Socorro & the Revillagigedo Islands—if you know, you know, and if you’re an avid scuba diver, they’re probably on your bucket list. Nestled in the Pacific Ocean, about 250 miles off the southern coast of Baja, Mexico, lies a hidden gem that beckons advanced scuba divers. Often referred to as the “Galápagos of Mexico,” this remote archipelago, comprised of Socorro, San Benedicto, and Roca Partida, is considered by divers to be one of the most amazing big animal dive destinations on our planet!

The waters surrounding these islands are renowned for their exceptional scuba diving, offering an unparalleled opportunity to encounter a diverse array of marine creatures. From the curious manta rays and playful dolphins to the elusive hammerhead sharks and majestic humpback whales, the underwater world here is as thrilling as it is beautiful. The islands are a UNESCO World Heritage site and are highly protected and regulated, ensuring that their pristine condition is maintained for future generations to enjoy. Our expeditions will take place during prime season in the Revillagigedo Islands, when humpback whales are migrating through and sea conditions are the most comfortable.

The unique interactions with the beautiful creatures of Socorro are what scuba diving dreams are made of. Diving here is emotional. Imagine a massive oceanic manta ray spotting you from afar, and seeking you out. Swimming directly to your face to look you in the eye and then spending the next 20 minutes circling you as if she wants to begin a conversation. Picture pods of dolphins that actively seek out divers beckoning them to play. All the while white tip sharks gather in piles of dozens, schools of shy hammerheads create choreographed walls out in the blue, and huge tiger sharks patrol the depths. These are the Revillagigedo Islands!

Our unforgettable journey will begin in the vibrant city of Cabo San Lucas, where the bustling marina will serve as our gateway to adventure. Neverland will set sail equipped with all the equipment, amenities, and safety gear to ensure a comfortable and safe voyage.

Our expedition to the islands will require about two days each way, so we recommend a total trip duration of between 9-12 nights to make sure we have enough time to enjoy diving at this remote destination. To optimize diving logistics, we also recommend having a crew of four guests to join us. During our long passages, you’ll become an integral part of our crew. Imagine the thrill of keeping watch overnight, the serenity of the starlit sky above you, and the anticipation of the adventures that await. Daytime offers the perfect opportunity to try your hand at fishing, with the possibility of catching a variety of species that inhabit these rich waters. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a novice, we’ll guide you through every step, making the journey as enriching as the destination.

It is not permitted to go ashore at any of the islands in the Revillagigedo Islands, so once you step aboard Neverland at the beginning of the trip, your feet won’t touch land again until we return to Cabo San Lucas at the end of the trip.

The Boiler

Located off the northwest coast of San Benedicto Island, this renowned dive site is named after a volcanic underwater rock formation that creates a natural “boiler” effect on the surface with the swell and surge over the top of the rock. Here, divers are often greeted by the graceful dance of giant manta rays, some with wingspans reaching over 20 feet. The oceanic manta rays here behave unlike anywhere else in the world. These gentle giants, often accompanied by cleaner fish, seem to seek out divers for attention. Imagine floating eye to eye with a 20 foot wide ocean giant, watching her eyes track yours as if she wants to start a conversation with you. Or looking above you to see one of the massive creatures enjoying a little spa treatment in your exhaled bubbles. It’s surreal. But even better, normally it isn’t just one manta. Sometimes there can be upwards of 10 oceanic manta rays around us on one dive. We’ll get to enjoy watching how they interact with each other and seeing them gliding through the water following or spiraling around each other. The Boiler is also a hotspot for other pelagic species, including silky sharks and dolphins, providing a truly immersive and exhilarating experience. 

El Canyon

El Canyon is located near the southern tip of San Benedicto Island. Known for its dramatic underwater topography, El Canyon features steep walls and rugged terrains that attract a plethora of marine species. This site is particularly famous for its shark encounters. Expect to see Galápagos sharks, silky sharks, and occasionally even the elusive tiger shark. The cleaning stations here are a hive of activity, with various fish species coming in to be cleaned by smaller reef fish. This symbiotic relationship is a spectacle in itself and offers divers a front-row seat to one of nature’s fascinating processes. The presence of giant manta rays and occasional whale sharks adds to the allure of this remarkable dive site.

Cabo Pearce

Cabo Pearce is situated on the eastern side of Socorro Island. This dive site is a magnet for large marine life, making it a favorite among underwater photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Schools of hammerhead sharks patrol the deep blue, while playful pods of dolphins often make a surprise appearance, adding an element of spontaneity to your dive. During the humpback whale season, you may even hear their haunting songs resonating through the water, a magical backdrop to your underwater adventure. The diverse topography of Cabo Pearce, with its pinnacles and ridges, provides an ever-changing underwater landscape that is as fascinating as the creatures that inhabit it. 

Punta Tosca

Punta Tosca, situated on the rugged coastline of Socorro Island, offers divers a unique and enchanting underwater experience, particularly praised for its exceptional night diving opportunities. The site’s varied topography includes rocky outcrops, sandy bottoms, and lush coral gardens, providing diverse habitats for marine life. Night diving at Punta Tosca is an experience not to be missed, with the underwater world transforming as the sun sets, revealing the hidden behaviors of its aquatic inhabitants.

By day, divers can witness a bustling marine metropolis, with schools of colorful fish, rays, and the occasional shark passing by. Lobsters, moray eels, and other critters find refuge among the rocks and crevices. However, it’s during the night that Punta Tosca truly comes alive. Sharks and rays exhibit unique hunting behaviors, while nocturnal creatures like octopuses and squid make their appearance, creating a mesmerizing underwater spectacle. 

Roca Partida

Conditions permitting, the last stop on our dive expedition is Roca Partida, a remote pinnacle that rises from the depths of the Pacific Ocean. This iconic dive site is a vertical wall that plunges into the abyss, providing a dramatic backdrop for some of the most awe-inspiring underwater encounters. The nutrient-rich currents around Roca Partida attract a multitude of pelagic species. Massive schools of jacks and tuna swirl around the rock, while white-tip reef sharks and silver-tip sharks patrol the waters. One of the highlights of diving here is the chance to see humpback whales during their migration season. Imagine swimming alongside these gentle giants, an experience that transcends the ordinary and leaves a lasting impression on your soul.

Flight info: Los Cabos International Airport (SJD)
Currency: The Peso (MXN) is the currency of Mexico, but USD is widely accepted
Electricity: On board Neverland is US 110v. We have US-style and USB outlets in every room
Communications: Neverland has on board wi-fi with high speed internet
We’ve got you covered: bath & beach towels, bedding, shower essentials, ScubaPro snorkel & dive gear, and dive lights
What to bring: soft-sided luggage, swimwear, sunscreen, beachwear, rain jacket, hat, sunglasses, music, books, camera, and personal snorkel/dive gear and wetsuit if you prefer