Dive Friends Bonaire

Quick Facts

Overview

Dive Friends Bonaire has seven dive shops conveniently spread over the island and 3 retail stores. It offers the Avelo Experience for certified divers, the Avelo Diver certification course, and Avelo Pro training for instructors. Avelo courses include classroom learning, in-water practice, and guided dives to help participants master the system safely and confidently. Dive Friends Bonaire offers Avelo course deals through the Recreational Avelo Diver RAD specialty course. Avelo course packages include Taste of Avelo, Avelo Journey, Avelo Adventure, and Avelo Ultimate. The Avelo Experience is a week-long dive package that includes the RAD course, guided Avelo dives, gear rental, resort stay, and more. Avelo Pro is the training and support program for dive centers and scuba instructors who want to bring Avelo diving to their guests. Dive Friends Bonaire also lists specialty courses, freediving programs, Go Pro programs, guided Avelo dives, Avelo rental gear, and Unlimited Air or Nitrox Hydrotanks.

Offerings, Features, or Content

Avelo Courses

Avelo Courses include Avelo gear. The RAD-Course includes online training and 2 dives. Dive Friends Bonaire offers the Avelo Experience for certified divers, the Avelo Diver certification course, and the Avelo Pro training for instructors. Each course includes classroom learning, in-water practice, and guided dives to help participants master the system safely and confidently.

Taste of Avelo

Taste of Avelo is an introduction to the Avelo System.

This Recreational Avelo Diver course consists of:

Prerequisites:

Avelo Journey

Avelo Journey is described as the most popular and recommended RAD course. Participants start with certification and continue with two guided dives to build confidence and develop Avelo skills.

This Recreational Avelo Diver course consists of:

Prerequisites:

Avelo Adventure

Avelo Adventure is presented for divers who are new to Bonaire or want more guided experience. Participants complete RAD certification and have two extra days of guided diving to explore the island and master the system.

This Recreational Avelo Diver course consists of:

Prerequisites:

Avelo Ultimate

Avelo Ultimate is a full week dedicated to the participant and the Avelo System. Participants earn RAD certification and have a mix of guided boat and shore dives that help them integrate Avelo into their diving.

This Recreational Avelo Diver course consists of:

Prerequisites:

Avelo Experience Package

The Avelo Experience is presented as a week-long dive package. The Avelo Experience package includes the RAD Recreational Avelo Diver course, guided dives from boat and shore with instructors, unlimited use of Avelo gear, a rental car for the week, comfortable accommodation, a group BBQ, and a curated goodie bag.

Additional inclusions and details:

Avelo Experience 2026 dates listed:

Avelo Pro

Avelo Pro is the official training and support program for dive centers and scuba instructors who want to teach with Avelo Systems.

Optional features:

What’s included in Avelo Pro:

How to become an Avelo Dive Center or Avelo Instructor:

  1. Apply through the Avelo Pro program
  2. The Avelo Instructor Trainer contacts you personally and evaluates your dive center’s needs or individual instructor level
  3. A personalized package is created to suit your needs
  4. Staff training in Bonaire or at your shop prepares facilities for Avelo
  5. Equipment delivery setup at your shop
  6. Marketing and operations knowledge provided to get you started efficiently

Why choose Avelo Pro with Dive Friends Bonaire:

Specialty Courses

RAD-Course Advanced Open Water Price Table

RAD-Course pricing states that it includes online training, 2 dives, and Avelo gear.

The RAD-Course Advanced Open Water table lists a minimum age of 12 years old and prerequisites of Open Water Certification.

Freediving

Freediving pricing includes gear and eLearning.

Go Pro

Continuing Education Courses

Refresher Courses

Guided Dives

Guided Night Dives

Snorkel Trips

Rental & Services

Discover Scuba & Entry-Level Certifications

Unlimited Shore Diving Package

Partner Deals

The Avelo Experience offer page includes a “Check out our partner deals” pathway.

How It Works

  1. Use the booking channel at https://www.divefriendsbonaire.com/book-now for course booking.
  2. Review the relevant course prerequisites before booking, such as Open Water Certified, Advanced Open Water certified, minimum 100+ dives, and minimum age requirements where listed.
  3. Complete eLearning beforehand where the selected Avelo course states that eLearning is completed beforehand.
  4. For Taste of Avelo, complete 1 day with two practical training dives for RAD certification.
  5. For Avelo Journey, complete Day 1 with two practical training dives and RAD certification, then Day 2 with two guided Avelo dives.
  6. For Avelo Adventure, complete Day 1 with two practical training dives and RAD certification, then Days 2 and 3 with two guided dives each day.
  7. For Avelo Ultimate, complete Day 1 with two practical training dives and RAD certification, Days 2 and 3 with two-tank guided boat dives, and Days 4, 5, and 6 with two guided shore dives each day.
  8. Certified RAD divers can rent Avelo equipment and tanks to dive independently.
  9. Check-in and an orientation dive are mandatory before joining any boat dive; the reservation confirms location and time.
  10. Arrive at the assigned port on time—boats follow a strict schedule, and late arrivals receive no refunds or future credit.
  11. Morning boat meeting times: Port Bonaire 07:45 AM; Sand Dollar 08:00 PM. Afternoon boat meeting times: Port Bonaire 13:45 PM; Sand Dollar 14:00 PM. Dusk boat meeting time: Port Bonaire 16:30 PM (may vary with sunset).
  12. On boarding, listen to the safety briefing and follow all instructions from the boat captain, crew, dive guides, instructors, and staff; the captain has final authority.
  13. If seasick, inform the crew—reasonable accommodations are made without affecting others; preventive medicine may be purchased in Dive Friends Bonaire shops at the guest’s discretion.

Audience & Use Cases

Practical Information

Opening Hours and Physical Access Points

Price and Inclusion Notes

Dates, Windows, and Availability

Course Requirements and Eligibility

Operational Delivery

Retail Return & Warranty

Key Entities and Definitions

Additional Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dive Friends Bonaire?

Dive Friends Bonaire is a PADI 5-Star IDC dive operator in Kralendijk that provides scuba diving, training, equipment rental, and conservation activities across eight dive shop locations and four retail stores on Bonaire.

Why choose Dive Friends Bonaire over other operators?

The company offers island-wide convenience with multiple tank exchange points, unlimited shore-air packages, friendly multilingual staff, and mandatory Marine Park orientations that can be taken at any shop during normal hours.

How does shore diving with Dive Friends Bonaire work?

You pick up or swap tanks at any of the eight shops, enter the water from nearby beaches, and dive independently or with a guide; unlimited air or nitrox packages let you dive as often as you want.

Do I need to be certified before I dive?

No. If you are not yet certified, you can enroll in PADI courses—from Discover Scuba Diving through Open Water—before exploring Bonaire’s reefs.

Which beginner PADI courses are available?

Beginner options include Discover Scuba Diving, Kids programs, and the full Open Water Diver course.

What continued-education or specialty courses can I take?

You can progress with Adventure Diver, Advanced Open Water, Rescue Diver, and specialties such as Self-Reliant Diver, Night Diver, and Sea Turtle Awareness.

Do you offer professional-level training?

Yes. Divemaster and Instructor Development Courses (IDC) are available for those pursuing a PADI Pro path.

What is the Avelo dive system and how can I try it?

The Avelo system is a lightweight dive setup offered through Avelo Courses, Avelo Experience, and Avelo Pro programs that you can book directly through the website.

Are guided dives and boat trips available?

Yes. You can join guided shore dives, boat dives to Klein Bonaire, and special night dives led by professional dive guides.

Do you organize night or ostracod dives?

Night dives, shore night dives, and ostracod bioluminescence dives are listed activities and can be booked in advance.

Can I rent scuba equipment from you?

High-quality rental gear—BCD, regulator, wetsuit, computer, fins, masks, boots, and aluminum cylinders—is available individually or as a full set.

Do you provide equipment servicing and repairs?

Yes. Equipment service and repair are listed among the shop’s on-site services.

Is unlimited shore diving offered?

Unlimited Shore Diving and Unlimited Air Packages are available, allowing continuous tank exchanges throughout your stay.

Are snorkelling trips available for non-divers?

Yes. PADI Snorkelling trips are part of the activities offered.

What conservation programs do you support?

Dive Friends Bonaire participates in initiatives like Adopt the Blue, quarterly clean-up dives, and other eco-projects.

Where are your dive shops located?

Shops are situated at Hamlet Oasis, Sand Dollar, Yellow Submarine, Dive Inn, Resort Bonaire, Port Bonaire, Delfins Beach, and another Kralendijk location, all within easy reach of popular dive sites.

What are your normal opening hours?

All listed centers operate daily from 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

How do I book a dive package or course?

Reserve online through the Dive Friends Bonaire website or contact the team by phone or email for assistance before arrival.

What is the main contact information?

Phone: +599 780 2572. Email: info@divefriendsbonaire.com. Address: Kralendijk, Bonaire, Dutch Caribbean.

Which payment methods do you accept?

Payments can be made by bank/debit card, VISA, Mastercard, or local-currency cash.

What facilities do your shops provide?

Facilities include on-site classrooms, free Wi-Fi, retail stores, rinse tanks, gear storage, waterfront access, food & drinks, and parking.

Is Wi-Fi available at the dive centers?

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is listed among the facilities.

Do you have parking on site?

Parking is available at the dive centers.

Is a Bonaire National Marine Park orientation dive mandatory?

Yes. An orientation dive is required for all divers and can be completed at any shop during normal business hours.

What languages does the staff speak?

Staff members speak English, Spanish, Dutch, French, and German.

How many instructors are on staff?

The operation lists 40 PADI Instructors.

Do you operate your own retail shops?

Yes. Four retail outlets stock dive accessories, souvenirs, and equipment for purchase.

Who is Dive Friends Bonaire best suited for?

Services cater to everyone from first-time divers and kids to experienced, technical, and professional divers.

Can children learn to dive with you?

Yes. Dedicated Kids programs and Discover Scuba experiences are available.

Do you cater to self-reliant or technical divers?

Specialties such as Self-Reliant Diver and technical training options are offered for advanced practitioners.

Is Dive Friends Bonaire connected to a single resort?

No. Divers from any accommodation are welcome to use the facilities and services.

Can I exchange tanks at any time?

You may swap tanks during normal shop hours at all eight locations, making continuous diving easy.

Are refresher courses available if I haven't dived recently?

Yes. Refresher sessions are listed services to update skills before open-water dives.

What adaptive services are provided?

The centers list adaptive services that can accommodate divers’ individual needs; contact the team for specifics.

Do the shops have house reefs?

Several locations, such as Dive Inn and Delfins, have easily accessible house reefs right in front of the shop.

Are food and beverages available on site?

Food & Drinks are among the facilities offered at certain waterfront locations.

Do you offer any group events or clean-up dives?

Yes. Quarterly clean-up dives are scheduled as part of the conservation program.

Are rinse tanks and secure gear storage available at the dive shops?

Yes. All Dive Friends Bonaire locations provide dedicated rinse tanks and gear storage areas so you can clean and safely store your equipment between dives.

Which scuba cylinder sizes can I rent?

Rental options include standard aluminum cylinders and smaller 10-liter (71.2 cu ft) tanks, giving you flexibility to choose the size that best matches your dive profile.

Can I dive with Nitrox and earn the Enriched Air certification?

Yes. Enriched Air (Nitrox) fills are offered through the unlimited air or nitrox packages, and the PADI Enriched Air specialty course can be booked at any Dive Friends Bonaire center.

Do you offer freediving courses?

Yes. Freediving programs taught by PADI-certified instructors are listed among the available courses and can be booked through the Dive Friends Bonaire website.

Are there any special offers or dive packages available?

Yes. Current promotions include the Early Bird Offer, the 6-day Unlimited Shore Diving package, and the week-long Avelo Experience package that bundles the RAD course, guided Avelo dives, gear rental, and a resort stay.

Can I book my dives through the PADI Adventures mobile app?

Yes. The PADI Adventures app is promoted as a way to book diving activities online with Dive Friends Bonaire.

Is child-sized rental equipment available?

Yes. The rental inventory specifically lists kids’ equipment and children-sized gear to ensure proper fit for younger divers.

Where can I view your current price list?

The up-to-date price list is published on the Dive Friends Bonaire website under the “Price List” section, which you can access from the main navigation menu.

Is Nitrox included in the 6-day Unlimited Shore Diving package?

Yes. The Unlimited Shore Diving package can be booked with either standard air or Enriched Air (Nitrox) tanks, allowing you to choose the gas that best suits your dive plan.

Do you offer dive-and-stay packages that include accommodation?

Yes. The week-long Avelo Experience package bundles a resort stay with the RAD course, guided Avelo dives, and gear rental for a complete dive-and-stay option.

How much does the 6-day Unlimited Shore Diving package cost?

The Unlimited Shore Diving package is listed at USD 234 for six days of unlimited air or Nitrox tank exchanges.

Do you offer Emergency First Response (EFR) first-aid training?

Yes. PADI First Aid – Emergency First Response (EFR) courses are listed among the activities available at Dive Friends Bonaire and can be booked through any of our centers.

Is Dive Friends Bonaire an eco-certified dive center?

Yes. Dive Friends Bonaire is listed as an Eco Center, reflecting its recognized commitment to environmentally responsible diving and conservation practices.

Which social media platforms can I follow for news and updates?

You can stay connected with Dive Friends Bonaire on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, all linked from the contact section of our website.

Which mobile apps enhance my experience with Dive Friends Bonaire?

Use the PADI App to access your eCards, digital logbook, and eLearning, and the PADI Adventures App to browse and book Dive Friends Bonaire activities directly from your phone.

Do you organize UV or fluorescent night dives?

Yes. The Hamlet Oasis shop highlights UV (fluorescent) night dives as a signature experience, and these guided dives can be booked alongside regular night-dive options.

Are fish identification resources available at the dive centers?

Yes. The Hamlet Oasis location keeps a reference library with fish-identification guides that guests are welcome to consult between dives.

Do you have a newsletter I can subscribe to for updates and offers?

Yes. You can subscribe to the Dive Friends Bonaire email newsletter by entering your name and email address in the “Sign up for newsletter” section found on our website’s footer.

What is included in the Avelo Experience package?

The week-long Avelo Experience combines the RAD certification course, multiple guided Avelo dives, complete gear rental, and a resort stay, giving you an all-in-one dive-and-stay bundle that can be booked directly on our website.

Do you offer a Lionfish Hunter specialty course?

Yes. The one-day PADI Lionfish Hunter course includes two dives dedicated to safely removing the invasive species and is currently listed at EUR 177.

How long does the PADI Open Water Diver course take, and how many dives are required?

Our Open Water Diver program runs over three days and includes four qualifying dives, meeting the standard PADI training schedule.

Is onsite accommodation available at any Dive Friends Bonaire location?

Yes. The Delfins Beach site notes onsite accommodation, and the Avelo Experience package also bundles resort lodging for guests who prefer to stay right by the dive center.

How many dive shop locations and separate retail stores do you operate on Bonaire?

Dive Friends Bonaire runs eight full-service dive shops for tank exchanges and diving activities, plus four standalone retail stores where you can purchase equipment, accessories, and souvenirs.

Where can I find information about employment opportunities at Dive Friends Bonaire?

Current vacancies are posted under the “Jobs” link in the Useful Links section of our website’s footer, where you can review open positions and apply online.

Can I complete the theory portion of my PADI course online before arriving?

Yes. You can finish the knowledge-development section through the PADI eLearning Portal and simply bring your completion record to begin the in-water training with Dive Friends Bonaire.

Do you accept digital PADI eCards instead of physical certification cards at check-in?

Yes. All Dive Friends Bonaire locations recognize the digital certification eCards stored in the PADI App, so you may present your credentials on your phone.

Can I keep a digital logbook of my dives while visiting Dive Friends Bonaire?

Yes. The PADI App includes a digital logbook feature that is fully accepted by our staff for recording and signing your dives on the spot.

What time do the boat dives depart each day?

Boat dives meet at 07:45 AM for the morning two-tank trip and at 13:45 PM for the afternoon one-tank trip.

Can I complete my Bonaire Marine Park orientation dive at any time during shop hours?

Yes. Orientation dives are offered throughout regular opening hours (08:00–17:00) at every Dive Friends Bonaire location, letting you fulfill the requirement whenever you arrive.

Are freshwater showers available at the shore-entry points?

Yes. Waterfront sites such as Delfins and Hamlet Oasis feature rinse tanks and freshwater shower units positioned right beside the entry points for convenient post-dive clean-ups.

Can I purchase air or Nitrox fills individually without an unlimited package?

Yes. Every Dive Friends Bonaire location offers individual air and Enriched Air (Nitrox) tank fills; you can pay per fill and swap cylinders during normal shop hours.

Can I buy dive gear and accessories at your centers?

Yes. All eight dive shops and four retail stores provide equipment sales, stocking items such as masks, fins, computers, and other accessories for purchase on site.

What marine life can I expect to encounter while diving with Dive Friends Bonaire?

Guests frequently report sightings of dolphins, sea turtles, eagle rays, octopus, and a wide variety of reef fish. The marine-life calendar on our website shows year-round opportunities to see sharks, eels, mollusks, corals, and more, so every season offers memorable underwater encounters.

Do you offer technical diving courses such as Trimix, Rebreather, or Sidemount?

Yes. Our Tec-diving curriculum lists Deep, Trimix, Rebreather, Sidemount, and Gas Blender programs that can be booked through any Dive Friends Bonaire location.

When should I complete the Marine Park orientation and buoyancy check if I am booked on an early boat dive?

The mandatory orientation and buoyancy test must be finished the day before your first boat dive, preferably before 15:30, so you are ready for the 07:45 boat departure the next morning.

How long does the morning two-tank boat dive trip last?

The morning boat trip runs for about four hours, departing at 07:45 AM and returning around 11:45 AM after two dives.

What is the cost of the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course?

The PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course is listed at EUR 322 for a two-day program that includes five training dives.

Which conservation certifications has Dive Friends Bonaire received?

Dive Friends Bonaire holds Adopt the Blue recognition and is designated as a PADI 100% Aware Eco Center for its conservation work.

Where is pool training conducted for courses at the Delfins Beach Resort center?

Confined-water sessions are held at a dedicated off-site pool rather than on the resort premises.

Can I rent an underwater camera to capture photos and video during my dives?

Yes. The Delfins Beach site lists underwater cameras in the rental inventory, so you can add a camera to your gear package and record your dives.

Do you offer dive torch rentals for night dives?

Yes. Flashlights are included among the rental items available at Dive Friends Bonaire, making it easy to equip yourself for any night-dive booking.

Is accessible boat diving available for divers with limited mobility?

Yes. The Port Bonaire location specifies "accessible boat diving" within its adaptive services, allowing guests with mobility challenges to join boat trips comfortably.

Do you host social events where guests can meet other divers and staff?

Yes. The activity schedule on our website lists dedicated "social" events in addition to dives and conservation outings, giving guests a chance to relax and connect with fellow divers and the Dive Friends team after hours.

Can I rent a dive computer if I don’t have my own?

Yes. Dive computers are specifically listed in our rental inventory, so you can add one to any gear package when you check in or book online.

Do you offer the PADI Gas Blender course?

Yes. Gas Blender certification is included in our tec-diving curriculum and can be scheduled at any Dive Friends Bonaire location.

What is shore diving and why is Bonaire famous for it?

Shore diving means entering the water directly from the beach rather than from a boat. Bonaire is called the "shore-diving capital of the world" because its reefs lie only a short swim from easily accessible beaches, letting you explore vibrant dive sites independently at any time of day.

How much does it cost to rent Avelo gear once I am RAD certified?

Certified RAD divers can rent the full Avelo equipment set for USD 55 per day, and unlimited Air or Nitrox Hydrotanks for USD 42 per day.

When are the 2026 Quarterly Clean Up Dives scheduled?

The upcoming Quarterly Clean Up Dives are set for 24 January 2026, 18 April 2026, 25 July 2026, and 24 October 2026.

What does Green Fins membership mean for Dive Friends Bonaire?

As a Green Fins member, Dive Friends Bonaire follows internationally recognised environmental guidelines created by The Reef-World Foundation and UNEP to minimise the negative impact of diving and snorkelling, actively protecting and conserving coral reefs on every trip.

What will I learn in the Reef Renewal Diver specialty?

The Reef Renewal Diver course teaches on-land coral-nursery techniques and in-water skills for maintaining nurseries, propagating corals, and out-planting them to the reef; it takes two days, includes three dives, and requires Open Water certification with a minimum age of 12.

What is covered in the Fish Spawning Monitoring distinctive specialty?

During the one-day, two-dive Fish Spawning Monitoring specialty you learn to recognise, observe, and collect data on reef-fish reproductive behaviour so you can contribute to citizen-science projects that protect critical spawning sites; participants must be at least 16 and hold an Open Water certification.

What happens during the Discover Freediving experience?

The half-day Discover Freediving session starts with classroom theory on breath-holding techniques and safety, followed by one supervised in-water session where you practise those skills; it requires a minimum age of 12 and involves a single dive.

How quickly can I expect a reply after contacting Dive Friends Bonaire?

Dive Friends Bonaire states that its team is ready to answer questions and aims to get back to customers within 24 hours.

Can PADI Divemaster candidates join an internship program?

Yes. Many Divemaster candidates choose the Divemaster internship program, where they gain experience assisting with daily operations, guiding divers, and becoming part of the Dive Friends Bonaire team.

What does the Self-Reliant Diver specialty cover?

The Self-Reliant Diver program teaches divers how to plan dives and handle emergencies without relying on a buddy. Participants practice self-rescue skills and learn to use backup equipment.

What are the requirements for the Self-Reliant Diver specialty?

The Self-Reliant Diver specialty has a minimum age of 18 and includes 3 dives over approximately 1.5 days. The prerequisite is Advanced Certification with 100 dives.

What does the Underwater Naturalist specialty teach?

The Underwater Naturalist course teaches marine ecology of Bonaire, including the names and behaviors of fish, creatures, corals, and plants encountered on dives. It also covers how marine life interacts with its environment.

How can a dive center or instructor become involved with Avelo Pro through Dive Friends Bonaire?

Dive centers or instructors can apply through the Avelo Pro program. An Avelo Instructor Trainer then evaluates the dive center’s needs or the instructor’s level, creates a personalized package, and provides training, equipment setup, and marketing and operations support.

When and where did Dive Friends Bonaire start?

Dive Friends Bonaire was founded in 2002. Its first dive shop was located in the Yellow Submarine building.

Are continuing-education course prices listed with tanks and equipment included?

No. The continuing-education pricelist states that tanks and equipment are excluded. Specialty course listings also note that tanks and gear are excluded for the listed prices.

How much does the Emergency First Response Course cost?

The Emergency First Response Course is listed at $186 in the continuing-education pricelist.

What are the requirements for the Underwater Naturalist specialty?

The Underwater Naturalist specialty has a minimum age of 10 and includes 2 dives over approximately 1 day. The prerequisite is Open Water Certification or Junior Open Water Certification.

What does the Underwater Navigator course help divers learn?

The Underwater Navigator course focuses on skills that help divers find their way underwater and return to the boat or exit point. It is presented as a way to reduce the stress of losing your way underwater.

Can Avelo Pro training be provided at my own dive shop?

Yes. The Avelo Pro process says Dive Friends Bonaire can train staff in Bonaire or at your shop, prepare facilities, and help set up equipment and procedures.

How much does the Rescue Diver course cost?

The Rescue Diver course is listed at $435 and includes PADI eLearning.

How much does the Enriched Air Diver/Nitrox course cost?

The Enriched Air Diver/Nitrox course is listed at $155 with theory and book, or $181 including PADI eLearning.

How much does the Digital Underwater Photography specialty cost?

The Digital Underwater Photography specialty is listed at $197 including PADI eLearning. The listed price does not include a camera.

How much does the Reef Renewal Diver specialty cost?

The Reef Renewal Diver specialty is listed at $233.

Which specialty courses are listed at $285?

Night Diver, Underwater Navigator, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, and Search and Recovery Diver are each listed at $285 including PADI eLearning.

How much does the Boat Diver specialty cost?

The Boat Diver specialty is listed at $243 and includes PADI eLearning. Tanks and equipment are excluded from continuing-education prices.

Which specialty courses are listed at $171?

AWARE Dive Against Debris and Peak Performance Buoyancy are each listed at $171. Both prices include PADI eLearning.

What Ocean Reef full-face mask training options and prices are listed?

The Integrated Dive full-face mask trial dive is listed at $103. The Ocean Reef Integrated Dive Mask specialty is listed at $155, and the full-face mask plus underwater communication combo is listed at $269.

How much does the Adaptive Support Diver Specialty cost?

The Adaptive Support Diver Specialty is listed at $155. The continuing-education pricelist states that tanks and equipment are excluded.

Can Avelo Pro packages include accommodation or transportation?

Yes. The Avelo Pro information states that optional custom packages can include accommodation and transportation.

Are discounts available when combining an Avelo Experience with an Avelo Pro course?

Yes. Dive Friends Bonaire states that discounts are available when combining an Avelo Experience with an Avelo Pro course.

Is a zero-to-hero Avelo pathway available through Avelo Pro?

Yes. The Avelo Pro information says a zero-to-hero trajectory is available, including Recreational Avelo Diver certification.

What is the 2-day Avelo Journey package?

The 2-day Avelo package is called “Avelo Journey - RAD-Course + guided dives - 2 days - 4 dives.” It combines the Recreational Avelo Diver course with guided dives over two days and includes four dives.

What are the booking and dive windows for the Early Bird promotion?

For the Early Bird promotion, bookings must be made before July 31, 2026. The dive window is from August 1 to October 1, 2026.

What does the Recreational Avelo Diver course help me achieve?

The Recreational Avelo Diver course teaches you to use the Avelo system safely and confidently. In a few dives, you work on the skills needed to dive with Avelo, enjoy more relaxed dives with less fatigue, and receive a digital certification recognized at Avelo Dive Centers worldwide.

What is included with guided Avelo boat dives?

The guided Avelo boat dive option is listed as a two-tank guided dive with an instructor for $260. It includes Avelo gear, a computer, and profile analysis; unlimited Air or Nitrox Hydrotanks are listed separately at $42 per day.

Can I start my Open Water Diver training at home and finish it in Bonaire?

Yes. You can start your PADI Open Water Diver course at your local dive shop and finish it in Bonaire by completing the classroom and confined-water work before arrival. The referral requires completion of that work within the past year with copies of the referral paperwork, and the Open Water Diver course includes tanks and rental equipment.

What are the listed Avelo Experience package dates?

The Avelo Experience page lists the following date ranges: February 14–21, June 13–20, September 5–12, and October 24–31. The retrieved context does not state the year for these dates.

What extras are included during the Avelo Experience week?

The Avelo Experience includes a goodie bag with a retail-store discount voucher and a personalized Avelo Dive Centre shirt. It also includes a complimentary BBQ evening with one free drink, with both meat and vegetarian options available.

What does the RAD course listing include?

The RAD course listing states that it includes online training, 2 dives, and Avelo gear. The listed minimum age is 12 years old, and the prerequisite is Open Water Certification.

Do the listed course prices include tax and the Marine Park fee?

The price list states that all prices are per person and include tax. The Marine Park fee is excluded, and prices are subject to change without notice.

How much does the Adventure Diver course cost?

The Adventure Diver course is listed at $245. The Adventure Diver option including a night dive is listed at $280.

Which Avelo training options are available?

Dive Friends Bonaire offers the Avelo Experience for certified divers, the Avelo Diver certification course, and Avelo Pro training for instructors. The Avelo course information states that each course includes classroom learning, in-water practice, and guided dives.

What will I learn in the DFB Sea Turtle Conservation specialty?

The DFB Sea Turtle Conservation specialty was created in cooperation with Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire and is described as a unique PADI Distinctive Specialty. During the two-dive course, you learn about Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire, sea turtle behavior, nesting, species identification, threats to sea turtles and their habitats, and how to help conservation efforts.

What are the requirements for the DFB Sea Turtle Conservation specialty?

The DFB Sea Turtle Conservation specialty has a minimum age of 12 and requires Open Water Certification or Junior Open Water Certification. It includes 2 dives, takes approximately 1 day, and is listed at $195 excluding tanks and gear.

Why choose Dive Friends Bonaire for Avelo Pro training?

Dive Friends Bonaire states that it was the first operator in the world to adopt the Avelo System outside of Avelo’s homebase. The Avelo Pro information also highlights an established Avelo training team, calm clear water, facility and equipment setup support, exclusive Avelo Dive Center equipment rates, and help with procedures for Avelo operations.

Does the Avelo Signature Experience include a vehicle rental?

Yes. The Avelo Signature Experience listing includes a 7-day Toyota Hilux truck rental as part of the package.

Where do guests stay during the Avelo Signature Experience?

The Avelo Signature Experience includes a 6-night stay at Delfins Beach Resort. The package also includes Avelo training, guided dives, gear rental, a truck rental, and additional extras.

Are the guided dives in the Avelo Experience offered from both boat and shore?

Yes. The Avelo Experience package includes guided dives from both boat and shore with instructors, along with profile review and feedback.

Who is the Shore Diver specialty for?

The Shore Diver specialty is for divers who want to shore dive with confidence. It focuses on the specific challenges and rewards of shore diving compared with boat diving.

Who should I contact about PADI Instructor Development Course start dates and packages?

Dive Friends Bonaire directs prospective PADI Instructor Development Course candidates to contact the Course Director. The IDC information says the Course Director can provide details about start dates, packages, and accommodation options.

Do Avelo Pro participants receive updates or access to new Avelo system features?

Yes. The Avelo Pro information states that participants receive regular updates and access to new system features.

How can I book an Avelo course on Bonaire?

You can reserve your Avelo course directly through the Dive Friends Bonaire website or by contacting the team via email or phone; staff will help pick dates and integrate the course into your dive vacation.

Who is the Avelo Pro program designed for?

Avelo Pro is aimed at dive centers and individual instructors who want to teach with the Avelo System. The program offers regular system updates, optional packages that bundle accommodation and transportation, and even a zero-to-hero pathway that starts with the Recreational Avelo Diver (RAD) certification.

Why choose Dive Friends Bonaire for Divemaster training?

With seven dive shops spread across Bonaire, unlimited shore-diving access, and a highly experienced instructor team, Dive Friends provides extensive real-world practice and community support. Candidates can also join an internship program to gain hands-on experience assisting with daily operations and guiding certified divers.

Can I complete my Advanced Open Water referral with Dive Friends Bonaire?

Yes. If you finished the knowledge development and confined-water sessions with a PADI instructor within the past year, you can complete the Advanced Open Water referral in Bonaire with Dive Friends over two days and four qualifying dives.

Can I contact Dive Friends Bonaire via WhatsApp?

Yes. The contact page lists a dedicated WhatsApp number: +599 780 2572.

Do you have international phone numbers for customers calling from the Netherlands or the United States?

Yes. You can reach Dive Friends Bonaire on +31 85 106 6091 (Netherlands line) or +1 918 238 4690 (United States line).

After earning the Recreational Avelo Diver certification, can I rent Avelo gear and dive independently?

Yes. Certified RAD divers can rent the complete Avelo equipment set and unlimited Air or Nitrox Hydrotanks from Dive Friends Bonaire, allowing them to dive independently and explore Bonaire’s sites at their own pace.

Why is Bonaire an ideal place to learn freediving with Dive Friends Bonaire?

Bonaire offers crystal-clear, tranquil Caribbean waters and vibrant marine life, providing relaxed conditions for practising breath-hold techniques. Our professional instructors teach the full range of PADI Freediver courses in this calm, beautiful environment, making training both rewarding and fun.

What happens if I arrive late for my scheduled boat dive?

Dive Friends Bonaire boats run on a strict timetable. If you arrive after the stated meeting time and miss the departure, the dive is neither refundable nor eligible for future credit; rescheduling is only possible if space is available and must be approved by the front-desk staff.

Is solo diving permitted with Dive Friends Bonaire?

Solo diving is allowed only for guests who hold an appropriate solo or self-reliant diving certification and have the necessary training, experience, and equipment. Divers without those credentials may not dive alone using Dive Friends Bonaire equipment.

What assistance is available if I feel seasick during a boat dive?

The crew will accommodate seasick guests as reasonably as possible without affecting the schedule or safety of others, and the boat captain has the final say on any solution. Seasickness-prevention medicine can be purchased in Dive Friends Bonaire shops, but guests must decide—ideally with medical advice—whether it is suitable for them.

Does paying for a course automatically guarantee certification?

No. Certification is awarded only when you meet all PADI prerequisites, medical requirements, knowledge development objectives, water-skill standards, and safety criteria; payment or attendance alone does not ensure certification.

What time does the dusk boat dive meet?

The dusk boat dive meets at 16:30 at Port Bonaire, although the exact time may shift slightly with the seasonal sunset.

What are the boat-dive meeting times at the Sand Dollar location?

At Sand Dollar, the morning boat dive meets at 08:00 and the afternoon boat dive meets at 14:00.