ISLAND HOPPING
TAKE A DAY TRIP
By Debby Lind-Steyn and Jeffrey Laign
Visiting nearby islands is a great way to extend your vacation in St. Maarten/St. Martin.
St. Maarten/St. Martin is more than a single destination. It’s a cultural hub. A Caribbean gem shared by two European nations — The Netherlands and France — it makes a great base for exploring nearby islands like Anguilla, Saba, St. Barthelemy, and St. Eustatius. They’re packed with cultural and natural attractions for an unforgettable day trip or island-hopping getaway, and you can easily reach them by plane, ferry, or private charter.
Saba
Saba may be tiny, but this special municipality of The Netherlands offers much for ecotourists. Rocky cliffs, lush green forests, and mountains that seem to rise out of the ocean are just some of the island’s natural amenities.
Saba also boasts some of the best diving in the region. You’ll encounter a wide variety of sea life at Saba’s Marine Park. Turtles and lobsters are regular visitors to this spectacular underwater haven, and if you’re lucky, you may get to spot a whale or two.
Challenge yourself on a climb to the top of Mount Scenery, a nonactive volcano offering spectacular views. You must hike through a tropical rain forest and up hand-carved stone steps, but encounters with birds, plants, and other wildlife make this hike well worth the effort.
Visit the Saba Heritage Center in the village of Windwardside and learn more about the history and culture of this island known for charming villages, well-tended gardens, and friendly locals.
Journey to Saba aboard Edge, a high-speed ferry operated by Aqua Mania Adventures. You can book your 90-minute trip from Simpson Bay or online before you arrive. Packages include taxi tours around the island with lunch, hiking excursions with lunch and transfers, and guided adventures with local guides. With regularly scheduled service to Saba, the high-speed ferry offers competitive prices and a shuttle service.