What do I Need to Know When Renting a Boat on Bonaire
There’s something magical about seeing Bonaire from the water. The coastline stretches lazily into the horizon, the sea sparkles in a thousand shades of blue, and the breeze smells like salt and sunshine. At Blue Bay Bonaire, we know this feeling like the back of our hand. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide: everything you need to know before you rent a boat on our beautiful island.
Start with the basics: What kind of boat adventure are you craving?
Looking for speed, splash, and a bit of adrenaline? Then Betty Boop, our powerful motorboat, is calling your name. She’s perfect for tubing, wakeboarding, or just cruising the coast like a boss. Prefer to take it slow and soak in the view? Our three colorful sloops — the orange, the blue, and the yellow — offer the ultimate relaxed boat experience. Shaded seating, soft cushions, and the sound of waves gently lapping the hull… it doesn’t get more laid-back than that.
And if you’re dreaming of a unique, all-inclusive experience on the water, don’t miss our:
• Sailing & snorkeling & dinner tour
Each one is lovingly curated and hosted by our experienced crew. Trust us: they’re the kind of moments you’ll remember forever.
Safety & simplicity: What you need to know before you go
1. Do You Need a Boating License?
Good news: for renting a boat at Blue Bay Bonaire, you don’t need a boating license. Our boats are designed to be easy and safe to operate, even if you’ve never captained a vessel before. What we do ask is that you’re at least 21 years old — it’s not just a rule, it’s a smart way to ensure responsibility on the water. Before you leave the dock, we’ll give you a full briefing and go over everything you need to know. From controls and safety gear to route advice, we’ve got you covered. We want you to feel confident before setting sail. Questions? Ask away — we’re here to help you start strong.
2. Do You Need a Nature Tag?
Yes, and here’s why it’s important. Bonaire’s waters are part of a protected marine park — one of the most pristine in the world. The Stinapa nature tag is a small contribution that makes a big difference. It funds conservation projects, reef protection, and education programs to keep our sea life thriving. It’s not just a requirement — it’s a way to give back to the place you’re about to enjoy. You can get your tag online or at local shops before you hit the water. Trust us, the reef thanks you.
3. Stay Safe on the Sea
We all love a bit of freedom on the water, but safety is everything. That’s why there are some simple rules: always keep a minimum distance of 50 meters (about 150 feet) from the shoreline, other boats, and especially any diving flags. These zones protect marine life and people — and avoiding them makes your trip safer and smoother. Inside the marina, the speed limit is 8 km/h. That’s slow — but it protects sea turtles, divers, and your boat too. And remember: never tie up your boat at hotel docks or beaches. Use the official yellow mooring buoys when you want to stop and take it all in.
4. Don’t Dive from Rental Boats
We totally understand the temptation — the water is crystal clear and full of marine life. But diving from rental boats is strictly not allowed. Why? It’s all about safety and reef preservation. Diving requires special conditions, training, and equipment, and rental boats aren’t built for that. What you can do, though, is snorkel! We even have gear available for our guests. There are incredible snorkel spots just a short ride away, and we’ll happily point you to the best ones. So leave the diving tanks behind, grab a mask, and enjoy the reef from the surface.
5. No Drinks at the Wheel
It’s a vacation, yes — and maybe there’s a cooler full of beers onboard. But the person driving the boat? That person needs to stay sharp. Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal, it’s seriously dangerous. You’re responsible for the boat, the passengers, and everyone around you. Save the toasting for after you’re back on shore. We promise, the sunset still tastes just as good. And hey, if you’d rather relax with a drink in hand, book one of our captained sailing trips — we’ll take the helm while you enjoy the view.
Pro Tips from Locals who Live on the Water
We live here. We boat here. And we’ve welcomed thousands of guests over the years — including our own family and friends! These are some tips from our own experience:
• Plan your route, but stay flexible. The wind and sea can surprise you.
• Use the cooler! Most boats come with one. Stock it with your favorite drinks and snacks.
• Respect the reef. Don’t drop anchor or touch coral — it’s fragile and protected.
• Take it all in. Some of the best views of Bonaire are from the deck of a boat.
Time to rent your boat!
Whether you want to chase the sunset on a sailboat, pull your kids on a tube behind Betty Boop, or drift lazily past the shores in one of our sloops — we’ve got the boat, the vibe, and the local love to make your day perfect.
Book Your Boat Now
Adventure, relaxation, and stunning views await you on Bonaire’s crystal-clear waters. Don’t wait—our boats book quickly!
👉 Boat Rental Bonaire starts at Blue Bay! Plan your unforgettable day at sea right now.
