Lionfish Hunting Curaçao:
The Predator Patrol
Looking for an active dive that makes a real difference? Join a unique Lionfish Hunting Curaçao experience.
During this 100% private scuba dive, we’ll brief you and equip you with specialized lionfish hunting gear (Zookeeper systems) to help target this invasive species. Become a true guardian of the reef on an adventure that combines excitement, skill, and the protection of local marine biodiversity.
A 100% Private Lionfish Hunting Curaçao Experience
Advanced
Shore dive
What you'll explore
- Receive a briefing on why lionfish are invasive, their impact on Curaçao’s reefs, and how divers help restore balance.
- Learn to safely handle pole spears and practise appropriate approach techniques.
- Head out on a guided dive to put your new skills into practice, searching for lionfish in their usual hiding spots.
- Collect your catches in secure containers (zookeepers provided) to protect both the reef and yourself.
- Surface knowing you’ve directly helped protect Curaçao’s reefs — with the option to taste lionfish as a well-earned post-dive reward..
Citizen science
Lionfish may be beautiful to look at, but they are invasive predators with a huge appetite. With no natural enemies in the Caribbean, a single individual can decimate juvenile reef fish at an alarming rate, disrupting the balance of the ecosystem. By joining this mission, you take part in removing a species that does not belong here, giving corals, sponges, and local fish a chance to recover and thrive. You’ll also receive a personalised dive report with our observations and photos — and if you’ve chosen the boat expedition, even underwater audio recordings via hydrophone.
FAQ
Are you allowed to hunt lionfish during the “Predator Patrol” dive?
In Curaçao, lionfish hunting (Lionfish) is strictly regulated. By diving with us, you take part in an ethical monitoring and control mission. Your certified bilingual instructor (French or English) manages the specialised equipment safely and shows you how to locate and capture this invasive species to help protect the local reef.
Is a specific specialty or certification required for this conservation dive?
A standard diving certification (Open Water or higher) is sufficient. However, excellent buoyancy control is required, as lionfish often hide within the coral. Your private guide will provide a full technical briefing in French or English, covering safety and handling before you enter the water.
What is done with the lionfish after they are caught during the dive?
Nothing goes to waste. The lionfish is an invasive species, but its meat is considered tasty and is highly valued in Curaçao. After the dive, we show you in a safe and friendly way how to remove the venomous spines. The fish are then prepared for local consumption.
Why choose The Little Green Boat’s private experience for lionfish control dives?
Hunting or observing lionfish control in large groups is inefficient and can be unsafe. Our 100% private experience ensures maximum safety and fully personalized instruction. You progress at your own pace, without the rush of large group dives, alongside a bilingual instructor fully dedicated to your duo or family.
You can take a look at our general FAQ for answers to other questions.
Or also on the blog section of our website.
Pre - requisites
- Certification Advanced Open Water Diver obligatoire pour cette plongée.
- Good buoyancy control to safely manage both a pole spear and a zookeeper.
- Comfortable using manual equipment and following underwater safety protocols.
- Awareness and control to approach lionfish without disturbing the reef.
- A sense of adventure — this mission blends purpose with adrenaline.
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
Want to go further ?
Not in the mood for a Lionfish Hunting Curaçao dive today?
You can explore our private scuba diving courses.
If lionfish hunting isn’t your thing, no problem, you can still explore the reef with us on night dives or discover an iconic wreck, as long as you hold at least an Advanced Adventurer certification.
If your diving certification is Open Water, we can also offer you a dive with Curaçao’s sea turtles.
In a completely different style, and to stay dry, take a look at our private sunset boat tour experience.
Ready to join us for a Lionfish Hunting Curaçao dive?
Ready to get in touch to book your micro-expedition with THE LITTLE GREEN BOAT?
We’ll be happy to guide you, with passion, toward the activity that suits you best.