Flamingo Diving

Flamingo Diving offers a unique seaside experience, situated directly on the water within a private lagoon next to Ocean Oasis. Founded in 2015 by Fred and Monique Ooms, the centre has grown from a mobile diving ambulance into a established PADI 5 Star facility. The classroom is set outdoors under a handmade Colombian palapa roof, keeping you cool while you prepare for the day.

As part of the VIP group since 2024, the centre maintains a close-knit, family-oriented spirit. It is a place designed for divers who appreciate a relaxed, island-style atmosphere without sacrificing professional standards. Whether you are a local regular or a visitor arriving for your first dive, the setting is designed to make you feel at home.

The instructional team is built on a foundation of deep experience, with instructors trained in-house by a Master Instructor possessing over 40 years of expertise. This ensures a consistent, high standard of safety and teaching throughout the centre. The staff is driven by a genuine love for the ocean, which translates into a highly personalised approach for every diver.

Safety and attention are prioritised through a strict ratio of no more than 4 divers per guide. This allows for a controlled environment, whether you are navigating a reef flat or exploring a wreck. The team is well-versed in the local waters and is ready to support you through every stage of your training or exploration.

The training programme is extensive, covering the full spectrum of PADI certifications. Beginners can start with the Bubblemaker or Open Water Diver courses, progressing through Advanced Open Water Diver and Rescue Diver. For those looking to professionalise, the Divemaster course is also available.

Specialty training is a core part of the curriculum, ranging from technical skills like Sidemount Diver, Wreck Diver, and Deep Diver to environmental and niche skills such as Reef Renewal, Lionfish Hunter, and Dive Against Debris. You can also refine your skills with Peak Performance Buoyancy, Underwater Navigator, or specialized night diving courses like the UV Night Diver or Ostracod Night Diver. For those interested in photography or naturalism, the centre offers Digital Underwater Photographer and Underwater Naturalist courses.

The centre provides a complete range of rental kit for those who do not wish to carry their own. You can hire full sets, or select specific items such as fins, masks, and snorkels, as well as wetsuits. For those looking for a long-term solution, a discount is available for continuous hire of 6 days or more.

On-site facilities include a boutique with a curated selection of essential diving kit and unique handmade Parisian jewellery. After your dives, the centre provides refreshments including seasonal fruits, Dutch treats, and towels to help you relax by the lagoon.

The reefs are teeming with life, including various species of reef fish, Parrotfish (Calotomus), Surgeonfish (Acanthuridae), and Damselfish. You will frequently encounter blue tangs, chromis, grunts, Snapper (Lutjanus), and various species of Wrasse (Labridae). Larger residents like Grouper (Epinephelus), Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), and various types of Jacks, such as horse-eye jacks and bar jacks, add excitement to the dives.

Pelagic sightings are a highlight of the area, with chances to see Dolphin (Delphinidae), sharks, and rays. Large rays, Eagle ray (Aetobatus), and Southern stingray (Hypanus americanus) are known to frequent the waters, and there have been rare observations of the Whale shark (Rhincodon typus).

Macro life enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, from Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda) to various Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) species. Look closely for Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), Shrimp (Caridea), Crab (Brachyura), and various species of Goby (Gobiidae) or Blenny (Blenniidae) tucked into the reef.

The seascape is defined by a rich variety of fixed life, including brain corals, whip corals, sea whips, and Sea fan (Gorgoniidae). Sponges (Porifera), fire coral, and elkhorn coral provide the essential structure for the diverse ecosystem that thrives here.

The coastline is subject to varying conditions depending on the side of the island. The East coast is known to be hit by constant waves and strong winds, which is an important consideration when planning your sessions.

Night diving is a significant part of the local experience, particularly for those interested in the Ostracod phenomenon. This unique nocturnal event is tied to the lunar phases, tides, and sunsets.