New ferry deal slashes travel costs for Statia and Saba residents
Residents of Statia and Saba will soon pay less for ferry travel to St. Maarten, thanks to a new agreement. Lower fares aim to boost the economy and improve access to essential services for island communities.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Parties Involved | Statia, Saba, Makana Ferry Service |
| Agreement Type | Public Service Obligation (PSO) |
| Effective Date | April 15, 2026 |
| New Return Fare (Saba – St. Maarten) | $134 (was $155) |
| New Return Fare (Statia – St. Maarten) | $140 (was $158) |
| Signing Date | March 30, 2026 |
| Key Attendees | Shamara Nicholson, Bram Streppel, Bruce Zagers, Rechelline Leerdam, Alvaro Connor, Samuel Connor |
The public entities of Statia and Saba are responsible for local governance and infrastructure, including transportation. This agreement reflects their role in addressing regional connectivity challenges to support economic and social well-being.
Read the full translated article below
Statia and Saba Partner with Makana Ferry to Improve Connectivity
The public entities of Statia and Saba signed a Public Service Obligation (PSO) agreement with Makana Ferry Service on Monday, March 30, 2026, taking a step towards more reliable and affordable ferry connections between the islands.
The agreement demonstrates continued cooperation to address shared transport challenges. A consistent ferry service supports the economy, improves access to essential services, and strengthens regional connections.
Fares will be reduced under the agreement, making travel more accessible for residents and visitors. The new rates take effect on Wednesday, April 15, 2026:
- Return ticket Saba – St. Maarten: from $155 to $134
- Return ticket Statia – St. Maarten: from $158 to $140
Fuel prices, global supply conditions, and ongoing conflicts will continue to be monitored, as these may affect the fuel surcharge.
Present at the signing were Acting Island Governor Shamara Nicholson, Island Secretary Bram Streppel, Commissioner Bruce Zagers, Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam, and Alvaro Connor and Samuel Connor of Makana Ferry Service.
The agreement marks an important step towards more stable and affordable sea transportation.
Commissioner Bruce Zagers said: “Affordable and reliable connectivity is not a luxury, but a necessity for our islands. The signing of this PSO is a meaningful first step towards more stable and affordable sea transportation. However, a short-term agreement alone is not enough. We must continue working towards structural funding for both sea and air connectivity to ensure equal opportunities, strengthen our economies, and support the wellbeing of our communities. I would like to thank the Ministry of BZK and everyone involved in making this agreement possible.”
Improving accessibility remains a key focus, especially for residents who rely on regular travel between the islands.
Commissioner Rechelline Leerdam said: “I’m proud we’ve reached this milestone towards signing the PSO. We are working together as islands to find a more sustainable approach that we can maintain over the long term, so that sea connectivity remains a right for residents and not a luxury. We have listened to concerns raised by users and addressed key issues through this PSO. I would like to thank the Ministry, the Commissioner of Saba, our civil servants, and Blues and Blues for their cooperation in bringing this effort to this stage.”
Makana Ferry Service will continue working with both islands to strengthen connectivity in the region.
Samuel Connor of Makana Ferry Service said: “We look forward to continuing this partnership and strengthening connections across the islands.”