The Hilma Hooker wreck represents one of the most popular and must see dive sites Bonaire offers. For a history of the Hilma Hooker while google is your friend the short story is that it was a drug carrying ship that was confiscated. It deteriorated and was positioned to sink where it now lays.
The wreck came to rest on its side between the double reef. Penetration is possible, but as with any wreck it is at your own risk and be careful – there are many levels in this wreck and it is possible to get lost. There is a swim through option however take the appropriate equipment and avoid if you aren’t properly certified for wreck diving. Always make sure you stay within view of an exit and consider employing the wisdom and experience of a guide – there are several technical diver instructors on the island.
Remember…you don’t need to penetrate a wreck in order to enjoy it.
For our dive see our video on our Youtube channel.
Hilma Hooker site Location
Shore Entry
Shore entry is often described as difficult. The reason for this is a ledge, which can be an issue for stepping down on entry and also for return. On my first try at this site I did lost my balance after the step up to get out and went down on a knee, painfully. As an alternative to doing what I did you can take one of the many boat charters instead.
That being said, shore entry is also manageable just be careful. Select your route, test it by walking into the sea and back before donning your gear. If other divers are present then watch where they enter and see how they fare.
Routing
There are three buoys. One marking each end of the ship and between them but marking the reef. Swim to the one in the middle (take bearings to the shoreline for your return) and descend there. The outline of the ship, if not in sight already will soon become visible as you descend the sloping reef. When you reach the ship make a mental note of the path you took from the buoy, or where you are along the ship so you can trace the return path for leaving.
For return finding the buoy is simple for those who are spatially aware and can figure out where they first reached the ship. A better idea can also be to ascend the reef slope at one of the ends of the ship and turn back to the buoy to located it at the top of the reef.
Use the bearings you took to return to the shore if you want to return submerged and off gas.