Investing in people, expertise, and technology to deliver an even better technical diving experience in Bonaire
At Buddy Dive Resort, we believe that great diving starts with great people. That is why we continuously invest in the knowledge, skills, and equipment of our Technical Diving Department.
Recently, we welcomed a team of leading technical diving professionals to Bonaire for advanced training on the Dive Rite O2ptima CM Closed-Circuit Rebreather (CCR). The training brought together members of the Buddy Dive team and industry professionals for an intensive week of learning, coaching, and hands-on experience with one of the leading CCR platforms in technical diving.
The training was led by Lamar Hires, co-founder of Dive Rite and a pioneer in technical, cave, sidemount, and rebreather diving, together with Mark Fowler, an internationally recognized Dive Rite Instructor Trainer specializing in CCR, cave, technical trimix, and public safety diving.
Building expertise through continuous training
Participants included José Luis Espinosa and Robert van Onno from Buddy Dive Resort, Alain Tiggelaar from Palm Trading Curaçao, and Firas Jundi, PADI Middle East Regional Manager.
For Alain Tiggelaar, the training included an instructor evaluation and crossover to the Dive Rite O2ptima CM. Already an experienced CCR instructor, Alain has been teaching rebreathers since 2016 and recently made the decision to transition to the O2ptima CM platform.
“The Instructor Evaluation exceeded every expectation. It was not simply about demonstrating the required standards, it was an opportunity to challenge myself, deepen my understanding of the O2ptima CM, exchange ideas with some of the most experienced professionals in the industry, and continue growing as both a CCR diver and educator.”
The week also gave José Luis and Robert the opportunity to develop their own skills on the O2ptima CM.
“Learning how to dive with a rebreather felt like learning everything from the beginning again,” said Robert. “But the thorough training from Mark and Lamar has given me a lot of confidence and a new skill set to explore the ‘silent’ underwater world further.”
For José Luis, the experience opened the door to a whole new area of diving:
“It was very challenging, in the best possible way, with a lot of learning and an open door to a whole new realm in diving. After 540 minutes on the new product, I am a CCR diver. Now the journey starts.”
Strengthening technical diving in the Caribbean
The training also strengthens the relationship between Buddy Dive, Dive Rite, and Palm Trading Curaçao, supporting the continued development of technical and rebreather diving opportunities throughout the Caribbean.
Through continued investment in professional training, leading brands, advanced technology, and high-quality equipment, Buddy Dive aims to ensure that our Technical Diving Department remains at the forefront of the industry.
For our guests, that means access to knowledgeable professionals, current training standards, and the latest developments in technical and rebreather diving—all backed by the experience and infrastructure of Buddy Dive Resort.
Looking ahead to Bonaire Tek 2026
The timing of the training is also particularly exciting as we look ahead to Bonaire Tek 2026. With new knowledge, stronger partnerships, and an even more experienced technical diving team, we are continuing to build the expertise and capabilities needed to support the island’s growing technical diving community.
Whether you are already an experienced technical diver, interested in exploring CCR for the first time, or looking to take your technical diving to the next level, our team is ready to help you discover what’s possible beneath the surface of Bonaire.
The journey never stops. Neither does the learning.