Sea of Cortez
Sea of Cortez
The Sea of Cortez, a living masterpiece called “The Aquarium of the World” by Jacques Cousteau. Aboard the Solmar V, you’ll dive into a world teeming with life where vibrant coral reefs meet towering underwater rock formations and every turn unveils a new marine wonder.
Playful sea lions, elegant hammerhead sharks, and swirling schools of tropical fish share this ocean paradise with super pods of dolphins and acrobatic mobula rays. With nearly 900 fish species, 77 of which are found nowhere else on Earth, this sea is a hotspot of evolution and biodiversity.
Above the waves, seabirds nest on rugged islands. Below, whales migrate, feed, and raise their young. Blue whales, humpbacks, grey whales, sperm whales, pilot whales, and more gather in this nutrient-rich sanctuary.
Whether you’re an experienced diver or a wide-eyed nature lover, the Sea of Cortez promises an unforgettable journey into one of the most biologically rich marine environments on the planet.
The Itinerary
Day 1
Embark and cross into the Sea of Cortez
Day 2
Dive Cabo Pulmo – vibrant reefs and big schools of fish
Day 3
Dive Cerralvo Island – pelagic zone and epic encounters
Day 4
Dive Isla San José – remote walls and desert beauty
Day 5
Dive Las Ánimas – dramatic pinnacles and sea lions
Day 6
Dive El Bajo – hammerheads and powerful currents
Day 7
Dive Espíritu Santo – coral gardens and playful sea lions
Day 8
Disembark in San José del Cabo after breakfast
Also ask for our 15 day expedition
Certification: Open Water minimum; Advanced + Nitrox highly recommended
Experience: At least 30 logged dives for Sea of Cortez
Passport: Valid for at least 6 months; Mexican visa not required for most nationalities
Travel Insurance: Required for all guests
Medical Form: Must be filled and signed prior to trip
No-touch policy: Strict adherence to responsible wildlife interaction
Amenities
Requirements
Air-conditioned cabins with ensuite bathrooms (2 twins or 1 double configuration)
Spacious salon with entertainment system
Dining area with chef-prepared meals (vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free options available with notice)
Dive deck with personal storage, rinse tanks, showers
Camera table and charging stations for photographers
Sun deck for relaxation between dives
Wi-Fi: Limited satellite internet available (email/basic messaging only)
What’s included
Unlimited Nitrox (certification required)
Up to 4 dives per day (weather dependent)
All meals, snacks, beer and wine during dinner, and an option for hard liquor
Tanks, weights, and weight belts
Marine park fees (unless otherwise noted)
Transfers from designated pick-up point in port city
What is not
Flights and airport transfers
Crew tips (recommended $250–$350 USD per diver)
Dive gear rental (full set rental approx. $150–200 USD/trip)
Trip insurance (required), dive accident insurance (DAN or similar)
Plan ahead: Trips fill up 6–12 months in advance, especially Socorro & Mag Bay
Deposit: Typically 30–50% to confirm booking; balance due 90 days before departure
Cancellation policy: Review terms carefully—many liveaboards are non-refundable after deposit
Ask about group rates or private charters if booking for multiple guests or travel influencers
Booking tips
At DIP Expeditions, every journey aboard the Solmar V is more than just an adventure—it’s a commitment to the ocean. Each expedition directly supports marine research and conservation efforts in the Revillagigedo Archipelago and the Sea of Cortez, while also empowering local communities and partnering with Baja-based suppliers. Onboard, we follow low-waste practices and enforce reef-safe diving policies to minimize our environmental footprint. When you travel with us, you’re not only exploring extraordinary marine ecosystems—you’re helping to protect them. Travel with purpose. Dive with heart. Protect what you love.
