Captain Don's Habitat Bonaire

Quick Facts

Overview

Captain Don's Habitat Bonaire is an ocean-front resort surrounded by tropical landscaping that protects the adjacent house reef. Guests choose from multiple accommodation categories, all within walking distance of the resort’s dive center, pier and Rum Runners waterfront restaurant. Unlimited shore diving provides 24-hour access to the “La Machaca” reef directly off the property, while scheduled boat trips visit numerous nearby moorings. Low-impact construction, solar water heaters, energy-saving devices and runoff-preventing landscaping demonstrate the resort’s sustainability commitments. Full-service spa treatments, including beach massage, are available on site. The Garden, a quiet relaxation area adjacent to the sea, offers additional space to unwind among native plants.

Offerings, Features, or Content

How It Works

  1. Submit a reservation request through the website form, email or phone; provide number of divers, adults, children, preferred room type and newsletter opt-in preference.
  2. Pay the STINAPA Bonaire Nature Fee online before arrival to receive the required tag.
  3. Check in at the front desk and, if desired, open a restaurant/bar account with a credit card.
  4. Attend the 09:00 dive orientation and complete the house-reef warm-up dive before any additional diving.
  5. Sign up for boat dives at the dive center; enjoy unlimited shore diving at your convenience, picking up tanks 24/7.
  6. Arrange snorkeling or sunset sails, kite-surfing lessons, cave tours, coral-restoration dives and other partner activities through the front desk or specified partner contacts.
  7. Settle room, dive and restaurant charges at check-out using card or cash.

Audience & Use Cases

Practical Information

Key Entities and Definitions

Additional Facts

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Captain Don's Habitat?

Captain Don's Habitat is an ocean-front resort and dive operation on Bonaire that combines hotel accommodation with on-site diving services, direct ocean access, and a vibrant house reef.

When was the resort founded and by whom?

The resort was founded in 1976 by renowned underwater environmentalist Captain Don Stewart.

Where is Captain Don's Habitat located?

The property is at 103 Kaya Gob. N. Debrot, Kralendijk, Caribbean Netherlands.

How far is the resort from Bonaire’s airport and downtown Kralendijk?

Captain Don's Habitat is approximately a 10-minute drive from Flamingo International Airport and only a short drive from downtown Kralendijk.

What makes the resort different from other accommodations on Bonaire?

It offers direct ocean entry, an in-house reef, and a long-standing commitment to marine conservation that stems from Captain Don Stewart’s environmental legacy.

Is the resort suitable for guests who do not dive?

Yes. Non-divers enjoy the ocean views, pool areas, Rum Runners restaurant, and the peaceful tropical setting.

What room types are available?

Choices include Deluxe Ocean View Rooms, Deluxe Garden Rooms (King or 2-Queen), Deluxe Garden View Suites (1-Bedroom), Deluxe Junior Suites, Ocean Front Villas, and 2-Bedroom/2-Bathroom Bungalows.

Does the resort offer eco-friendly features?

Yes. Low-impact construction, solar water heaters, energy-saving devices, and landscaping designed to prevent runoff into the marine ecosystem are integral to the property.

What diving services are provided on-site?

Guests have access to Diving Education, Diving Rentals, and Technical Diving Services directly from the resort’s dive center.

Is there a house reef guests can dive from the property?

Yes. The resort’s house reef is accessible directly from shore for unlimited shore diving.

Are dive lockers available?

Yes. Dedicated diving lockers are provided for gear storage.

What special diving packages are currently advertised?

A 7-night package for two guests that includes 6 boat dives and unlimited shore dives is listed at USD 1,976.

What does the April Fools Special include?

Guests pay for 6 nights and receive a 7-night stay, pay for 6 boat dives and receive 10 boat dives, receive free nitrox, and the second diver stays free.

Besides diving, what activities can guests book?

A Snorkel & Sail Trip runs every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday, and an Epic Sunset Bliss sailing is offered every Wednesday.

How can I reserve a spot on the Snorkel & Sail Trip or sunset sail?

Reservations can be made through the resort’s booking channels; the website presents a “Reserve your Spot” option for each sailing activity.

Where can guests relax away from the water?

The Garden, the resort’s newest addition, provides a quiet space to unwind while still being next to the ocean.

What dining option is highlighted on-site?

Rum Runners restaurant serves food and drinks, including Dutch beer, cocktails, and spirits.

Does the resort offer massage services?

Yes. A dedicated Massage Cabana is available for guests.

Who should I contact for room or package reservations?

Email book@habitatbonaire.com or call +599 717 8290 for reservations.

Is there a separate contact for dive-specific questions?

Yes. Dive inquiries can be sent to roger@habitatbonaire.com.

Does Captain Don's Habitat have representatives in other regions?

North American bookings are handled by Maduro Dive Travel Adventures (1-800-327-6709, cdh@maduro.com), and European inquiries by TE RIELE REISBUREAU (+31 (0) 880243500, paul@terielereisadvies.nl).

How do I pay the mandatory Bonaire nature fee?

A link labeled "Click here to pay your nature fee" is provided on the resort’s site for the STINAPA Nature Fee payment.

What sustainability recognition has the resort received?

Captain Don's Habitat is acknowledged by the Bonaire Blue Destination program for its marine-conservation efforts.

Can travel packages and airfare be arranged through a partner?

Yes. Guests can book packages and airfare via the resort’s U.S. and Canada representative, Maduro Dive.

Does Captain Don's Habitat have a swimming pool on-site?

Yes. The resort features pool areas where guests can swim and relax when they are not in the ocean.

Is nitrox available for certified divers at the resort?

Yes. The on-site dive center provides nitrox fills, and some promotions—such as the April Fools Special—offer free nitrox as part of the package.

What is Captain Don's Habitat's postal mailing address?

Correspondence can be sent to Habitat Bonaire N.V., Attn: Sales & Marketing Department, P.O. Box 88, Bonaire, Netherlands Antilles.

How can I subscribe to Captain Don's Habitat's newsletter?

A sign-up form labeled "Join the list" appears on the website. Enter your email address there, and you will be added to the mailing list for future messages.

Which social media platforms does Captain Don's Habitat use?

The resort’s website links to official pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Is there an anniversary special currently available?

Yes. The website advertises a "50th Year Captain Don's Special" that can be booked through the Offers section.

Where is Captain Don's Habitat's North American Sales & Marketing Representative office located?

The North American Sales & Marketing Representative, Maduro Dive Travel Adventures, is located at 2719 Hollywood Blvd., B-212, Hollywood, FL 33020, USA.

What is the fax number for contacting Captain Don's Habitat directly on Bonaire?

The resort’s fax number is +599 717 8240.

Is complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout Captain Don's Habitat?

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all guest rooms and public areas of the resort.

What key amenities are offered on-site?

Guests have access to two swimming pools, full dive facilities, an ocean-front restaurant, tropical gardens, and comfortable communal areas for relaxation.

Do Captain Don's Habitat guests receive a discount on kitesurfing lessons?

Yes. All resort guests are eligible for an exclusive discount on lessons at Kiteboarding Bonaire, located at Atlantis Beach.

What are the schedule and cost of the Epic Sunset Bliss sailing trip?

The two-hour sunset sail costs USD 75 per person, meets at It Rains Fishes Dock at 16:15, and departs at 16:30.

What are the front-desk operating hours?

The front desk is staffed daily from 07:00 to 23:00.

Can non-property guests join the resort’s boat dives?

Yes. Non-property guests are welcome to join boat dives on a space-available basis; advance reservations are not accepted because priority goes to in-house guests.

Does Captain Don’s Habitat offer guided shore dives?

No. The resort does not provide guided shore dives.

Is Bonaire’s tap water safe to drink?

Yes. The island’s desalinated tap water is safe to drink throughout your stay.

What kind of currents should divers expect at nearby sites?

Currents are usually mild longshore flows ranging from none to about 0.25–0.50 knot; stronger currents exceeding 1 knot are rare.

Is renting a car recommended during a stay at the resort?

Yes. The resort advises guests to rent a car to reach dive sites, beaches, shops, and restaurants conveniently.

Is a nitrox analyzer available at the dive center?

Yes. A nitrox analyzer is provided on-site for certified divers to verify oxygen percentages.

How do I notify the resort if my flight is delayed or cancelled?

Email frontdesk@habitatbonaire.com; messages to this address go directly to the front-desk computer for immediate assistance.

Is breakfast included with my stay at Captain Don's Habitat?

Breakfast inclusion depends on the rate or package you book; some offers include breakfast while others are room-only. Please review your reservation details or contact the booking team for exact inclusions.

Does the resort accommodate vegetarian or special dietary requests?

Yes. Vegetarian dishes are available and the culinary team can accommodate certain dietary requirements on request; advise the staff in advance for the best options.

Can Captain Don's Habitat help arrange airport transfers?

Yes. The resort can provide information or assistance with transportation options to and from Flamingo International Airport when requested in advance.

Do you offer long-stay discounts or dedicated dive packages?

Yes. Seasonal specials, dive packages, and discounted rates for extended stays are offered throughout the year and can be booked directly through the website or reservations team.

Is there live entertainment on property?

Yes. Live entertainment is scheduled at the Cocktail Bar/Deco Stop Bar on Monday and Thursday evenings, with additional performances during special events.

Is daily housekeeping provided for all accommodations?

Yes. Housekeeping services are performed regularly to maintain comfort and cleanliness during your stay.

Do visitors to Bonaire have to pay an entry tax and how much is it?

Yes. Every visitor must pay a tourist entry tax of USD 75 per person, per visit; the funds are allocated to education, infrastructure, tourism development and sustainability projects on the island.

Why is Captain Don's Habitat introducing a new logo?

The new logo celebrates the resort’s expansion to 95 rooms and its wider appeal to families, honeymooners, eco-travelers and adventure seekers while staying true to its diving roots.

What happens to the original Captain Don's logo?

The classic logo is retained and now identifies Captain Don's Exclusive Dive Shop, ensuring Captain Don’s diving heritage remains prominently visible.

Has the resort changed ownership or management during the rebranding?

No. Captain Don's Habitat is still under the same ownership and management; only the visual branding has been updated.

Is diving in Bonaire possible year-round?

Yes. Bonaire enjoys consistently warm water, excellent visibility and mild conditions throughout the year, so there is no off-season for diving.

How should I keep my valuables safe while staying at Captain Don's Habitat?

Always lock your doors and windows, store valuables in the in-room safe, and avoid leaving items in your rental vehicle. Your room key is attached to a bright wrist lanyard—wear it while diving or snorkeling and report any suspicious activity to reception or a manager.

What amenities are included in the guest rooms?

All accommodations feature air-conditioning, comfortable beds, private bathrooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, in-room safes, and a private balcony or terrace with outdoor seating.

Which languages are commonly spoken on Bonaire?

Bonaire’s main language is Papiamentu, but English, Spanish, and Dutch are also widely spoken across the island.

Can the resort arrange windsurfing or wing-foil lessons?

Yes. Captain Don's Habitat partners with Frans Paradise, whose multilingual instructors offer both group and private windsurfing and new wing-foil lessons for all skill levels.

What wildlife might I encounter around the resort grounds?

The landscaped property hosts iguanas, lizards, more than 50 bird species, and a variety of native and imported plants and trees, allowing guests to observe Bonaire’s natural flora and fauna up close.

Can I charge my food and drinks from Rum Runners to my room?

Yes. You can open a separate bar account at Rum Runners by presenting your credit card and completing the required form; all charges are then settled with the restaurant at the end of your stay.

Can Captain Don's Habitat help me book a guided cave tour on Bonaire?

Yes. The resort collaborates with Cave Tours Bonaire, whose trained guides lead adventurous walks, crawls, swims, and hikes through the island’s caves; the front desk can assist with arranging a tour.

What should I do if I cannot locate my STINAPA nature-fee receipt?

First check your spam folder for the message from noreply@bonairenaturefee.org. If it is still missing, email info@stinapa.org to have the ticket resent; a USD 5 administrative fee applies if retrieval by STINAPA is necessary.

Are yoga classes offered at Captain Don's Habitat?

Yes. Certified instructor Kenzie Delta leads public yoga sessions on the resort’s dive pier every Monday and Thursday at 17:30, and private classes can be arranged on request.

What is included in the Habitat Show Special and when is it valid?

The Habitat Show Special grants a free nitrox upgrade on all dives, 6 days of unlimited shore diving, a 7-night stay for the price of 6, and 10 boat dives for the price of 6. It is available for travel between 8 November and 20 December 2025, subject to availability.

Does Captain Don's Habitat participate in dive trade shows?

Yes. The resort will be present at Scuba Show 2026 in Long Beach (30 May), Scuba Show 2026 in Atlantic City (6 June), and the DEMA Show 2026 in New Orleans (3 November).

Can guests join conservation activities such as coral-restoration dives?

Yes. The resort encourages guests to join Reef Renewal Bonaire for coral-restoration dives, sea-turtle conservation work, and sustainability workshops arranged during their stay.

Can Captain Don's Habitat accommodate disabled or wheelchair divers?

No. Owing to logistical and liability challenges, the resort is unable to accommodate disabled or wheelchair divers and cannot accept reservations for divers with these specific requirements.

What type of valves are on the scuba tanks, and are DIN adapters available?

All rental cylinders use INT (yoke) valves only. Divers who need DIN fittings must bring their own adapters or purchase one in the on-site dive store.

When is the Monday Manager's Cocktail Party held?

The Manager's Cocktail Party with live music is scheduled every Monday evening, offering guests a chance to meet the Captain Don’s team in a relaxed setting.

On which day does the eco-friendly Sail & Snorkel Tour operate, and how many guests can join?

The four-hour Sail & Snorkel Tour departs each Friday aboard a solar-powered catamaran and is limited to a maximum of 15 guests.

How many guest rooms does Captain Don's Habitat currently offer?

After its most recent expansion, Captain Don's Habitat now spans 95 guest rooms across its various accommodation categories.

Can I dive on the same day that I arrive at the resort?

No. Because Bonaire regulations require every guest to attend the 09:00 orientation meeting and complete a warm-up dive for equipment checks, diving is not permitted on the calendar day of arrival.

If I exceed the boat dives included in my package, how will the extra dives be billed?

Each additional boat dive is charged at USD 42.50 per person, plus the applicable service charge and tax, and will be added to your final bill at check-out.

Do repeat guests still have to attend the dive orientation?

Yes. Unless you can present proof that you completed a Captain Don’s Habitat dive orientation during the current calendar year, attendance at the daily orientation session is mandatory on every visit.

Are the resort’s dining venues open every day?

Food service is offered on-site daily, but exact opening days and hours change by season; the front desk can provide the current schedule during your stay.

Can I dine with an ocean view at Captain Don's Habitat?

Yes. The main restaurant and bar areas are situated directly on the waterfront, giving guests uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea while they eat or enjoy drinks.

What night does the All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Buffet take place and what are the serving hours?

The All-You-Can-Eat BBQ Buffet is offered every Monday evening from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm at Rum Runners.

What are the daily operating hours of Pizza Temple?

Pizza Temple is open every day from 3:00 pm until 10:00 pm, serving authentic thin-crust Italian pizzas for dine-in or takeaway.

When is breakfast served and what items are included in the buffet?

The fresh breakfast buffet is available daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 am and features tropical fruits, breads, cereals, and made-to-order eggs.

How many people can stay in a 2-Bedroom Bungalow?

Each 2-Bedroom/2-Bathroom Bungalow comfortably accommodates up to four guests.

Does Captain Don's Habitat offer babysitting services and what are the rates?

Yes. Babysitting can be arranged through the front desk and is charged per child: USD 10 per hour from 08:00–15:00, USD 12 per hour from 15:00–22:00, and USD 16 per hour from 22:00–08:00. Each additional child adds USD 2 per hour.

How quickly should I expect a reply after I contact the reservations team?

The resort advises that you can expect a response from the booking team within 24 hours of submitting your inquiry or contact form.

What does the Standard Cave Tour cost and what does it include?

The Standard Cave Tour costs USD 60 per person and visits two caves—one dry cave with formations and a water-filled cave where guests can snorkel in an underground lake.

What is included in the Cave and LANDsail package and what is the price?

The Cave and LANDsail package combines the Standard Cave Tour with one hour of landsailing at Landsailing Adventures for USD 110 per person.

In which languages can Cave Tours Bonaire be conducted?

Tours are led in English by default, but can also be arranged in Dutch, French, German, Italian, or Swiss-German on request.

Is the Baby Dock open again, and what can guests do there?

Yes. The completely reconstructed Baby Dock reopened in May 2025 and is available for guest use. It serves as a convenient launch point for snorkeling or diving, a quiet place to sit by the water, and a scenic spot for ocean-view photos.

What is the weather like in Bonaire throughout the year?

Bonaire has a warm, sunny climate that averages about 30 °C year-round. During the December–March rainy season, brief daily showers occur, but they pass quickly and sunshine usually returns soon after.

Which currency is used on Bonaire?

Bonaire’s official currency is the United States Dollar (USD), and most businesses accept USD cash and major credit cards.

What time zone does Bonaire observe?

Bonaire follows Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is one hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time and four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time.

Do visitors need a visa to enter Bonaire?

All travelers must hold a passport valid for the entire stay. Most nationalities do not require a visa, but citizens of countries on Bonaire’s visa-required list must obtain one before arrival.

What basic traffic rules should drivers know on Bonaire?

Driving is on the right-hand side. Vehicles coming from the right have priority at intersections and roundabouts, and—because there are no traffic lights—posted road signs must be followed; a valid driver’s license is mandatory.

What is the electrical current on Bonaire and will I need a power converter for my devices?

Guest rooms supply 112–127 V at 50 Hz. Most modern electronics and battery chargers are dual-voltage and work fine, but older 60 Hz-only U.S. appliances can overheat. A surge protector is recommended if you are concerned; voltage transformers will not change the frequency.

Are shops and restaurants located close to Captain Don's Habitat?

Yes. Downtown Kralendijk, with a range of shops and restaurants, is only a short drive from the resort.

Do all accommodations have ocean views or outdoor space?

Not every room faces the sea, but every accommodation category at Captain Don's Habitat includes a private balcony or terrace so guests can enjoy the tropical surroundings.

Are the resort’s accommodations suitable for families or groups?

Yes. Spacious options such as suites, bungalows, and private villas are designed to host families or groups comfortably.

Is Captain Don's Habitat a good option for extended or long-term stays?

Yes. The relaxed atmosphere, roomy accommodations, and comprehensive on-site amenities make the resort well suited for longer stays.

Do you offer 1-Bedroom Bungalows and what amenities do they include?

Yes. Captain Don’s Habitat has two 1-Bedroom/1-Bathroom Bungalows that are fully air-conditioned and overlook the gardens. Each unit features a spacious living/dining room, a full kitchen, telephone, complimentary Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a covered patio furnished for outdoor relaxation.

When and why is the daily dive orientation held?

The mandatory dive orientation takes place every morning at 09:00. It provides a safety briefing and is followed by a warm-up dive so guests and staff can verify equipment and buoyancy before additional diving.

What is the minimum age for children to join the Snorkel & Sail Trip or Epic Sunset Bliss sailing?

Children are welcome on both sailing excursions as long as they are at least 9 years old.

What is the cancellation policy for the Snorkel & Sail Trip and Epic Sunset Bliss tours?

Cancellations made 72 hours or more before departure receive a full refund; cancellations 48 hours in advance are 50 % refundable, and cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

What time is lunch served at Rum Runners and what dishes are available?

Lunch is offered daily from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm at Rum Runners, featuring salads, sandwiches, burgers, and light snacks.

On which days is à la carte dinner available at Rum Runners, and should I book in advance?

À la carte dinner is served Tuesday through Sunday, and advance reservations are recommended.

What are the operating hours for the Pizza & Barbites menu?

The Pizza & Barbites service runs daily from 16:00 to 22:00.

Is scuba equipment available for rent at Captain Don's Habitat?

Yes. The on-site dive center rents all necessary scuba gear, so guests can simply pick up the equipment they need after they arrive.

Can I pick up tanks for shore diving at any hour of the day or night?

Yes. The dive center advertises "DIVE 24/7 ALL YEAR LONG," and dive packages include unlimited use of tanks for shore diving, allowing certified divers to collect cylinders whenever they wish.

Does Captain Don's Habitat have a store for spare parts and dive accessories?

Yes. The Vista Blue Store stocks last-minute essentials and spare parts such as mask straps, hoses, defog solution, and DIN adapters.

Is there a dedicated classroom for technical diving instruction?

Yes. The dive operation features its own technical-diving classroom designed for advanced courses and theory sessions.

Does Rum Runners offer a rotating daily special?

Yes. Rum Runners prepares a daily special that changes according to ingredient availability; guests can email info@runrunnersbonaire.com to learn the current day’s feature.

Where are the kitesurfing lessons for Captain Don’s Habitat guests conducted?

Lessons arranged through Kiteboarding Bonaire take place at Atlantis Beach, one of the island’s most popular and reliable kitesurfing spots.

Are taxes already included in the listed dive-equipment rental prices?

Yes. The rental price list states that all quoted equipment rates already include the applicable taxes.

How many days are counted as a “week” for weekly equipment-rental rates?

Weekly rental prices are calculated on a six-day basis, as specified on the dive-rental price sheet.

Why does Bonaire charge a USD 75 visitor entry tax and how is it used?

The island invests the collected entry-tax funds in education, infrastructure, tourism development and sustainability initiatives that benefit both residents and visitors.

Can I watch live sports at the Cocktail Bar?

Yes. The Cocktail Bar shows sporting events such as football games, making it a popular spot for guests to follow their favorite teams while enjoying drinks.

Can Captain Don's Habitat arrange an electric fatbike tour and what is included?

Yes. The resort can book the Shekinah Tours Fatbike experience, which includes round-trip transportation from Captain Don’s, use of an electric fatbike, helmet, headphones, water, a small backpack for personal items, and a local appreciation gift. The tour is led by a knowledgeable island resident and costs USD 94.85 per person.

How much is the standard landsailing package and does it include transport from the resort?

The standard Landsailing Bonaire package costs USD 60 per person and does not include transportation. Guests who prefer door-to-door service can select the enhanced option at USD 70 per person, which provides round-trip transport from Captain Don’s Habitat.

What is the cost for a private group landsailing session?

A private group session is available for USD 450 and includes one hour of landsailing with up to 10 Blokarts, making it ideal for family gatherings or corporate events.

Is landsailing suitable for beginners and what safety measures are provided?

Yes. Bonaire Landsailing Adventures gives every participant a short training session so even first-timers can learn quickly, and all required safety gear is supplied before you head onto the track.

What is the starting nightly rate for a 2-Bedroom/2-Bathroom Bungalow?

Rates for the 2-Bedroom/2-Bathroom Bungalow start from USD 394 per night.

What amenities are included in the 3-Bedroom Ocean Front Villa?

The villa features a full kitchen, living room, covered patio with Caribbean Sea views, three upstairs bedrooms—each with a private bathroom, small refrigerator, ceiling fans, cable TV—and full air-conditioning throughout.

Who should I contact to book the electric fatbike tour?

Reserve through the resort’s front desk at +599 787 4778 or contact Shekinah Tours directly at +31 634 263 902.

What level of physical fitness is required for Cave Tours Bonaire?

Cave Tours Bonaire is designed for visitors who have a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of adventure, as the excursions involve walking, crawling, swimming, and hiking through the caves.

Why are cave-tour reservations handled by email or WhatsApp rather than phone?

Because guides are often underground leading groups, phone calls are difficult to answer, so Cave Tours Bonaire manages all inquiries and bookings via email or WhatsApp to ensure a timely and personalized response.

Is Bonaire located outside the hurricane belt?

Yes. Bonaire lies south of the normal Atlantic hurricane track, giving the island a consistently warm, sunny climate with minimal risk of direct hurricane impact.

Approximately how many dive sites can be reached from shore on Bonaire?

Bonaire offers more than 80 shore-accessible dive sites, making it one of the world’s easiest places for independent shore diving.