Learn to Dive in Curaçao
Curaçao’s Highlights
Curaçao is surrounded by a fringe reef. Crystal-clear blue water, warm water with incredible visibility is what’s expected from diving in Curaçao. It is considered to be one of the best islands in the Caribbean for scuba diving and is worthy of its outstanding reputation. Together with Aruba and Bonaire, it is considered one of the ‘ABC’ islands.
In September and October, there is coral spawning which occurs only once a year and makes for an interesting event that divers from all over the world come to see. Spotting dolphins and turtles is common at any time of year. Macro life is abundant making it ideal for underwater photographers.
When is the best time to go diving in Curaçao?
Diving can be done at any time of year. High season is from December to April when hotels and centers tend to be more crowded and expensive. From May to October, the environment gets a little more relaxed with fewer crowds. The island is hardly ever hit by hurricanes making it a good place to visit during hurricane season.
Water Temperature: The water is between 26°C and 29°C all year-round.
Currents: None to medium.
Visibility: Between 20 and 30 meters.
Curaçao’s best dive sites
Alice in Wonderland
A great site for macro photography, it’s a shallow site that ranges from 10 meters to 30 meters. There’s a high chance of seeing turtles, rays and large schools of bait fish. This site is accessed by the shore.
The Mushroom Forest
Named after its beautiful coral formations, the Mushroom Forest proves an interesting and picturesque dive. The mushroom-looking coral is healthy and vibrant, making it the perfect home for marine life.
Watamalu
Another famous dive site in Curaçao, Watamalu is famous as two currents converge at this dive site. The rich water brings different marine life to the area including rays, turtles and triggerfish. Coral formations are abundant with large gorgonians and swim-throughs.
About the country
Curaçao is a Dutch Caribbean Island. It is located close to the equator which means it’s nice and sunny most of the year-round. The island itself is beautiful with stunning beaches and landscapes. Curaçao’s architecture is vibrant and colourful making it a perfect place to walk around and explore.
A complex fusion of different cultures and influences, Curaçao is a country best experienced first-hand. Nature lovers will enjoy the range of activities on offer from hiking, to quad bike adventures.
Recreational Courses in Curaçao
Dive Centers in Curaçao
Getting to Curaçao
Hato International airport has direct flights to Amsterdam and several locations in the US. The island is 444 km2 and can be accessed by taxi or public transport.
Other important information
- Capital: Willemstad
- Official Language: Dutch, Papiamentu and English
- Demonym: Curaçaoan
- Currency: Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG)
- Calling code: +5999
- Driving Side: right
- Population: 155,000
- Pressure: PSI
- First Stage: INT/Yoke
