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Instructions on the water

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Instructions on the water

Here’s how to cruise safely and comfortably around Bonaire.

Exploring Bonaire by rental boat is one of the best experiences of your vacation.
To do that safely and comfortably, it’s important to know where you’re allowed to go, what to watch out for, and how to operate the boat.

On this page you will find all the practical boating instructions for your day on the water.

Brief security check

Before you leave

Before you cast off, check together:

Are there life jackets for everyone on board?

Do you have enough drinks, sunscreen and protection from the sun?

Have you arranged STINAPA rules and nature fee?

Does everyone know who the captain is (the one who stays sober and is responsible)?

Before you set off, we give a verbal explanation at the dock. Feel free to ask all your questions there.

Stay in the dark blue water

Instructions

Follow the rules of the BNMP (Bonaire National Marine Park):

  • Do not drive between the yellow buoys and the shore. Use only the yellow buoys.

  • Stay out of the light blue water.

  • Only one boat is allowed per buoy.

  • Keep at least 50 meters (150 feet) away from shore, other boats and boats with divers.

  • It is not allowed to pull the boat onto the beach.

  • It is not permitted to enter the Plaza Marina.

  • Diving with a rental boat is prohibited.

  • Do not dock at a jetty or hotel.

  • The driver must not consume alcohol or drugs while operating the boat.

  • Be alert for fishing boats trolling.

  • The maximum speed in the Harbour Village Marina is 5 mph (about 8 km/h).

Cruising to Klein Bonaire

Many guests want to take the boat to Klein Bonaire - Rightly so, it's fantastically beautiful there.

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For all captains

Using yellow moorings - step by step

This is how to safely moor at a yellow buoy:
  1. Calmly boat toward the buoy with low speed
  2. Have one person at the bow (front of the boat) ready with the line
  3. When you are almost at the buoy: put the engine in neutral
  4. The person on the bow grabs the buoy by hand or with a boat hook
  5. Get the line through the eye from the buoy and secure the boat properly

Rental conditions:

  • For all of Bonaire Boat Rentals' boats: no license required
  • For boats with more powerful engines, a boating license or demonstrable boating experience may be required
  • This is always clearly stated with the boat you book
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For safe snorkeling

Snorkeling and swimming from your rental boat

Snorkeling from your own boat is one of the highlights of your day. Note:

  • Always put the engine in neutral, then turn it off before anyone enters the water

  • Ideally, let at least one person remain on board

     

  • Don't jump close other boats, dive flags or fishing boats in the water

     

  • Always be mindful of the current flow; never leave the boat floating unattended

     

Don't forget: everyone in the water needs a valid STINAPA Nature fee (ages 13 and up).

For a safe day on the water

Dealing with wind, waves and currents

Is it windy?

  • When planning your trip, keep in mind wind direction and force

  • Drive against the waves calm and straight; do not slant at high speed

Unsure if conditions are too rough? Ask us before you leave - we know the water well and advise you honestly.

 

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security at the port

Entering and exiting Harbour Village Marina

In port, the following always applies:

  • Slow boating area – max. approx. 5 mph / 8 km/h
  • No loud music
  • Pay close attention to other boats


On return:

  • Approach the Bonaire Boat Rentals dock slowly and quietly.
  • Follow the instructions of our staff for the docking and disembarking

Do not turn off the boat until we are well secured

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

classic pitfalls

We see many first-time boat guests on Bonaire every year. These are the classic pitfalls:

Driving too close to shore

Driving between yellow buoys and the beach

Leaving engine on while people are in the water

Driving back too late resulting in having to navigate in dusk/darkness

Captain drinks alcohol

and how to avoid them!

Use these tips to avoid these pitfalls:

Stay in the deeper, darker blue waters

Always stay out of the shallows

Turn engine off when moored and someone goes swimming.

Plan your return trip well in advance

Captain always stays sober (no alcohol)

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All about renting a boat on Bonaire

Frequently asked questions about rules & regulations

Renting a boat on Bonaire for the first time or just want to get out on the water well prepared?

These short articles and tips will make your day at sea a lot more relaxing.

Before you head out, you will receive from us a map and a clear explanation. The main rule: stay out of the shallow, light blue water and do not drive between the yellow buoys and the shore.

No. You only use the yellow moorings that are designated for that purpose. Mooring at random jetties, hotels or the beach is not permitted.

First, moor at a yellow buoy, ensure the boat is secure, and turn off the engine. We highly recommend leaving one person on board before the rest enters the water.

Feeling uncertain due to wind, current or location? Calmly drive back toward the known part of the coast or Harbour Village Marina and call us for advice. We'll be happy to help.

That’s exactly what we recommend! Read this page carefully before heading out, so you'll easily understand the instructions at the dock and can enjoy a much more relaxed day on the water.

Ready for your adventure?

Ready for your day on the water?

Seeing Bonaire from the water is perhaps the best moment of your vacation.Choose your boat, book quickly and easily online and become the captain of your own adventure for one day.

Book Now