Liveaboards
Liveaboards
For those seeking the ultimate ocean adventure, liveaboard diving offers an unparalleled way to explore the remote corners of the Pacific. The Solmar V, a pioneer in the world of liveaboard dive boats, has been navigating the pristine waters of the Socorro and Guadalupe Islands since 1992. This iconic vessel takes divers far beyond the reach of day trips into a realm where giant manta rays, hammerhead sharks, and even humpback whales travel across the pacific.
With air-conditioned cabins, a spacious salon, and all the amenities needed for multi-day expeditions including unlimited Nitrox, the Solmar V ensures every guest experiences comfort, safety, and pure oceanic exhilaration. The experienced crew, gourmet meals, and deep respect for marine ecosystems make every journey not just a dive trip, but a conservation driven journey into some of the world’s most inspiring underwater habitats.
The encounters
we offer 5 epic expeditions that redefine ocean exploration
Socorro Islands (9 Nights | November–June)
Welcome to the “Galápagos of North America,” a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 240 miles off Mexico’s Pacific coast. The Revillagigedo Archipelago including Socorro, San Benedicto, and Roca Partida is legendary for big animal encounters.
Giant oceanic manta rays (with 20+ foot wingspans!) often approach divers curiously, circling and making eye contact.
Dive with up to 7 species of sharks, including hammerheads, Galápagos sharks, silky sharks, and the elusive tiger shark.
Seasonal highlights include humpback whale sightings during migration and playful dolphin pods that interact with divers underwater.
This is pelagic paradise for serious divers seeking unmatched thrill and biodiversity.
Sea of Cortez (7 Nights | July–October)
Dubbed by Jacques Cousteau as “The World’s Aquarium,” the Sea of Cortez offers some of the richest marine life in North America.
Encounter massive schools of mobula rays, whale sharks, sea lions, orca, and even the occasional blue whale.
Dive in colorful reefs teeming with tropical fish, eels, nudibranchs, and seahorses.
Excellent visibility and warm waters make this a dream for underwater photographers and marine life lovers.
This expedition balances mega fauna with macro magic, all in warm, protected waters just a few hours from Baja California’s coastline.
Mag Bay + Socorro (11 Nights | October–November)
This combo expedition delivers two world class experiences in one epic voyage.
Start at Magdalena Bay, famous for one of nature’s wildest phenomena: baitball feeding frenzies with striped marlin, sea lions, and seabirds slashing through silvery sardine swarms.
Then head out to Socorro to dive with manta rays, sharks, and dolphins in dramatic volcanic seascapes.
Perfect for those who crave fast-paced action and deep blue solitude, this expedition blends coastal energy with offshore majesty.
Sea of Cortez Unlimited (10 Nights | August–September)
For those who want more time, more dives, and more marine life, this extended trip is your answer.
Visit remote islands, secret reefs, and seldom-dived pinnacles where mobula rays leap, dolphins race your boat, and giant whale sharks patrol the shallows.
Daily encounters with sea lions, reef sharks, baitballs, and octopus keep every dive exciting.
Enjoy peaceful evenings under starry skies in calm anchorages surrounded by Baja’s desert-meets-sea magic.
This is a biodiversity buffet, made for divers who want to explore every drop of the Sea of Cortez.
Guadalupe Island (5 Nights | Currently Paused)
Located 150 miles off the coast of Baja California, Guadalupe is the world’s premier destination for cage diving with great white sharks.
Visibility often exceeds 100 feet, offering crystal-clear, adrenaline-fueled views of 15–18 foot apex predators.
Surface cages and submersible cages provide safe, immersive experiences with these ocean giants.
Please note: Guadalupe is currently closed to tourism. We remain hopeful for its reopening.
When active, this trip is a bucket-list favorite for shark lovers and thrill seekers.
amenities
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)
whats included
Unlimited Nitrox (certification required)
Up to 4 dives per day (weather dependent)
All meals, snacks, non-alcoholic drinks
Tanks, weights, and weight belts
Marine park fees (unless otherwise noted)
Transfers from designated pick-up point in port city
Requirments
Certification: Open Water minimum; Advanced + Nitrox highly recommended
Experience: At least 50 logged dives for Socorro, less required 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
and what is not
Flights and airport transfers
Alcohol (beer/wine available for purchase onboard)
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)
Booking tips
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
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.
