The Little Green Boat

Located in Willemstad, The Little Green Boat is a specialised dive and cruise centre that operates far from the reach of mass tourism. The centre focuses on 'blue tourism', integrating marine protection and participatory science into every outing. This approach allows you to move beyond simple sightseeing to actively engaging with the underwater environment of Curaçao.

Instead of standard large-scale boat trips, the centre specialises in private excursions and micro-expeditions. By collaborating with local organisations like Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao and Reef Renewal Curaçao, the team ensures that every dive contributes to the wider understanding and protection of the local ecosystem.

The centre is managed by Fabien and Caroline, both PADI and SSI certified instructors with over 5,000 dives each. Their deep expertise is matched by their commitment to the ocean, having restored their own sailing vessel and crossed the Atlantic. They provide instruction in both English and French, ensuring clear communication for international divers.

Safety and personalisation are central to their operation, with a strict ratio of a maximum of four divers per guide. This small-group approach allows for a tailored experience, whether you are working through a certification course or participating in a scientific data collection mission. The team maintains a strict zero-waste policy on board and uses non-biocide antifouling to protect the reefs they visit.

The Little Green Boat offers a comprehensive range of training through both PADI and SSI affiliations. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course, with progression available through to the Advanced Open Water Diver level.

For those looking to professionalise their skills or specialise, the centre provides Rescue Diver, Divemaster, Dive Guide, and Instructor training. Specialty courses are also available, including Nitrox, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Buoyancy, and Night Diver.

The primary vessel is the Amel Euros 41, a 1973 sailing yacht that has been fully restored. It carries up to six people, making it ideal for private, intimate expeditions. The boat is equipped with advanced marine exploration technology, including a GoPro Hero 13 with red filters, blue light excitation torches, an Aquarian H2D hydrophone with a Zoom F3 recorder, and an Axiom RealVision 3D scanner.

Beyond diving, the yacht is used for sunset cruises and local tastings. On board, you can find non-alcoholic beverages, beer, water, and fruit. The sailing nature of the vessel allows for a more quiet, immersive way to navigate the waters of the Spanish Water lagoon and the surrounding reefs.

The centre provides full equipment hire for divers, covering all the essentials needed for reef and wreck exploration. For those who prefer to use their own kit, a discount is available for certified dives.

While specific compressor brands are not listed, the centre is fully equipped to support both recreational and specialty diving needs. The focus on high-tech exploration is evident in the specialised underwater recording and scanning kit available for use during trips.

The reefs are home to a diverse array of life, including various corals, sea anemones, and sponges that provide the structural foundation for the ecosystem. You will regularly encounter tropical fish, snappers, and glassy sweepers patrolling the reef structures.

Macro life is abundant for those with an eye for detail. Divers can find seahorses, octopus, and various crustaceans, including shrimp, tucked away in the reef. The seagrass meadows and mangrove areas also offer opportunities to observe different species in a sheltered environment.

Larger residents include Green sea turtles, tarpon, and various reef fish. The presence of healthy coral populations supports a wide range of life, from small shrimp to larger predatory fish moving through the water column.

The Spanish Water lagoon offers exceptionally calm waters year-round, making it a reliable spot for relaxed navigation and observing the mangrove habitats. This area is particularly well-suited for those who prefer minimal swell during their excursions.

While specific current and swell data for the entire coastline is not provided, the centre's expertise in navigating the local waters ensures that dive sites are selected based on the day's conditions, prioritising safety and visibility for small groups.