At VIP Diving, we believe in diving with a purpose and understand that the health of our oceans is integral to the diving experience. That's why we're committed to not only exploring the underwater wonders of Bonaire but also actively protecting them. Through various marine conservation programs and sustainable initiatives, we make a difference both above and below the water. Here's how you can be part of this essential journey.
Marine conservation initiatives
Our dedication to preserving Bonaire’s marine life is reflected through our involvement in several impactful programs. We are heavily involved, but we’d love for you to join us. Through these programs you’ll find great ways to do so:
- Sea Turtle Conservation program: Choosing VIP Diving means supporting the essential work of Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire (STCB). We adopt a nest each nesting season through the Adopt-A-Nest program, which helps protect nests on Bonaire’s beaches. Get involved by participating in our educational sessions to learn safe interactions with turtles and support nesting site preservation. Or sign up for our Sea Turtle ID course. Additionally, our Fishing Line Project enables divers to deposit found fishing gear, helping prevent turtle entanglements.
- Reef Renewal Bonaire: Join our PADI Reef Renewal course to learn coral gardening techniques and become a certified volunteer supporting the Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire (RRFB) in its mission to restore coral reefs. This hands-on course teaches you to grow and replant endangered corals like staghorn and elkhorn. Get involved with our community initiatives and help make a lasting impact on these vital ecosystems while enjoying Bonaire's underwater beauty.
- STINAPA Junior Rangers Program: Inspiring the next generation of ocean stewards is crucial. We teach and certify in the STINAPA Junior Rangers Program, which offers local youth hands-on activities and environmental education. You can contribute by mentoring or volunteering, donating your gear, and PADI instructors can share their love for the ocean with eager young minds.
- Local interns and MBO student Discounts: We believe in nurturing local talent. VIP Diving provides discounted courses for MBO students and offers internships that give them real-world experience in marine conservation and the dive industry.
- Lionfish Hunter course: Take action against invasive species by signing up for our Lionfish Hunter course to learn how to safely hunt and remove invasive lionfish, which threaten native marine species. Your efforts can significantly contribute to the health of our reefs.
Sustainable practices at VIP Diving
Our commitment to the environment extends beyond the water. VIP Diving embraces sustainable practices to minimize our ecological footprint and ensure a greener future:
- Solar energy: Our dive center is partially powered by solar energy, helping reduce reliance on non-renewable sources and lowering our carbon footprint.
- Reusable water bottles: To combat plastic pollution, we provide reusable water bottles for our guests, eliminating the need for single-use plastics.
- Waste separation: We prioritize proper waste management, separating and recycling waste to minimize landfill impact.
- Coral-safe skin products: Protecting coral reefs starts with using the right products. We encourage our guests to use coral-safe biodegradable sunscreen and skin products to reduce harmful chemicals in the water.
- Energy-efficient lighting: Throughout our facility, we use LED lighting to lower energy consumption and minimize our impact on Bonaire’s energy resources.
Dive with a purpose
When you dive with VIP Diving, you’re not just exploring Bonaire’s breathtaking underwater world, you’re also supporting initiatives to protect it. By participating in a reef renewal course, learning about turtle conservation, buying merch from Sea Turtle Conservation, or joining the Lionfish Hunter course, you’re playing a vital role in preserving Bonaire’s marine ecosystem.
Join us in protecting Bonaire’s natural beauty
We believe that every dive should be eco-friendly and purposeful. By combining conservation with sustainability, we aim to protect Bonaire’s underwater treasures for future generations to enjoy. When you dive with us, you’re not only discovering some of the best dive sites in the world but also making a meaningful impact on preserving them.
Come dive with VIP Diving and help us protect the oceans. One dive at a time!
