Top 5 Bonaire Dive Spots for Technical Divers
October 30, 2023
Bonaire is a small island located in the southern Caribbean that is known for its pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. There is a marine reserve that encompasses all of Bonaire’s coastline, which ensures Bonaire’s waters are teeming with life. Added to that, Bonaire is the top shore diving destination in the world and has over 60 dive sites to choose from.
It is no surprise that there are numerous top Bonaire dive spots to choose from that suit all experience levels. In this blog, we will explore the best Bonaire dive spots for Extended Range diving, as well as some important safety considerations for Extended Range diving in this region.
Bonaire dive spots for Extended Range diving
1. Hilma Hooker
The Hilma Hooker is one of the most popular Bonaire dive spots for Extended Range diving. This 72-meter-long freighter was sunk in 1984 and now rests in 30 meters (98 feet) of water off the coast of Bonaire. The Hilma Hooker is a challenging dive site that requires proper training and certification, but it offers you the opportunity to explore a fascinating wreck that is home to a variety of marine life.
2. Salt Pier
Salt Pier is another popular dive site for Extended Range divers in Bonaire. This pier was used for loading and unloading salt from ships in the past, but now it is home to a variety of marine life, including schools of tarpon, barracuda, and snapper. Salt Pier is one of the shallower Bonaire dive spots, making it perfect for Extended Range divers who want to practice their skills and explore a unique underwater environment.
3. Karpata
Karpata is a deep dive site that offers the chance to explore a wall that drops down to over 120 meters (394 feet). This dive site is home to a variety of marine life, including eagle rays, turtles, and sharks. Karpata is also known for its strong currents, so you should have proper training and experience before attempting this dive.
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4. Andrea II
The Andrea II is a 120-meter-long freighter that was sunk in 2012 and now sits in 30 meters (98 feet) of water off the coast of Bonaire. This is one of the more challenging Bonaire dive spots but it offers a great opportunity to practice your advanced wreck diving skills among a variety of marine life, including schools of jackfish and barracuda.
5. Red Slave
Along with Karpata, the Red Slave is one of the deeper Bonaire dive spots and it has a wall that drops down to over 150 meters (492 feet). This dive site is home to a variety of marine life, including eagle rays and sharks. The Red Slave is only suitable for experienced Extended Range divers who have proper training and certification.
Safety considerations for Extended Range diving in Bonaire
The top Bonaire dive spots offer you the opportunity to explore fascinating wrecks, thriving reefs, and deep walls. However, Extended Range diving in Bonaire requires proper training, certification, and safety considerations.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy safe and unforgettable Extended Range diving in Bonaire:
1. Proper training
Extended Range diving in Bonaire requires proper training and certification. Make sure you have the necessary skills and experience to safely undertake Extended Range dives in this region. If you are not sure that you are experienced enough, have a chat with a local dive center in Bonaire to find out more about the local dive conditions.
2. Equipment checks
Extended Range diving equipment should be checked thoroughly before each dive. Ensure that your equipment is in good working order and that you have enough gas and backup equipment in case of an emergency.
3. Currents
Some Bonaire dive spots are known for their strong currents, so Extended Range divers should be aware of the conditions before attempting a dive. Make sure you have the necessary skills and experience to go diving in currents.
4. Marine life
Bonaire is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks and barracuda. Make sure you are comfortable diving with these animals and that you have the proper training and experience before attempting such dives.
If you are nervous about sharks and want to learn how to safely dive with them, join the SSI Shark Ecology program.
5. Weather conditions
Bonaire is in the southern Caribbean and is susceptible to hurricanes and other severe weather conditions. Fortunately, most hurricanes pass well away from Bonaire. That said, always check the weather conditions before attempting a dive and follow local guidelines and recommendations.
6. Dive with a buddy
Extended Range diving in Bonaire should always be done with a buddy. Make sure you have good communication with your buddy and always stay close to each other.
7. Plan your dive
As with any dive, always plan your Extended Range dive before entering the water. Make sure you have enough gas and equipment for your planned dive and a backup plan in case of an emergency.
8. Follow local diving guidelines
Before you start diving, check the local rules and regulations for diving in this region.
9. Respect the environment
Bonaire’s dive spots are renowned for their vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. So, take care to avoid damaging Bonaire’s environment and marine life while diving. Make sure you leave no trace behind and properly dispose of any trash or debris.
Now you have all you need to enjoy technical diving in Bonaire. So, which dive site will you explore first? Check out more of Bonaire’s top dive spots here:
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT DIVING IN BONAIRE.