I'm wondering if someone is in a position to compare snorkling in the waters of Bonaire to opportunities available in the British Virgins (or US for that matter) - I've heard Peter and Norman Islands are good. Virgin Gorda? I was in Virgin Gorda 20 years ago and enjoyed it - I assume it has degraded over the years. Any shared relatively recent experiences would be much appreciated. Thanks!

I've snorkeled in St. John, and find Bonaire much nicer, especially the opportunity for shore access. Also seems like there are a LOT more fishes in Bonaire.

I don't think there is a much better place on earth for such easy snorkeling and the number of species and tons of fish right "at hand", literally. I don't leave the water once I put my fins and mask and snorkel on....sometimes it is six to seven hours straight....I seem to become "one of them" once I am in the waters of Bonaire. Carole

We were in the BVI about 2 years ago on a chartered sailboat. The snorkeling was wonderful but it was all done from the boat. There were a lot of big fish and every place was different. We have done that 5 times over the years. I do not think the shore snorkeling has anywhere near the varity of Bonaire. In the BVI we traveled from island to island but on Bonaire it is just a short hop to any number of great sites. We have been coming to Bonaire for the last 8 years and will continue to do so. We mainly snorkel and windsurf on Bonaire.

Jim, in terms of snorkeling it is Bonaire hands down. Just got back from the BVI's in August on a two week private charter. We did all of the islands with both snorkelers and divers on board. The health of the reefs in Bonaire and the diversity of life are both better than the BVI's, especially if you are shore diving.

What Bonaire does not have however is the great apre dive life that you get in the BVI's. There are no beaches to speak of and the wind blows all of the time. If you are looking for a quiet afternoon in a hammock on that incredible beach at White bay with a Painkiller from Soggy's in your hand you are not even going to get close. Bonaire is not a 'tropical' paradise but it is paradise to me.

What you will get in Bonaire is incredible diving matched only by the wonderful, friendly people you will meet. It is a country of stark beauty and a place that you will never forget. It is one of those places that pulls strongly on you after you leave and before you go back. I will be on island again in April and I am literally counting the days.

Good luck in your diving!