Travel with
DAWN II ~ The Saba Ferry
We regret to inform you that the Dawn II Ferry is not currently operating.
Travel from Sint Maarten to Saba onboard the Dawn II, take in the fresh ocean breeze, keep an eye out for flying fish, dolphins and in some months mystical whales!
Sometimes referred to as the Heineken boat, the Dawn II has provided consistent, reliable service between Fort Bay, Saba and Dock Maarten, Sint Maarten since 2005. The 65' aluminum vessel is equipped to carry 50 passengers and features an air-conditioned passenger cabin with comfortably padded seats inside as well as outside seating to enjoy the cool Caribbean breeze. Just in case you are wondering... yes, there is FREE Heineken onboard!
COVID-19 NOTICE | Updated July 2, 2020:
As of Monday, March 16th, 2020 travel to Saba has been restricted until further notice. Due to this restriction, the travel schedule for Dawn II has been temporarily suspended.
This has now been extended until further notice.
Thank you for your understanding. We wish you, your family and friends good health in these uncertain times. We look forward to welcoming you to Saba in the near future.
Passengers should check-in at least 1 hour prior to departure. Check-in strictly ends 30 minutes prior to departure times for immigration purposes.
If you are on an early flight or already on Sint Maarten, you may check-in as early as 10:00 am and drop-off your luggage and hit the beach, enjoy Front Street Shopping or do some exploring.
Passport and/or Local ID are required to travel.
Immigration and customs control are mandatory.
Reservations are highly recommended.
Luggage Allowance
Passengers are allowed one carry-on and one piece of luggage included with the ticket.
Have more luggage? Don't worry, extra luggage is $20 each if it is pre-purchased at the same time as your ticket. Extra luggage or boxes checked-in at the dock is subject to additional charges.
Don't worry about losing your luggage, Dawn II has plenty of space for your luggage and it always travels with you.
Private Charters
Dawn II is available for private charters between Saba, Sint Maarten and Sint Eustatius. Specializing in group travel, sporting events, VIP island hopping, emergency medical evacuation or Subsea Surveying.
Have a special event that you would like to attend? Contact us for more information.
Destinations
Fort Bay,
Saba
Dawn II is based in Fort Bay, the only port on Saba and it docks at the Captain Leo Chance Pier, which is located on the South-Southwest side of the island. It is about a 15-minute taxi ride from just about anywhere on Saba.
Arrivals & Departures
Passengers are required to clear immigration and customs when departing from or arriving into Saba, which is right next door. It is typically a fast and easy process, just be sure to have your passports handy.
If you are departing from Saba, our check-in office is located in the Harbor Offices building.
Saba's Only Port
The port can be a hot spot with lots of action as it is utilized by the ferries, two dive centers, cargo vessels, the local fisherman, and incoming yachts. It is also a great place to relax, fish or watch the tarpons swimming by.
Marine Park
Be sure to visit the Saba Conservation Foundation to learn more about the Marine Park and the nature of Saba, they also have a wide variety of apparel and cool souvenirs.
Restaurants
The Fort Bay is also home to two restaurants, The Deep End and Pops Place. During the Saba Day festivities, it is where the local booths are for food sales and live concerts.
Dock Maarten,
Sint Maarten
Dawn II departs from Dock Maarten Marina in Great Bay, Philipsburg, Sint Maarten. Some taxi drivers may know it as Chesterfields Waterfront Restaurant & Bar which is famous for their breakfast and fresh seafood. Dive shop, jet ski rentals, UFO-boat rentals and beach area are located at the marina.
Parking
You must clear the security checkpoint gate to enter Dock Maarten Marina. They allow 15 minutes of free parking for drop-offs and pickups. After that, there is a small fee. If you visit the restaurant, be sure to have your parking ticket stamped for free parking. If you are planning to leave your vehicle there, they do offer long-term rates.
Shopping
Feel like shopping? Visit the famous Front Street Shopping area which is located within a short 3-minute walk. You will find many gift, souvenir, jewelry, clothing and duty-free liquor stores.
Beach
Feel like going to the beach? Great Bay is one of the longest and widest beaches in Sint Maarten. There are beach chairs with umbrellas available, and lots of beach bars. Take a walk along the boardwalk or get adventurous and rent a Segway.
Island Tours
If you have time before your flight returning home we highly recommend having an island tour on the way to the airport. Enjoy a personalized tour in an air-conditioned van, travel to the Frenchside and visit different beaches. Just let us know so that we can arrange a tour just for you!