News
August 27, 2026
Bonaire does not have to start a conversation about tourism vision from zero. In 2017, the island adopted the Strategic Tourism Master Plan 2017–2027. Its horizon was ten years, linking tourism development to a broader ambition for Bonaire and bringing people, nature and economic development into the same conversation. That horizon is now almost behind … Read more
August 12, 2026
Across the world, many small islands depend on tourism as one of their primary economic pillars. Bonaire is no exception. Tourism supports jobs, businesses and government revenue while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and local communities. For many years, economic development has been closely linked to tourism growth. More visitors generally mean more economic activity. At … Read more
July 30, 2026
Last week, BONHATA hosted its Tourism Pub Quiz at Beer & Burgers Bonaire, bringing together six member teams for an evening of friendly competition, networking, and team spirit. Teams put their tourism knowledge to the test with questions covering Bonaire’s nature, history, tourism sector, and local facts. The evening concluded with a music round, where … Read more
June 25, 2026
BONHATA Tourism Business Academy Concludes Successful First Edition The first edition of the BONHATA Tourism Business Academy officially concluded on June 20, 2026, marking an important milestone in BONHATA’s efforts to support local entrepreneurship and strengthen Bonaire’s tourism industry. Over the past seven weeks, participants took part in an intensive entrepreneurship program designed specifically for … Read more
May 25, 2026
🔹 BONHATA Shares Hospitality Sector Updates During Joint Q1 Tourism Update BONHATA was proud to participate in the first quarterly Bonaire Tourism Update for 2026, organized by Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) in collaboration with Bonaire International Airport (BIA) and the Harbor Master (OLB). The event was held at Van der Valk Plaza Resort Bonaire. The … Read more
May 20, 2026
Bonaire’s accommodation sector entered 2026 with resilient pricing performance across both hotels and short-term rentals, even as occupancy levels softened slightly compared to the previous year. Data from the first quarter of 2026 shows that Average Daily Rate (ADR) and Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) outperformed both 2025 results and market forecasts from January through … Read more
April 28, 2026
On April 23, BONHATA organized an AI Masterclass for hospitality companies in collaboration with Booking Success. The session focused on the growing impact of artificial intelligence on customer behavior and how this is reshaping the way travelers search for and plan their trips, with increasing emphasis on more specific search intent and the need for … Read more
April 17, 2026
On April 16, BONHATA officially launched the Tourism Business Academy with an engaging and informative event at Captain Don’s Habitat. During the session, attendees were introduced to the program, its content, and the upcoming training schedule. Throughout the evening, participants actively shared their own business ideas and explored opportunities within the tourism sector, creating an … Read more
March 16, 2026
On March 12, BONHATA hosted the Cyber Smart Tourism Security Seminar in collaboration with MCB, KPCN, and the Dutch Caribbean Data Protection Authority (CBP BES), bringing together tourism stakeholders to address the growing importance of cybersecurity, data protection, and privacy. As tourism businesses increasingly rely on digital systems for reservations, online payments, and guest communication, … Read more
March 2, 2026
Tourism Corporation Bonaire, in collaboration with OLB, BONHATA, and the Harbor Master, recently hosted the Bonaire Tourism Overview for 2025 and 2026 Outlook at Delfins Beach Resort. The session provided a clear reflection on the past year, presenting an overview of 2025 visitor numbers, cruise sector and accommodation performance, and the broader economic impact. It … Read more
January 28, 2026
On January 21st, BONHATA launched the year with its first networking event of 2026: the Tourism Sector Speed Meet. This session provided a structured opportunity for participants to create new connections and strengthen existing ones within Bonaire’s tourism sector. Unlike our regular networking events, this event featured 8 rounds of focused networking, allowing attendees to … Read more
January 19, 2026
On 14 January, the Vision 2050 Committee presented its preliminary findings to BONHATA. Appointed by the Executive Council, the Committee is developing a comprehensive long-term vision for Bonaire, providing a structural framework for sustainable development across key areas such as the economy, demographics, environment, society, and public finances. The presentation highlighted recent developments and outlined … Read more
January 14, 2026
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) reports that Bonaire reached an important recovery milestone in stay-over tourism in 2025. The average hotel occupancy rate reached 66%, equal to the pre-COVID level of 2019, though still below the Caribbean average. This is shown by recent analyses based on performance data submitted by accommodations affiliated with … Read more
December 23, 2025
This holiday season, BONHATA was happy to support local primary schools by donating children’s books to classrooms across the island. Written by former primary school teacher Angliet Baidjoe, the stories — Kaki the Cactus 🌵, Lío the Iguana 🦎, and The Journey of Bonnie the Fish 🐠 — reflect island life through the eyes of … Read more
December 12, 2025
BONHATA met with De Nederlandsche Bank to discuss key challenges affecting payments and financial access on Bonaire. The meeting addressed barriers to modern online payment solutions, high transaction costs, complex banking compliance procedures, and the impact of cash-only operations on fair competition and safety within the tourism economy. BONHATA emphasized that reliable, affordable, and inclusive … Read more
November 11, 2025
BONHATA Annual General Meeting 2025 at Delfins Beach Resort On November 5th, BONHATA hosted its Annual General Meeting at Delfins Beach Resort, reviewing the achievements, challenges, and activities of the past year and presenting the vision and priorities for 2025–2026. Chris Opgenoort, President of BONHATA, shared his reflections and key lessons from his presidency over … Read more
October 17, 2025
On October 9th, we hosted our final Masterclass of the year, in collaboration with Gamma IT Solutions and special guest HR expert, Disaeny Molina. This session focused on Gamma IT Solutions’ HR software, Payroll Pro HRM, and explored practical solutions for HR-related challenges in the workplace. The Masterclass began with an introduction to Gamma IT … Read more
September 1, 2025
On Thursday, August 28, 2025, we hosted our fourth Masterclass of the year. In collaboration with CBS, this session focused on Data-Driven Strategies for the Tourism Industry, offering participants practical insights into using data effectively in the tourism sector. The Masterclass covered key topics such as data collection and sources, how to access and navigate … Read more
August 1, 2025
A Stronger Quarter, But Caution Ahead The key performance indicators for Q2 2025, compiled data received from resorts that are members of BONHATA. The numbers show notable gains year-over-year across occupancy, rates, and revenue per room. However, a closer look reveals that much of the growth remains cost-driven, raising important questions about long-term sustainability and … Read more
July 1, 2025
On Thursday, June 26th, BONHATA, in collaboration with Profound Projects, hosted a highly successful and well-attended Digital Marketing Masterclass at Corallium Bonaire. The session was led by Chris Geluk, Profound’s online marketing manager and brought together tourism professionals eager to enhance their online marketing strategies and learn from industry experts. The masterclass focused on key … Read more
May 28, 2025
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) has presented the results of a comprehensive study on the impact of tourism on the island. The study, conducted by the Economic Bureau Amsterdam (EBA), highlights the importance of tourism for Bonaire’s economy, while also warning of the risks associated with uncontrolled growth. During a breakfast session for … Read more
April 23, 2025
On April 23, BONHATA, in collaboration with Fresh Supplier Bonaire, proudly hosted the masterclass Smart Menus, Bigger Margins—a practical and results-driven session led by acclaimed Chef and Consultant Filipe Vaz. The event took place at Captain Don’s Habitat and brought together hospitality professionals from across the island. The masterclass focused on enhancing menu strategy to … Read more
March 20, 2025
At BONHATA, we believe that continuous learning is key to sustainable business success. That’s why we actively support our members in developing new skills, staying ahead of industry trends, and seizing growth opportunities. On March 13 & 14, BONHATA hosted a two-day Revenue Management Training led by industry expert Mimi Luttge. The session brought together … Read more
February 4, 2025
As we move into 2025, we would like to take a moment to reflect on our performance of last year, compared to 2023 and share the forecast Q1 this year. Performance Review: 2023 vs. 2024 Occupancy Rate (OCC%): We observed a slight increase in the overall performance in 2024 (62% annual OCC) compared to 2023 … Read more
January 9, 2025
Kralendijk – Het Bestuurscollege is inmiddels veertien maanden actief en heeft dus een volledig bestuurlijk jaar achter de rug. Daarom is het een goed moment om te reflecteren op het bewogen afgelopen jaar. In een open gesprek met de drie gedeputeerden kijken we terug en vooruit. 2024, hoe was het? Wat kon er beter? En … Read more
January 2, 2025
On December 4th, 2024, BONHATA proudly hosted the Stars of the Industry Awards at the beautiful Plaza Beach Resort. This prestigious event celebrated the exceptional individuals whose passion, professionalism, and dedication make Bonaire’s hospitality and tourism industry shine brightly. The evening was a testament to the talent and hard work within our industry, recognizing over … Read more
December 13, 2024
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) works together with its accommodation members to keep track of key indicators for the tourism industry on Bonaire and provides quarterly performance updates. At present, the indicators tracked are: Occupancy Rate (OCC %): The percentage of occupied rooms at any given time compared to the total number of … Read more
December 12, 2024
Kralendijk – On November 6 2024, BONHATA proudly hosted its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Plaza Beach Resort. This pivotal event brought together BONHATA members to reflect on the past year’s achievements, challenges, and milestones while setting strategic plans for 2025 to align with the association’s shared vision for the future. The AGM served … Read more
October 10, 2024
Kralendijk – During the Island Council meeting last Thursday, September 26th, Veroesjka de Windt, CEO BONHATA, highlighted the critical need for increased investment from the government in the island’s tourism sector. Representing 120 businesses across multiple industries, BONHATA emphasized that tourism is the backbone of Bonaire’s economy and significantly impacts sectors beyond hotels and resorts. … Read more
October 10, 2024
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) works together with its accommodation members to keep track of key indicators for the tourism industry on Bonaire and provides quarterly performance updates. At present, the indicators tracked are: Occupancy Rate (OCC %): The percentage of occupied rooms at any given time compared to the total number of … Read more
July 2, 2024
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) works together with its accommodation members to keep track of key indicators for the tourism industry on Bonaire and provides quarterly performance updates. At present, the indicators tracked are: Occupancy Rate (OCC %): The percentage of occupied rooms at any given time compared to the total number of … Read more
March 22, 2024
BONHATA Hosts Tourism Sector Dialogue with Bonaire’s Executive Council Kralendijk – The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) recently hosted a dialogue with Commissioners Anjelica Cicilia, Clark Abraham, and Nina den Heyer of the Executive Council of Bonaire. The meeting, held at Captain Don’s Habitat, focused on the immediate challenges and sustainable growth opportunities for … Read more
January 31, 2024
Kralendijk – The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association proudly announces its successful participation in the annual New York Travel and Adventure Show. This well-attended event attracted a diverse audience, including consumers, travel agents, and media figures, providing a great platform to showcase Bonaire’s offerings to a broader audience within the tri-state area. This year, BONHATA … Read more
December 11, 2023
BONHATA Stars of the Industry Awards honors 43 outstanding individuals in the tourism industry Kralendijk, Bonaire – The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) hosted another edition of its Stars of the Industry Awards at the Divi Flamingo Beach Resort on December 7th. This event celebrated the exceptional contributions of individuals in the tourism … Read more
October 23, 2023
The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) works together with its accommodation members to keep track of key indicators for the tourism industry on Bonaire and provides quarterly performance updates. At present, the indicators tracked are: Occupancy Rate (OCC %): The percentage of occupied rooms at any given time compared to the total number of … Read more
November 25, 2022
BONAIRE LOOKS BACK AT A SUCCESSFUL DEMA SHOW 2022 The membership of BONHATA was represented again at the 46th Annual DEMA Show in Orlando, Florida. This year the Bonaire Pavilion consisted of the following partners: AB-Dive, Belnem House, TCB, Buddy Dive Resort, Captain Don’s Habitat, Chogogo Beach & Dive Resort, Courtyard by Marriott, Dive Friends … Read more
November 23, 2022
Prinsjesdag 2022: Caribbean Netherlands October 14, 2022 Expected changes in 2023 Every third Tuesday of September it is Budget Day in the Netherlands. On this day, the Dutch cabinet proposes its new financial, legal, and tax plans to the House of Representatives. The islands Bonaire, St. Eustatius, and Saba are so-called special municipals of the … Read more
November 23, 2022
The payment of the Visitor Entry Tax prior to arrival has become easier with additional payment options. As of today, visitors have the option to also pay via iDEAL, this option is especially popular in the Netherlands. Also, the option to pay via PayPal and Apple Pay will be available soon. Visitors are encouraged to … Read more
November 16, 2022
Starting December 1st, 2022, STRICTER MEASURES FOR VIOLATIONS OF THE BAN ON DISPOSABLE PLASTIC Disposable plastic shopping bags, stirrers, straws, cutlery, and Styrofoam meal trays may not be sold or given away on Bonaire. You will receive a warning and/or fine for violating this ban. Inspectors from the Directorate of Supervision and Enforcement have inspected … Read more
November 16, 2022
On behalf of the private sector, the Bonaire Chamber of Commerce and BONHATA attended the Flinx Recruitment Expo Dutch Caribbean (FRED expo) on October 29th in Rotterdam. The purpose of this expo was to get in touch with candidates interested in transferring to Bonaire. The Bonaire Chamber of Commerce and BONHATA saw a need within … Read more
October 13, 2022
During the Covid pandemic, the Caribbean Netherlands (so-called BES-islands) tax authorities introduced a specific deferral of payment for debts incurred in the pandemic to assist entrepreneurs with the cash flow problems arising due to the lack of tourism and income in the BES islands. This special deferral of taxes ended in September 2021 and thus … Read more
October 13, 2022
Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) together with its partners the Public Entity of Bonaire (OLB), BONHATA, Bonaire International Airport (BIA), and the Harbor Master held its quarterly press conference to provide an overview of Quarter 2 Tourism performance outlook for winter 2022/2023. A noteworthy analysis that was shared during the press conference is the fact that … Read more
October 13, 2022
At the Annual General Meeting held at Delfins Beach on September 27th, BONHATA said farewell to Bas Noij as president. Noij is stepping down as a BONHATA board member after four years, and Luite Berkenbosch has been elected as BONHATA’s new president. During the AGM, the candidates received unanimous support from the members and were … Read more
Our Members
We currently have over a 100 members consisting of resorts, hotels, apartments, diving and water sports businesses, car rentals, restaurants/dining and other tourism-related companies on- and off-island.
Become a Member
Our mission is: “To promote, support and empower our members through cooperation with one unified voice.”
Local & Regional Involvement
BONHATA is asked by NGOs and government organizations to be present on boards and committees as key stakeholders on the island and internationally. Some of those boards/committees are: TCB, Knowledge Foundation Bonaire (KFB), Route Development Committee, CHTA and CSHAE.