We have been diving for 5 years and have had some excellent dive experiences in Cozumel and Belize (We also had one of the worst in Belize). Also dove in Tobago 2 years ago. I am wondering how Bonaire compares to these locations, we are considering a dive vacation in late February and so far Bonaire has the vote. I realize that some damage has been done due to Lenny but was wondering if Bonaire compares in variety, quality and accessibilty. We are not wimps and the comments about having to trek your gear do not worry me, I am mostly concerned with the total package and how everyone views the conditions not only in the water but on shore. Also what is the current condition regarding viz and how that compares to normal. Where are some of the best places to stay for shore and boat diving (post Lenny)? I am really looking forward to a peaceful dive vacation and a very candid answer to my questions would be appreciated.

Thanks in advance

Russ & Diane Chambers

I have dived southern Belize - Salt Water Caye - Blue Marlin Lodge.
Bonaire doesn't have as many large animals as Belize, but I think has more small ones.
Belize was drift diving which made it harder to go as slowly as we wanted.
The Belize dives started deeper and bottom time was shorter as a result. The Bonaire reefs start at a depth of 18 to 30 feet, so you can make dives that last over an hour. For me these are good reasons to keep going back to Bonaire.

I can only compare it to Cozumel.
Cozumel is primarily drift diving via small 6 pack boats or larger power boats. The trips to many of the sites in the south were quite long 45 minutes or more. Drift dive times were strictly controlled by the divemaster since the boat was drifting to pick you up as well. Safety stop hanging at about 15 feet waiting for the boat. Morning dives are two tank on one trip. Although you could dive from the hotel, it really was a drift dive and you could hope to catch a taxi back.

Bonaire is permanently moored dive sites and extensively marked shore dive sites. Although some divers come to Bonaire and only boat dive, some only shore dive. Sixty marked sites on Bonaire. 26 some odd sites are located on Klein Bonaire which are boat only. Boat rides to Klein about 10-15 minutes. Washington park is longer. Dive boats are all power boats of some kind carrying 12-22 people approx. There is usually two boat dives in the morning and one to two in the afternoon except for Washington Park most boat trips are one tank. Drift dives are rare. Typical dive from shore involves a short trip over a coral rubble beach, surface swim out a little to conserve air and away to the top of the reef at about 30 feet deep. The reef usually slopes down to 100-140 feet. We usually do our "safety stop" exploring the shallows.

Diane: The shore dives are very easy entry on most dives and the only dive where trecking your equipment is a pain is 1000 steps (actually about 70 steps) But well worth the extra work. I have dove in Tahiti, Morea, Bora Bora, Cayman, and southern California as well as 3 times to Bonaire.
Bonaire is our favorite all around pick. Visability is very good, the shore dives can't be beat for ease as well as coral and fish abundance.
Above water you will find the U.S. dollar very good, the quality of restaurants excellent, just enough night life to keep you interested.
The weather is dryer than most islands I have been to, and the people all speak english, as well as dutch and some spanish. We have found the island to be very clean and everyone has a great sense of ecology when it comes to land and reef. The price of diving is very reasonable and there are many really nice accomodations, from super condo's with ocean views, to small homes or rooms that are clean and convenient. Shopping and touring the island are a must, although there is not an abunduance of shops.
We just returned from a month on Bonaire for the holidays...one of the best new years eves I have had in years and I'm from Las Vegas!
Hope this helps.
Joan