Saba National Marine Park

Saba National Marine Park surrounds the volcanic island of Saba, extending from the high-water mark to a depth of 60 meters (200 feet). Established in 1987, the park protects coral-encrusted volcanic boulders, steep walls, shallow reefs, and offshore pinnacles rising from depths of approximately 100 meters (330 feet). Deep-water currents support dense growths of corals, sponges, and other invertebrates, while the varied terrain attracts groupers, jacks, sea turtles, rays, and several shark species. Permanent mooring buoys reduce anchor damage, and zoning regulates diving, fishing, and other marine activities. Unlike many marine protected areas, the park was created to preserve a relatively healthy ecosystem rather than restore one already severely degraded.

Fun Fact: Saba National Marine Park is one of the few largely self-financing marine parks in the world, supported in part by visitor fees, merchandise sales, and donations.