Freediving on Bonaire: Exploring the depths and capturing the beauty
Dive into the azure waters of Bonaire, where a compelling tale unfolds. Meet Israel Gil, a 33-year-old adventurer who has turned the deep blue sea into both his playground and canvas. Having chosen Bonaire as his home, Israel is on a quest to become the world's best freediver. His training ground includes the gym and pool of Delfins Beach Resort, where he refines his skills.
A freediver eyeing the 90-meter challenge
Born in Venezuela and educated in the Netherlands, Israel's journey to becoming a freediver, photographer, and videographer is nothing short of extraordinary. Israel explains, "I started freediving when I was 13. My mother judged international events. My stepdad was a World Champion for a long time. I looked up to them as a kid." He now has his sights set on the Freediving World Championship next year, where the required depth is a staggering 90 meters. Currently holding a personal best record of 43 meters in competition and 60 meters in training, Israel recognizes the challenges ahead. "It's not something you can achieve overnight. I have to train a lot for it and be patient to not overreach depths I'm not used to."
Why choose Bonaire for freediving?
"One of the reasons I moved here," Israel reveals, "is because, compared to places like Thailand, where freediving is world-renowned, you have to travel for hours on a boat. Here, you have that depth in minutes of swimming." When asked about his training routine, Israel elaborates, "I go to the gym in Delfins Beach Resort, which has everything I need. The other training environment would be the swimming pool, and thankfully, Delfins allows me to use one of their pools for exercises. They really help me out."
Bonaire, a watersports paradise - explore scuba diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing and more
Israel's life on Bonaire isn't limited to freediving; it's a multi-faceted adventure. "Bonaire is a watersports paradise. You can do surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, freediving, scuba diving, snorkeling, and even hiking." Bonaire's crystal-clear waters and perfect temperatures make it a top destination for watersports enthusiasts. "The underwater visibility is amazing," Israel says. "The water temperature is near perfect year-round."
Bonaire, a watersports paradise - explore scuba diving, windsurfing, kitesurfing and more
Israel's life on Bonaire isn't limited to freediving; it's a multi-faceted adventure. "Bonaire is a watersports paradise. You can do surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, freediving, scuba diving, snorkeling, and even hiking." Bonaire's crystal-clear waters and perfect temperatures make it a top destination for watersports enthusiasts. "The underwater visibility is amazing," Israel says. "The water temperature is near perfect year-round."
Discover the best of Bonaire: Insider picks for Instagrammable views and freediving havens
When asked about his favorite spots on Bonaire, Israel is quick to share his insider knowledge. "Instagrammable sort of views… I would name Pink Beach, Atlantis Beach, 1000 Steps Beach, and the National Park. For freediving, I would say explore Klein Bonaire, the little island next to Bonaire. And also Salt Pier. It is an underwater paradise.” He adds, “Bonaire is pretty unspoiled. It’s like the perfect place to relax. If you want to recharge your batteries, it is super nice here."
From skateboard videos to high-end visuals
Israel's passion for photography and videography has been integral to his life. He began by capturing skateboard videos with an old video camera his mother gave him as a child. Over time, he gained attention from brands using just an Action Camera and has now thrived with professional equipment. "When I started, I developed a skill to make a picture or video look like it was filmed with a high-end camera, even though I was using just a GoPro. This allows my footage to stand out even more with better equipment. For me, it's a passion. I still go out and take videos for myself, not even related to work."
Collaborating with excellence: Delfins Beach Resort partnership
In recent years, Israel has been working extensively with Delfins Beach Resort. "They really like my photography," he says. Describing Delfins as "one of the nicest resorts on the island," Israel sees it as a paradise in itself. "Everyone is friendly, and I connect really well with them."
Making Bonaire his forever paradise
Israel's dream is to become a permanent resident of Bonaire. "I love to make Bonaire my home base and explore all oceans. This is my home when I come back from trips. My chill, little spot in the Caribbean," he says with a sense of contentment.
As the sun sets over Bonaire, Israel's journey continues. A world beneath the waves, a life of exploration and creation, and the warm embrace of a community that shares his passion—Israel Gil is a man who has found his paradise, both below and above the waterline.
