Simplifying the 2023 Nature Fee

Paying the 2023 Nature Fee just got easier.

As of January 1st, the 2023 Nature Fee will be simplified, making it easier to purchase for visitors coming to Bonaire. Currently, there are different fees for scuba diving, and other water activities such as snorkeling or kitesurfing. There are also additional fees to enter the Washington Slagbaai National Park. This can be confusing and unfair that one activity pays more than the other. Starting in 2023, there will be only one calendar year fee of $40 that covers all water activities in the Bonaire National Marine Park. The new 2023 Nature Fee also includes entrance to Washington Slagbaai National Park.

For cruise passengers, the fee will now be $10 to enter the Washinton Slagbaai National Park. Beginning in 2024, cruise passengers will also have to pay a $10 Nature Fee to enter the Bonaire National Marine Park.

Exceptions

All children under 13 years old, Bonairian residents, and our sister islands Curacao, Aruba, Saba, Sint Maarten, Sint Eustatius, and Saba will be completely exempt from the Nature Fee.

Other fee adaptations starting January 1, 2023.

Businesses in the Bonaire National Marine Park.

The fee for conducting commercial activities in the Bonaire National Marine Park will be increased from $840 to $1,000 per year. Companies that earn from activities in the underwater park must also contribute to its management. Several other fees for companies in the underwater park are being abolished. This reduces the regulatory burden for companies.

Moorings in the Bonaire National Marine Park.

The rates for the buoys will be adjusted. From January 1, 2023, visiting yachts will have to pay $35 per night for a so-called ‘overnight mooring.’ Bonaire residents pay $1,000 per year for a private buoy.

When can I purchase the 2023 Nature Fee?

The 2023 Nature Fee will be available for purchase on December 16, 2022. Additionally, if you purchased a 2022 nature fee, it will be valid until January 15, 2023. This grace period is helpful for visitors planning to ring in the new year on Bonaire.

(Source: STINAPA, Photography by Ellen Muller)