SAILING ON BONAIRE
SAILING ON BONAIRE
DISCOVER
The water around Bonaire is calm, clear and protected as a national marine park. Ideal sailing water, in other words. On a charter you sail to Klein Bonaire or along the coast, with time to swim and snorkel along the way. You choose what suits you: the Dinner at Sea sailing trip with a BBQ on board, a fully private charter with captain, or renting a boat and sailing your own route. Mostly interested in snorkeling or the sunset? Then have a look at the Klein Bonaire snorkel tour or the sunset cruise.
WHAT TO EXPECT
WHAT TO EXPECT
THE TRIP STEP BY STEP
Shared, private or on your own keel: in broad strokes, a day of sailing looks like this.
On board at the marina
DEPARTURE
For the Dinner at Sea you board the Compass sailboat at Plaza Marina at 15:00, with a maximum of ten guests. On a charter or rental boat you discuss the route and your wishes in advance: more sailing, more swimming, or mostly taking it easy.
Sailing, anchoring, into the water
THE ACTIVITY
On the way to Klein Bonaire or along the coast, the boat anchors at the most beautiful spots. Snorkel gear is on board, so you jump right in. On the Dinner at Sea you enjoy a BBQ on board in the meantime; those who prefer to stay dry stick to the deck and the view.
Back in the harbor
THE RETURN
The Dinner at Sea moors again at Plaza Marina around 19:00. If you rent a boat or choose a private charter, you agree the return time yourselves.
SAILING ON BONAIRE IN PICTURES
SAILING ON BONAIRE IN PICTURES
Photos
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
FOR YOUR VISIT
What to bring?
Swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen and a camera.
What is included?
Boat, captain depending on the chosen tour, and snorkel gear. The Dinner at Sea includes a BBQ and drinks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic; report allergies and dietary wishes in advance. At extra cost: catering, a longer charter or extra stops. The Bonaire Nature Fee (STINAPA) is not included.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. For cancellations within 24 hours the full tour price is charged. In rough weather the trip is rescheduled.
Departure point
Plaza Marina for the Dinner at Sea, on the grounds of Plaza Resort Bonaire. For boat rental and charters the exact departure point is in your booking confirmation.
Address
Plaza Resort Bonaire
J.A. Abraham Boulevard 80
Kralendijk, Bonaire
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I sail without a captain?
Yes. Through Palm Boats you rent a boat from $225 and sail your own route. If you would rather be taken care of, choose a charter with captain.
What does a private charter cost?
A private charter is available from $420 per boat. The shared Dinner at Sea starts at $130 per person, children aged 4 to 15 $95.
Can children join?
Yes, children are welcome, especially on a private charter where you set the pace. Young children join under supervision.
Do I need to be able to swim?
Only for the snorkeling part. Staying on board is always an option.
What is the Nature Fee?
If you swim or snorkel in the Bonaire National Marine Park, the Bonaire Nature Fee (STINAPA) is mandatory: USD 40 per person for visitors aged 13 and older, valid for one calendar year and free for children up to and including 12. The fee is not included in the tour price.
Mostly want to see the sunset?
Then choose the sunset cruise: the same boats, but in the early evening with appetizers and drinks on board.
What if the weather is bad?
In rough weather the trip is rescheduled in consultation.