When we moved to Bonaire in 2017, I knew I wanted to continue doing something with diving. Back in the Netherlands, I was already teaching scuba diving courses through SSI and CMAS/NOB, and diving has always been my passion. Living on an island surrounded by such a beautiful underwater world made it even more special.
I’m Kim, the owner and dive instructor at Scuba School Bonaire. Our dive school is located at Oasis Guesthouse Bonaire, and over the years, it has grown into something I’m very proud of. But it didn’t start with a big business plan or advertising campaigns. It actually started with our guests.
How Scuba School Bonaire Started
When we first started welcoming guests at Oasis Guesthouse, I noticed that some people wanted to go diving but didn’t necessarily enjoy the experience of joining a large group at a traditional dive center. Some felt uncomfortable diving with strangers, while others had experienced situations where they felt rushed or had to end their dive earlier because someone else in the group was running low on air.
I could understand that. Not everyone enjoys diving in a large group, especially when you’re still building confidence or simply want to take your time underwater.
So I started offering a more personal diving experience. Instead of putting together groups of people who don’t know each other, I prefer diving one-on-one or with couples, families and friends who already know each other. It creates a completely different atmosphere. People feel more relaxed, there’s less pressure, and we can focus on enjoying the dive.
In the beginning, most people found us through word of mouth. We didn’t really advertise the dive school. Over time, we expanded our services to include more diving options, such as tank rentals and unlimited diving packages. But the personal approach has always remained the same.
Diving Without the Pressure of Large Groups
One of the things I enjoy most about running a small dive school is the flexibility it gives me and my guests. When you dive with a large group, there’s usually a fixed schedule. Everyone needs to be ready at a certain time, and the dive often follows a predetermined plan. That’s not really how I like to work.
If you prefer to start your dive at 8 in the morning, we can discuss that. If you’d rather start at 10, that’s also possible. Some people want to make one dive and spend the rest of their day relaxing or exploring Bonaire. Others prefer two dives with a nice lunch break in between.
When we do two dives, we often return to the guesthouse for lunch. Guests can bring their own food, and sometimes I can prepare lunch as well. If you’re staying somewhere else on Bonaire, you’re free to arrange your lunch however you prefer.
For me, it’s important that diving feels like part of your holiday, not something you have to rush through. And it’s not just about the schedule. It’s also about what you want to experience underwater.
Every Diver Is Different
Before we go diving, I like to know a little more about the person I’m taking underwater. How many dives have you made? When was your last dive? What do you enjoy seeing underwater?
Some people are fascinated by the smallest marine creatures, while others prefer looking for larger fish. And then there are people who simply want to enjoy the beautiful coral reefs and the peaceful feeling of being underwater.
Not long ago, I guided a woman who was especially interested in underwater photography. When someone wants to take pictures, you need to approach the dive differently. You slow down, give them time to observe what’s happening around them and let them focus on taking their photographs.
That’s something I really enjoy about diving with individuals and small groups. We don’t have to move on just because someone else is getting impatient. We can take our time.
I also choose dive sites based on someone’s experience and comfort level. For example, when I’m diving with beginners or people who haven’t been diving for a while, I often like to start at Bachelor’s Beach. There’s a sandy area where we can get comfortable underwater before exploring the reef, without worrying about accidentally damaging the coral.
I have my favorite dive sites on Bonaire, especially in the south, but I don’t automatically take everyone there. I think it’s important that people feel confident underwater and that we take care of the beautiful reefs we have here.
After all, there’s no need to rush. Sometimes the most beautiful things are right in front of you if you take the time to look.
You Don’t Have to Stay at Oasis Guesthouse to Dive With Me
Something I also want people to know is that Scuba School Bonaire is open to everyone, not just guests staying at Oasis Guesthouse. Of course, it’s convenient if you’re staying with us. You can combine your accommodation with diving, return to your room between dives and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the guesthouse. But if you’re staying at another hotel, apartment or villa on Bonaire, you’re just as welcome to come diving with me.
And the other way around is also true. If you’re staying at Oasis Guesthouse but prefer to dive independently or with another dive school, that’s absolutely fine. Your accommodation and diving activities are completely separate choices. We offer guided diving, SSI diving courses and different diving packages. And if you already have a PADI certification, you’re welcome too. You don’t have to start all over again just because you learned to dive through a different organization.
Let’s Go Diving!
For me, the best part of diving is sharing my passion for the underwater world with other people. I enjoy showing someone a beautiful reef, helping them feel more comfortable underwater or simply taking the time to observe marine life together.
Every diver is different, and every dive is different. That’s what keeps it interesting, even after all these years.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Bonaire and prefer diving in a relaxed atmosphere, with personal attention and a flexible schedule, feel free to contact me. I’d love to hear about your diving experience and what you’d like to discover underwater.
Hope to see you underwater!
Kim
Scuba School Bonaire
