Aquafari on Curaçao: How an Underwater Scooter Works (and Is It Safe?)

Cruising underwater among the fish, with no diving certification and your head dry. It sounds like science fiction, but in Curaçao you can actually do it: on the Aquafari underwater scooter. How does a scooter like that work, is it safe, and why is this island such a great place for it? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is an underwater scooter?

When they hear “underwater scooter,” many people picture one of those handy little gadgets you hold with both hands while snorkeling. This is something else. The Aquafari scooter is a small vehicle with a glass dome: you go into the water and put your head inside the dome.

The dome is full of air, just like an upside-down glass you push underwater in the dishwater. A scuba tank on the scooter continuously blows fresh air into it. That’s why you simply breathe through your nose and mouth, without a mouthpiece or mask, and your head stays dry.

How does it work underwater?

A button on the handlebar sets the scooter in motion, and you steer it yourself. You cruise calmly along the coral in a small group. You go down to about 7 m (23 ft) deep.

Because you’re underwater, the pressure increases. You feel it mostly in your ears. During the briefing beforehand, you learn how to equalize your ears, just like on a plane. You also agree on hand signals so you can let the crew know how you’re doing underwater.

Beforehand, you get about half an hour of briefing in English or Dutch. Then you spend about 45 minutes underwater. All in all, it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Is an underwater scooter safe?

Yes, as long as you follow the instructions. Aquafari has been operating these scooters in Curaçao since 2013. You get a thorough safety briefing, and professional divers swim with the group for the entire tour. If you don’t feel comfortable, you give the agreed signal and someone is with you right away.

There are clear rules, though, because you are under pressure, just like when diving:

• Age and height: ages 10 and up and at least 1.20 m (4 ft); under 18s only with an adult. Maximum weight 125 kg (275 lbs).
• Health: not possible if you are pregnant or have heart problems, a recent neck or back injury, take blood thinners, or have breathing problems, epilepsy, claustrophobia, an ear infection or diabetes.
• Do not fly within 18 hours after the tour. So don’t plan Aquafari on your last day.
• Waiver: every participant signs a waiver beforehand.

Unsure about your health? Check with your doctor beforehand.

What will you see underwater?

The reef at Boka Sami lies just off the coast. You ride past coral and schools of tropical fish, from parrotfish to small, brightly colored reef fish. Many guests also see sea turtles, although that’s never guaranteed, of course.

Afterward, guests wrote: “Saw beautiful fish, coral and a sea turtle” and “a once-in-a-lifetime experience”.

Why is this so special in Curaçao?

Underwater scooters with an air dome can be found in only a few places in the world. In Curaçao, a few things come together that make it extra special:

• Warm, clear water, about 26 to 29 °C (79 to 84 °F) all year round.
• The reef lies right off the coast: no need to take a boat far out to sea first.
• Experience: Aquafari has been the island’s specialist since 2013 and has won several tourism awards.

That way everyone in the family aged 10 and up can see Curaçao’s underwater world, even those who will never go diving.

Aquafari, snorkeling or diving?

Snorkeling is the easiest and cheapest, diving gives you the most freedom. Aquafari sits right in between: you’re truly underwater, without having to learn how to dive.

Tips for your Aquafari tour

• Book a morning tour (9:30 or 11:00 a.m.) and arrive on time for the briefing.
• Wear your swimsuit and bring a towel. You don’t need a wetsuit.
• Reef-safe sunscreen, for you and for the reef.
• Bring your card or cash for the balance at check-in.