HISTORY

A unique sailboat

with a rich history

Drone shot Aquaspace Historic Sailing Vessel

1978-1982

01

Origin

Step aboard our historic sailing boat, the Aquaspace, an extraordinary vessel with a rich past. This boat was built between 1978 and 1982 by the passionate architect, sailor, and diver Jacques Rougerie. Originally designed as a floating aquarium, the trimaran was primarily used for intensive marine life research, particularly in the Caribbean Sea. The Aquaspace is a significant part of his long and impressive career as an architect and oceanographer, dedicated to designing structures that redefine the relationship between humans and the ocean.

Aquaspace Sailing Vessel in Construction

Originally designed as a floating aquarium, the trimaran was primarily used for intensive marine life research, particularly in the Caribbean Sea. The Aquaspace has been a major part of Jacques Rougerie's long and impressive career as an architect and oceanographer, focusing on designing structures that redefine the relationship between humans and the ocean.

Jacques Rougerie has made a substantial contribution to both architecture and oceanography. His designs, including the Aquaspace, reflect his unique vision of the coexistence of humans and the ocean. His work was not only architecturally innovative but also focused on sustainability and ecological awareness. He has had a lasting impact on life and research underwater.

1985-1995

02

Crossing the ocean

In 1985, Rougerie made one of his dreams come true by crossing the Atlantic Ocean with the Aquaspace. During the journey, he had a continuous view of the underwater world from the transparent underwater room.

Aquaspace Sailing Vessel with Jacques Rougerie

In 1995, the Aquaspace arrived in Bonaire. From this point on, the sailboat was used to offer tours and give tourists a unique chance to view the underwater world of Bonaire without getting wet.

Aquaspace Sailing Vessel on Sea

Today

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To restore the Aquaspace to its former glory, we have completely renovated the boat, giving it new life and returning it to its original state. Today, we use this historic sailboat to take you on one of our fantastic tours.

In September 2022, we began renovating the Aquaspace. The boat was in such poor condition that we stripped it down completely and rebuilt it.

Today, we offer amazing sailing and snorkeling trips around Bonaire and Klein Bonaire. Bonaire is a true paradise for sailing and snorkeling. We provide the most impressive and beautiful way to discover the underwater world from our unique underwater chamber. Watch the turtles, dolphins, the stunning coral reefs, and all the other fish while enjoying a drink and a luxurious lunch or BBQ on one of our tours.

Aquaspace Sailing Vessel underwater chamber
Aquaspace Sailing Vessel on Bonaire

Discover our tours

Take an unforgettable journey to explore the Aquaspace - and learn its special story.