Rental boat on clear blue water at Bonaire

Everything you need to know before you cast off

Rules & regulations for renting a boat on Bonaire

Before you head out on the water with a rental boat, it’s important that you know the rules of the Bonaire National Marine Park and our own safety guidelines. That way you protect nature, sail safely and can enjoy your day at sea worry-free.

STINAPA tag is required

Bonaire National Marine Park & STINAPA Nature Fee

Anyone who goes snorkeling, swimming or diving in the waters around Bonaire needs a valid STINAPA Nature Fee from the age of 13.

  • The nature fee is legally required
  • The proceeds go toward protecting coral, fish and the marine park
  • You buy the tag easily online via the official STINAPA website. Make sure you’ve arranged the tag before you head out on the boat.

Use only the yellow moorings

Mooring

To protect the coral and the seabed, clear rules apply:

This prevents damage to the coral and keeps the snorkeling spots beautiful and safe.

  • Only moor at yellow moorings along the coast and at Klein Bonaire
  • Don’t sail between the yellow buoys and the shore
  • A maximum of one boat per yellow buoy is allowed
  • Don’t moor on the reef or in coral-rich areas
Yellow mooring at Klein Bonaire
Wakeboarding behind a boat on Bonaire

For a safe day on the water

What is not allowed?

To protect nature and prevent accidents, these prohibitions apply:

  • No scuba diving from a rental boat
  • Don’t beach the boat on the shore
  • Don’t tie the boat to docks or hotels not intended for that
  • No access to private marinas
  • No alcohol or drugs for the person operating the boat

Enjoying yourself on board is fine, but the captain stays sober.

Everything arranged on board

Fuel, deposit and equipment on board

  • You rent the boat excluding fuel
  • On return we settle the actual consumption
  • So you only pay for what you actually used
  • A deposit / own risk applies, which we communicate clearly in advance

On board you’ll find, among other things:

  • Life jackets
  • Basic safety equipment
  • An explanation of the boat
  • A map of the coastline and mooring spots

That way you know exactly where you stand before you leave.

Boats and mooring dock in the harbour
Boat on Bonaire during bad weather

When the weather changes

Bad weather & cancellation

The weather on Bonaire is usually stable, but in extremely strong wind or thunderstorms sailing can be unsafe.

If we consider it irresponsible to set sail?

  • Then we look together for a new date
  • Or we cancel free of charge according to our weather and cancellation terms
  • Unsure about the weather yourself? Get in touch and we’ll think along with you

Your safety and holiday enjoyment always come first.

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 be well prepared on the water? These short articles and tips will make your day at sea a lot more relaxing.

Why do I need a STINAPA tag?

Because all waters around Bonaire fall under the Bonaire National Marine Park. The STINAPA tag is legally required and the proceeds are used to protect coral, fish and marine life.

Can I sail anywhere along the coast?

No. Stay out of the shallow, light-blue water and don’t sail between the yellow buoys and the shore. Use the yellow moorings to dock and keep your distance from reefs and dive sites.

Can I dive from my rental boat?

No. Scuba diving from a rental boat is not allowed. Snorkeling is fine, as long as everyone has a valid STINAPA tag and you respect the rules of the marine park.

Is the captain allowed to drink alcohol?

No. The person operating the boat stays completely sober for the entire trip. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited for the captain.

What do I do if the weather suddenly changes?

Head back toward Harbour Village Marina as quickly and safely as possible and sail calmly. When in doubt, call us for advice — we’ll help you make a safe choice.

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 a day.

Book now