Bonaire is renowned among divers for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and accessible reefs. What sets this island apart is its commitment to protecting its underwater environment, making it a true haven for all skill levels. If you’re looking for a memorable scuba experience, Bonaire offers a range of options—from intimate guided dives to multi-day unlimited packages. We especially like the small group diving trip for its personalized service and the 6-day unlimited pass for serious underwater explorers. Both options assure you’ll get plenty of time exploring Bonaire’s renowned reefs, with local guides who genuinely care about your experience.
For travelers eager to try scuba for the first time, the Discover Scuba Diving experience offers a safe, guided introduction. And if you prefer a tailored adventure combining inland sights and underwater exploration, the Private Diving & Southside tour delivers a customized day with diverse scenery. This list highlights the best Bonaire offers for every type of diver, with details that help you pick the best fit for your trip.
1. Small Group Diving experience in Caribbean
Find secret dive spots that only locals frequent with this small group diving trip in Bonaire. The trip includes all dive gear, so you won’t need to pack anything extra, and your guide will take care of the logistics. The pickup and drop-off from your hotel or the airport make this a hassle-free way to start your Bonaire underwater adventure. The small group size—limited to just four divers—creates an intimate experience, allowing your guide to tailor the dives to your comfort level and pace.
The tour’s highlights include exploring lesser-known sites, with the reassurance of a professional guide who’s attentive and patient. Many reviewers praise the friendly, family-owned atmosphere and the personalized attention, with one noting how the guide transformed her first dive experience for her entire family. The included lunch and soft drinks keep you fueled, making this a great choice for both certified divers and first-timers who want a guided, relaxed exploration.
Bottom line: This tour offers exceptional value for those who want a personalized, stress-free diving day, with the chance to see Bonaire’s quieter, more pristine underwater locations.
2. 6 days unlimited diving
If you plan to be in Bonaire for a week or more, the 6-day unlimited diving pass from Dive Friends Bonaire is a standout. For just around $210, you get access to unlimited tanks, with optional free weights and the choice of air or Nitrox. The ability to exchange tanks at 7 different locations around the island means you can explore a wide variety of reefs, wrecks, and walls at your own pace.
What makes this such a good deal is the flexibility. You can go for multiple short dives each day or spread out your dives to enjoy different sites without worrying about extra costs. Reviewers highlight the friendly staff and excellent facilities, noting how the team’s professionalism makes for a smooth experience. One diver wrote, “Team at Hamlet Oasis was so awesome!!” and appreciated the reef’s beauty during their first dive.
Bottom line: Ideal for serious divers with a flexible schedule, this pass offers unmatched value for exploring Bonaire’s underwater world at your own pace—perfect for those with a week to spend underwater.
3. Discover Scuba Diving Experience
Curious about scuba but not certified? The Discover Scuba Diving Experience is designed specifically for beginners or those trying the sport for the first time. This 4-hour session combines a brief educational introduction with a supervised, shallow dive, giving you a taste of what it’s like to breathe underwater. Under the guidance of a certified instructor, you’ll interact with marine life, see sea turtles, and enjoy the sensation of weightlessness—all without needing a certification.
This tour is highly suitable for teens or first-timers who want a safe, fun introduction. Jim, the guide, is praised for his patience and knowledge, making newbies feel comfortable as they experience Bonaire’s underwater beauty. Many reviews mention how this experience exceeded expectations, sparking a desire to return for more dives.
Bottom line: Perfect for non-certified travelers who want a safe, guided introduction to scuba, this tour offers a memorable first step into Bonaire’s vibrant underwater life.
4. 6 days Unlimited Diving Air and Nitrox package
For divers who want the freedom to explore extensively, the 6-day unlimited diving package with options for both air and Nitrox is a fantastic choice. The flexibility of choosing between 63 or 80 cubic foot cylinders (or even 40 upon request) means you can custom-tailor your dives for longer bottom times and less fatigue. There’s no surcharge for Nitrox, which is a real bonus, especially for advanced divers seeking increased bottom times.
The access to multiple dive sites and the ability to take as many tanks as you like makes this ideal for those who want to maximize their underwater time. The air quality is regularly checked, and the tank storage is accessible 24 hours a day, ensuring convenience. Reviewers mention how this plan is great for dedicated divers looking for value, with one noting the flexibility to do multiple dives each day without extra costs.
Bottom line: This is best suited for committed divers, including those comfortable with Nitrox, who want to maximize their time exploring Bonaire’s reefs over several days at a predictable cost.
$190.00 per person
5. Private Diving & Southside tour
If you want a bespoke experience that combines inland sightseeing with underwater exploration, the Private Diving & Southside tour is perfect. For around $119.98 per person, you get a customized 6-hour day exploring Bonaire’s southern highlights. The trip includes stops at saltpans, slave huts, flamingo nesting sites, and the iconic Salt Pier, alongside dives at the best reef sites for certified divers and a Discover Scuba session for beginners.
This tour’s charm lies in its flexibility and personal touch. You can explore the Hilma Hooker shipwreck if certified, or snorkel in the shallows where turtles are common. The tour guide’s local knowledge ensures you see the most interesting sights and enjoy a well-rounded day. Many appreciate the mix of cultural and natural sites, making it ideal for travelers who want both inland and underwater experiences.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers looking for a customized, multi-faceted day that blends sight-seeing and diving, with the option to include non-certified or certified divers.
$119.98 per person
How to Choose the Best Bonaire Diving Experience
Choosing the right diving adventure depends heavily on your budget, schedule, and experience level. For those who want a personalized, small-group experience, the Small Group Diving experience in Caribbean offers a relaxed, intimate day exploring lesser-known sites. If you’re in Bonaire for a longer stay and want to maximize your underwater time, the 6 days unlimited dive pass provides excellent value and flexibility.
First-timers or those curious about trying scuba should consider the Discover Scuba Diving Experience, which offers a safe, guided introduction. Meanwhile, experienced divers with a week or more might prefer the 6 days unlimited package with air and Nitrox for maximum exploration. For a personalized inland and underwater adventure, the Private Diving & Southside tour combines sightseeing with reef exploration.
Think about your dive certification level, how much time you want to spend underwater, and whether you prefer guided or self-guided experiences. Early booking is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on the most popular tours.
Bonaire offers a diverse suite of diving experiences suited to every traveler. Whether you prefer a small-group guided day, an extensive unlimited pass, or a tailored inland and underwater combo, you’ll find something to match your style. For those new to scuba, the Discover Scuba session makes a perfect introduction. For the seasoned diver, the unlimited packages provide the chance to explore Bonaire’s famous reefs at your leisure. Whichever you choose, Bonaire’s underwater world is waiting—so book early and dive into this Caribbean treasure.