I am going to Bonaire in early January for the third time and I am hoping to do the La Diana's Leap to Karpata drift dive. I have read some about it but I have not been able to find a really good description of the point of entry. Does anybody out there have a good description of the leap-off point?
Just so you know the site is called "La Dania's Leap." Not a big deal...just thought you should know.
I did a drift dive in June from there to Karpata. As you drive up the road you will need to be careful not to go past La Dania because you are on a one-way road at that point. Stop and drop your gear and have your buddy wait with it by the side of the road while you drive further down to park at Karpata. Remember to leave everything you will need for the dive at the side of the road because you will be taking about a 5-7 minute walk south back to your gear after leaving the truck at Karpata. (This includes putting your wetsuit on and leaving clothes in the truck)
After you walk back you will need to help each other put your gear on by the road. It is easier than doing it by the water. Walk on the little "path" until you get to the rocky area. There is a somewhat challenging jagged rock walk to the water's edge with your gear on. I would probably not recommend it to those that have balance issues or those uncomfortable carrying their gear for any sort of distance
From the "path" walk down and a bit to the right (north) where there is an adequate area to put on your fins and giant stride in. You will most likely need to use your buddy for balance to do this.This area is just a bit north of the mooring buoy in the water. The water is deep enough here.
The jump off the rocks is at least as high as it is at Oil Slick Leap, maybe even a bit higher. When I was there the surf was high and rough. I had to watch the swells for a minute so I timed it while it was going out. If you time it incorrectly there is a chance the water will push you back against the rocks. This could be dangerous especially since your truck is no longer right near you and it would take you a while to return to town for medical help should the need arise.
I'm sure I don't need to say this, but enter the water with your fins on, plenty of air in your BC, holding your regulator in your mouth. Once you and your buddy enter descend as soon as you are both set. Despite the surface conditions it is much more calm under the water. There was not much of a current to do our "drift" but just a ever so slight push in the northerly direction.
All that being said, it was a wonderful dive! The wall is beautiful and a great change from most of the other Bonaire dives. (mind you I don't have that much wall experience so it may pale in comparison to other wall dives.) It helps if you've done Karpata before and can recognize the area that you want to surface at, otherwise you may pop up to soon or too late to exit at the stairs.
I'm not sure if I took any pictures or videos or the area when I went. I will look to see if I did. I hope this description is what you're looking for and it helps.
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almtree: Bob
