Turtle Tracker
Discover the world of Curaçao’s wild turtles — and help protect them.
Open Water
Boat Option Available
What you'll explore
- Visit sites where turtles are often seen grazing or resting.
- Learn to recognise the different turtle species found around Curaçao.
- Identify subtle signs of turtle health, from stress to certain conditions such as fibropapillomatosis (FP).
- Observe how turtles interact with their environment, from seagrass meadows to the edges of the reef.
- Share your observations during a relaxed post-dive debrief.
Citizen science
We make sure your turtle encounters truly count. As we glide through areas where turtles often graze, we record their location, behaviour, and any signs of health — relaxed movement or possible symptoms of disease (including fibropapillomatosis, FP) — always from a respectful distance (no chasing, no crowding). Want photos? We’ll show you the right, non-intrusive identification angles. No camera? No problem — we can provide one. Or, if you’d rather stay fully in the moment, we’ll handle the photography for you. All collected data is shared directly with Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao (STCC). You’ll also receive a personalised dive report with our observations and photos — and, if you joined us on a boat trip, even hydrophone audio recordings.
FAQ
Will I learn to tell the different turtle species apart?
Yes. During the detailed briefing, we’ll show you the key identifying features of Curaçao’s turtles, using photos and slates so you know exactly what to look for underwater.
What’s the difference between the shore dive and the private sailboat charter?
The shore dive is simple and straightforward: gear up on the beach and walk straight into the water. The private sailing cruise spends a few relaxed hours at sea, hair in the wind, with more freedom to explore — plus extras like the hydrophone, Insta360, and the RealVision™ 3D Axiom Fish Finder, which bring the ocean to life in a whole new way.
How close can we get to the turtles?
Close enough to observe them naturally, but always at a respectful distance. We never chase or surround turtles — they set the pace, and we follow calmly.
How long is the dive?
Around one hour underwater, depending on your air consumption and conditions. Calm and unhurried — with plenty of time to slow down and truly observe.
Pre - requisites
- Open Water Diver certification (or equivalent)
- Good buoyancy control and controlled finning, to avoid disturbing turtles and seagrass meadows.
- A patient, wildlife-respectful attitude: observe turtles from a proper distance and let them set the pace.
- A full briefing before entering the water.
What to bring
- Swimsuit and towel
- Reef safe sun cream
- Reusable water bottle (if you have one)
- A change of clothes
- Hair tie (if needed for mask)
- A sense of adventure
Shore
Private Charter
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Private Dive Charter
$750 (1 dive, approx. 3 hours)
$950 (2 dives, approx. 4 hours)
Maximum 6 passengers
Up to 4 divers per dive
· Quick Facts
Access to less crowded / less dived sites
· Included
– Skipper + guide
– Snacks & drinks
– Snorkeling kits (up to 6 people)
– Full diving equipment + tanks (up to 4 divers)On the Private Sailboat Charter, enjoy extras like a hydrophone to hear the ocean’s song, an Insta360 to capture what’s below, and the RealVision™ 3D Axiom Fish Finder to spot marine life and choose the perfect anchor point.
Comparison Card
⛵️ Private cruise:
No queues, no crowds — just your group setting the pace and the programme.
🏖️ Shore dive :
Gear up on the beach and go.
Want to go further ?
Combine this mission with turtle-focused training such as Sea Turtle Ecology (SSI/PADI), Marine Ecology, or Perfect Buoyancy for calmer, more turtle-friendly diving. If you’re not yet an Advanced diver, this mission can also count toward your Advanced course. You can further get involved with Sea Turtle Conservation Curaçao (STCC) by volunteering on their projects or supporting their work with a donation. Just ask us — we’ll point you to current opportunities.
