Making the most of Saba
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Fort Bay Harbor is Saba's principal harbour and port, but it is not deep enough for the large cruise vessels carrying thousands of passengers around the Caribbean. Bringing such high passenger numbers onto this five-square-mile island would also be difficult.
Several small luxury cruise operators anchor beyond Fort Bay harbour and give their guests a day to visit the charming island.
Two bars and one restaurant stand at the port and are regularly used by residents and tourists.
The Bottom is about one mile away, along steep roads.
Taxis can be hired.
Pack a printable map.
This tiny Caribbean island contains four small villages, each with charm and a friendly welcome. Although the setting retains a historic, rustic quality, many places are modern in design. Saba is considered so safe that hotel doors have no locks.
The Bottom Saba, the largest town and capital of this petite Caribbean destination, is the first place travellers meet on the road from the main port at Fort Bay towards the rest of Saba. The volcanic island covers only five square miles and has merely 1,400 residents, approximately 500 of whom live in the capital. The Bottom is one of four charming island towns and has architecture that has become an important attraction in recent years. As capital, it hosts various festivals, events and holiday celebrations throughout the year.
Getting around
Saba has one main road, laid by hand in work that began in 1939 and did not finish until 1961. It links the airport and harbour while passing all 4 island villages. Taxis can be summoned for travel from one town to another; given the road's dangerous character and length, walking it is probably unwise.
Nearby places
Take a taxi to the highest town, Windward side, for a short walking tour and, if time allows, use the trails leaving from the hiking centre at the town entrance. The driver can collect you later at an agreed time and place, but build in extra time because taxis are not very punctual as drivers need to optimise fares during the short period when ships and yachts are present. Ensure the driver passes the church near the runway lookout, where some pleasant older women sell excellent lace. If an aircraft departs, it is heart-stopping to watch it fall from the runway's edge and then…
Food and shopping
Shopping in any of the four villages reached from Saba cruise port can uncover a broad selection of treasures. Several of the best shops are just beyond the port, where local people sell handmade linens, threadwork patterns, paintings and wooden crafts.
Windward side has a small mall containing dive shops, an art gallery, several restaurants and a supermarket.
Money
US Dollar is used.
Staying connected
Despite Saba's Dutch ties, English is the island's principal spoken language and has been used in schools since 1986.