Forest

Forest (Klein Bonaire): A Deep Dive into an Underwater Woodland

Prepare for an enchanting journey into the aptly named Forest dive site, a true highlight of Klein Bonaire. This intermediate dive site is renowned for its extraordinary density of black coral, creating an ethereal underwater woodland that divers will find captivating.

Dive Conditions and Site Layout

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Certification Required: Open Water Diver certification is sufficient for the shallower sections, but we highly recommend Advanced Open Water Diver certification for those wishing to explore the deeper slope and its unique features.
• Depth: The reef begins in the shallows, with gorgonians carpeting the area before the reef drops from about 9 m. Divers will find the main reef structure extending down to 20-30 m, where the black coral forest thrives. A more gradual slope continues towards a sandy shelf at a maximum depth of 50 m, offering opportunities for deeper exploration.
• Current: While generally mild, divers should be prepared for moderate currents at times, and good buoyancy control is always advised.
• Water Temperature: Expect consistently warm Caribbean waters, with temperatures typically ranging from 25°C to 30°C year-round, making for comfortable diving conditions.
• Site Types: This dive site is primarily a vibrant reef and dramatic drop-off.

Exploring the Underwater Forest

Forest truly lives up to its name with dense stands of fern-like black coral that become more abundant as you descend the reef slope, starting around 8 m. In the shallower areas, you'll encounter extensive carpets of colorful gorgonians. As you explore the deeper reef, divers will discover a large overhang or cave at roughly 23 m, which often provides shelter for resting Loggerhead Sea Turtles and Green Moray Eels.

Marine Life Encounters

The marine life at Forest is prolific and often quite accustomed to divers, making it a favorite among underwater photographers. We frequently encounter a variety of species, including the majestic Nurse Shark and powerful Great Barracuda patrolling the blue. Keep an eye out for the striking French Angelfish, the elusive Green Moray Eel, and schools of Bar Jack and Atlantic Tarpon. Loggerhead Sea Turtles are also a common sight, especially near the overhangs. Divers will also be thrilled to observe Tiger Groupers and various rays frequenting the numerous cleaning stations found here. Don't forget to peer into the gorgonians, as you might even spot a seahorse.

Important Considerations

As a dive site located on Klein Bonaire, Forest is accessible by boat only, which means divers should be aware of boat traffic in the area. The potential for deeper diving also means careful depth and gas management are essential. While the current is typically mild, it can occasionally be moderate, requiring good buoyancy control. We recommend planning your dive to account for these conditions and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Forest is a protected area within the Bonaire National Marine Park, so we encourage all divers to adhere to park regulations to help preserve this pristine underwater environment for future generations.