Blogs
Bonaire Revisited
The Scuba Place team hosted a group of 16 divers for a return visit to Bonaire in August 2023. They first visited Bonaire in 2021 during a break from the COVID lockdown. They had a great time then (read the first trip report here) and wanted to experience the Shore Diving Capital of the World once again.
Our group met for an early morning flight from London Heathrow to Amsterdam with KLM. It was a short 90-minute flight and a two-hour layover in Amsterdam gave us enough time to do a little shopping for those few items we forgot to pack and a stop at duty-free. The second leg of the flight was 10 hours with a short stop in Aruba before continuing on to Bonaire. We arrived just after 7:00pm and were efficiently and quickly transported to the resort by the Buddy Dive team.
We chose to stay at Buddy Dive again after a great experience last time. We split our group into two three-bedroom apartments and one two-bedroom. The resort is just the right size… every apartment is close to everything… reception, the restaurants, the drive-thru tank station and the dive centre. We got our keys, checked out the digs and then met at Blennie’s for a bite to eat before calling it a night.
In the morning, we headed down to the breakfast buffet at Ingredients. Every morning we had our choice of sweet and savoury breads and pastries, meat and cheeses, cereal, yoghurt, fresh fruit, eggs, pancakes, sausages and bacon and made-to-order omelettes. The doughnuts were a personal favourite!
We stopped into the dive centre to grab our tank cards and locker keys. An orientation and tour by the dive staff for our group had been prearranged and we were shown how to check the pressure and analyse the NITROX tanks. The drive-thru tank station has tanks at the ready, rinse tanks and lockers for dive kit.
The team at Buddy’s shared with us that Bonaire’s reefs are experiencing coral disease and the national parks foundation STINAPA is working hard to educate and conserve. While the disease hasn’t been officially identified, it is affecting six out of the eight coral species vulnerable to Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease. Protocols had been put in place in an attempt to help stop the spread including a Red Amber Green system for dive sites and decontamination tanks for dive gear. Divers were asked to rinse gear in specified decontamination rinse tanks before entering the water. When we planned our shore dives, we were careful to make sure we went from Green to Amber or Red and not the other way around and rinsed our gear again at the end of the day. Buddy’s had special rinse tanks at both the drive-thru and down by the dive centre. If you’re interested in more information, check out the interactive map of Bonaire dive sites here.
We learned a lot when visited Bonaire in 2021 so we were prepared with our shopping lists and made quick work of our favourite grocery store Van den Tweel. We grabbed all the bits for our surface interval lunches along with drinks and snacks. Soft sided cool bags worked perfectly for lunches.
When it came to the diving, we relied on our past experience and our dog-eared guidebook and enjoyed sites from north to south and everywhere in between! We saw all the favourite suspects – turtles, frogfish, seahorses, trumpet fish and puffers, filefish, and trunk fish. Salt Pier – a top site – delivered a school of more than 30 Caribbean reef squid! We spent ages with them – such a special experience.
Shore diving allowed us to visit the sites we wanted, when we wanted, for as long as we wanted. Some sites were more challenging than others when it came to entry and exit with the rocky shore and surge, but we had some tricks to help… collapsing walking sticks were a great help for John who was just 8 weeks post hip surgery. After entering the water, the sticks collapsed and were tucked under bungees wrapped around the tank. Putting gear on once in the water helped more than one of us too!
We timed our trip to make sure it included a full moon. Why might you ask? If you haven’t read our last Bonaire trip report you can here. But let’s just say, our ostracod dive was out of this world! We chose to dive Aquarius, a southern site with loads of soft coral, and it delivered! Twenty minutes surrounded by thousands of magical twinkling lights that evoke memories of Tinkerbell waving her wand at the beginning of childhood Disney films – just mesmerising!!! We had of course waxed lyrical about this experience to our group of divers, most of whom hadn’t seen this before, and to see their faces at the end of the dive was our reward – smiles everywhere!
All of the great underwater experiences we had on our previous trip were repeated, and we stretched our legs and took in some more dive sites. Bonaire really does deliver some excellent diving, and the new sites we tested out kept the bar high.
Above water, food and drink are the key things to take into account, and we revisited some old favourites and checked out some new eateries too. Given the apartments at Blennies are set up for self-catering, getting a takeaway is a great way to control the spending!
Blennies – the onsite bar and restaurant at Buddy’s is still great for a post-dive beer, light (and heavy!) lunches, and a good evening dining menu too. There are also numerous themed nights; Taco Tuesday, Steak and Pizza Nights and All-You-Can-Eat BBQ, so you really don’t have to venture out of the resort if you don’t want to. Additionally, a more upscale offering is Ingredients, a lovely a la carte eatery sitting overlooking the bay. The food here is delicious, and the wine list is excellent.
Out of the resort, we hit our favourite El Bigote a couple of times – the authentic Mexican fare and jugs full of cocktails are too good to miss! The staff are excellent, and this really is a super-friendly casual eatery that caters for groups brilliantly.
Turning left out of Buddy’s, and less than a mile up the road, we visited the highly recommended Dragon City Restaurant and Bar. Food here was delicious, huge portions, and great value – and takeaway is available too. According to the dive staff, this is the best Chinese food on the island, and we have to agree.
Finally, another newcomer to us – a former food truck about to open a new permanent location, the Fat Dog Tacqueria and BBQ. If you like authentic Texas BBQ, slow roast everything and pulled beef and pork, this is a place you cannot miss. A huge platter, including burnt ends, pulled pork, spicy sausages, brisket and much much more, plus coleslaw and a potato salad fed four of us for two meals for just $50……delicious food and excellent value!
On our off-gassing day, we decided to get busy and play with toys – speedboat toys! Splitting into two groups, we hired two virtually brand new 16’ centre console sports boats with 70 HP engines and an inner tube of course – and off we went! We packed up cooler bags with picnic lunches and drinks, and spent four hours zipping around the bay, towing those brave enough to jump onto the tube at speed! This was great fun and a very different way to spend a non-diving day. $70 plus fuel was the cost per person, and this was well worth the spend!
In summary, Bonaire delivered the goods again – this is an excellent destination for dive clubs and group travel. Our hosted trip group was made up of people travelling from London, Cardiff and Manchester – all via Amsterdam, and there are plenty of other regional offerings too, making it easy for anyone in the UK to get to.
Bonaire has a host of hotels and apartment offerings, and numerous dive centres too. We dived with Buddy’s two years ago and they were excellent then. This year, they were even better! Having everything under one roof and on-site is the real benefit to visitors – accommodation and dining, plus vehicle rental, tank filling stations and of course a very easy access house reef all add up to a very streamlined operation, and this makes great sense for those travelling the distance to get there.
And we can’t leave out the value for money – it is just too good not to mention. A week, including flights, costs from as little as £1799, including truck rental, unlimited nitrox, and breakfast. Two weeks starts at £2999pp. In terms of cost per dive, one of our gang did 52 dives in 14 days…..that’s just £60 per dive. Realistically though, 24 dives in a week equates to £75 per dive. For direct comparison, a Red Sea liveaboard with 22 dives comes in at around £90 per dive, and a Maldivian liveaboard with 17 dives equates to close to £165 per dive. Bonaire might not be the Red Sea, or the Maldives, but it really does deliver the goods.
If you or your dive club is looking for a new destination, don’t overlook the Shore Diving Capital of the World, Bonaire! Get in touch and let us help you plan your next dream diving holiday! And check out our 2021 Bonaire Trip Report for more information here.
Key Facts :
- Getting there : Our flights were with KLM Airlines flying from Heathrow to Bonaire via Amsterdam and a quick stopover in Aruba. The first flight is a quick 90 minutes. A quick two-hour layover before our 11-hour flight onto Bonaire arriving at 7:15pm. We were greeted by Buddy Dive staff and after a quick 15-minute drive we arrived at the resort. We were quickly given our room keys and off to the restaurant for some food. Our flight home left after dinner arriving in London in the early afternoon. KLM offers flights to Amsterdam from many UK airports so alternatives are readily available.
- Air temperature : Tropical – average daily temperature throughout the year is 31°C. Rainfall passes quickly and the sea breezes are most welcome!
- Water temperature : 28-30°C. A 1-3mm full suit or shorty is recommended to protect from scratches and stings and to keep the sand out.
- Visa requirement : UK passport holders are permitted to enter Bonaire without a visa for a period of 90 days.
- Immigration : A Bonaire Tourism tax of $75 is required to be paid before arrival and can be done online. A QR code is provided and must be shown to airport personnel on arrival and departure.
- Tourism : The STINAPA Marine Park of $40 is required before arrival and can be paid online. You are required to have your marine park QR code on hand should you be asked by the authorities.
- Currency : US Dollars are accepted across the island. Some establishments accept only cash so be sure and have some on hand. ATMs are easily found.
- Electricity : 120V with European 2-pin plugs.
- Internet and Wi-Fi : There is wifi in resort and worked well in our room and all over the resort. We were able to email, WhatsApp and post on social media without issue.
Price Guide: For 2024 expect from £1799 per person for 7 nights at Buddy Dive with bed and breakfast plus unlimited NITROX and truck rental. Two weeks from £2999 per person. Includes flights and ATOL protection.
Our Advice: Get your dive club together and visit Bonaire! Shore and boat diving are available and the area is suited for all levels of diving experience. Buddy Dive is perfect for big and small groups. A well-equipped dive center and amazing house reef can’t be beat!
Packing tips :
- Bag for Life : $4 in the supermarket! And you will need a quarter ($0.25) for the shopping trolley!
- Cool Bag : Great for keeping your sandwiches and snacks cool in your truck, especially if you have a frozen water bottle in it too. Buy two big bottles and freeze one, chill the other.
- DIN adapter : Tanks in Bonaire are A-clamp.
- Dive Boots : With ultra-thick soles – you will be walking across rocks and dead coral, so good protection is needed.
- Insect repellent : We’ve made a habit of throwing some repellent in our dive bags every trip but with the lovely breezes we didn’t suffer the mozzies much at all!
- Rechargeable fan(s) : If you’ve read any of our recent trip reports we recommend these over and over again. We can’t believe we travelled without them for so many years! Join the fan club and grab one off Amazon… you won’t regret it!
Come Dive with Us!
The Scuba Place designs and builds custom scuba diving holidays. With personal knowledge and experience diving in many of our destinations, there is no one better to help build your dream dive holiday. Come Dive with Us!
Call us at 020 3515 9955 or email at reservations@thescubaplace.co.uk
Find us at https://www.thescubaplace.co.uk
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Prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure at boot Düsseldorf, the world’s premier yacht and watersports show. This incredible event draws 214,000 visitors from over 120 countries, showcasing more than 1,500 exhibitors from 67 nations across a staggering 220,000 square meters in 16 exhibition halls.
Whether you’re passionate about diving, yachting, or any water-based activity, this event has something for everyone. From interactive workshops to awe-inspiring showcases, boot Düsseldorf is a must-visit for watersports enthusiasts. Don’t miss out—BUY TICKETS NOW and be part of this extraordinary celebration of life on the water!
Discover the Diving World in Halls 11 and 12
Immerse yourself in the underwater magic of the Diving Halls, where you’ll find everything from trial dives to professional workshops and even insights into the latest equipment and travel destinations. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there’s plenty to explore. Don’t miss the centerpiece of the diving area—the Diving Tower, a magnificent structure made of sleek steel and crystal-clear acrylic glass. This engineering marvel provides an unparalleled 360-degree view, making it an unmissable attraction for both participants and spectators. Secure your tickets today—BUY TICKETS NOW!
Try Diving: A First Taste of the Underwater World
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to glide weightlessly through the water? Now’s your chance! Sign up for a trial dive, where professional instructors will guide you step-by-step through the experience.
After a detailed briefing, you’ll take your first plunge into the underwater world in a controlled and safe environment. Whether you’re considering diving as a new hobby or just want to try something exciting, this is your opportunity to make it happen. Spaces fill up fast, so BUY TICKETS NOW to secure your spot!
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Exhibitor Showcase: DYNAMICNORD
Hall Number: Hall 12 / Stand Number: 12/E60
Email: info@dynamicnord.com / Tel: +49 8061 3898330 / Web: www.dynamicnord.com
The new German diving brand DYNAMICNORD, which presented its product line for the first time at the boot show in 2023, has been entering the British market.
The international team combines extensive experience in the world of diving. DYNAMICNORD produces sustainable, innovative and functional diving equipment: From regulators, computers, BCDs, suits, masks, snorkels and fins to dry suits, bags and accessories. DYNAMICNORD also offers a tech and freediving line as well as a swimwear series.
At DYNAMICNORD the complete team works to reduce the environmental impact in all manufacturing processes. The German R&D department works according to the guidelines and findings of the most important institutions for the protection and sustainability of the environment, at sea and on land.
Raw materials, production methods and locations are chosen carefully. When selecting its suppliers, the team pays attention to full automation, which results in lower electricity and water consumption. 80% of all products are manufactured in Europe.
DYNAMICNORD already recycles all plastic and glass parts of its masks. The inserts of the fin foot pocket are made from PP and TPR waste. The suspension hooks are made from PC waste. Furthermore, DYNAMICNORD supports numerous environmental protection organisations.
Show Offer:
The DYNAMICNORD team is looking forward to presenting the entire product range at the boot show.
During the boot show super bargains can be snapped up – both at DYNAMICNORD dealers and in the online store. There is 20% off the entire range from 18.-27.1.2025.
Furthermore, if you sign up for the newsletter at the DYNAMICNORD stand, you have the chance to an IR-50 regulator worth €499!
All products are available from DYNAMICNORD dealers in UK/Ireland and in the online store. www.dynamicnord.com.
Email: info@dynamicnord.com / Tel: +49 8061 3898330 / Web: www.dynamicnord.com
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Advanced Diving Workshops
For certified divers looking to take their skills to the next level, the advanced workshops in Hall 12 are the perfect choice. Conducted in the state-of-the-art Diving Tower, these sessions are led by seasoned professionals who will help you refine your techniques and gain new insights into the underwater world.
Whether you’re focusing on buoyancy control, underwater navigation, or advanced safety skills, these workshops are an incredible opportunity to grow as a diver. Reserve your place today and ensure you don’t miss out—BUY TICKETS NOW!
Apnoea Diving: Master the Art of Freediving
Dive into the world of apnoea diving, where a single breath takes you on a remarkable underwater journey. This unique discipline combines physical endurance, mental focus, and a deep connection with the water.
Want to get started? The introductory apnoea sessions will teach you the basics, while the Apnoea Workshop offers advanced training for experienced freedivers aged 18 and above. Learn relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and the essential skills to extend your dive time and explore the depths like never before. Take the plunge—BUY TICKETS NOW!
Mermaiding: Swim Like a Legend
If you’ve ever dreamed of moving through the water like a mermaid, this is your chance! In the Mermaiding sessions, you’ll glide through the water with a large fin, mastering the wave-like movements and breathing techniques needed for this graceful activity.
Under the guidance of qualified instructors, you’ll learn to embody the elegance and fluidity of a mermaid while having a blast. It’s an experience you won’t forget—BUY TICKETS NOW to make it yours!
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Exhibitor Showcase: Prodivers Maldives
Hall Number: Hall 12 / Stand Number: 12/E68
Email: info@prodivers.com / Web: www.prodivers.com / Social: @prodiversmaldives
35 YEARS OF PRODIVERS!
Prodivers operates a network of dive centers throughout the Maldives, each following the same core philosophy—ensuring that your diving and snorkelling adventures are unforgettable. Each center is designed to cater to the specific needs of the guests visiting each island.
Prodivers Dive Centers are strategically located near the Maldives’ top dive sites. From nearly endless drop-offs and overhangs to gently sloping reefs, from tranquil underwater islands teeming with schools of fish to current-rich channels where large fish roam, Prodivers is fortunate to offer it all!
Explore the reefs of Lhaviyani and South Ari Atolls with PRODIVERS MALDIVES at one of our seven dive centers:
• Kuredu Island Resort
• Komandoo Island Resort
• Lily Beach Resort & Spa
• Hurawalhi Island Resort
• Kudadoo Private Island
• Innahura Maldives Resort
• Jawakawa Islands Maldives
SUMMER SPECIAL OFFER**
• 15% OFF for all divers
• 25% OFF for groups (minimum of 6 divers)
*Offer valid from May 1 to October 1, 2025
*Email us to claim your discount
35 JAHRE PRODIVERS!
Prodivers betreibt Tauchzentren auf den Malediven, jedes mit der gleichen Philosophie – sicherzustellen, dass Ihre Tauch- und Schnorchelerlebnisse so gut wie möglich sind. Jedes Zentrum ist speziell auf die Bedürfnisse der Gäste abgestimmt, die jede der Inseln besuchen.
Die Prodivers Tauchzentren befinden sich in unmittelbarer Nähe der besten Tauchplätze der Malediven. Von fast bodenlosen Abhängen mit Überhängen bis zu sanft abfallenden Riffen, von geschützten Unterwasserinseln, die Zufluchtsorte für schwimmende Fische sind, bis zu Kantrandbereichen, in denen Strömungen rasant sind und große Fische umherziehen – bei Prodivers haben wir großes Glück – wir haben alles!
Entdecken Sie die Riffe der Lhaviyani- und Süd-Ari-Atolle mit PRODIVERS MALDIVES in einem unserer sieben Tauchzentren:
• Kuredu Island Resort
• Komandoo Island Resort
• Lily Beach Resort & Spa
• Hurawalhi Island Resort
• Kudadoo Private Island
• Innahura Maldives Resort
• Jawakawa Islands Maldives
SOMMER-SPECIAL**
15% RABATT FÜR ALLE TAUCHER
25% RABATT FÜR GRUPPEN (MIN. 6 TAUCHER)
*Gültig vom 1. Mai bis 1. Oktober 2025
*Emailen Sie uns, um Ihren Rabatt zu aktivieren
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The Spectacular New Diving Tower
A true highlight of boot Düsseldorf, the Diving Tower is a masterpiece of design and functionality. Standing tall with a diameter of eight meters and a height of four meters, this massive structure holds 200,000 liters of water and offers spectators a full 360-degree view of the action inside.
Introduced in 2023, this impressive feature, designed by architect Jürgen Sütterlin, has quickly become a centerpiece of the show. Whether you’re participating in workshops or simply enjoying the view, the Diving Tower is a must-see attraction. Find it in Hall 12, where it’s surrounded by interactive activities and workshops for divers of all skill levels. Don’t miss the chance to experience this marvel up close—BUY TICKETS NOW to be part of the action!
Capture the Magic at Water Pixel World in Hall 11
For photography and film enthusiasts, Water Pixel World is the ultimate destination. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find a wealth of resources to help you capture the beauty of underwater life and watersports.
From expert-led talks to hands-on demonstrations, this area offers everything you need to elevate your skills. Discover the latest photography and videography equipment, gain insights from professional photographers, and witness breathtaking visuals on the Water Pixel World stage.
Highlights from the Speaker Lineup
- Adrian Mattern: Learn how to capture the excitement of whitewater action sports through photography.
- Tobias Friedrich: Gain professional tips for underwater photography using SeaLife cameras to create stunning images.
- Peter Löseke: Explore the art of finding the perfect angles to capture marine life in its full glory.
If you’re passionate about documenting your underwater adventures, Water Pixel World is not to be missed. Upgrade your skills and gear—BUY TICKETS NOW to join the fun!
Don’t Miss Boot Düsseldorf 2025!
From diving and photography to mermaiding and freediving, boot Düsseldorf offers an incredible array of experiences for watersports lovers. With world-class exhibits, hands-on activities, and awe-inspiring attractions, it’s an event like no other. Be part of the magic—BUY TICKETS NOW and secure your spot at boot Düsseldorf 2025!
Visitor hotline: +49 211 4560-7640
email: info@messe-duesseldorf.de
Welcome to Buceo Anilao, a haven for divers nestled in the heart of the Coral Triangle. Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of relaxation and the renowned hospitality of the Filipino people.
Our lush gardens and premium amenities provide a sanctuary of tranquillity amidst nature’s beauty. Surround yourself with artistry and serenity, complemented by the vibrant colours of our resort.
Retreat to one of our 23 spacious and inviting rooms, each designed to provide a clean and relaxing environment, ensuring you are well-rested for the exciting diving activities that await.
The buffet breakfast and à la carte menu offer a wide range of appetising dishes, featuring a delightful fusion of local flavours and international cuisine.
At Buceo Anilao, we cater to every taste, making dining an integral part of the experience.
Get ready to explore the depths with confidence, thanks to our well-maintained equipment and knowledgeable staff. Our camera room is a sanctuary for underwater photographers, providing the perfect space to prepare and care for your gear.
Your safety is paramount. Trust our local dive masters to guide you through each dive, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. Elevate your expertise with our diverse range of courses designed to enhance your diving skills.
Dive into a haven for macro photography, where every dive unveils a kaleidoscope of marine treasures. Encounter countless underwater species, from vibrant nudibranchs to elusive Rhinopias, amidst stunning coral reefs, muck sites, and other diverse underwater landscapes.
Elevate your diving experience with mesmerising night dives! Encounter rare marine wildlife for an unforgettable adventure.
Relax after your activities with a treatment in our spa, where therapeutic massage sessions and panoramic views provide the perfect way to unwind after your underwater adventures.
As the day winds down, enjoy a relaxed sunset session. Revel in the magic of Buceo Anilao with stunning views and refreshing drinks, concluding another memorable day in our diver’s paradise.
No need to travel far! Buceo Anilao is conveniently located near Manila International Airport, just a short 2.5-hour drive to one of the best macro photography destinations in the world. This is the top choice for underwater photographers who value diversity, convenience, and the ultimate resort experience! 😊
For bookings, email us at contact@buceoanilao.com or visit our website and social media accounts for more information:
Website: www.BuceoAnilao.com
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/buceoanilao
Instagram: www.instagram.com/buceoanilao
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