Dive packages in Bonaire

[bkpix]

Hi All!!

My wife and I are think about a trip to Bonaire this August. It would be our first time there.

We are looking for a dive, truck, apartment package that won't break the bank.

We have contacted several places with varied results. On the short list for now is a place called Divers Paradise Apartments. Looks nice on the web, but has anyone been there?

Other suggestions would be appreciated. House rentals, car rentals, etc.

Thanks, Bruce

 

[RJP]

I'm a fan of Plaza Resort, where my buddy and I stayed last year.

 

[chauncy19]

Bruce
this is affliated with the Black Durgon Inn, which is across the street. I am a big fan of the black durgon but its more spartan than divers paradise.
its a nice place not on the water but some units do have a view. A friend stayed there last year when we were at the Black Durgon. It worked out well. Al managers the place and is the owner of the Black Durgon. Like Al, very honest and straight shooter as they say. you end up renting a truck from AB if you go through Al.

 

[stortecky]

WE will be going to stay at Divers Paradise in Two weeks. I can give you feed back then if you would like.

As for a package I found that at most place there was no cost saving of getting the package as opposed to getting it your self separately. It would be much easier to do it as a package and have one payment, but we went separate because my credit card would cover the insurance for SUV. Just something to think about.

Ryan

 

[chauncy19]

Bruce,
I am going back to the Black Durgon the end of August. I am thinking of renting a truck through Telerin @telerin@bonairelive.com. They are slightly cheaper than AB carrental however I've only used AB and this will be my 8th time. But I am thinking of changing and going with them. Poppy the owner does come highly recommended and sounds like you would have less bull*&&( when you pick up the truck. I do find the bull*&^% when you rent a truck a bit off putting with AB. Having said that may all my problems be so small. I've never had an issue with Ab just paranoia that I might. I am sure you'll have a great time no matter where you stay. This is my first time going in the summer and I expect it will be HOT.

 

[joker31]

I have been to Bonaire 4 times. Buddy Dive seemed to be the best, but they were all great. Have fun!!

 

[bfisher]

I've been to Bonaire 6 times in the last 4 1/2 years. My 7th trip is set for the end of September. I've stayed at Buddy Dive once and the Plaza all other times. To me Buddy's is the simplest as they have their own fleet of trucks.

That being said I'm trying something new this year and staying at the Caribbean Club and see what transpires. Budget oriented as I do about 5 trips a year.

You can compare a few places and packages at Bonaire - Bonaire Travel and Bonaire Information : Bonaire Pros. It doesn't have every option available, but should give some idea of what's avalable. Prices seem to be about as good as anybody for the packages they offer.

 

[DiveMaven]

Two other places to consider are: Den Laman, small condo complex ocean-front; and Golden Reef Inn, off water but very convenient to town.

 

[chauncy19]

I've check out Den Laman and in off season I would definately think about staying here. Units were very nice and right on the water. also the people in the office were very helpful. lots of people have good things to say about lots of places. there is alot of variety based on what is important to you. Ofcourse this might be easier to figure out once you've been there. Some places have no interest for me others i am curious about and might even stay there someday .
enjoy

 

[scubamickey]

We opted for Den Laman as well because we wanted more room and a full kitchen. Good way to avoid having to eat out every night. I thought their rates were very good for the level of comfort that you get.