Barcadera (21) - Klein Bonaire

Coral Gardens is exactly what it says on the tin, and we love it for its sheer, unadulterated coral health. Dropping to around 19m, it’s a gentle slope, perfect for a long, relaxed dive where you can truly take your time. We've spent entire no-decompression limits here just hovering, watching the way the light plays on the brain corals and the dense thickets of sea fans. Visibility averages a comfortable 19m, often more, letting you appreciate the scale of the coral structures. Look closely and you’ll find plenty of Big-eye Anchovies shimmering, or a cheeky Saddled Blenny peeking from a crevice. We’ve seen Reef Scorpionfish here too, masters of camouflage, so keep those eyes peeled. Our favourite time to dive Coral Gardens is mid-morning, when the sun is high enough to illuminate everything without being directly overhead. It's a forgiving site, ideal for newer divers wanting to build confidence, but still engaging enough for experienced eyes to spot those smaller, less obvious creatures like Conklin's Cardinalfish hiding amongst the polyps. It’s a wonderful place to slow down and truly observe.

Location
Klein Bonaire, Bonaire, Caribbean
Coordinates
12.196000, -68.305800
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Bonaire

Best Time to Dive in Klein Bonaire

The warmest water temperatures in Klein Bonaire occur in October, averaging 29.6°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 26.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.1°C
  • February: 26.8°C
  • March: 26.9°C
  • April: 27.1°C
  • May: 27.7°C
  • June: 28.1°C
  • July: 28.2°C
  • August: 29.0°C
  • September: 29.6°C
  • October: 29.6°C
  • November: 28.9°C
  • December: 28.2°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Klein Bonaire

Nearest Dive Centres to Barcadera (21)

Marine Life in Klein Bonaire

Home to 202 recorded species including 150 reef fish, 18 hard corals, 6 other, 6 seagrass & algae, 5 crabs & lobsters, 4 sharks & rays.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Barcadera (21)

Based on average water temperature of 28.1°C, currents 34 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at the Barcadera (21) dive site?
At the Barcadera (21) dive site, the typical maximum depth for divers is 18 meters. While the impressive wall continues from 10 meters down to about 40 meters, recreational divers typically explore the shallower sections. This makes it a great spot to experience the vibrant Caribbean marine life within standard recreational limits.
What marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Barcadera (21)?
Divers at Barcadera (21) can expect to encounter typical Caribbean marine life. This includes nurse and reef sharks, with possibilities of spotting eagle rays and stingrays. You'll also see an abundance of fish such as snapper, angelfish, and parrotfish, all thriving on this beautiful reef.
What is the difficulty level of the Barcadera (21) dive site, and is it suitable for advanced divers?
The Barcadera (21) dive site is classified as intermediate difficulty. This makes it suitable for divers with some experience, including advanced divers who will appreciate the wall diving opportunities and diverse marine encounters. Its intermediate rating ensures a rewarding experience for those comfortable with a bit more challenge.
What are the best times of year to dive Barcadera (21) for optimal conditions?
Information regarding the best times of year for optimal diving conditions at Barcadera (21) is not available in the provided data. For general guidance on diving in Bonaire, please consult our When to Dive section.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive at Barcadera (21)?
The provided data does not specify particular diving certifications required for Barcadera (21). However, given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 18 meters, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient, though an Advanced Open Water certification would allow for greater exploration of the wall's deeper sections.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility at the Barcadera (21) dive site?
Divers at Barcadera (21) can expect excellent average visibility of 20 meters, offering clear views of the vibrant reef. Information regarding typical current conditions at this specific dive site is not available in the provided context.