Oil Slick Leap

Oil Slick Leap (Bonaire North)

Prepare for a memorable entry at Oil Slick Leap, a renowned shore dive site on Bonaire's northern coast. Named for a never-realized oil terminal, the only "leap" here is your exciting giant stride off a low limestone cliff into the crystal-clear Caribbean waters. For those preferring a gentler entry or carrying sensitive camera equipment, a sturdy steel ladder provides easy access and exit.

Dive Experience

As a beginner-friendly dive site, Oil Slick Leap welcomes divers with an Open Water Diver certification. The reef begins immediately at the base of the cliff, presenting a gentle slope that transitions from approximately 6 meters down to around 25 meters, though the reef continues beyond 40 meters for those with advanced training. Divers will find the current here to be mild, making for relaxed and enjoyable exploration. The water temperature is consistently warm, typically ranging from 26°C to 29°C throughout the year.

The underwater landscape is a vibrant reef, characterized by a sloping profile that eventually drops into deeper blue. We will discover fascinating overhangs and small swim-throughs, offering intimate hiding spots for various marine creatures.

Marine Life and Features

Oil Slick Leap is teeming with diverse marine life, promising exciting encounters on every dive. Divers can expect to spot majestic Great Barracuda often hanging off the reef's edge, and the vibrant colors of Queen Angelfish. Keep a keen eye out for the elusive Caribbean Reef Octopus and Caribbean Spiny Lobster tucked away in crevices and under ledges.

Macro enthusiasts will delight in searching for the intricate Longsnout Seahorse and the camouflaged Longlure Frogfish lurking among sponges. We might also encounter graceful Hawksbill Turtles gliding through the water, and schools of Horse-Eye Jack. Beyond the listed species, divers frequently report sightings of snapper, grunts, parrotfish, and various other reef fish, adding to the site's rich biodiversity.

This dive site also plays a vital role in coral conservation. Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire actively works here, growing and outplanting Elkhorn Coral (Acropora palmata) as part of ongoing reef restoration efforts.

Important Considerations

• Hazards: While generally calm, divers should be aware of occasional surge, particularly near the entry point. We also advise caution regarding boat traffic, especially when surfacing. Sharp coral is present, so good buoyancy control is always recommended.
• Entry/Exit: The iconic giant stride is a highlight, but the steel ladder provides a safe alternative. It's always a good idea to check the ladder's condition, especially after strong weather.
• Certification: An Open Water Diver certification is required to explore this beautiful dive site.

Oil Slick Leap offers an easy-to-navigate and rewarding shore diving experience, making it a favorite for both new and experienced divers seeking vibrant reefs and abundant marine life.