We have been to Bonaire 6 times since 1992 to scuba dive. We have some friends who are going to be on Bonaire for a day on a cruise ship. They like to do their own thing versus booking a tour through the cruise ship so wanted some advice on what to do. They do want to snorkel.

My advice to them would be to catch a taxi and spend a few hours snorkeling at Windsock or another great spot someone may have and then do a tour of the south end of the island, end up back in town for a late lunch and shopping. They don't have snorkel equipment, so where could they rent some with this option.

The other option is to book a snorkel tour with someone on island and stay on Bonaire and snorkel or do a boat snorkel over to Klein? Any advice?

Thanks,

TDS

Terry, it really depends on how long they are going to be there. Short time, snorkel the Divi and hit town, longer time maybe the Plaza the south end has excellent snorkeling, longer time book a trip on the Woodwind with Dee and if a full day rent a car and do all the above.

Terry, I would not have them go to windsock. Dive Friends has a contract with the cruise lines, and they take ALL the snorkelers there. They pitch a tent, have snorkel vests all lined up, and there are a LOT of people snorkeling.

Either Cecil's idea at Divi, or they can rent equipment anywhere on island, maybe take a taxi to Sand$ or Buddy's and snorkel those reefs. Lunch at Den Laman afterwards, take a taxi back to town.

The Mushi Mushi is a great catamaran who also does snorkel tours with the cruise lines. I think it's a 2 or 3 hours sail and snorkel.

Personally I would try to arrange a two-stop snorkel with Renee. My last visit on a cruise ship I did just that and I have no regrets. Renee will provide transportation to and from and I believe that she has snorkel equipment if you need it. She also knows where the critters live and can show you a lot more in a couple of hours then you will ever find on your own.

Here is a link to some of my photos from the two-stop with Renee last November.

http://falls4sale.com/Galleries/Gallery3.html

If Renee is not available, the Woodwind would be an Excellent choice. Your friends should contact Dee or Ulf well beforehand; although, my guess is that they are already sold out.

If neither Renee or the Woodwind is available then tell them to book the water-taxi to Klein on-board the cruise ship. The taxis are usually sold out to the cruise-ships and they are not likely to be available to do on your own. Tell them to take a few extra dollars along and have the water-taxi drop them at Ebo's Reef for the drift back to No-Name. Awesome!

As far as equipment, I believe that the dive shop at the Dive Inn immediately to the south of the pier rents snorkel equipment. At least they used to before the changes in ownership. I would recommend that your friends take at least the mask and snorkel and check out the fit of the mask before hand. Divi Flamingo dive shop may also rent snorkel equipment.

Divi cement pier is always good for the afternoon.

And please remind your friends to pay the Marine Park fee. They can do that wherever they rent equipment, or on the water taxi or with any dive shop or tour company.

Bill
Really superb pictures in your galleries, much appreciated and enjoyed.I would second your recommending Dee & Ulf. Two terrific people who truly embody the spirit of Bonaire.