Nautilus Belle Amie Itinerary

Super Combo - Socorro and Bait Ball Plus Mexico Sardine Run

How do I get there?
Cabo San Lucas is the primary departure point for trips to Socorro and the Revillagigedo Islands. The region's transit hub, San José del Cabo, receives regular international flights from the United States, Canada, Western Europe, and Asia. From here, visitors will need to connect to Cabo San Lucas via bus, taxi, transfer, or private transport.

Where should I stay before or after the trip?
There is an extensive range of hotels in Cabo San Lucas, and your operator will usually help you book a suitable hotel. The liveaboard operators normally work with partner hotels and may even run a scheduled transfer service including pick-up.

Do I need insurance?
All guests are required to purchase medical diving insurance and to provide proof of valid insurance from a recognised and reputable carrier. Travel insurance is important and highly recommended but not mandatory.

Do I need a passport and visa?
All guests must have a passport valid 6 months from entry. All non-Mexican guests will require an FMM tourist visa, available at the border crossing, or a visa in advance. Please check your county’s requirements for entry into Mexico.

What should I pack?
As space is limited, pack light! Bring personal toiletries, clothes for cool evenings and hot days, a hat and sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen. A 5-7mm full length wetsuit, with hood and boots is likely enough, but those that feel the cold should consider extra thermal protection. Dive computers are essential, as are SMBs, which some operators provide for free. Unless you plan on renting equipment for your trip, you’ll need your usual dive gear, including regulators, BCD, computer, mask, wetsuit, booties and fins. 

How long is the crossing and will I get seasick?
The crossing is typically 24 - 26 hours, weather dependent. The majority of crossings will have some movement, and 1 in 10 is rough. If you do feel seasick, we recommend using medication, and having a nap on each crossing. Once at the islands, the vessel can usually find shelter.

When is the best time to go?
The Socorro diving season runs from November through July, and is superb at any time of year. January through April is whale season, but May, June and July often offer the largest biomass with mantas, dolphins, sharks and bait balls all on the cards.

Do I need to be a certified diver?
Yes, you will be required to show proof of certification before boarding. Most Socorro liveaboards recommend divers have a minimum of 50 logged dives before joining a trip in the region.

How much diving will I get to do?
You can expect to do anywhere between 20-30 dives, depending on the length of your trip. Most operators aim for an average of 3 dive per day, with some offering up to 4 divers per day in shallow areas.

What are the conditions like?
Surface weather is similar to southern California, with warm days and chilly nights - so bring a sweatshirt or wind breaker for the evenings. Water temperatures average 26-28°C between November and January, when conditions are at their best. From February through April, colder waters and winds sweep in, with sea temperatures averaging around 23-24°C. Visibility can reduce between May and July, though rarely drops below 20-metres, and temperatures begin to rise again.

Can I use wifi or a phone on board?
All liveaboards have satellite phones for emergency use. Some offer wifi packages and phone use for a fee.

What happens if there’s an emergency?
There is a navy decompression chamber on Socorro Island, and civilian chambers located in Cabo San Lucas. Socorro Island also features a 1.5-kilometre airstrip in case of emergency medevac flights. A single flight costs a minimum of US$10,000 and if you don’t have adequate insurance, you will have to prepay. 

You can drop your bags off and check-in whenever it’s most convenient, as long as you are at SeeCreatures in Cabo by 4pm for the pre-boarding health check. After your health check you are free to enjoy a nice dinner or evening walk. Please arrive back to SeeCreatures by 7:15pm for the mandatory safety video before boarding the boat at 8pm. Enjoy dinner onboard as the vessel sets sail. 

After breakfast, you will disembark in Cabo at around 8.30am.  We recommend booking an outward flight after 11:30am. 

Special offers or promotions - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Group bookings - separate payment and cancellation terms may apply.
Contact the ZuBlu travel team if you have any questions about payment terms and cancellation.

25% deposit within 7 days of booking to confirm your reservation.
An additional 25% due 4 months prior to departure date.
Balance due 60 days prior to departure.

Bookings received less than 60 days before departure require payment in full to secure reservation.