Life at 8 Knots offers PADI scuba diving and freediving certifications in a private setting.
We specialize in private courses for 1-4 people.
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families.
While obtaining your certification, you'll experience the best Bonaire has to offer - both from the shore and from the comfort of our 43' sailing catamaran.
"Getting our Open Water Certification with James (and Julia) was an amazing experience from start to finish. They made every step clear and fun! James has a calm teaching style and we left feeling fully prepard and excited to dive. Highly recommend to anyone looking to get certified."
- Denise & Casey, USA
Captain James became a PADI certified scuba instructor in 1996.
He has since been recognized as an Elite Instructor and climbed the PADI ranks to IDC Staff Instructor.
James has taken thousands of people underwater for their very first scuba experience, including a few celebrities and even a blind woman!
He has taught students all over the world and says Bonaire (aka "Diver's Paradise") is his favorite place to teach. Join James to find out why!
Meet Your PADI Instructor
PADI Certification - Open Water Diver
Start your scuba journey with an "Experience Scuba" lesson, or dive right in to the PADI certification process and obtain your Open Water Diver with James.
"The highlight of the trip to Bonaire was for sure the diving, with the best reefs I’ve ever seen! I was getting my Open Water with James and he was so helpful and understanding. He took his time to make sure I understood all of the skills and even taught me some other cool tricks like navigation basics."
- Katie Young, USA
PADI Certification -
Advanced Open Water Diver
Already scuba certified? Take your diving skills to the next level! Enroll in a PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course and let James' expertise lead the way.
Get a Taste for Freediving - Experience Reef Diving!
Now, you can experience freediving on Bonaire with James!
James has added PADI Freediver Instructor to his long list of maritime expertise.
His motivation is to help people bridge the gap between snorkeling and scuba diving.
"Experience Reef Diving" is your entry point to freediving.
Ditch the heavy gear and find your flow with REEF DIVING.
No certification required!
PADI Certification - Freediver
Bonaire's calm, clear waters makes it an ideal place to learn freediving techniques & safety.
Start with an "Experience Reef Diving" class and work your way up to earn a PADI Freediver Certification.