Sea of Cortez

A Voyage Unlike Any Other

In the Sea of Cortez, animal migrations happen here, there, and everywhere, at different times of year. A liveaboard is often the best way to reach the diving hotspots. Most liveaboards will focus on one particular animal migration: orca whales, sardine run, whale sharks, etc. No matter which adventure you choose, you will enjoy a luxurious, modern vessel with first-class amenities. The ultimate pleasure cruise.

If you prefer land-based accommodations, see our page on La Paz.

Best time to travel: We recommend October through December when the water is warm and you can dive with the sea lions. August – October the water temp ranges from 75°F to 85°F, and you will see schools of fish, sea lions and maybe some manta rays.  You can dive year round but keep in mind water temps can be really cold January – May, and very low visibility.  Diving: Boat.  Underwater Life: hawksbill turtles, trumpet fish, wrasse, hogfish, spotted drum fish, amberjacks, lobster, octopus, and even long snout seahorses. Level: All.  Sea Temps: 80°F – 85°F Air Temps: 70°F – 85°F.  Accommodations: Liveaboard.

Sea of Cortez Liveaboards

A liveaboard is the best way to find where the action is happening, and drop yourself right into the middle of it. Some dive operators use a spotter aircraft to locate migrating animals, but the crews are pretty good at anticipating where marine life will congregate.

Keep in mind that the Sea of Cortez is highly seasonal and the water can get quite cold during certain times of year, with fluctuating visibility. Even during warmer seasons, there can be a 10-degree thermocline at deeper depths.

You will enjoy a Sea of Cortez liveaboard…

If You Want to See Pelagic Animals
Not to be redundant, but… there’s big animals here. Pack your action cam, underwater camera, and extra memory cards.

If You’re Seeking a Convenient Vacation
The Sea of Cortez is easy for Americans to reach. Fly into Cabo and your liveaboard will depart from either Cabo or La Paz (the liveaboard operators will arrange transportation from the airport).

Rocio Del Mar offers a couple liveaboards that pick you up from Phoenix and take you across the border to the beautiful resort city of Puerto Peñasco, where your vessel departs.

Nautilus Belle Amie

The Nautilus Belle Amie is a modern, purpose-built liveaboard designed specifically for the remote and exhilarating waters of Socorro. 

Offering an experience that feels more like a boutique hotel at sea than a traditional dive boat, the Belle Amie’s well-appointed suites provide privacy, space, and refined comfort, giving divers the perfect place to unwind after a day of underwater adventure. Every detail of her design was thoughtfully planned to enhance the guest experience, from her expansive layout to her sleek, contemporary finishes.

Nautilus Explorer

The Explorer is the flagship vessel, recently enhanced to offer an exceptional liveaboard experience. With a striking new length of 132 feet, she now features a super-sized dive deck and a water-level platform, making gearing up and entering the water more seamless than ever.

Her design also includes panoramic picture windows in the main salon, allowing for stunning ocean views throughout the day, and a dedicated dining room that adds a touch of comfort and elegance to every meal.

Rocio Del Mar

The Rocio del Mar is a 110-foot liveaboard with a 25-foot beam, specifically custom-designed and built with divers in mind.  Rocio del Mar accommodates up to 20 divers, with a well-organized dive deck.  A spacious camera table with numerous power outlets and compressed air is available for photographers. The vessel provides 80 cubic foot aluminum tanks that are DIN and yoke compatible, along with weights and belts.

Diving operations are conducted using two 18-foot Achilles inflatable pangas, each manned by a driver who remains attentive to diver safety throughout the excursion. Rocio del Mar offers a seamless and supportive dive experience, combining comfort, safety, and thoughtful service for divers of all levels with the required experience.

A liveaboard will grant you gorgeous views of the arid Mexican coastline, with unforgettable sunsets. The views, whale watching, and land-based excursions make this a fun trip for snorkelers and non-divers. You can also book a few days of topside fun in Baja, before or after the liveaboard.

  • WhaleWatching
  • Kayaking
  • Snorkeling
  • Mexican Cuisine
  • Star Gazing
  • Beach Combing
  • Guided Desert Hikes