In May of 2017, a port stop on my cruise Itinerary was Bonaire, an island located in the Dutch Caribbean, part of the Caribbean Netherlands. Renowned for its pristine coral reefs and exceptional scuba diving, Bonaire is considered one of the world’s best destinations for underwater exploration. The island’s entire coastline is a protected marine park, so sea-life is abundant.
Diving!
The Hilma Hooker
The Hilma Hooker is a famous shipwreck dive off the coast of Bonaire. Originally a cargo vessel, the ship was confiscated in 1984 after being found with a large quantity of marijuana on board. It was intentionally sunk later that year to create an artificial reef.
The wreck rests between two coral reefs at a depth of about 30 meters. It’s history makes it one of Bonaire’s most visited dive sites.
Unfortunately, the dive is accessible to ‘Advanced’ level certified divers, and the acquaintance I was diving with didn’t have the certifications. Instead of abandoning this fellow diver, I elected to do shore dives instead. Perhaps I should plan a trip back to Bonaire, either by myself or with another Advanced level diver to dive the Hilma Hooker!
