Unveiling the Thrills of Socorro Liveaboard Diving

About Socorro Liveaboard Diving

A Socorro liveaboard trip is a pilgrimage for the passionate diver, a journey to the edges of the earth.

Part of Mexico liveaboard, Socorro Island itself is the largest of the Revillagigedo Islands, at about 16.5 kilometers (10.2 miles) wide and 11.5 kilometers (7.1 miles) long. The island is the summit of a massive shield volcano that rises from the seabed, and it's the most topographically diverse of the group, with Mount Evermann, an extinct volcano, reaching up to 1,050 meters (3,445 feet) above sea level.

The history of Socorro

Historically, Socorro was discovered by Spanish explorers in the mid-16th century. It was named after the vessel that sighted the island on December 19, 1533, the feast day of Saint Leocadia, although the name Socorro (which means 'help' or 'relief' in Spanish) later took hold. Over the centuries, the island has had various uses, including as a military base, a penal colony, and a strategic lookout point during World Wars.

The islands have been relatively untouched by human presence over the years, partly due to their isolation and partly because of their status as a protected area. In 1994, the Revillagigedo Archipelago was designated as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, and in 2016 it was further protected as a national park by Mexico. In 2017, the archipelago's status was elevated once more when it was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Socorro Dive Sites Not to Miss

Socorro Island

Socorro Island is a pinnacle of diving splendor, where the Pacific's clear waters unveil dramatic underwater volcanic formations, including sheer walls and deep drop-offs that are teeming with life. Divers are drawn to Socorro for the chance to interact with the large populations of giant manta rays, playful dolphins, and schools of hammerhead sharks. The best time to visit is from November to May, when the water clarity is at its peak and the island's renowned visitors, the humpback whales, are likely to make an appearance, making every dive an unforgettable encounter with the ocean's most majestic inhabitants.

Popular dive sites in Socorro Island are Cabo Pearce and Punta Tosca. Cabo Pearce is a corridor for dolphins, and divers often find themselves surrounded by curious pods. The underwater volcanic formations create a unique landscape for exploration, and the acoustic environment is unlike any other.

Punta Tosca, the night dive here is surreal, with manta rays and sharks attracted to the light. During the day, the water's clarity allows for exceptional photography opportunities, especially with the play of light through the water.

Clarion Island

This remote outpost serves as a nursery for sharks, with juveniles often spotted in its shallows. The dive sites here have a frontier-like feel, suitable for those looking to escape the more frequented paths and dive into the unspoiled marine wilderness.

While it's the farthest island and less frequented, Clarion rewards with unmatched clarity and a wild, untamed underwater landscape. Divers often spot large pelagics and can explore lava-formed archways and tunnels.

San Benedicto

San Benedicto, the second star in the Revillagigedo constellation of Socorro liveaboard, is a diver's paradise, renowned for up-close interactions with the ocean's gentle giants. The island's underwater terrain features dramatic lava flows and rock formations, which serve as a playground for a diverse array of marine life. Divers here are often greeted by the famous giant Pacific manta rays, known for their curious and sociable nature, alongside a variety of sharks including the silky, Galapagos, and the occasional schooling hammerheads.

Between November and May, when the waters are calmest and visibility is highest, San Benedicto offers some of the most intimate wildlife encounters, with the winter months particularly favorable for spotting migrating humpback whales.

Popular dive sites in San Benedicto are The Boiler, and the Canyon. At The Boiler, divers are welcomed by the awe-inspiring sight of giant manta rays with wingspans that can reach up to 7 meters. The cleaning stations attract these gentle giants, offering divers close-up encounters. The warm waters are bustling with jacks, tunas, and the occasional curious dolphin.

The Canyon, divers can expect to see a plethora of shark species, including silvertips and Galapagos sharks. The unique topography forms channels and caves that serve as thoroughfares for passing pelagics.

Roca Partida

This is the pinnacle of Socorro liveaboard diving, quite literally. The sheer cliffs of this tiny island are home to vast schools of fish, and divers can float alongside the oceanic whitetip sharks, tuna, and even witness the magnificent whale shark.

Roca Partida is the smallest of the diveable rocks in the archipelago, yet it's the gathering place for a carnival of marine life. It's a symphony of movement where every glance offers a new sight — from schools of hammerhead sharks to passing mantas and playful sea lions.

Diving experience required

Diving in Socorro is not recommended for beginners due to its open ocean conditions, depth, and potential for strong currents. It is advised that divers have an Advanced Open Water certification with experience in deep and drift diving. Moreover, a minimum of 50 logged dives is often recommended to ensure comfort and safety in these waters. Many liveaboards offer the opportunity to complete advanced training en route to the dive sites, allowing divers to hone their skills before they arrive.