Summary
The southern rim of the Caribbean presents ideal conditions for diving enthusiasts.
In and around the Dutch-speaking islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao (known as the ABC Islands), water temperatures remain warm throughout the year, averaging 85°F (29°C). Additionally, since these islands are located south of the hurricane belt, they tend to experience milder weather conditions compared to other islands to the east and north.
Despite their small size—Curaçao being the largest at just 171 square miles (443 square kilometers)—each of these islands possesses captivating underwater landscapes off their stunning coastlines and beneath their clear turquoise waters.
Whether you are a seasoned diving expert or a beginner, understanding the distinct diving experiences available at each island can significantly enhance your visit.
Let’s explore further.
Scuba Diving in Aruba
Best suited for exploring shipwrecks, followed by relaxation on the beach.
The Optimal Time to Visit Aruba
The period from April to November is most favorable due to stable water conditions, abundant sunshine, and gentle winds.
Reasons Why Aruba Excels in Diving
If your diving aspirations revolve around investigating shipwrecks, Aruba is the ideal destination for you. The island’s southwestern and western shores are home to over 10 diveable shipwreck sites.
Furthermore, if extensive white-sand beaches align with your desires, Aruba—being the most developed of the trio—offers diverse attractions, including over a dozen casinos and an ostrich farm.
Top and Most Preferred Diving Locations in Aruba
Situated off Aruba’s northern coast, the SS Antilla is renowned as the largest shipwreck dive in all of the Caribbean. The remains of this 400-foot (134-meter) vessel are home to a plethora of sea sponges, vibrant fish, and lobsters, alongside pelicans that can be seen above the water’s surface.
Additionally, wreckage from the SS California lies off the northwest coast. This site is recommended for advanced divers due to its strong currents but boasts stunning coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life.
Diving Companies to Consider in Aruba
For those seeking a personalized diving experience, Pure Diving Aruba offers complimentary pick-up and drop-off services throughout the island without a fixed daily itinerary. Happy Divers Aruba provides a variety of experiences, ranging from free-dive excursions to snorkeling adventures. Their headquarters in Noord also features various diving courses for interested individuals.
What You Can Expect While Diving in Aruba
Just off the runway at Queen Beatrix International Airport, an Air Aruba YS-11 can be found intentionally sunk to form an artificial reef, which has become a favorite habitat for observing giant barracuda.
Apart from aircraft, vessels, and other man-made structures, divers and snorkelers can also explore a wealth of natural reefs surrounding the islands. Off the southern tip at Punta Basora, a long, slender reef attracts stingrays, eagles, loggerhead turtles, and tuna as well as divers.
Preparation Tips Before Diving in Aruba
Boat access is essential for most dive sites in Aruba. The eastern and northern coasts are primarily suitable for more experienced divers due to their rugged terrain and stronger currents. Typically, water visibility ranges from 50 to 100 feet (15 to 30 meters).
Guidance for First-Time Visitors to Aruba
Please note that an Embarkation and Disembarkation (ED) card is necessary to enter Aruba. As of 2024, the card costs $20 and should be procured in advance to simplify the airport experience. This fee contributes to sustainability initiatives across the island and aids in preserving the local diving environments.
Obtaining a Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) License in Aruba
Yes.
Scuba Diving in Bonaire
Most suitable for shore diving and reef conservation efforts.
The Optimal Time to Visit Bonaire
The warm summer months from May through July are ideal for swimming and observing loggerhead turtles, with May and June being the least crowded within this season.
Reasons Why Bonaire Excels in Diving
Bonaire is widely recognized as the “shore diving capital of the world,” where a costly charter or group excursion is unnecessary to experience the stunning underwater world.
The western coast of Bonaire is well-protected from strong currents, making it a favorable location for novice divers. A singular main road runs north-south along the island’s western coastline—EEG Blvd—facilitating easy access to various beaches and reefs.
Top and Most Preferred Diving Locations in Bonaire
Approximately 75% of Bonaire’s 85 dive sites are accessible directly from shore. In fact, the entire perimeter of the island is incorporated into the Bonaire National Marine Park, ensuring ample diving opportunities. Lac Bay is highlighted by mangroves, sea turtles, and the endangered queen conch.
Angel City presents a visually appealing double reef, accommodating both beginners and experienced divers as well as snorkelers. Additionally, its sandy bottom is frequented by stingrays.
While shipwrecks are not nearly as common in Bonaire, the Hilma Hooker is a notable former drug-smuggling vessel adorned with vibrant coral life.
Diving Companies to Consider in Bonaire
Dive Friends Bonaire operates seven dive shops along the island’s western side, spanning from Hamlet Oasis Resort in the north to Delfins Beach Resort in the south. Beyond guided shore dives, this establishment offers one of the few opportunities in the area to rent an Avelo scuba system.
Beyond the Corals functions as a complete diving resort, providing PADI-certification courses and ongoing dive education programs, in addition to regular excursions.
What You Can Expect While Diving in Bonaire
The surrounding waters of Bonaire host nearly 60 coral species and 350 distinct fish species. Noteworthy sightings include bottlenose dolphins, stocky yellow frogfish, and the rarely observed whale sharks. The beach environments here are also diverse, with many fringed by cliffs and adorned with rocky formations.
Preparation Tips Before Diving in Bonaire
As of 2022, non-residents must pay a $75 entry tax, applicable for arrivals by air or sea. Additionally, expect to pay a $40 “nature tag” fee—essentially an admission charge—for access to Bonaire National Marine Park. This fee can be paid online and grants entry to both the park and Washington Slagbaai National Park for one year.
Guidance for First-Time Visitors to Bonaire
Bonaire is a welcoming destination for novice divers. Most resorts offer unlimited shore diving opportunities, which can also be enjoyed during nighttime. Beginners are advised to focus on daylight hours for optimal visibility and safety.
Obtaining a PADI License in Bonaire
Yes.
Scuba Diving in Curaçao
Best for exploring underwater topography and limestone cliff scenery.
The Optimal Time to Visit Curaçao
The months of June through September are considered the best time to avoid large crowds. Particularly, September and October are prime months for witnessing coral spawning.
Reasons Why Curaçao Excels in Diving
Diving opportunities abound across the island of Curaçao. Various resorts cater to divers near and far, including Willemstad’s Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort, which offers on-site shore excursions, PADI certifications, and boat trips to Sweet Bottom and Beacon Point, as well as Sandals Royal Curaçao, which includes PADI-certified scuba diving amenities.
Top and Most Preferred Diving Locations in Curaçao
Double Reef, located on the south-central coast, is a highly sought-after diving site. Divers can choose between boat or shore dives to explore the interconnected reefs, which feature a shallow area, sandy spots, and an expansive reef mesa.
Divers will be captivated by numerous small crabs, pufferfish, angelfish, and other vividly colored marine creatures. Mushroom Forest near Playa Santa Cruz is characterized by coral formations resembling an underwater forest.
Diving Companies to Consider in Curaçao
Jan Thiel Diving provides advanced open-water packages, guided night dives, and opportunities to swim with dolphins. The Dive Bus, located just south of Willemstad, offers engaging experiences, featuring “fun dives” for groups, refreshing beverages, and wi-fi at its location.
If you have ever fantasized about becoming a mermaid, Scubacao offers specialized diving lessons to learn how to navigate wearing a mermaid-inspired tail.
What You Can Expect While Diving in Curaçao
To witness the spectacular coral spawning, plan your dive excursion for seven days after the full moon in September or October. During this extraordinary underwater event, it will appear as though the coral is creating stars around you.
Unique marine life encountered during dives includes Creole wrasses, cornetfish, and spotted eagle rays.
Preparation Tips Before Diving in Curaçao
Typically, the west coast of Curaçao is better shielded from strong waves, currents, and winds. Consequently, it is advisable to check the weather for potential storms which could complicate shore dives.
Guidance for First-Time Visitors to Curaçao
If you prefer not to coordinate your dive arrangements independently, numerous resorts across the island offer comprehensive packages that include meals, excursions, and customizable options. As their titles suggest, LionsDive Beach Resort and Scuba Lodge present ample diving-centric amenities.
Obtaining a PADI License in Curaçao
Yes.
Tips and Best Practices for Sustainable Diving
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Apply biodegradable, reef-safe sunscreen.
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Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) is affecting and damaging reefs across the region. Discuss current reef health and necessary precautions with a reputable dive shop.
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Practice leave-no-trace principles, including minimizing plastic waste, and refrain from taking any coral.
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Maintain a safe distance from marine life and avoid the urge to touch.
