Greetings, All.

I am a manual wheelchair user who loves to snorkel. After reading great reviews of Bonaire as a snorkeler's paradise, I now need to know if I can find a place to stay, get around on the island, and -- probably most importantly -- get in and out of the water for snorkeling!

Can anyone pass on their observations about wheelchair access to various snorkeling sites in Bonaire, and/or any other accessibility info you might have?

Many thanks to all who reply,
TheHipCrip in DC

I think one of the ships that goes to Klein has a ramp that can be lowerd for wheel chair users. If I'm not mistaking, it's the Kontiki di Amor. I'm not 100% sure, maybe someone else??

Most of the dive operators have experience with wheelchair divers/snorklers. As memory serves Plaza Resort and Capt Don's both have boats with an open stern making an exit and recovery a breeze. The is assuming your upper body strength is adequate.

For sites to snorkle, windsock steep is a easy beach access and a nice snorkle, Vista Blue (on the South end of the island) allows easy beach access and a great snorkle. Plaza has a beach from which to snorkle without having to utilize a ladder or stairs.

Hopefully the more observant members will provide you more insight.

I know the Woodwind which operates of the Divi has accommodated folks who need assistance in the past. Don't know if Renee' is working yet or not, but you can check out her website to see what's up at this point.

The Divi has walkways and ramps leading down to the beach area, too. It is a bit steep and then you continue on the cement tanning pier or you can access the sand (small, short sandy access) to the actual water for swimming or free snorkeling, etc.

I believe the Divi has at least one room with total ramp access, as well. It is on the water by the tanning pier area but I don't know what the room is like inside.

Hopefully someone with more experience will be able to come forward to assist you with more specific information and details to accessibility around the rest of the island and other water points. Good luck and keep us posted! Carole

I know the Divi has had large groups of handicapped divers and snorkelers there. I don't remember when each year the group goes but if I remember correctly they go each year. You may want to email and inquire according to your needs.

Have a great trip...you'll fall in love with the island.

Kay, you are right...I forgot that the dive operation at the Divi also accommodates those who could use assistance. They do have a first class operation for all people at the Divi. Carole

Moray Wheels is the handicapped dive group that usually goes to Divi.

I have seen both para's and quad's diving at Divi. One of their dive boats is set up as a wheelchair roll on/off to their piers and all of the dive masters know how to help people on and off the boat for diving/snorkeling.

Thank you all so much for the info on handicapped access! My husband and I will check out the Moray Wheels web site for their insider tips, but it sounds like the Diva is the place to be for those of us on wheels.

All of your insights are greatly appreciated!

By the way, make sure that airline you will be flying knows that you will need a lift to get on and off the plane in Bonaire. If you are flying AE from/to San Juan, you will need one there also.