Discovering Costa Rica Liveaboard Diving

Delve into the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica's Pacific coast and experience some of the most thrilling dives of your life, all by taking a liveaboard Costa Rica.

Costa Rica, known for its rainforests and wildlife, also offers some of the most exciting scuba diving adventures in the Pacific.

Liveaboard diving in Costa Rica waters is teeming with life. Dive with schools of rays at Bat Islands, or explore the pelagic life at Cocos Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Encounter hammerhead sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, and the seasonal migration of humpback whales.

Each dive site in Costa Rica has its unique attractions, be it the diverse marine life, historical shipwrecks, or incredible underwater landscapes.

About Costa Rica Liveaboard Diving

The oceanic world of Costa Rica Liveaboard Diving

Costa Rica, fondly known as the 'Rich Coast', is not just celebrated for its lush rainforests and wildlife, but also for its captivating underwater world. Liveaboard diving in Costa Rica offers divers an unparalleled experience, allowing divers from all around the world to immerse themselves in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, surrounded by an abundant marine life. Costa Rica offers a diverse range of dive sites. Here are a few highlights:

Diving areas and dive sites in Costa Rica

Cocos Island Often dubbed the 'Costa Rican Galápagos', this UNESCO World Heritage site lies about 340 miles off the Pacific coast. Recognized for its hammerhead shark schools, the dives here are a mix of thrilling drifts and placid coral sites. Besides hammerhead sharks, expect manta rays, dolphins, and even the occasional whale shark. This remote paradise is a 36-hour journey from the main port of Puntarenas.

Bajo Alcyone: Here, hammerhead sharks swirl around divers in captivating formations.
Dirty Rock: A site with a mix of white tip sharks, eagle rays, and hammerheads.
Dos Amigos: Famous for its large arch and the plethora of marine life it shelters.

Cano Island Closer to the mainland, approximately a 90-minute boat ride from Drake Bay, this island is renowned for its reef sharks, rays, and turtles. Dive spots like El Bajo del Diablo provide a mix of deep dives and serene underwater experiences. A blend of reef sharks, rays, colorful fish, and turtles.

Bat Islands (Islas Murciélagos) Known for the bull sharks of Big Scare, these islands are a must-visit for the thrill-seekers. Predominantly bull sharks, but also manta rays and schools of jackfish. Typically around a 60-minute boat ride from Playas del Coco.

The water temperatures in Costa Rica generally range from 24°C to 30°C (75-86°F) in Cocos island and around 27°C to 30°C (81-86°F) in Cano and Bat Island.

While diving is possible year-round, the best time is during the dry season, between December and May. However, those seeking the magnificent sight of hammerhead schools should consider August to September at Cocos Island.

Whether you're an adrenaline junkie seeking a bull shark encounter or someone looking to drift calmly alongside manta rays, liveaboard diving in Costa Rica is bound to leave an indelible mark on your diving journey.

When To go?

Costa Rica offers great diving throughout the year, but the best time depends on the specific region and what you hope to see. December to April is the dry season, offering calmer seas and better visibility.

Cocos Island is best visited during the rainy season from June to December, which is when the hammerhead sharks and other pelagic life are most active.

Humpback whales can be seen from December to April as they migrate through the region.

Tips For Travellers

Language: The official language of Costa Rica is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Currency: Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency. US dollars are accepted in many places, but it's a good idea to have local currency for smaller transactions.

Visas: Many nationalities can enter Costa Rica for 90 days without a visa. However, always check visa requirements for your country before traveling.

Health & Safety: Costa Rica has a good health infrastructure. Recommended vaccines include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (if coming from an endemic area). Stick to bottled water, and always follow safety guidelines during activities.

How to get there & Ports of Departure?

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO): Near the capital, San José, it’s the primary entry point for many divers. Closer to the Guanacaste region and Playas del Coco there is Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR).

Puntarenas is the primary port for Cocos Island liveaboards.Drake Bay is the closest port to Caño Island and Playas del Coco is the starting point for Bat Islands trips.

Essential Travel Tips for Liveaboard Adventures

Marine Park Fees: Be aware of per person, per day marine park fees. Some liveaboard packages include these fees, while others require onboard payment. Payment options include Visa, Mastercard, cash, or travelers checks.
Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your planned entry date. Most countries require this, along with a return ticket. Check visa requirements in advance at www.mfa.gov.eg.
Health Preparations: Consult your doctor 8 weeks prior to your trip for vaccinations or preventive measures recommended for your destination.

Note: Please review the specific terms and conditions of your chosen liveaboard for any additional marine park fees or travel requirements.