About Mexico Liveaboard Diving
Dive into a World of Colorful Reefs, Giant Mantas, and Unknown Wonders Below the Surface of Mexico diving.
Divers onboard a liveaboard in Mexico can anticipate doing 3 to 4 dives per day, depending on the weather and itinerary of course. Explore Mexico's breathtaking Cenotes, get up close and personal with a great white shark, or swim with a pod of humpback whales, yes all of this is truly possible diving in Mexico.
Socorro Island: The Manta Ray Capital
Situated some 400 km (250 miles) off the Baja Peninsula, the Socorro Islands, also known as the 'Mexican Galapagos,' are a prime location for divers seeking intimate encounters with large pelagic species. Socorro is a magnet for:
- Giant manta rays: With their graceful flights, they're known to approach divers for a playful interaction.
- Dolphins: They're not just swimming by — they're eager to interact.
- Whales: Humpback whales can be seen, especially between January and March.
- Sharks: From hammerheads to silky sharks, the variety here is unmatched.
Water temperatures range from 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) to 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit), and visibility can be anywhere from 15 meters (49 feet) to 50 meters (164 feet).
Popular areas for diving in Socorro on a Mexico liveaboard are: San Benedicto, Roca Partida, and Clarion Island.
Sea Of Cortez: Aquarium of the World
Jacques Cousteau, the renowned marine explorer, once called the Sea of Cortez the 'world's aquarium,' and it's simple to see why. Located between Baja California and the Mexican mainland, this body of water is a diver's paradise due to its rich marine life. Some notable examples of marine life are:
- Sea lions: Dive in and play with these frolicsome creatures.
- Moray eels, colorful reef fish, and nudibranchs: They paint the seascapes with vibrant colors.
- Whalesharks: These gentle giants frequent these waters, especially near La Paz.
- Mobula rays: Watching their mass gatherings is a spectacle in itself.
One of the few coral reefs in this region is located at another popular diving spot known as Cabo Pulmo.
Guadalupe: The Great White Arena
Cage diving with great white sharks is a popular activity in Guadalupe, which makes it a wonderful destination for thrill-seekers looking for an exciting new experience. The visibility is exceptional here, frequently reaching more than one hundred feet, making it an ideal location for photographers who wish to get up close and personal with these magnificent animals.
When To go?
Diving in Mexico is amazing all year round, however to get the most out of your time there you should consider:
- Socorro Islands: November to May. This is when the waters are calmest and visibility is best. Water temperatures hover around 70°F-80°F (21°C-27°C).
- Sea of Cortez: June to November. Expect water temperatures between 64°F-86°F (18°C-30°C).
- Guadalupe: August to October is the prime time for shark encounters. Water temperatures are relatively cooler at 65°F-75°F (18°C-24°C).
Tips For Travelers
The Mexican peso (MXN) is the official currency of Mexico. Largely the liveaboards also accept US Dollar ($).
A minimum of 50 dives and an Advanced Open Water certification are often required to dive with a liveaboard in Mexico.
Wall sockets are identical to the US with 127V standard voltage. If you are not traveling from the United States, be sure to include an adaptor for all of your electrical devices.
Ensure you have insurance that covers diving-related incidents. Liveaboard diving in Mexico can bring you to remote areas from where rescue can be challenging.
How to get there & Ports of Departure?
Major international airports include Mexico City (MEX), Cancun (CUN), and Los Cabos (SJD).
Most of the liveaboards depart from the ports of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, cities in the southernmost municipality of Los Cabos, Baja California.
Most liveaboard passengers fly through Los Cabos International Airport, which serves as a hub for flights from North America and other Mexico cities.
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.
- 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.
