Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

Yes. Dedicated diving lockers are provided for gear storage.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

Yes. A dedicated Massage Cabana is available for guests.

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

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

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).

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

No. The resort does not provide guided shore dives.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

The four-hour excursion aboard a solar-powered catamaran includes guided snorkeling along Bonaire’s coastline plus Caribbean dining on board: fresh local fish, traditional stoba, tropical fruit, and one complimentary Caribbean drink are served during the cruise.

In most cases, specials cannot be combined with additional discounts; each offer comes with its own terms and conditions that specify eligibility.

The resort follows Bonaire’s island policy: a minimum 24-hour surface interval before flying is recommended, and an absolute minimum of 12 hours is required. Guests are never allowed to dive on the same calendar day that they fly.

Yes. Non-divers may sign up for any scheduled dive boat trip on a space-available basis to snorkel or simply enjoy the ride; the fee is USD 10 per person, per trip.

Yes. SPA & Wellness by Graceful Touch operates on the resort grounds, providing treatments such as the Diver’s massage and hot-stone massage in a clean, air-conditioned setting with professional therapists.

Include your request when booking or contact the resort directly before arrival; the team is happy to arrange special arrangements whenever possible.

Yes. Captain Don’s Habitat’s dive operation is staffed by a multilingual, multicultural professional team who can teach, assist, and advise guests in several languages.

Yes. You can reach the General Manager at gm@habitatbonaire.com for matters that require management attention.

Captain Don’s Habitat offers two swimming pools—one with sweeping ocean views and a second set amid the resort’s lush garden landscaping—so guests can relax by the sea or in a quieter green setting.

The resort’s dive operation includes dedicated Technical Diving Services featuring a fully equipped classroom for advanced theory sessions and specialized assistance with gas mixes and complex dive planning.

Guests can choose between small-group instruction and one-on-one private lessons led by Frans Paradise’s friendly, multilingual instructors, ensuring personalized coaching at any skill level.

Captain Don’s Habitat guests can email info@kiteboardingbonaire.com to arrange lessons at Kiteboarding Bonaire and automatically receive the exclusive resort-guest discount offered at Atlantis Beach.

Hangout Beach Bar hosts a lively Sunday party from 14:00 to 21:00, giving guests a fun place to watch the sunset and listen to island music.

Captain Don’s Habitat treats its wastewater on-site; the nutrient-reduced water is tested quarterly and then reused to irrigate the resort’s gardens, eliminating the need for commercial fertilizers and helping protect nearby coral reefs.

Yes. An energy surcharge applies per night: USD 12.00 for Deluxe Ocean View, Deluxe Junior Suite, Deluxe Garden View, or 1-Bedroom units; USD 19.00 for 2-Bedroom Bungalows; and USD 36.00 for the Ocean Front Villa.

If breakfast is not already included, you can add the daily buffet for USD 20.60 per person, per day in 2025 or USD 24.00 per person, per day in 2026.

You can restrict or stop promotional emails at any time by writing to 103 Kaya Gob. N. Debrot, Kralendijk, Caribbean Netherlands, Attention: Marketing Department, or by emailing marketing@habitatbonaire.com with your request.

Captain Don's Habitat will not sell, distribute, or lease your personal information to third parties unless you have given permission or the company is legally required to do so.

Yes. The website uses traffic-log cookies to analyze page usage and improve services. You may accept or decline cookies through your browser settings, but declining them may limit certain website functions.

Individual bookings require a USD 100 deposit per person, with the balance due 45 days before arrival (60 days for holiday and event periods). Group bookings up to six rooms need a USD 500 group deposit, 7–10 rooms require USD 1,000, and 11 or more rooms require USD 1,500 plus an additional USD 1,500 three months later; the final group payment is also due 45 days before arrival (60 days for holiday and event periods).

Yes. Both forms are available as downloadable PDF files on the website; download, print, and complete them in advance, then present the signed copies to the Front Desk at check-in to speed up your arrival process.

No. The resort states that it is not equipped to accommodate any service animals or emotional-support animals at this time.

You may cancel without penalty up to 31 days before arrival. Cancellations made 30 days or fewer before arrival are charged a fee equal to two room nights per room cancelled.

Yes. For Regatta, Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year’s, and Carnival Week stays, you must cancel 61 days or more before arrival to avoid charges; cancelling 60 days or less before arrival incurs a fee equal to two room nights per room cancelled.

Yes. Reservations that include Christmas or New Year’s dates require a minimum stay of seven nights.

After check-in, present your credit card at the restaurant to open an account linked to your room or dive number; all charges are posted to that account and you settle the balance with card or cash at the end of your stay.

No. The dive shop continues to be operated by the same passionate team with the same dedication to top-tier diving and safety; only the branding has been updated to highlight its exclusive identity.

Yes. Captain Don's Habitat places no daily limit on the number of scheduled boat dives you may join. The dive center tracks only the total number of boat dives completed during your stay; any dives beyond the package allowance are billed at USD 42.50 per person (plus service charge and tax) on your final bill.

If the deposit is not received, individual reservations are automatically cancelled after 15 days and group reservations after 22 days. Reinstatement of a cancelled booking is only possible if space is still available.

The resort identifies Regatta (2–11 October 2026), Thanksgiving (20–28 November 2026), Christmas & New Year's (11 December 2026 – 3 January 2027), and Carnival Week (6–21 February 2027) as peak holiday/event dates.

Sea-turtle nesting occurs from May through November. Shore divers sometimes encounter adult turtles or hatchlings near sandy entry points during this period.

Guides note that May to August delivers long sunny days and fewer visitors, providing an ideal balance of calm conditions and reduced crowds.

Yes. Recent posts suggest visiting Cadushy Distillery for a tasting of cactus-based liqueurs and other island flavors as part of Bonaire’s cultural and culinary experiences.

No. The property does not offer after-hours check-in; guests must arrive while the front desk is staffed (07:00–23:00), when team members are on hand to greet and register arrivals.

Yes. Rollaway or extra beds can be provided for USD 49.00 per night, and cribs are available free of charge upon request.

Yes. Each guest room has a safety-deposit box that can be rented for a one-time fee of USD 6.00 covering your entire stay.

All cave tours are led by guides who have five years of professional experience and formal training from the Caribbean Speleological Society, ensuring a safe and informative adventure for every participant.

The X-TREME Group Only Special (minimum 8 divers) lets you pay for 6 nights and stay 7, and includes unlimited shore diving plus boat dives at 08:30, 11:00, and 14:00 each day, ground transfers between the airport and resort, and a 9-pay-1-free group ratio. It is valid for travel from 6 Dec 2025 – 20 Mar 2026 and 5 Dec 2026 – 19 Mar 2027, with rates starting at USD 1,273.50 per diver.

Specials change with seasonal demand and availability; the resort releases new deals on a regular basis rather than offering the same promotion year-round.

Specials can be reserved directly through the Captain Don’s Habitat website or by emailing the reservations team at book@habitatbonaire.com or calling +599 717 8290.

If your stay includes a Dive Package, the required warm-up dive on “La Machaca” is already covered. Guests who are diving à-la-carte must pay the standard warm-up-dive fee charged by the dive center.

Captain Don’s Habitat maintains freshwater pools, giving guests a chlorine-free place to cool off between dives all year long.

Regular boat dives leave the dock at 08:30, 11:00 and 14:00, allowing divers to plan multiple trips around other activities.

DIN adapters are not available for rent, but they can be purchased in the on-site Vista Blue Store if you do not bring your own.

Check-in begins at 15:00 and check-out is at 11:00. Late check-out may be granted when available for a fee of USD 40 up to 15:00 or USD 70 up to 18:00; request availability with the Front Desk.

Smoking is strictly prohibited inside all guest rooms. A cleaning fee of USD 250 is charged if this rule is violated.

No. Due to processing limitations, the resort currently accepts only Visa and Mastercard for credit-card transactions; American Express is not accepted.

Guests must sign off dive lists at the dive shop the day before departure (after 13:00), settle outstanding balances at reception between 18:00 and 21:00 the evening prior, return keys and beach towels, turn off air-conditioning, and lock doors before leaving by 11:00 on departure day.

Yes. Beach towels are issued to guests at check-in and should be returned to reception along with your room key when you check out.

Yes. A self-service AVIS kiosk located at the resort lets guests book cars by picking up the dedicated phone, choosing a vehicle from the on-screen slideshow, and speaking directly with an AVIS representative; remember to have your driver’s license ready.

Appointments can be made via WhatsApp at +599 780 6272, by calling +599 717 8290 ext. 7000, or by emailing spa@habitatbonaire.com.

The four-hour all-inclusive Sail & Snorkel Tour is priced at USD 135 per adult, while children aged 5–12 years pay USD 95.

Yes. The package specifically notes that round-trip transportation between Captain Don's Habitat and the catamaran departure point is included in the tour price.

Yes. Bonaire Landsailing Adventures describes the blokart experience as appropriate for all ages and provides a short training session plus all required safety gear to ensure everyone can participate comfortably and safely.

The on-site dive center is a PADI Gold Palm Resort and an SDI facility that also provides TDI technical instruction. More than 20 courses are offered, ranging from entry-level Open Water through specialty, rebreather, trimix and other advanced certifications, and the shop accepts Universal Referrals for course completion.

Captain Don’s Habitat operates three daily one-tank departures that access more than 50 moored sites, all typically within a 15-minute boat ride from the resort’s pier.

The STINAPA Nature Fee costs USD 40 per calendar year and is required for all divers, snorkelers, and other water-sport participants before they enter the Bonaire National Marine Park.

Anchoring, spearfishing, touching corals, and removing anything from the reef are strictly prohibited throughout the Bonaire National Marine Park. All visitors must also complete the mandatory orientation and warm-up dive before undertaking any additional dives.

No. Resort policy, in line with Bonaire’s safe-diving guidelines, forbids any diving on the calendar day of departure from the island.

Blog articles on the resort’s website highlight Bonaire’s rich reef ecosystem where guests commonly see parrotfish, sea turtles, spotted eagle rays, frogfish, tarpon, seahorses, reef squid, trumpetfish, occasional dolphins, and even the rare Bonaire-banded box jellyfish.

Yes. Pizza Temple’s authentic thin-crust pizzas can be enjoyed on the terrace or packed to go, making them a convenient option for an in-room snack or a late-night bite.

The spa menu features relaxing options such as the Diver’s Massage, hot-stone therapy, and other rejuvenating treatments delivered in an ocean-view cabin designed for a tranquil, island-inspired experience.

Yes. The Deluxe Garden View Suite was engineered so that, by adding the adjacent Deluxe Garden View Room to your reservation, it instantly transforms into a two-bedroom suite.

The suite’s kitchenette provides an electric stove, air fryer, rice cooker, refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker, and complimentary wireless internet so guests can prepare simple meals and stay connected.

Cadushy Distillery sits in the heart of Rincon, Bonaire. Visitors can join guided tours through its historic buildings, learn about small-batch production, sample spirits such as Cadushy of Bonaire Liqueur and Rum Rincon, and relax in the garden tasting area.

Eco-tips on the resort’s site recommend taking shorter showers, turning off lights and air-conditioning when leaving your room, and reusing towels or linens to reduce detergent and water consumption—small steps that support the island’s limited freshwater and energy resources.

The Rooms page lists Deluxe Ocean View Rooms starting from USD 227 per night.

Deluxe Junior Suites are shown with a starting price of USD 254 per night.

The 3-Bedroom Ocean Front Villa is priced from USD 565 per night according to the Rooms page.

Guests can choose the Independent Rider package, which includes three 3-hour lessons for two people at USD 950, or the Independent Plus package, which provides five lessons for two people at USD 1,600. Captain Don’s Habitat guests receive a 5 % discount on each package by applying the codes CAPTAINSEMI (Independent Rider) or CAPTAINPLUS (Independent Plus) when booking.

The Habitat Show Special disclaimer states that groups of eight or more divers pay USD 31.00 per person for round-trip transport in 2025 and USD 33.00 per person in 2026.

No. The package terms specify that the 10 boat dives must be taken within the same six-day period covered by the unlimited shore-diving portion of the special and cannot be allocated over additional days.

Captain Don's Habitat will exhibit at the DEMA Show 2026 from 3–6 November 2026 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, 900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA.

Recent guides suggest visiting traditional kunuku kitchens for goat stew and funchi, trying innovative lionfish burgers, enjoying lunch at downtown cafés, tasting cactus-based spirits at Cadushy Distillery in Rincon, and booking a sunset dinner cruise that pairs Caribbean views with gourmet food.

Yes. The dive center promotes "DIVE 24/7 ALL YEAR LONG," so certified guests may dive the house reef at any time, day or night, once they have completed the mandatory 09:00 orientation and warm-up dive.

Bonaire lies roughly 80 km (about 50 miles) off the coast of Venezuela in the Leeward Antilles.

At the Cadushy Distillery in Rincon, guests join a guided tour of the historic buildings and garden, learn about small-batch production, sample liqueurs such as Cadushy of Bonaire and Rum Rincon, and can purchase exclusive souvenirs or enjoy cocktails made with the distillery’s spirits.

The resort’s shore-entry reef is called “La Machaca,” and it is where all guests complete the mandatory warm-up dive after the 09:00 orientation.

Reception is open from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, and guests can dial "0" from their room phone to reach it. Guests may also WhatsApp +599 7014710; for emergencies after 11:00 pm, call extension 106 instead of texting and include your room number.

For a 2-digit room number, dial 40 before the room number. For a 3-digit room number, dial 1 before the room number; for a 4-digit room number, dial the 4 digits directly.

The dive center does not carry 100-cubic-foot tanks. It carries 63 QFT and 80 QFT cylinders.

Yes. Each diver should bring a padlock for the dive locker, although padlocks are also available at the gift shop.

If you do not have a credit card, the resort requires a cash incidental deposit of USD 200 for non-divers or USD 500 for divers. All divers must also complete the diver liability form before they are allowed to dive.

Yes. You must print and bring proof of purchase for your STINAPA Nature Fee and present it to the dive shop. The resort states that it cannot issue weights or gear without proof of payment.

Traveler’s checks and Euros are accepted at reception and Rum Runners for account payments only. Exchanging traveler’s checks or Euros into U.S. Dollars must be done at a local bank.

Guests are required to show a photo ID and credit card at check-in. Special requests are subject to availability and may incur additional charges.

Yes. The minimum age for check-in is 21.

Captain Don's Habitat lists two restaurants on site: Rum Runners and Pizza Temple. Rum Runners is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while Pizza Temple serves Italian cuisine.

Children of all ages are welcome. Children aged 12 and above are charged as adults, and guests should add the number and ages of children when searching to see accurate prices and occupancy information.

If you forgot to purchase your online Marine Park Tag, you can still buy it using the computer in the resort lobby. You must provide proof of payment to the dive shop before weights or gear can be issued.

Approximately 45% of Captain Don's Habitat guests are non-divers. The resort notes that many non-diving guests are repeat visitors who enjoy the restaurant, spa, pool, views, snorkeling, and relaxed setting.

No. The property rules state that pets are not allowed.

Yes. Free parking is listed among the property's facilities.

Yes. Tea and coffee-making facilities are listed among the property's popular facilities.

When Captain Don’s Habitat was founded in 1976, it was a cluster of bungalows built around a dive shop overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The resort was created as a haven for divers with easy access to nearby coral formations and marine life.

Captain Don Stewart’s conservation efforts led to the creation of the permanent mooring system and eventually to the Bonaire National Marine Park. The resort states that it continues to support conservation policies and sustainable management of Bonaire’s natural resources.

Yes. The resort states that proof of payment is needed not only at the dive shop, but also to enter the National Park. Guests must print and bring proof of purchase or be able to retrieve the confirmation email from STINAPA.

The new design symbolizes the connection between the sea and shore. It honors Captain Don's pioneering spirit while signaling the resort's expanded horizons.

Captain Don Stewart set out to build a true haven for divers. His philosophy was to create a dive shop with rooms and give guest divers the freedom to dive their own profile in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Yes. The resort states that Captain Don Stewart received many awards and recognition around the world for his marine environment conservation efforts.

Rum Runners is listed as having both a family-friendly and romantic ambience.

The FAQ suggests island tours, kayaking in the mangroves, ocean kayaking, windsurfing, snorkeling, bird watching, shopping, mountain biking, horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, and visiting Washington-Slagbaai National Park and Museum. Non-divers can also relax by the freshwater pool or use The Spa on site.

Cash is listed as an accepted payment method for the property. The FAQ also states that restaurant and bar accounts can be settled by credit card, debit card, or cash.

If airport shuttle service is included with your stay, tell the Front Desk agent at check-in so they can coordinate it accordingly.

The Spa at Captain Don’s Habitat is located on-site in the Dive Center building.

The resort holds a cocktail party every Monday in honor of Captain Don. Rum Punch and Fruit Punch are served for hotel guests, with live music by Moogie.

The FAQ says guests may email the resort at any time if their question is not answered. It also notes that the relevant email addresses can be found on the Contacts Page.

Yes. Captain Don's Habitat states that it was the first resort on the island to install a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment system designed by marine biologists of Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute.

Yes. Reception is open from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, and after 11:00 pm Security Agents take over. For emergencies after 11:00 pm, guests should call extension 106 rather than text.

No. The resort states that no fertilizers of any kind are used in the maintenance of its gardens. Treated water is used to irrigate the gardens, and the vegetation helps protect the reefs by taking up nutrients.

Yes. The resort states that it has evolved into a world-renowned resort catering to divers, business travelers, and leisure travelers.

Captain Don Stewart passed away on May 28, 2014. The resort holds a Monday cocktail party in his honor for hotel guests.

Guests must be at least 21 years old to check in at the resort.

Reception accepts MasterCard, Visa, U.S. dollars, and euros for all front-desk settlements.

Rooms are fitted with standard U.S. two-prong flat outlets (112–127 V, 50 Hz). Guests whose devices have grounded three-prong plugs should bring a simple three-prong adapter, readily available at hardware stores.

Yes. Many of Bonaire’s well-known dive sites are easily accessible from the resort, so guests can reach them quickly by boat or car.