11/18/09 to 1/4/2010

We enjoyed a brisk sail from Klein Curacao back to Bonaire. Immediately upon securing a mooring, we were in the water. Our plan was simple: spend 2 to 3 weeks scuba diving, tour the island with Liz & Craig & decide where to sail this season. So what were we doing there more than 6 weeks later? Well, let’s just say we were learning first hand the true definition of cruising – the repair or fixing of boats in foreign ports. Without going into great & smelly detail, let me say Fred wore many hats. Being less mechanically & electrically inclined, I was his faithful & ‘quiet’ assistant.

Fred – The ‘Fix-It’ Man

Thanksgiving aboard Makai

In between the boat projects, we managed to fit in 21 dives, in addition to snorkeling & touring the island. One day I spent the morning walking the beaches of Klein Bonaire with three other cruising women & Funchi, a Field Specialist from Bonaire’s Sea Turtle Conservation organization. We were fortunate to bare witness to the hatching of 149 Hawksbill sea turtles. It was truly amazing to watch these small creatures emerge & follow their instinctual drive towards the sea. It was an awe-inspiring event.

Sea Turtle Hatching

With the majority of the projects completed, we enjoyed a nice, low-key Christmas Eve & Christmas Day with Liz & Craig. During the next week, Fred installed the watermaker hose & with Craig’s assistance, installed a new canvas bimini and stack pack. We finished 2009 on a ‘high’ with two outstanding dives at ‘Keepsake’ off Klein Bonaire.

On New Year’s Eve after a Cruiser’s happy hour & early dinner, we returned to the boat where we had front row seats for what looked like an island-wide firework show. It was a beautiful & exciting start to the new year!

New Year’s Gathering & Fireworks

On January 4th, just two days prior to the expiration of our immigration status, we departed Bonaire & sailed west to Curacao. Our plans from there….well you know what they say about plans. Till our next update, Happy New Years to all!

The Reason We Love Bonaire – Diving!