Saba National Marine Park

Saba National Marine Park is a protected area encircling the entire Caribbean island of Saba from the shoreline down to 60 meters depth. The zone covers roughly 1300 hectares of seafloor with various habitats, secured by 36 permanent mooring buoys that allow boats to anchor without damaging coral reefs.

The Marine Environment Ordinance of 1987 established this protected area to safeguard the quality of coral reefs and marine resources around Saba. This early decision to create an underwater protection zone arose from the need to shield the fragile ecosystem from overfishing and damage.

The Saba Conservation Foundation manages the park with support from island residents who have free access to the waters. Visitors experience a marine protection effort where the local community actively shapes the preservation of their underwater home.

When visiting, know that diving is only permitted with certified guides from local shops. The permanent mooring buoys enable safe anchoring, and visitors should contact these shops before arrival to arrange their water activities.

The seafloor features volcanic formations with rock pillars rising up to 30 meters from the ocean bottom. These underwater structures provide important homes for numerous species including sharks, sea turtles, and colorful fish.