Diving Holidays in Bonaire
With more than 80 dive sites, most of which are accessible from the shore, an average sea temperature of 28°c, 30-40 metre visibility, little or no current, and a policy of 24 hour diving freedom, Bonaire really is a divers paradise.
The selection of dive sites most of which are only a few fin kicks from shore, start in shallow waters usually no deeper than 10 metres. Home to over 300 species of tropical fish and 120 different types of coral, they are accessible to all levels of diver.
Those wanting to learn to dive or new to the underwater world will appreciate the superb training facilities, the gentle currents and clear waters. Experienced divers are lured by the freedom of unlimited access to diving, day or night and the more challenging conditions of diving the small island of Klein Bonaire. For photographers the excellent visibility, kind sea conditions and the plethora of subjects to capture on camera is a huge attraction not to be missed.
Divers can enjoy a combination of boat and shore diving. Most hire a vehicle to take advantage of the “diving freedom” policy on the island which allows divers access to tanks 24 hours a day. They are then free to dive at their own pace, where and when they chose.
Marine life in Bonaire
Bonaire’s sea abounds with beautiful marine life and a fascinating variety of multi-coloured tropical fish. Divers often encounter Turtles, Jacks and Tarpon. Seahorses, the islands emblem, thrive in Bonaire’s waters, alongside rarely seen Frogfish. The Island’s corals are recognised world wide for their healthy state of preservation.
Bonaires Diving Highlights
It's hard to choose highlights in Bonaire, as all 80+ dive sites are must dives. However, unless you're planning on spending a few months on the island, diving all of them is not a reality for most travelling divers.
Karpata
For good reason this is one of Bonaires most poular dive sites. Karpata has great accessibility and beautiful underwater panoramic views which make this shore diving site ideal for underwater photography. Entry to the site is through the remainders of an old pier. Descending along the reef, you will encounter a number of caves. The caves and drop off are home to many species of fish including emperor fish, parrotfish, triggerfish, snappers and more. Also sea horses have been spotted, and there are large formations of elkhorn coral.
1000 Steps
The 67 steps down to this site may feel like 1000 on the way back but the effort is well worth it for the view you'll get below the surface.The dive site is full of stag horn corals and various types of gorgonians Keep an eye on the open water here as encounters have been known to include turtles, devil rays, dolphins and even whale sharks.
Hilma Hooker
The Hilma Hooker ia the wreck of a former cargo ship sunk as an artificial reef. She lies on her side at a depth of 10 to 20 metres and is surrounded by beautiful coral formations and rich fish life. Several species have made the Hilma Hooker a permanent home, from tarpons to barracudas and green moray eels.
Dive Centers in Bonaire Holidays
Great Adventures, Bonaire
Bonaire Holidays
Great Adventures based at the Harbour Village Beach Club. The PADI affiliated dive centre caters for divers and snorkellers alike.
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Captain Dons Habitat Dive Centre
Bonaire Holidays
Captain Don's Habitat Dive Centre is a PADI 5 star Gold Palm Resort that has been consistenly rated as one of the best in the Caribean
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Toucan Diving
Bonaire Holidays
Toucan Diving a PADI 5 star dive resort based at the Plaza Resort hotel, where you can dive 24 hours a day a great choice for all your diving needs.
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Divi Dive
Bonaire Holidays
Divi Dive centre is the island's oldest and most established dive operator aswell as being a 5 star PADI dive resort.
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