Hilma Hooker Week – A Dive into History

September 13 -19, 2025

Join us for an entire week dedicated to the fascinating legacy of the Hilma Hooker shipwreck. The Hilma Hooker, a sunken cargo ship resting on the ocean floor, holds a unique place in the world of wreck diving. This annual celebration allows divers to immerse themselves in its history and explore its depths. Buddy Dive Resort invites you to become a part of this remarkable underwater adventure.

Week-Long Activities:

  • Wreck Specialty Course – $245 p.p.: Dive enthusiasts and beginners alike can take part in our Wreck Specialty Course. Led by our experienced instructors, you’ll acquire the skills and knowledge needed to safely navigate and explore shipwrecks like the Hilma Hooker.
  • Guided Penetration Dive – $50 p.p.: Certified wreck divers can embark on a thrilling guided penetration dive inside the Hilma Hooker. Venture into its mysterious interior, where history and marine life come together in an unforgettable underwater experience.
  • Night Wreck Boat Dive – $65 p.p.: Witness the Hilma Hooker’s transformation as you embark on a night dive. Under the mesmerizing glow of your dive light, observe the nocturnal marine life that calls the wreck home.
  • Free Doubles Try Out: Curious about doubles diving? Our instructors will introduce you to the world of twin-tank diving. Learn the techniques and equipment involved in this advanced diving style.
  • Free Presentation at Blennies: Gain a deeper understanding of Hilma Hooker’s history during our informative presentation at Blennies. Learn about the ship’s journey, its significance in wreck diving, and the stories that surround it.
  • Dedicated Boat Dives to the Wreck: Throughout the week, we offer dedicated boat dives to the Hilma Hooker. Explore the wreck multiple times and unveil new secrets with each dive. Our dive masters are here to guide you on this remarkable journey.

Reserve Your Spot

Make the most of this extraordinary week. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or new to the underwater world, there’s an adventure waiting for you. Secure your spot for Hilma Hooker week at Buddy Dive Resort. Book your Drive & Dive boat dive package and join us for this unforgettable adventure!

For detailed information, pricing, and reservations, please contact us at reservations@buddydive.com.

About the Hilma Hooker:

  • Built in the Netherlands in 1951 as the “Midsland.”
  • Renamed multiple times and eventually named “Hilma Hooker.”
  • Sank off Samaná, Dominican Republic, in 1975.
  • Seized due to drug-related issues while docked in Bonaire.
  • After months of neglect, it sank on September 12, 1984.
  • Now rests on a sand flat between two coral reef systems, a prime attraction for scuba divers.

Dive Site:

The Hilma Hooker, lying in approximately 100 feet (30 m) of water and measuring 240 feet (73 m) in length, provides ample opportunities for exploration. Although relatively little of the wreck involves penetration diving, it remains a captivating destination for divers.