The Revillagigedo Archipelago, known as the “Galápagos of Mexico,” is one of the most stunning and remote destinations for divers in the world. This group of volcanic islands, which includes Socorro, San Benedicto, Roca Partida, and Clarión, is located in the Pacific Ocean about 400 kilometers off the Mexican coast.
These islands are a unique marine sanctuary designated as a National Park in 2017 to protect their extraordinary marine ecosystems, ensure the conservation of their unique biodiversity, and allow for scientific research in a pristine environment. This protection is essential to maintain the health of our oceans and preserve this natural heritage for future generations.
Diving in Revillagigedo is a sensory-challenging experience that rewards those seeking unforgettable encounters with marine megafauna. Here, the waters are inhabited by giant mantas, sharks, humpback whales, dolphins, and a wide variety of fish. Some species are endemic to the region, meaning they are not found anywhere else in the world.
A liveaboard is the best way to explore this underwater paradise. You will spend several days aboard a boat specifically designed for divers, maximizing your dives in one of the most wonderful places in the Americas. However, diving in Revillagigedo is not for novice divers. The potential for strong currents, deep dives, and the wild nature of the environment require preparation and respect.
If you are planning your first liveaboard in Revillagigedo, this article will provide you with basic tips to ensure your adventure is safe, successful, and, above all, unforgettable.
1. Physical and Mental Condition
A good level of physical conditioning will help make your experience and safety in Revillagigedo more enjoyable. Dives in the archipelago often involve currents and depth, so accumulated fatigue throughout the trip may arise. Such conditions can be challenging, so maintaining calm and focus is crucial to enjoying your journey.
2. Proper Gear
– Wetsuit: The water temperature in the Revillagigedo Archipelago varies depending on the season and the depths at which you dive. Thickness: A wetsuit of 5-7 mm is recommended due to the variability of water temperature, especially in winter and during deep dives. Hood and Gloves: Consider bringing a hood and gloves if you are sensitive to cold.
– Dive Computer: A dive computer is essential for monitoring depth, dive time, and decompression limits. Since Revillagigedo involves multiple deep dives, having a reliable computer is crucial for safety.
– Buoyancy Control Device (BCD) and Regulator: BCD (a reliable buoyancy vest is essential, especially in strong currents). Regulator: Ensure your regulator is in good condition.
– Fins, Mask, and Snorkel: Fins (choose fins designed for currents that provide good propulsion); Mask (bring a well-fitting and comfortable mask. Consider packing a spare) and Snorkel (while optional, a snorkel can be useful to conserve air at the surface).
– Surface Marker Buoys (SMB) and Reel: Currents can be strong, so it’s advisable to carry a surface marker buoy (SMB) and a reel to signal your location in case you get separated from the group or for safety stops.
– Dive Lights: Although night dives are not conducted in Revillagigedo, a dive light is useful for exploring crevices or darker areas and for signaling.
At Solmar V, we provide 12L tanks and Nitrox, as well as any weights you need. If you require to rent part of your gear, please contact us to specify what you need.
3. Knowledge of the Environment
Familiarize yourself with the various species you may encounter and learn to recognize them during your dives. Here’s a gallery of photos of everything you can find in this marine paradise.
4. Trip Planning
Reservations and Documentation: Book your liveaboard in advance, as Revillagigedo is a highly sought-after destination. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation, including dive permits and passports.
5. Necessary Documentation for Diving in Revillagigedo
– Diving Certification: Level: It is recommended to have at least an Advanced Open Water certification due to the deep dives and strong currents in Revillagigedo.
– Specialties: Additional certifications in deep diving and current management can be useful.
– Dive and Travel Insurance: Dive insurance is mandatory for all trips on the Solmar V, and you will be asked to show proof of insurance prior to the trip. Your dive insurance needs to cover unlimited scuba diving, treatment in the hyperbaric chamber, any other dive-related medical treatment, and most importantly, air evacuation. Please note that most medical insurances that cover treatment in the hyperbaric chamber do not include air evacuation.
We highly recommend DiveAssure Dive & Travel Insurance for a trip on the Solmar V. You can purchase it through us by following this link.
Other dive insurances are accepted as long as the coverage is sufficient.
Travel insurance is mandatory and needs to cover all expenses not associated with Solmar V.
– Passport and Visa: Passport (ensure your passport is valid for the entire duration of the trip); Visa (check if you need a visa to enter Mexico, depending on your nationality).
5. Responsible Behavior
– Respect Marine Life: Do not touch or chase marine animals. Revillagigedo is a protected area, and it is vital for all divers to respect the ecosystem.
– Waste Management: Keep the boat and diving areas free of trash. Any waste must be properly managed to protect marine life.
6. Make the Most of the Liveaboard Experience
– Continuous Learning: Take advantage of the opportunity to learn from guides and other experienced divers.
– Enjoy the Surroundings: Diving isn’t everything. Enjoy your time onboard, whether it’s observing the volcanic landscape, snorkeling, or simply relaxing and sharing experiences with fellow divers.
Revillagigedo is a magical place, and a liveaboard is the best way to explore it thoroughly. With good preparation and attitude, this adventure will become an unforgettable experience.
