The Chamber of Commerce is extremely proud of the new Blue Destination certified companies.

On Thursday, May 4, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Bonaire, together with deputy Jolinda Craane, responsible for economic affairs, awarded three Blue Destination certificates during the TCB ‘Tourism After 5’. The Chamber of Commerce congratulates VIP Diving, Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB) and Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) on the success achieved and hopes that they will be an example for other companies.

VIP Diving has managed to get the maximum five stars. VIP Diving had already been certified with three stars since 2020, which was the maximum number of stars that could be achieved at the time. Since 2022, the Blue Destination certification program has been expanded to a maximum of 5 stars. Sustainability has been an important part of VIP Diving’s vision from day one, which is much appreciated. VIP Diving is currently the only dive center that has achieved the maximum five stars of Blue Destination certification.

In addition, TCB is certified with two stars. TCB is one of the strategic partners of Blue Destination Certification and plays an important role in stimulating the socio-economic development of Bonaire through sustainable tourism.

The Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA) has also achieved two stars of the Blue Destination certification. BONHATA is recognized by the national & island government and the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) as the official hotel and tourism association of Bonaire. Bonhata is also one of the strategic partners of Blue Destination Certification and has been at the forefront of the island’s tourism industry for decades.

Every business on Bonaire, large or small, can play an active role in sustainability. Think for example of environmentally conscious choices in the purchase of products, the processing of waste, or the use of water. Taking care of personnel, informing, and making customers aware, or ensuring a safe and clean environment contributes to Bonaire as a Blue Destination. The “Blue Destination Certification” was developed to inform, guide and reward companies and organizations on their way to a more sustainable and social business. Bonaire as Blue Destination strives for the perfect synergy between nature, culture, and economy. Natural resources, such as the ocean that surrounds the island, are both protected and utilized. Bonaire as Blue Destination creates a unique identity and experience that sets Bonaire apart from other Caribbean islands. Blue Destination conveys what Bonaire stands for and helps attract visitors who share these values.

Certification of businesses is a joint initiative of the Blue Destination steering committee, the Public Entity of Bonaire and Good Travel Guide. The Chamber of Commerce serves as the front office for the certification and the audit is conducted by Green Destinations as an independent party.