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Instructions on the water

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Instructions on the water

Here's how to sail safely and relaxed around Bonaire

Exploring Bonaire by rental boat is one of the best experiences of your vacation.
To do that safely and relaxed, it's important that you know where you're allowed to sail, where to pay attention and how to use 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 throw loose, 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 fairy when you go snorkeling or swimming?

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

Upon departure, we give a verbal explanation at the dock. Feel free to ask all your questions there.

Stay in the dark blue water

Where are you allowed to sail around Bonaire?

A simple main rule applies around Bonaire:
  • Cruise in the dark blue water
  • Stay out of the shallow, light blue water near the coast

The pale blue water:
  • is often very shallow
  • contains coral and reef you don't want to touch
  • is a protected area within the Bonaire Marine Park

So always keep some distance from the shore and follow the deeper, dark blue strip of water.

Sailing to Klein Bonaire

Many guests want to take the boat to Little 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 sail toward the buoy with low speed
  2. Have one person on the leading edge ready with the line
  3. When you are almost at the buoy: put the engine in neutral
  4. The person on the forward tip grabs the buoy by hand or with a pickaxe
  5. Get the line through the eye from the buoy and secure the boat properly

On departure:

  • For most 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:

  • Turn the motor always in neutral and then out 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 keep in mind the flow; never leave the boat floating unattended

Remember: everyone in the water needs a valid STINAPA nature fairy.

For a safe day on the water

Dealing with wind, waves and currents

On Bonaire, the wind is often strong, especially in the afternoon.

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

  • Sail 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 sailing - max. approx. 5 mph / 8 km/h
  • No loud music
  • Pay close attention to other boats, divers and people on the dock


On return:

  • Sail very quietly towards the jetty of Bonaire Boat Rentals
  • Follow the instructions of our staff for the docking and dismounting

Do not turn off the boat until we are well secured

Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)

classic pitfalls

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

Sailing too close to shore, stay in deeper, darker blue waters

Sailing between yellow buoys and the beach, always staying outside the buoys

Leaving engine on while people are in the water, engine off when someone is swimming

Sailing back late causing you to have to navigate in dusk/darkness, plan your return trip well in advance

Captain drinks alcohol, captain always stays sober

If you avoid these mistakes, your day will automatically become safer AND more relaxed.

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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.

Upon departure 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 sail 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.

You first moor at a yellow buoy, turn off the engine and check that the boat is stable. Preferably leave one person on board and only then enter the water.

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

Yes, that is just the right thing to do. Read this page carefully before your departure, then you will recognize the explanations at the dock faster and you can sail more relaxed.

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.

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