Ever since we booked our trip to Bonaire in July, I have been reading and enjoying the many trip reports. There is no way I can be as articulate as most reports have been telling what a great place Bonaire is to dive and visit. I can say that I have dove over a dozen different islands in the Caribbean and if you could only choose one island to dive, Bonaire would be the place. I can’t say enough about how healthy the reefs and marine life were. Top that off with the warm water and great visibility, what more can you ask for?
We stayed at Captain Don’s Habitat in one to the two bedroom cottages we shared with another couple. With the large patio, we had plenty of room and never felt we were on top of each other. Diving couldn’t be any easier. Just pick up a full tank, 24 hours a day, and either dive the reef in front of the resort or if you are smart and rented a truck, head north or south to the many dive sites there. We found during our stay, that it appeared the south sites seem to have more fish life, while the north sites seem to have healthier corals and sponges.
We did do some boat dives with Captain Don’s and I enjoyed the way they run their boat. You had the choice of diving with your buddy, or hanging out with the divemaster. As a scuba instructor myself, I like that freedom. I appreciate them allowing me to be responsible for my dive profile. All the staff members were very professional and showed a lot of concern for everyone’s safety.
I can’t report much on the dining on the island, because I’m a beer and burger kind of guy, but my wife and friends who are into fine dining, all had nothing but outstanding meals, no matter where we ate. You really can’t go wrong no matter where you eat.
Here are a few recommendations I would make to people who have never been to Bonaire. First, go to Lac Bay and watch the windsurfers. When we were there the wind was blowing a little more than normal, from what I heard, so some of the better windsurfers were showing their stuff. All those boards are very colorful, but when they start doing the turns and flips, yes flips, on the boards, it was amazing. It is a great way to gas off after a morning of diving.
For those who need to be in touch with people back home, rent a cell phone at “Chat n Browse”. They are very helpful and you can’t beat the price. My wife needed to stay in touch and it was smart option.
Overall I was very impressed with Bonaire. In fact, I was talking to my wife about retiring there in a few years, when that time comes. My only problem would be that I want to stay active and work full or part time teaching scuba.
I hope this helps any new people who might be interested in visiting Bonaire.

Nice report, Bear! Thanks, and I'm glad you enjoyed it!

Bear, great report...sounds like you fell in love with Bonaire like the rest of us! PBD (post Bonaire depression) set in yet?

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In fact, I was talking to my wife about retiring there in a few years, when that time comes.

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That is the dream most of us have So, when's the next trip?

Bear thanks for the report. We can't wait to visit in May.

30 days and boy are we counting. Great report.

Now that's what I'm talking about Bear. Nice report. Thanks.

Bear, thanks for the report. I'm going for my 1st ever dive trip and staying at Cap'n Don's also. I appreciate the tips and advise. My dive instructor (and friend) is already booking us to Roatan in June!!! Patty

Thanks for sharing...Like so many, you've discovered the strong attraction that this island yields over many of us. PBD...The only cure is to plan your next vacation & return.

Thanks for the nice report. Happy to see your comment on cell rental at Chat-n-Browse since I wondered how well that worked. I could have used it more then once.

nice report. sounds like you had a great time. The first time my husband and I went to Bonaire, we fell in love with the island too. we are actually returning in may...and bringing my in-laws. Can't wait.