Something Special

Something Special (Kralendijk Central)

Prepare for a captivating shore dive at Something Special, a beloved dive site nestled beside the Harbour Village marina mouth in Kralendijk. This beginner-friendly dive site is renowned more for its incredible critter population and unique features than extensive coral cover, offering a truly distinctive experience for divers of all levels. We recommend this dive site for Open Water Divers.

Diving Conditions and Topography

Accessing Something Special is typically an easy shore entry, leading you onto a gentle sand slope. Divers will find the main action unfolds between a depth of approximately 6 m and 25 m, though the site can extend deeper, reaching a maximum depth of around 30 m to 35 m further out. The water temperature in Bonaire is consistently warm, ranging from 26°C to 30°C year-round, ensuring comfortable diving conditions. While the current here can be variable, requiring good buoyancy control, the generally sheltered nature of the site makes it a popular choice for extended bottom times and night dives.

Marine Life Encounters

Something Special lives up to its name with a remarkable array of marine life. As you explore the sandy bottom and rubble patches, keep an eye out for the mesmerizing sight of Brown Garden Eels swaying in unison from their burrows. The inquisitive Yellowhead Jawfish are also a common sight, hovering protectively over their sandy homes. Divers frequently encounter graceful Spotted Eagle Rays gliding across the sand, and the area is known for attracting unusually varied fish life, including impressive Great Barracuda and schools of majestic Atlantic Tarpon, often drawn by the marina entrance.

Macro enthusiasts will be particularly delighted by the opportunities to spot elusive creatures such as the cleverly camouflaged Longlure Frogfish. Other vibrant reef inhabitants include the colorful Stoplight Parrotfish and the occasional critically endangered Hawksbill Turtle gracefully navigating the reef.

Conservation Efforts

Beyond its vibrant marine life, Something Special holds significant interest for conservationists. This dive site is one of the active locations for the Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire, where divers will find coral nursery trees diligently growing new coral fragments. This non-profit organization is dedicated to restoring Bonaire's coral reefs through innovative techniques like fragmentation and larval propagation, actively working to grow and outplant threatened coral species back onto degraded reef sites. This makes the dive site not only a haven for macro photographers but also an inspiring example of ongoing reef restoration efforts.

Important Considerations

Given its proximity to the marina entrance, divers should be mindful of boat traffic, especially when ascending or near the surface. The variable current also necessitates attentive dive planning and good buoyancy control. Despite these considerations, Something Special remains a favorite for its accessibility, abundant critter life, and the unique opportunity to witness active coral restoration firsthand.