The Best Bonaire Independent Shore Excursions

 

Bonaire is a Caribbean island located about 80 kilometers (50 miles) north of the coast of Venezuela. It is one of the islands known as the ABC Islands, along with Aruba and Curaçao. Although it is in the Caribbean, Bonaire is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Kralendijk Cruise Port is the main cruise terminal on Bonaire and is located directly in the center of Kralendijk. Because the port sits alongside the downtown waterfront, passengers can walk from the ship into the heart of the town in just a few minutes.

Bonaire is internationally known for its commitment to environmental conservation, particularly beneath the sea. Nearly all of the island's surrounding waters are protected within the Bonaire National Marine Park, one of the world's oldest marine reserves. The exceptionally clear water and healthy coral reefs have made Bonaire one of the premier destinations for scuba diving and snorkeling. Unlike many diving destinations, many of Bonaire's reefs can be reached directly from shore.

Away from the coast, the landscape is dry and rugged, dotted with towering cacti, aloe plants, and salt flats that turn vivid shades of pink. The island is home to large populations of flamingos, wild donkeys, parrots, and sea turtles. Much of the northern part of the island is protected as Washington Slagbaai National Park, where visitors can hike, birdwatch, and explore dramatic coastal scenery.

Click here for a full list of all of these excursions. Or click the title of the excursion below. This will give you more information about the excursion. If you book through this link, Trips with Angie will get a small commission and a copy of your booking. If you’ve booked your cruise through Trips with Angie, we can double check the timing and add it to your itinerary.

Land adventures
Wind might not be your best friend when you’re trying to relax on a tropical beach, but it is on this landsailing adventure. You’ll visit the windy side of the island for the best conditions for racing across the sand in these special wind-powered carts. After a thorough safety and operational briefing, you’ll get about 50 minutes to race your friends. Try something new while having a great time. Round trip transportation from the port is available for an additional fee.

No matter if it’s your first visit to Bonaire or if you’ve explored the towns thoroughly, the untamed East Coast should be your next stop. This ATV & UTV experience gets you out of Kralendijk and onto the trails. Drive off-road, ripping through the dirt and mud, as you explore the coastline. Hotel pickup is now available for added convenience. The meeting spot for this tour is just outside the cruise port.

Water adventures
Mangroves are one of Bonaire’s most important ecosystems. Discover them with an experienced nature guide on this clear-bottom kayak tour of Lac Bay’s mangroves. Learn about four different species of mangroves and the complex relationship between plants, animals and fish as you paddle. Price excludes marine park fees: these are free for cruise ship passengers and available to purchase for non-cruisers. Pick-up and drop-off can be arranged from the cruise terminal.

Embark on a unique guided adventure to discover Bonaire's spectacular hidden caves. Walk, climb, and even swim inside these untouched natural wonders guided by a local expert. It's an unforgettable journey into the island's secret underground world. Pick-up is available from the cruise port.

Explore the underwater world of the Caribbean Sea on this guided drift snorkel trip. Visit two different snorkel locations. Observe the abundant marine life in each. Your host serves homemade snacks along the way. When the snorkeling is done, break out the rum punch for the ride back to the marina. The meeting spot for this very popular tour is about a 10 minute ride from the cruise port.

Small group experiences
On this small-group island tour for both the north and south sides of the island,  you'll visit the island's most stunning spots, including scenic beaches, vibrant salt ponds, and charming local neighborhoods. Our certified, local guides will share the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that make Bonaire unique. Pick-up from the cruise port is included.

Pay a visit to the Bonaire Donkey Sanctuary for a fun day out interacting with rescued donkeys. Join a small group at the sanctuary and learn how donkeys are rehabilitated, sheltered, and protected. The donkeys are naturally curious and will come up to your car to say hello. Then visit the garden where you can see tortoises and iguanas among several local plants. Transportation from the port is included.

Have fun while swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters of Bonaire on this small-group sea-scooter adventure. All levels of swimmers are welcome because you really don’t need to swim when using these scooters. Receive a lesson on how to use the scooter, then either follow your guide out to find marine life, or feel free to explore and play as you like. Pick-up for this tour is available at the port.

Adults-only cultural experience
Join us for an unforgettable adults-only Food & Drink journey through the town of Kralendijk. This local food and drink tour will take you off the beaten path, sharing traditions and the 'Local' culture of the island. Transportation from the port is included.

Private options on the water
Looking for a memorable fishing or snorkeling experience in the stunning waters of Bonaire? Try Big Game Fishing charter and Snorkeling trips Bonaire. Whether you're a complete beginner, traveling with family, or a seasoned angler, The Fishing Dutchman offers something for everyone. Your trip will be tailored to match your interests and skill level, ensuring a safe, fun, and rewarding adventure. This tour is a 3 minute walk from the cruise port.

Discover Bonaire from the sea on this private boat excursion. Stop at the National Marine Park and Klein Bonaire Island, where you can explore the local wildlife, swim, snorkel, or relax on board. Keep everyone in your party happy by choosing the activities you all want to do, whether you’re a family or a small group. The meeting spot for this tour is about a 2 minute walk from the ship.

Private land tour option
Get an overview of everything Bonaire has to offer in just a few hours on a private group tour for up to 10 participants. The open bus lets you take unobstructed photos as you pass pink salt flats, flamingos, and more. Enjoy included snorkel gear and mineral water, plus the chance to swim or snorkel at Sorobon Beach. Pick-up is available from the port.

We’ve done our best to select excursions that could be fun for your family. As with all excursions, please do your own due diligence with the excursion provider, review physical requirements for the tour, and read the liability waiver carefully before signing.