocean vistas along the coastline, impressive view of The Road
from below, old farming structures, including a functioning well near the beach at
“Hole in the Corner”.
Note: Take enough water and sunblock—this is a long and hot hike.
P. Dancing Place Trail
Planning Your Visit: Get the latest information about the trail conditions at the Trail Shop.
Trail Manners
Access: from the road from Windwardside to St. John’s at the Lion’s club sign or from
“The Road” monument between Windwardside and St. John’s.
Time: 20 minutes one-way
Degree of difficulty: easy
Special features: great views of the south coast.
Help to keep the trail clean. Please carry your own litter
out to be properly disposed of in a trash container.
Q. Middle Island Trail
A picked flower soon dies. Please leave all plants and
flowers for others to enjoy after you.
Access: from The Bottom towards Well’s Bay, turn
down to the left at The Gap and continue past
The Ladder until you reach the trailhead at
the end of the road.
Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Degree of difficulty: easy
Special features: heritage trail,
remains
of an old open cistern, impressive
farm stonewalls, a cavern, dry forest and great
views across Ladder- and
Well’s Bay.
Purple-throated Carib Hummingbird
Leave the trail cleaner than you found it by picking up
any litter that other people have left behind.
Be considerate to others. Loud noises can disturb
wildlife as well as other hikers wishing to enjoy the
serenity of the area.
All trails are on private land and we are allowed to use
the trails because of the landowners’ generosity. Please
respect the landowners and do not wander off the
trails. Do not pick the fruits in the plantations.
For Your Safety
Carry plenty of drinking water with you. The heat
of the tropical sun will force you to considerably
increase your normal fluid intake.
Protect yourself against sunburn or sunstroke by
wearing a broad-brimmed hat and a high-strength
sunblock lotion.
Sturdy walking, running or tennis shoes are sufficient
for the trails. However, hiking boots will provide an
additional level of comfort and security.
As you gain elevation and enter the rainforest, the
temperature may drop markedly. You may want to
bring along a light jacket or anorak.
Trails can frequently be slippery, especially in the
rainforest. A hiking stick can provide extra stability
and can be borrowed or purchased at the Trail Shop.
Nature fees and donations
The SCF is responsible for meeting the major
expense of nature management and most funds are
raised through nature fees and private contributions.
The small nature fee is requested at your hotel and
other donations to support us are very welcome.
Your investment in the longevity of the natural
environment is greatly appreciated.
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Saba National Marine Park
PO Box 18, The Bottom
Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
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Diving in Saba
Visitor Information
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The Saba National Marine Park (SNMP) was established in 1987 with the
objective to preserve and manage Saba’s marine resources. The SNMP
was not founded to repair a damaged environment but rather to ensure
the continued quality of an extraordinary resource for the benefit and
enjoyment of everyone in perpetuity.
The SNMP surrounds the entire island and extends from the highwater mark down to a depth of 60 meters (~200 feet), including the
seabed and overlying waters. The SNMP is administered by the Saba
Conservation Foundation, a not-for-profit organization with a mission
to contribute to the development and preservation of Saba’s natural
and cultural heritage. The SNMP raises revenue through visitor fees,
souvenir sales and donations.
The island’s commercial diving business
introduced scuba enthusiasts to the wealth of
Saba’s underwater world starting in the 1980s.
The establishment of the SNMP soon afterward
assured the health of the undersea environment
and thus the sustainability of dive tourism, today a
major contributor to the island economy.
Saba plunges below the sea as steeply as it
rises above it. From shallow patch reefs to deep
underwater seamounts, Saba offers dive sites
suitable for every diver’s level of experience.
Due to the steep coastal zone, shore diving is
virtually impossible. Therefore, all diving is done
safely from a boat with one of Saba’s licensed
dive centers. Their expertise contributes to a safe,
convenient, and informative diving experience.
Underwater lava flows and hot springs are the
most obvious evidence of Saba’s volcanic origins.
The reefs are populated with schools of tropical
fish and healthy coral. Sheer close-to-shore walls
are covered with sponges of all sizes, and the
heavily encrusted deep-water seamounts attract
pelagic creatures that are not normally seen by
divers. Unusual and exciting sightings are always
possible in Saba’s waters, including frequent
shark sightings.
Saba offers year-round diving with seasonal
differences in water temperature and surface
conditions. The approximate water temperature
varies between 26°C and 28°C (79°F-82°F).
Visibility ranges from a minimum of 18 meters
(60 feet) but can be virtually unlimited. Poor
weather conditions and heavy rainfall may
influence visibility, but it typically improves again
very quickly.
Bioluminescent ostracods
Lionfish
Recently, bioluminescent ostracods
have become a major night dive
attraction.
In 2010 the invasive lionfish also arrived
in Saba’s waters. Although their spread
seems not to be as dramatic as in other
areas, the marine park staff and volunteer
divers attempt to control populations.
The Hot Spring area is one of the few
places in the Caribbean where this
extraordinary light show, the mating
behavior by tiny crustaceans, can be seen.
Fortunately, Saba’s dramatic coastline naturally
limits coastal development. Pressure on marine
resources has always been modest even as the
island population has increased without runoff
or sewer problems. The quality of the marine
environment, strong coral communities, and
rich and varied fish life continue to lure divers to
Saba’s unspoiled waters.
Under certain conditions, a special
license to remove lionfish can be
obtained at the marine park office.
“In the end we will conserve only what we love. We love only what we
understand. We will understand only what we are taught.”
- Baba Dioum, Senegalese conservationist and poet
Nurse Shark
Saba Marine Life
Ostracods
Lionfish
Endangered Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are among the most important marine
ecosystems in the world. Aside from their magnificent
beauty, coral reefs provide dwelling places for thousands
of animals and plants, which have high economic value
and provide food to millions of people.
Groupers
Sharks
Hawksbill Turtle
Longsnout Seahorse
The grouper is an excellent indicator species
for fishing impact; the larger they are, the
less pressure from fishing exists. In Saba,
groupers are often found in the deep waters
around The Pinnacles. Red Hinds and Yellow
Fin Groupers are the most common species
sighted, but Nassau Groupers can also be
spotted quite often.
Sharks have been feared and exploited for centuries, but as they inhabit the top of the food
chain it is important that we understand their
role in marine ecosystems. Shark sightings
occur frequently in Saba, especially around The
Pinnacles. Nurse Sharks and Caribbean Reef
Sharks are the most common species, but
Hammerhead Sharks, Bull Sharks and Tiger
Sharks can also occasionally be seen.
Sea turtle populations are declining throughout
the Caribbean. Domestic and international laws
have been established to protect these endangered species. In Saba, Hawksbill and Green
Turtles are the most common. The turtles find
good feeding grounds around the island. The
SNMP minimizes impact on sea grass beds,
the Green Turtles’ favorite food, by requesting
yachts to utilize moorings or anchor in deeper
waters only.
Seahorse sightings are considered to be an
incredible find among divers. The presence
of this unique sea creature is not only a
great tourist attraction, but it also signals the
healthiness of the ecosystem, coral reef, and
supporting seabed. Of the two species found
in Saba, the Longsnout Seahorse is commonly
found and the Lined Seahorse is very rare.
Although they act as a natural barrier against wave action
and coastal erosion, and appear to be sturdy, coral reefs
are in fact very fragile. Fast population growth, dense
coastal settlements, and destructive fishing techniques
threaten coral reefs and their associated resources. Coastal
and marine pollution also threaten the well-being of coral
reefs and cause them to experience chronic stress.
A potentially greater threat has emerged in the last two
decades. Coral bleaching, a phenomenon associated with
a variety of stresses both natural and human-induced, has
affected coral reefs with increasing incidence and severity.
Coral bleaching is most often caused by high water
temperatures and high levels of UV light that influence the
physiology of the coral and can cause a bleaching effect.
This loss of color is due to the loss of symbiotic algae,
which the coral polyp depends on for up to 90% of its
food. Prolonged bleaching can lead to widespread coral
mortality as the weakened corals are more vulnerable to
disease and starvation. In Saba, bleaching events and
coral diseases are still uncommon, although there was
a Caribbean-wide bleaching event in 2005. Nonetheless,
global climate change may also impact the health of the
Saba reefs in the future.
Coral reefs have lived under a wide variety of past climatic
conditions, temperature, UV and ocean current patterns.
In recent years, coral reefs have suffered a dramatic
decline around the world. About 20% may already have
been degraded beyond recovery. Unless an effective
conservation plan is implemented, it has been predicted
that more than two-thirds of the world’s coral reefs may
collapse ecologically within this century.
Careful management and maintenance of the environment
are crucial to safeguard this valuable marine ecosystem.
Today coral reefs are threatened by increased sea temperatures,
storminess, UV levels, as well as changing current patterns,
resulting from our current climate change.
Dive Sites
Dive Site Map
The Pinnacles (sites 1-5)
of Torrens Point headland. They do not exceed
depths of 25 meters (82 feet), allowing for more
bottom time to explore the rich waters and enjoy
the magnificent fish life that abounds. Schools of
Black Durgons and Barracudas swarm around the
mooring lines while Black-tip Reef Sharks merge
into the blue. Stingrays hover over the gray sandy
bottom. Walls and rocks are covered with colorful
sponges, smaller corals and Sea Fans.
The fascinating Pinnacles that rise from the ocean
floor up to depths of 30 meters (100 feet) were
formed by past volcanic activity and are nourished
by deep ocean currents. The Pinnacles are covered
with corals, sponges and other invertebrates.
Abundant sea life, including large groupers, jacks
and turtles, is attracted to this area and provides a
spectacular diving experience.
Be cautious while diving around Diamond Rock
because of strong currents. While this site may
present challenging diving conditions, it also attracts abundant fish life.
The Ladder Bay Area (sites 10-16)
Tent Reef is also a favorite site for night dives
with frequent Octopus, sleeping turtle and Spiny
Lobster sightings.
East Side Diving (sites 20-26)
Shark sightings also occur frequently around these
waters. Black-tip Reef Sharks, Gray Reef Sharks and
Nurse Sharks are the most common species seen.
The most unique structure not to be missed is the
Eye-of-the-Needle, a pinnacle that rises up to 17
meters (56 feet) just off in the deep blue waters
from Third Encounter.
From Torrens Point to Diamond Rock (sites 6-9)
The large spires at Wells Bay and Torrens Point
form a protected cove, an ideal location for snorkeling or shallow diving. Underwater caves and
tunnels are interesting structures to explore and
the diver can encounter many aquatic life forms.
Schools of Blue Tangs, Goatfish, and Parrotfish are
characteristic in this area.
Man O’ War Shoal and Diamond Rock appear to be
submerged and semi-submerged extensions
becomes fragmented and appears as a series of
steep coral outcroppings separated by deep sand
channels. Tubular Sponges, Elephant Ear Sponges
and Black Coral dominate the wall.
The original steps that Sabans used to access the
island are known as The Ladder. Prior to the building of the Fort Bay Harbor, goods were brought
by boat to the rocky shore of the leeward coast.
Sabans carried the cargo by foot up the nearly
vertical stairway to the village. Diving in this area
unveils Saba’s volcanic origins. A natural labyrinth
of groove formations and protrusions developed
as a result of lava flows. If you bury your hand
in the sand where it is yellow/brown colored, the
geothermal temperature differences of the sea
floor become quite evident.
Large boulders and gray sand dominate the area
and the most common species of coral are Star
Coral, Brain Coral and Gorgonian. Curious Barracudas may approach divers very closely.
Tent Reef Area (sites 17-19)
Just west of the Fort Bay Harbor is another
unusual geological structure known as Tent Reef.
It is an extended rock ledge that starts at only four
meters (13 feet) deep but becomes progressively
deeper as you head northwest. The ledge is deeply
undercut at some points, providing shelter to large
snappers. It turns into a sheer wall that gradually
Diving on this side of the island depends on
suitable weather. However, visibility tends to be
exceptional when the weather is calm. Most of
Saba’s diving offers views of coral encrusted
boulders of volcanic origin, but only Greer Gut and
Giles Quarter are true coral reefs (i.e. made out of
limestone). Diverse species of reef fish and other
marine life, along with the white sand covering the
sea floor, provide a very different diving experience
compared to Saba’s other sites. Exposure to the
Atlantic side fosters the development of hard coral
structures more often than soft coral.
Close to shore, well-developed Elkhorn Coral formations occur although the risk exists of periodic
destruction by wave action and storms. These
coral branches are fragile, but they tend to recover
quickly due to high growth rates.
For Your Safety
To ensure your personal safety as well
as the safety of our valuable marine
resources, the Saba National Marine
Park has developed the following diving
regulations:
Gloves are not permitted while diving.
This is to eliminate the temptation of
touching the coral. One glove can be
used while ascending the mooring line
if the diver wishes.
Good buoyancy control will help avoid
contact with corals, gorgonians or
sponges. They are living invertebrates
that can be easily damaged. Practice
buoyancy skills before diving on the reef.
Introducing foreign food substances
into the reef environment is harmful.
It may cause behavioral changes
that could cause fish to be more
vulnerable to disease and predation.
Therefore, do not feed the fish.
Underwater Photography and Video
The abundance of marine life makes Saba a perfect
place for underwater photography and video,
although these activities require advanced diving
skills. Taking a camera in the water will change
both buoyancy and balance. Therefore you should
practice these skills with your camera before
attempting a reef dive. It is also essential that you
avoid all contact with the reef and your subject so
that no damage is caused. To get the most out of
this fascinating activity, it is important to follow
certain guidelines that will allow you to shoot your
best photos and videos:
• Stay at least one meter (3 feet) away from
your desired subject. Remember that you may
be considerably closer than your viewfinder
suggests.
• Position yourself and your equipment before
attempting your shot.
• Your shots should show your underwater
friends at home in their natural habitat.
Repeatedly flashing a strobe, touching or
moving your subject may cause stress on the
creatures.
• Get buoyancy correct before trying to get close
to your subject.
• Make all camera and strobe adjustments before
moving in to take the shot.
• Once you have taken your shot and are ready to
move on, inhale to ascend and to keep you off
the bottom. Do not push off from the reef and
do not fin until you are clear of the reef.
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Saba National Marine Park
PO Box 18, The Bottom
Saba, Caribbean Netherlands
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Anchorage Saba
Visitor Information
UN
D AT I O
N
The Saba National Marine Park (SNMP) was established in 1987 with the
objective to preserve and manage Saba’s marine resources. The SNMP
ensures the continued quality of an extraordinary resource for the benefit
and enjoyment of everyone in perpetuity.
The SNMP surrounds the entire island and extends from the highwater mark down to a depth of 60 meters (~200 feet), including the
seabed and overlying waters. The SNMP is administered by the Saba
Conservation Foundation, a not-for-profit organization with a mission
to contribute to the development and preservation of Saba’s natural
and cultural heritage. The SNMP raises revenue through visitor fees,
souvenir sales and donations.
Christopher Columbus sighted Saba during
his second voyage to the western hemisphere
on November 13, 1493. The island fell under
Spanish rule for almost 150 years, although
according to Spanish records, there is no
indication that colonization was ever attempted.
It is assumed that during the years of Spanish
rule, ships passing Saba may have landed from
time to time to explore the island. In 1632, a
group of Englishmen who shipwrecked on Saba
claimed that they found the island uninhabited.
A Frenchman claimed the island for the King of
France in 1635 and around the year 1640, Holland
sent colonists from the neighboring island of St.
Eustatius to take up residence on Saba. The island
changed nationality several times until the Dutch
finally took possession of Saba in 1816.
It is believed that many Sabans of European
ancestry are descendants of Jamaican pirates,
who had captured the island in 1665. During the
Reformation, England underwent both religious
and economic transformations and transported
the unemployed and ‘undesirables’ to settle the
became known as the ‘Island of Women’ during
this period.
Skooner ‘The Mayflower’ anchored at the Fort Bay, 1928.
colonies. The West Indies were considered the
most favorable depository for these outcasts,
and most were deported to Jamaica. Later,
African slaves gradually replaced the outcasts.
Consequently, many European indentured
servants turned to piracy for survival. For many
years, Saba served as a refuge for the spoils of
the pirates driven here from other islands by
the colonists. The legacy of the pirates served
Sabans well in later years as they continued to
Value of the Coral Reefs
Coral reefs are very important for humankind from
economic, scientific, and recreational standpoints.
The reefs are dwelling places for thousands of
marine organisms, they protect the coast from
large waves and swells and their ecosystems
act as valuable food sources for millions of
people. The diversity of life makes the reefs into a
paradise for naturalists.
Coral reefs may appear sturdy, but they are in
fact very fragile. Human activities constitute a
great threat and have resulted in the decline of
coral reefs. Fast population growth, dense coastal
settlements, and destructive fishing techniques
threaten coral reefs and their associated
resources. Coastal and marine pollution also
threaten the well-being of coral and cause chronic
stress to the marine ecosystem.
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Bringing cargo ashore was not always easy as can be seen in
this picture from 1964.
make a living from the sea, fishing and engaging
in legitimate trade that put them in contact
with other islands. This resulted not only in
trading relations, but also in marriages. Wives
and husbands were constantly sought from
overseas. As St. Eustatius grew into an important
commercial center, Saban men found employment
as sailors and captains on both locally owned
and foreign schooners. In the early 1900s, Saban
men spent long periods at sea and the island
In the early days of navigation, boats were built on
Saba at Tent Bay and Well’s Bay. Some weighed
as much as 60 gross tons. Saba also had a
navigation school, founded by Capt. Frederick
Simmons, which started in 1909 and lasted until
1922. Schooners were later purchased in the
United States and sailed back to Saba for use in
the Caribbean trade. Later, Saban vessels carried
many Caribbean island workers to employment at
the oil refineries in Curaçao and Aruba. This trade
proved to be very profitable, and owners of these
vessels became very wealthy.
Saba has seen many changes since it was first
settled by the Europeans in the 17th Century. Saba
remained quite isolated until the development of
reasonable harbor facilities and ‘The Road’ was
built. In recent years, it has developed very quickly
both socially and economically. The completion of
the island’s 400-meter (437 yards) landing strip in
1963 launched a regular air service to St. Maarten.
After the cargo was brought to shore it still had to be carried up
the steep hills to The Bottom.
The establishment of the Saba National Marine
Park in 1987 enhanced the island’s diving
business, which has become a major source
of tourism income contributing to an improved
island economy. Conservation efforts have
successfully protected Saba’s virtually unspoiled
resources, resulting in a perfect destination for
Caribbean travelers looking for unique land and
sea adventures.
Activities
In recent years, coral reefs have suffered a
dramatic decline around the world. About 20%
may already have been degraded beyond recovery.
Unless an effective management system is
implemented, it has been predicted that more than
two-thirds of the world’s coral reefs may collapse
ecologically within this century. Increased
awareness of the importance of conservation
activities will become an urgent priority to ensure
the safety of such an extraordinary marine
resource.
While visiting the Saba National Marine Park,
you can help prevent anchor damage to coral by
making use of the available mooring system.
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Hiking
Villages
Serene coral reefs and varied fish life
characterize Saba’s underwater world. The
Pinnacles are one of the most intriguing
features of Saba’s marine environment.
They rise from the ocean floor to depths
of 30 meters (~100 feet). Nourished by
deep ocean currents, the Pinnacles are
encrusted with corals, sponges, and other
invertebrates that attract teeming fish life.
One of the favorite snorkeling sites is
Torrens Point. Its protected geomorphology and shallow water provide an excellent spot to encounter colorful tropical
fish, turtles and many other aquatic life
forms. You can choose to explore the
small caves or swim through the tunnel
that leads you to the northern side of
Torrens Point.
Saba offers a variety of hiking and
walking excursions. Numerous nature
trails will bring you in close contact with
the natural and historical features of the
island. Saba’s best known hiking adventure is Mt. Scenery. This trail meanders
through secondary rainforest to the Elfin
Forest at its peak. Pay a visit to the Trail
Shop for details on all the beautiful trails.
A leisurely walk through the village of
Windwardside features narrow paths
bordered by flower-draped walls and
neat picket fences. The architecture is
a vivid expression of Saba’s cultural
heritage. Well-kept cottages with their
red-shingled roofs, white sidings, green
shutters and gingerbread trimmings
exemplify the traditional building style.
Anchorage Saba
SAFETY REGULATIONS
While visiting the Saba National
Marine Park, please conform
to the following regulations for
your personal safety as well as
the safety of our valuable marine
resources.
Yacht moorings located east of Fort
Bay and within the Ladder to Well’s Bay
anchorage area specifically for use by
visiting boats up to 20m (66ft) long or
max. 50 tons.
1
Mooring specifically for licensed diving
vessels up to 16m (52ft) long.
Mooring specifically for licensed diving
vessels up to 32m (105ft) long.
All scuba diving must be done
with one of Saba’s licensed
dive centers.
Spear fishing, turtle catching,
and conch collecting are not
allowed.
Water skiing, jet-skiing and
fishing are not permitted in
the Saba National Marine Park
recreational dive zones.
Anchoring in coral or anywhere within a recreational
dive zone is prohibited.
Do not take coral or any other
bottom-dwelling plants or
animals.
Do not litter or discharge any
foreign substances into the
water.
When passing a boat flying
a dive flag, always pass on
the seaward side at least 150
meters (150 yards) away.
When approaching Fort Bay or
other anchorage areas, speed
must not exceed 5 knots (no
wake).
All moorings are checked and
maintained carefully by the
park staff. Please help to keep
the moorings safe and immediately report any defects to
the Marine Park Visitor Center
located at Fort Bay.
2. Fort Bay Harbor
1. The Ladder to Well’s Bay Area
2
Ladder to Well’s Bay
1. Ladder to Wells Bay
2. Fort Bay
Planning your visit
There are two designated anchorage zones within the Saba National
Marine Park, (1) the Ladder Bay to
Well’s Bay area and (2) the Fort Bay
Harbor (see maps).
Upon arrival, you must visit the
harbor building at Fort Bay to clear
Customs & Immigration on the
ground floor. Then proceed to the
Harbor Office on the top floor. Finally,
you need to check in with the Marine
Park (up the steps of the building in
the middle of the harbor). In case
our offices are closed, there is a
Self-Check-In box with information
brochures, forms and envelopes on
the balcony.
Limited docking space is available in
the Fort Bay Harbor so it is necessary
for boats to anchor out and come in
with a dinghy. Although it may appear
The anchorage area from Ladder Bay to Well’s Bay
has very beautiful views and is adjacent to high cliffs
embedded with huge rocks.
that docking space is available, it is
best to check with the Harbor Master
first about ship traffic. Since the pier
is small, it is used only as a loading/
unloading dock unless given special
permission by the Harbor Master.
Contact the Saba National Marine
Park office or Harbor Master on VHF
channel 16 for direction on anchoring,
mooring use, or any other information.
The Saba National Marine Park is selffinanced, so a nominal fee is charged
to cover the cost of maintenance and
management of marine resources.
These fees must be paid at the Marine
Park visitor center at the Fort Bay.
The mooring system
Permanent mooring buoys have
been placed within the Saba National
Marine Park for specific users. All
moorings are 45 centimeter (18 inch)
float balls with a blue reflective band.
They are color-coded to indicate the
various user groups. You may find
other moorings in the Fort Bay area
that are not the property of the Saba
National Marine Park. These are for
private use only. Yellow moorings are
specifically for use by visiting yachts.
They cannot be reserved and are on a
first-come, first-served basis. Vessels
are allowed to occupy these moorings for up to seven days. White and
orange moorings are used by licensed
diving vessels only. However, there is
one white mooring at Torrens Point
that can be used by any visitor for
snorkeling purposes.
Use approximately 10 meters (33 feet)
of your own dock line to add scope
and to alleviate tension and chafing
on the mooring line. First, secure
one end to a cleat on deck. Next, pull
the other end through the eye of the
mooring line and secure to another
cleat on deck (see diagram).
Aside from the attractive surroundings, Ladder Bay
to Well’s Bay offers the best anchorage area under
normal conditions, with numerous yellow moorings
available. For yachts larger than 20 meters (66 feet)
or heavier than 50 tons, anchorage at seaside of the
yellow moorings is recommended. This area provides
excellent holding in clear sand and offers plenty of
swinging room.
When anchoring in this area, be sure to stay clear of
the reef and boulder areas close to the shore.
WARNING!
During the winter months, ground
swells originating from the storms in
the North Atlantic occasionally appear.
Your boat may be in serious danger
when you are anchored too close to
shore or with insufficient scope.
Fort Bay Harbor
Anchoring off Fort Bay is possible, but can be
uncomfortable under certain conditions. For example,
it is not recommended to anchor in this area during
strong southeast winds or large southerly swells.
However, this is the only anchorage to consider
during northerly swells. The sea floor in the Fort
Bay Harbor is sand, and it drops quickly down to 20
meters (66 feet) so it is important to anchor close to
shore.
The Saba National Marine Park provides moorings in
the Fort Bay Harbor that are the same type as those in
the Ladder to Well’s Bay anchorage zone. In addition,
there is one large mooring with a yellow metal buoy
located just 360 meters (0.2 miles) southeast of the
pier. It may be used by yachts of any size or small
cruise ships when available, but is not recommended
for overnight anchorage.