North side of Bonaire closed for scuba diving until further notice due to SCTLD disease.
Hopefully it works to curb the spread as there are some really spectacular reefs up there.
Fingers crossed.
Important SCTLD Update: After careful consideration and assessment, STINAPA, as managing organization of the Marine Park has made the difficult decision to close the north side of Bonaire for diving, from north of Karpata to Malmok including Washington Slagbaai National Park from May 1st, 2023 until further notice due to Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD).
The reason being that Wekua Point has been identified as a natural barrier that could prevent contaminated water from flowing north, creating a possibility for the north to be guarded. We are not taking this decision lightly but it’s essential to protect our precious reefs & marine life.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this challenging moment and please remember to follow the regulations implemented to slow down the spread such as avoiding contaminated areas, decontaminating your gear, and not touching the reef. Also, a big thank you to all our partners who are doing their best to protect the corals!
[Decision based on article 8 sub 6 Island Ordinance Nature Management Bonaire and paragraph 6 of Island Decision Underwater Park Bonaire.]
Contaminated Areas Map:
https://arcg.is/1eCTD80
SCTLD Info:
https://stinapabonaire.org/bonaire-national-marine-park/
Dive sites closed: Carel’s Vision, Nukove, Wayaka, Slagbaai, Bisé Morto, Playa Funchi, Playa Benge, Boka Bartol