Secret Seahorse updated Description.
Oct 9, 2025Dive Spot Guide•
Boka Bartol
Boka Bartol is a closed north Bonaire shore dive with healthy coral and rays.
Temporarily closedAs of Apr 9, 2026
Washington Slagbaai National Park is temporarily closed for diving under STINAPA's SCTLD rules.
This far-north park site is a windy, current-prone shore dive where calm windows matter and boat access is often safer.
About Boka Bartol
NOTICE: Site still closed for diving still due to SCTLD, please look to STINAPA Bonaire for any updates (October 2025). Boka Bartol is located at the northernmost point of Bonaire and features a reef that reaches depths of up to 40 meters. This site can present challenges for divers, particularly when wave conditions are elevated. Marine life commonly observed here includes nurse sharks, reef sharks, and the occasional eagle ray and stingray, along with a variety of fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, and parrotfish.
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Research Estimate At Boka Bartol
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 25m
AccessDifficult access
CoralPristine, vibrant coral
Aquatic LifeExceptional variety
FacilitiesNo facilities
Crowd / PopularityVery quiet
CurrentVery strong current
SurgeHeavy surge
Where Is Boka Bartol?
This spotNearby spotsExplore nearby spots on the map
Community sourced coordinates.
Boka Bartol Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
6m - 40m
Depth Note
The shallow terraces begin around 6 m and the reef can extend to about 40 m.
Best Season
Calm-weather windows year-round; early mornings are best.
Typical Conditions
Far-north exposure, strong current, high surf potential, remote park access, and very limited facilities; boat access is safer than shore diving.
Safety & Access At Boka Bartol
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Dangerous wildlifeRestricted accessStrong currentSurgeWaves
Safety Notes
High surf and strong current can make the shore entry hazardous. If the north coast looks rough, use a boat plan or skip the site.
Access Restrictions
Inside Washington Slagbaai National Park, with a long bumpy approach road, very limited facilities, and little room for a bad weather call.
Legal Notes
Park entry and nature fees apply. Check the current SCTLD closure status before planning a visit and respect park hours.
Local Intel For Boka Bartol
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba Diving
The reef terraces and wall are best handled in calm windows. A boat plan is usually the safer call when surf is up.
Freediving
Freediving is only for very calm windows and highly experienced freedivers; the exposed entry makes it a tough choice.
Snorkeling
Not a primary snorkeling site. The exposure and current make it a poor casual snorkel option.
Recent Logged Visits At Boka Bartol
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
Dive Spot Log Averages At Boka Bartol
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility25m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
