Yacht Wastewater Pump-Out Stations

Until recently, many yachts visiting Bonaire had no choice but to dump their sewage into the ocean. Even right above coral reefs. Now, that has changed.

At Plaza Marina and Harbour Village Marina, new pump-out stations let yacht owners connect a hose, press a button, and send waste straight into a closed system. From there, it’s pumped to WEB Bonaire’s wastewater treatment plant. No smells. No leaks. No pollution.

Why this matters for Bonaire

Bonaire is a popular stop for pleasure yachts. But when dozens of boats release sewage into the sea every day, the water fills with bacteria, nitrogen, and other pollutants that damage reefs and put public health at risk. “It’s always been worrying to think about waste being dumped right above the reef,” says a local dive instructor. “Now we finally have the means to stop it.”

With these stations in place, Bonaire’s marinas meet the new BES Environmental Regulations — and, more importantly, remove a hidden source of pollution from the water.

How it works — quick, clean, and easy

The process is simple: dock the boat, connect the hose, pump out, and you’re done. The “black water” flows through sealed pipes into onshore tanks and is transferred to the treatment facility.

Everything is designed for speed and ease of use, so skippers can do the right thing without delay. Both stations meet strict environmental standards and are ready for daily use.

The difference it’s making

With these facilities, untreated sewage is no longer ending up in the sea at these marinas. That means clearer water, healthier reefs, and safer conditions for swimmers, divers, and marine life.

It’s a clear example of tourism and nature working together — proof that good rules paired with practical solutions can protect what makes Bonaire unique. Clean boating is now the norm here, and the island is setting the standard for sustainable yachting in the Caribbean.