When it comes to remote liveaboard trips, it often takes an entire day or more of traveling with several connecting flights. Fortunately, Mexico Liveaboards has one of the most underrated destinations in mind, and it only takes one domestic flight to get there for most U.S. passengers.
The Midriff Islands in the northern region of the Sea of Cortez were called “The World’s Aquarium” by Jacques Cousteau. It’s common for divers to encounter the best of both worlds, such as several different whale species, turtles and sea lions, but will also experience the macro marine world such as nudibranches and sea horses. The itinerary also caters to snorkelers, for those accompanying family members who don’t dive.
Passengers simply fly to Phoenix, Arizona, where they will board a bus at 1 p.m. that will take them across the border to Puerto Peñasco where they will board the vessel by 5 p.m. Both ships, the Rocio Del Mar and the Quino El Guardian, make the journey. The itinerary is eight days, and seven nights with six days of diving. Costs vary depending on the year and choice of ship.
2022
- Rocio del Mar – US$2895/~€2,925 per person, double occupancy
- Quino el Guardian – $2300/~€2,323 per person, quad occupancy
2023/2024
- Rocio del Mar – $2995/~€3,026 per person, double occupancy
- Quino el Guardian – $2400/~€2,425 per person, quad occupancy
Prices include all taxes, port fees, meals, beverages, tanks, weights and complimentary beer and wine. The only things not included are:
- $28 Park Fee
- $120 Nitrox (if you want it)
- Transfers to and from the boat
- Crew gratuity (typically 10%-15% of the fare)
(Note: Park fees are subject to change without notice.)
In addition to the Midriff Islands trip, Mexico Liveaboards offers three other itineraries that include the Socorro Islands, a more expansive Sea of Cortez adventure and one that just explores the Southern Sea of Cortez.
For more information, go to mexicoliveaboards.com.
— by Robbie Harper
