Читать книгу Reef Smart Guides Bonaire - Otto Wagner - Страница 41

41

BONAIRE

2

PLaya BengÉ

are lots of large rocks and rubble on the beach, which can be challenging to navigate with dive gear. Large swells enter the bay from the north and tend to break about 60 feet (18 meters) from shore. Once clear of the surf zone, kick out to the buoy located 450 feet (137 meters) from the shore.

Description

Sea turtles are known to nest on this beach, so do

not disturb any nests you might come across. This site is also known for particularly strong rip currents, so scope out the conditions before entering the water. Snorkelers will enjoy the shallow spur and groove formations, and the variety of marine life including staghorn coral, squid and nudibranchs. Divers may see schools of parrotfish, snapper and grouper along the deeper reef wall to the east, along with the occasional shark or manta ray.

Scan the water for signs of a rip current before entering. Areas without breaking waves, or with cloudy or choppy water, often indicate rip currents.

Observe any floating objects, such as bits of wood or seaweed. Areas where floating objects are washed out to sea are often rip currents.

If you are caught in a rip current, always swim perpendicular to the current to free yourself, rather than against it.

SAFETY TIP

Rip currents flow from the shore to the open sea and can be incredibly strong, particularly in stormy weather and at low tide. They can be extremely dangerous for swimmers, particularly weak or less-experienced swimmers. They can be difficult to spot, but there are several tips that can improve safety: