The Hilma Hooker was originally built in the European part of the Netherlands in 1951. Before being named the Hilma Hooker she operated under various other names including Doric Express, the Anna, the William Express, the Mistral and the Midsland.

In the summer of 1984, the Hilma Hooker called the port of Kralendijk after suffering rudder trouble during her voyage. Docked at the Town Pier, local authorities became increasingly suspicious of the ship and crew and boarded the ship for an inspection when her Captain was unable to produce any of the ships requisite registration papers. A false bulkhead was discovered, and held within was 25,000 pounds of marijuana. The "Hilma Hooker" and her crew were subsequently detained while the local authorities on Bonaire searched for the vessel's owners, who were never found.