SHORE EXCURSIONS CREDIT

OVERVIEW

Snorkel the gorgeous waters in the Bonaire Marine Park and enjoy the beach on the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire. You will cruise to both attractions on a sleek, 42-foot catamaran with plenty of shaded and sunny areas for lounging. The park is the world’s first Blue Destination, a certification awarded to protected waters that are used for sustainable and socially responsible business endeavors. While snorkeling the coral reef, you may spot parrotfish, angelfish, sea horses and sea turtles. Klein Bonaire is within the marine park and is completely undeveloped even though it lies just off Bonaire’s capital city of Kralendijk. While enjoying one of its remote no-name beaches, you will be free to stretch out in the sun, stroll along the sugar-white shoreline and take a refreshing swim. You will also be welcome to snorkel as the marine life is sure to be different than what you encountered on the reef.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise the crystal-clear waters off Kralendijk on a sleek catamaran.
• Observe the colorful marine life while snorkeling in the Bonaire Marine Park.
• Relax however you please on a no-name beach on the uninhabited island Klein Bonaire.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles.

OVERVIEW

See the historical attractions in southern Bonaire on a panoramic drive and then relax at Sorobon Beach, a beautiful stretch of sand that juts far into Lac Bay. The Spaniards first gathered the island’s natural sea salt deposits to preserve meat in the 16th century, and salt is still collected in huge quantities as you will discover while pausing at the salt pyramids that line the coast. Nearby, you will see the huts where the African slaves that once worked the salt pans lived. At the island’s southern tip, you will find Willemstoren, the first lighthouse built on Bonaire. It dates to 1837. Heading up the immensely scenic eastern coast, you will soon arrive at Sorobon Beach, a popular windsurfing area because of the steady offshore breeze. The waters there are crystal-clear, relatively shallow and partially enclosed by a coral reef, so the setting is ideal for a relaxing beach break.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Marvel at the massive pyramids of salt that line the shore in southern Bonaire.
• View the island’s oldest lighthouse and former slave huts built around the salt pans.
• See the first lighthouse on Bonaire, which was built at the southern tip in 1837.
• Enjoy free time at Sorobon Beach, an idyllic setting on Lac Bay.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing with a swimsuit underneath.
• Bring a towel and sunscreen.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles.

Along the Northern and scenic coastline, Bonaire's legendary blue waters are a breath-taking scene. Fossils embedded in limestone are clear evidence of the island rising from the sea. The rustic landscape is packed full of huge candelabra cacti, 'Divi Divi' trees and a plethora of birds and wildlife make their home in this area.

Goto Lake, a natural salt water lake and a feeding ground for the flamingos, is one the most beautiful places on the island. Narrow tree lined country lanes will bring you to a drinking well for animals before arriving in Rincon Village. Hear ancient tales of this village built by Spanish explorers in the 14th century and make a stop at the Washington National Park.

At the entrance of the National Park, see a full-scale juvenile whale skeleton; visit the natural history plantation museum and the open-air exhibit for a peak into Bonaire’s heritage. Relax on the large covered terrace.

Onwards to the South, home to the salt Company and the flamingo protected nesting grounds. Learn how salt is produced today on Bonaire, and how the slaves mined it in the 17th century.

At the Slave Huts, see & touch history as you visit the original huts used as shelters by the slaves. The spectacular color contrasts of the Caribbean Sea

Enjoy a leisurely tour to the Salt Flats and discover how salt is produced on Bonaire. Visit the 19th century Slave Huts and spot Bonaire's famously beautiful pink flamingo. Now for some fun in the sun, 'Chill Out' in the island breezes and bask in the sun with a refreshing beverage and snack.

Take a dip in the famous Bonaire National Marine Park or snorkel on Bonaire's world famous reefs. Laze on your beach chair where there is a beach bar that serves a nice selection of cocktails, beers, wine and food that are sure to please everyone.

OVERVIEW

Step aboard a sleek 45-foot electric-powered catamaran and glide almost noiselessly across Bonaire's dazzling turquoise waters toward the pristine shores of Klein Bonaire — a completely uninhabited island surrounded by some of the Caribbean's most spectacular coral reefs. Powered entirely by clean electric engines, this eco-friendly vessel offers a smooth, quiet and guilt-free way to explore the Bonaire National Marine Park, a pristine underwater paradise sprawling over thousands of acres of protected coral reef. Your adventure includes two spectacular snorkel stops, each offering a unique underwater experience. At the first, join your guide for a relaxed drift snorkel over vibrant coral formations teeming with an extraordinary diversity of marine life. Hundreds of fish species inhabit these crystal-clear waters — keep your eyes open for neon-colored parrotfish, angelfish, trumpetfish and marbled grouper gliding gracefully among the coral. With a little luck, you may even spot a green sea turtle serenely swimming by. The captain selects the second snorkel spot based on water and wind conditions, ensuring the best possible experience — and a completely different array of species awaits. At the second stop, the choice is entirely yours — snorkel independently, float lazily on the onboard floating mat or cool off on the waterslide for a splash of pure Caribbean fun. Prefer to stay on board? Unwind in one of the shaded seating areas and soak up the stunning ocean views. After all water activities have concluded, kick back with a refreshing drink from the open bar as the electric engines quietly carry you back along Bonaire's stunning coastline — relaxed, recharged and thoroughly happy.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Cruise through the Bonaire Marine Park on an emission-free electric-powered catamaran.
• Snorkel two different coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life.
• Sunbathe and relax onboard if you would rather not snorkel.
• Enjoy the open bar on the return cruise.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Bring a towel, hat, sunglasses and biodegradable sunscreen.

Sail a magnificent Siamese junk to the unblemished oasis Klein Bonaire, an uninhabited island known for its pristine beach and exceptional snorkeling. Cruise directly from the pier in a Zodiac boat, or a walk to the next pier, and within minutes you’ll arrive at the Samur, an authentic Siamese junk. Modeled after the well-known junks that sail throughout Asia, this 56-foot sailing vessel was hand-built in Thailand with beautiful wood-carved details.

After boarding the Samur and settling in, you’ll set off for the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire, which lies due west of Kralendijk, well within sight. As the red sails catch the wind and you cruise the surrounding sea, you may feel that you have been transported back in time where sailing ships ruled the seas. En route, the captain will elaborate on the history of the Siamese Sailing Junk and what you will find at the reef located just off-shore from the island.

Upon arriving at Klein Bonaire, you’ll tender to the beach, where you’ll have time to snorkel directly off the beach, or head for nearby Ebo’s reef. The waters in both sites are typically calm and offer a spectacular array of marine life. You may see parrotfish, angelfish, sea horses and sea turtles, all gracefully swimming about undisturbed by your presence.

The beach at Klein Bonaire is just as impressive, as the island is completely undeveloped and the crystal-clear waters are protected as part of the Bonaire National Marine Park. Feel free to relax in whatever way you please. There’s no set schedule or need to rush. After approximately 1-hour, you will re-board the Samur and on the return trip, enjoy tropical fruits and rum punch.

Discover the soul of Bonaire on this captivating island tour that takes you from the colorful streets of Kralendijk to the island's most iconic natural and historical landmarks — all from the comfort of an air-conditioned coach. Head north along the rugged coastline, where towering candelabra cacti and mesquite trees frame sweeping views of the Caribbean Sea and the uninhabited island of Klein Bonaire. Continue to the tranquil shores of Goto Lake — a peaceful saltwater lagoon where Bonaire's graceful pink flamingos gather to feed — before winding through narrow tree-lined country lanes into the heart of the island. Your journey leads to Rincon — Bonaire's oldest and most charming settlement, once home to the Arawak Indians. After explorer Amerigo Vespucci arrived in 1499, the Arawak were forced into slavery, and later, workers were brought from Africa to labor in the island's ranches and salt fields. Hear these powerful stories from your guide before raising a glass of locally produced cactus liqueur at a charming outdoor venue — a true taste of authentic Bonaire. Heading south, the landscape shifts dramatically as the iconic salt flats come into view — turquoise waters, pink salt pans and brilliant white salt pyramids that once earned the name "white gold." Visit the historic slave huts and hear the moving stories of those who sheltered here before a comfortable return to the pier.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and flat, secure footwear.

No swimsuit needed — just sit back and let Bonaire's incredible underwater world come to you! Step aboard directly at the pier and cruise toward Klein Bonaire — a pristine, uninhabited island surrounded by some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the Caribbean. Settle into a comfortable shaded seat and look down through the large glass viewing window as a constantly changing parade of marine life passes beneath your feet. The Bonaire National Marine Park was one of the first in the Caribbean to ban environmentally damaging activities — in the 1960s sea turtle nests were protected, in the 1970s spearfishing was banned and coral removal made illegal. The result? An underwater paradise unlike anything else in the Caribbean. Your knowledgeable guide keeps the commentary flowing as the boat glides over one breathtaking reef after another. Expect to spot elkhorn and staghorn coral, graceful sea turtles and a dazzling array of tropical fish including grunts, wrasses, goatfish, parrotfish and tangs. Not sure what you're looking at? The handy fish identification chart on board has you covered. After 1.5 hours of underwater wonder the whole family will be talking about, you'll cruise back to the pier with a huge smile on your face.

Paddle your way to one of Bonaire's most spectacular snorkeling beaches on this guided kayak eco-adventure. Your day of sun and fun begins with a short walk from the pier to your starting point, where two experienced guides provide a safety briefing and paddling instructions before you set off on the water. Your stable, sit-on-top tandem kayak is equipped with a life vest, paddles and a waterproof bag for your personal belongings. Glide effortlessly along Bonaire's stunning Caribbean coastline, where the bay is protected from the elements and the crystal-clear waters reveal colorful sea life right beneath your kayak. Keep your eyes peeled for pelicans soaring overhead and sea turtles gliding through the shallows — your guides will share fascinating insights into Bonaire's remarkable coastal environment and marine life along the way. Your destination is a beautiful beach within the southern part of the Bonaire National Marine Park — an exquisite snorkeling location suitable for all skill levels. Bonaire has a long and celebrated history of marine preservation and is world renowned for its snorkeling. Pull your kayak onto the sandy shore and slip into the warm, turquoise waters to discover breathtaking coral formations and a dazzling array of colorful tropical reef fish. All snorkel equipment is provided — and if you have brought an underwater camera, this is the perfect moment to use it. Afterwards, relax on the beach and refresh yourself with a complimentary bottle of water before paddling back along the scenic coastline to the pier — a perfect end to an unforgettable day on the water.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear bathing suit under clothing and we recommend to wear water shoes.

Discover Bonaire's colorful capital, Kralendijk, aboard a fun and eco-friendly electric open-air vehicle — a quiet, emission-free ride that offers a personal and sustainable way to explore the island's history, culture and local life. Traveling in a small group of maximum 7 guests, your knowledgeable local guide brings the island's fascinating story to life at every turn. Cruise past candy-colored houses lining the main street and admire the island's largest church with its beautiful stained glass windows. Learn how inventive the locals have been with the use of cactus, and pause for the legendary story of Captain Don — the pioneering diving icon who transformed Bonaire into one of the Caribbean's most celebrated dive destinations. Pass by the island's first hotel, the former World War II prisoner of war camp and the first hospital, each with a captivating tale to tell. Drive along Kaya Grandi, Bonaire's bustling main shopping street, before ending with a picturesque cruise along the ocean boulevard, where local fishing boats bob in the harbor and the historic Fort Oranje — a 17th-century fortress complete with cannons — stands proud against the sparkling Caribbean Sea.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

If you're craving an off-road adventure that takes you deep into Bonaire's most remote and untamed landscapes, this is the tour for you. Board the iconic Big Foot Unimog — a powerful, open-air vehicle with a full sunshade, open sides and the muscle to tackle Bonaire's most demanding terrain — and get ready for a safari unlike anything else on the island. Your expert guide will navigate narrow dirt and mud trails along the dramatic east coast, where towering giant cacti dominate the horizon and goats, donkeys and iguanas roam freely through the bush. Along the way, discover hidden watering holes and spot flamingos wading through the mangroves, with plenty of stops for those all-important photos. Your adventure ends at the tranquil shores of Sorobon Beach, where crystal-clear shallow waters invite you to unwind. Drinks are available for purchase at the beach. Guests who wish to linger longer are welcome to stay and make their own way back to the pier at their leisure.

Board your 40 foot Catamaran and set sail in the Bonaire Marine Park to discover the coral reef alive with a spectrum of tropical fish while snorkeling.

Your tour begins with a short boat transfer to the landing pier of the "Mushi Mushi," a 40-foot sailing catamaran equipped with stairs for easy access in and out of the water. Main and front sails of the catamaran will be pulled up and the engine turned off for a quiet sail in the Bonaire Marine Park. If you like, you can get involved in setting the sails along with the crew. Enjoy the easy and comfortable sail on a level deck of the Catamaran, no heeling.

Your Captain will select a swimming and snorkel site. After receiving your snorkeling equipment, a snorkel vest and a briefing, you’ll enter the water to explore the coral reef alive with a spectrum of tropical fish. If you prefer, you are free to swim or stay aboard and bask in the warm Caribbean sun. Complimentary beverages are yours to enjoy. After an hour at the snorkel and swim site, you’ll set sail for a relaxing cruise back to the pier.