As co-owner Jan van Nieuwamerongen explains, VIP Diving’s long-standing success is rooted in a simple philosophy: “People first, then planet, then profit.” That guiding ethos has once again earned the Bonaire-based dive center a place on the Readers’ Choice Awards list this year—earning recognition in seven categories.
Bonaire is renowned for its natural beauty and legendary shore diving, but even the best destination requires the right guide. VIP Diving sets itself apart by investing deeply in its team, providing each dive master and instructor with personalized development plans and ongoing training opportunities. “If our staff is happy, we believe our guests will have a fantastic time,” says van Nieuwamerongen.
Casper DoumaIn addition to shore diving, you can choose from half-day or full-day boat trips with a private VIP guide.
The guest experience begins the moment divers arrive, with thoughtfully designed facilities that include secure lockers, staging areas for gear, and a welcoming lounge. Visitors are greeted with an aluminum water bottle, a towel, and—true to the team’s Dutch roots—a cup of quality coffee. Specializing in small-group, guest-directed shore dives, VIP Diving tailors each itinerary to skill level, interests, and past experiences in the area. Small group sizes, detailed pre-dive briefings, mandatory safety stops, and a strong emphasis on comfort reflect the team’s unwavering dedication to safety.
VIP Diving also offers a range of specialty courses, from Yoga Diver to Lionfish Hunter and Ostracod Night Diver. For those beginning their underwater journey, the Open Water certification stands out, with training spread over three days with an optional fourth day, thus ensuring a more relaxed and effective learning experience compared to the typical two-day schedule.
Casper DoumaVIP Diving offers top-quality rental gear in every size.
Putting people first means making sure every diver feels confident and comfortable in the water, which is why VIP Diving offers top-quality rental gear in every size—from 4XL to 3XS—and reevaluates its equipment on a regular basis to maintain peak performance.
In keeping with the belief that the planet comes before profit, older gear is passed on to the STINAPA Junior Rangers, a program that empowers local teens with dive training and environmental education, carrying on the mission of protecting Bonaire’s precious resources, safeguarding the island’s natural beauty for future generations.
Their dedication to conservation also extends to the dive center, where the solar-powered roof supplies clean energy for the majority of its operations, and the team actively contributes to Bonaire’s environmental well-being by sponsoring and participating in sea turtle conservation and reef renewal programs.
VIP Diving’s outstanding service continues to set the standard for Caribbean dive operators. Award-winning adventures, innovative sustainability, and a commitment to both staff and guests ensures that every dive leaves visitors with unforgettable memories and a deep, meaningful connection to Bonaire’s vibrant marine life and pristine waters.
Casper DoumaThe new VIP Tec Diving facility, adjacent to its primary location.
Go Deep
Tec diving has become one of VIP Diving’s most popular offerings, with a variety of gas blends, guided dives, courses, and—for the tec curious—discover dives where you’ll get acquainted with the specialty’s gear and basic procedures.
Experience Twilight Beneath the Surface
VIP Diving leads a night dive to fit any fascination, whether you’re fascinated by ostracods, tiny crustaceans that emit a bioluminescent glow to find a mate, or want to explore the prismatic colors of the ocean at night under a UV light.
2026 Readers Choice Awards
VIP Diving nabbed seven Readers’ Choice awards in the dive operator category this year, including Attention to Safety, Quality of Training and Courses, Best Overall, Quality of Facilities, Quality of Staff, and Quality of Dive Boats.
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