Private Diving & Southside tour

Bonaire’s Private Diving & Southside Tour is a well-rounded way to experience the island’s best without feeling hurried. Priced at $119.98 per person, this 6-hour adventure offers a mix of underwater exploration and scenic sightseeing, ideal for both certified divers and those new to the underwater world. Your day is curated with stops at iconic sites like the Hilma Hooker shipwreck and the salt lakes, along with cultural stops like the slave huts and flamingo sanctuary, plus a relaxed beach lunch at Sorobon Beach. Pickup is offered, and you’ll enjoy the flexibility of a private tour—making it a more personalized experience.

What we love most about this tour is its versatility: certified divers can explore the famous wreck and reefs at Hilma Hooker, while non-divers get a chance for a Discover Scuba experience or hearty snorkeling. The scenic drive along Bonaire’s south side, passing saltpans and flamingos, adds a visual treat, especially for those who enjoy a good story about the island’s history and landscape. Another highlight is the opportunity to visit Lac Bay, a tranquil spot perfect for relaxing or a second water activity pulled by currents, and the chance to see wild donkeys and flamingos in their natural habitat.

A potential consideration is the timing—since the tour is roughly six hours, it requires a bit of a time commitment, and activities like diving or snorkeling depend on weather and sea conditions. Also, the tour does not include equipment rentals, so you’ll need to bring your own or arrange rentals separately. This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day that mixes adventure, culture, and breathtaking views, all tailored to your group’s interests.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of underwater adventure and island sightseeing
• Private tour for a personalized experience
• Stops at Bonaire’s most iconic sites, including the Hilma Hooker
• Suitable for certified divers and beginners with Discover Scuba
• Includes snacks, drinks, and water—plus optional snorkeling gear
• A full day of exploring Bonaire’s scenic and cultural highlights

In-Depth Review of the Bonaire Private Diving & Southside Tour

An Overview of the Experience

Starting from Kralendijk, this tour offers an easy pickup and a well-paced itinerary designed to showcase Bonaire’s natural beauty and history. For $119.98, you’re getting a private, six-hour adventure that balances scenic drives, cultural stops, and underwater fun. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a curious beginner, this tour adapts to your skill level, making it a flexible choice for a diverse group.

Two standout features make this tour particularly appealing. First, the combination of underwater exploration and island discovery means you won’t feel like you’re missing out on either. Second, the private setting ensures you have a more relaxed, intimate experience compared to larger group excursions. Our favorite part? The chance to explore the Hilma Hooker, a legendary shipwreck at a depth of 30 meters, which is only accessible to certified divers. The vibrant reef life surrounding the wreck provides a spectacular view beneath the waves.

However, one thing to keep in mind is the timing—the tour is a packed 6 hours, and some stops (like the caves or salt lakes) are only a few minutes long, which might leave some wanting more. Also, note that scuba equipment isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring your own or rent separately if you’re diving.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Stop 1: Hilma Hooker
For certified divers, this shipwreck is a highlight. We loved the sense of history and mystery surrounding it, plus the marine life that clusters around it. The ship rests at about 30 meters, so only those with proper certification can go down. For snorkelers, an alternative might be available in the area, but the real magic is for those with their diving gear. It’s a one-hour and fifteen-minute stop that’s well worth the effort.

Stop 2: Salt Pier
The Pink Salt Lakes near the Salt Pier are a true Bonaire icon. The shallow waters here are teeming with turtles, making snorkeling a treat. The scenery here is surreal, with the pink hues contrasting against the blue sea—ideal for memorable photos. You can also choose to do a quick dive at this site or snorkel along the shallow flats.

Stop 3: Slave Huts at White Pan
This short visit is a poignant reminder of Bonaire’s past. The slave huts are modest structures but packed with stories. The stop is brief—about five minutes—but meaningful for those interested in the island’s history.

Stop 4: Pekelmeer Flamingo Sanctuary
A quick five-minute stop, but one packed with natural beauty. These salt ponds are one of only four places on Earth where flamingos nest, offering a rare opportunity to see these elegant birds in their natural habitat. Keep your camera ready; they’re often close enough for good shots.

Stop 5: Sorobon Beach
Lunchtime here is a highlight—framed by views of the shallow bay and the windsurfers performing tricks. We appreciated the relaxed vibe and the chance to stretch our legs. The beach bar offers snacks and drinks, though lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring some extra cash or your own snacks.

Passing by Mangroves and Wildlife
En route to Lac Bay, you’ll see flamingos and wild donkeys along the roadside. It’s a great photo opportunity and a reminder of Bonaire’s unspoiled landscapes.

Stop 6: Lac Bay
This peaceful bay is perfect for a second water activity, especially if you want to go with the current, making it easier to relax or snorkel. The shallow, calm waters are great for beginners, and the scenery—mangroves and open sky—is stunning. The stop lasts about an hour and a half.

Stop 7: Bonaire Caves & Karst Nature Reserve
The tour offers an interesting choice: explore Indian inscriptions in a cave or snorkel through a water-filled cavern. Both options offer a glimpse of Bonaire’s geological past. If time permits, both can be included. It’s a fascinating way to connect with the island’s natural history.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Snacks, sodas, and bottled water keep you refreshed throughout the day, a thoughtful touch considering all the activity. However, scuba and snorkeling equipment aren’t included, so make sure to bring your gear or rent locally.

Practical Considerations

This is a private tour, so your group’s pace and interests dictate the flow. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and confirmation is quick, with flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Weather can impact the experience, especially the water-based activities, so it’s good to be prepared for adjustments or potential rescheduling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy a mixture of nature, history, and underwater adventure, this tour suits you. It’s perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience that balances scenic drives with exciting water activity options. Art lovers or history buffs will appreciate the stops at slave huts and the caves, while wildlife enthusiasts will love seeing flamingos and donkeys. The price reflects a comprehensive, private experience, making it a good value for those who want to maximize their time on Bonaire.

The Sum Up

This Private Diving & Southside Tour offers a well-rounded look at Bonaire’s natural beauty and cultural history. It’s suitable for a broad range of travelers, from certified divers eager to explore the famous wreck and reefs to beginners and snorkelers who want to see Bonaire’s underwater wonders. The private setting means you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the variety of stops ensures you leave with a true taste of the island.

For those seeking a relaxed, flexible day full of scenic views, wildlife encounters, and underwater adventures, this tour provides excellent value. It’s especially ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences, meaningful stops, and the comfort of a private guide. Overall, Bonaire’s south side is a feast for the senses, and this tour captures it beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for non-divers?
  Yes. Non-divers can snorkel at sites like the Salt Pier or Lac Bay, and the tour includes Discover Scuba experiences for those interested in trying diving with guidance.

• What equipment do I need to bring?
  Scuba and snorkeling gear are not included, so plan to bring your own or arrange rentals beforehand.

• How long does each stop last?
  Most stops vary from 5 to 15 minutes, with the longer water-based stops at Hilma Hooker and Lac Bay, lasting around 1 to 1.5 hours.

• Can I cancel this tour?
  Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

• Is food included during the tour?
  No, lunch is not included, but snacks and drinks are provided along the way, and you can purchase food at Sorobon Beach.

• Do I need to be an experienced diver?
  No. Certified divers can explore the wreck and reefs; non-certified guests can participate in Discover Scuba or snorkeling activities.

This Bonaire tour balances adventure, history, and scenery, making it a fantastic choice for travelers looking for a personalized, authentic island experience. Whether you’re diving the famous wreck or just soaking in the stunning views, it’s a day you’ll remember.