Diving in Socorro with the Nautilus Explorer and Scuba 2000
Mantas. Dolphins. Hammerheads. Oh my.
There are dive trips, and then there’s Socorro—a remote volcanic island over 600 km off Mexico’s Pacific coast, known as the “Galápagos of North America.” Add the Nautilus Explorer, a purpose-built liveaboard that sets the standard for dive adventure, and you have one of the most unforgettable scuba experiences on Earth.
Why Socorro?
Socorro (part of the Revillagigedo Archipelago) isn’t your typical dive destination. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a magnet for giant oceanic manta rays, bottlenose dolphins, humpback whales (seasonal), and up to ten species of sharks, including schooling hammerheads and the occasional tiger shark. What’s unique? The animals interact—curiously, closely, and often.
These aren’t shy fly-bys. We’re talking mantas doing slow-motion barrel rolls above your bubbles, and dolphins hanging around just to say hello.
Why the Nautilus Explorer?
The Nautilus Explorer isn’t just a boat—it’s a floating dive resort built for remote expedition diving. Spacious dive decks, camera rinse stations, hot tubs, and cabins with ensuite bathrooms make this a comfortable base for what can be intense and exhilarating diving.
But what really sets it apart? Experience and safety. Captain Mike Lever and his crew have been running these trips for decades. From the moment you step aboard, you're part of a well-oiled operation that puts diver safety, marine conservation, and 5-star service at the heart of everything.
What to Expect Underwater
Each day includes up to 4 dives, and most sites are located around San Benedicto, Socorro, and Roca Partida. Here’s a taste of what your logbook might say:
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El Boiler: Known for manta ballet. One of the best spots on Earth to see giant oceanic mantas close-up.
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Roca Partida: A sheer volcanic pinnacle in the open ocean—famous for sharks stacked like planes in a hangar.
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Cabo Pearce: Dolphin encounters, plus white tips, silkies, and the occasional whale shark.
Water temps range from 23–27°C (73–81°F), and visibility often exceeds 100 feet. Nitrox is highly recommended for maximizing bottom time—especially with so much action at depth.
Above the Surface
Expect gourmet meals, marine life presentations, and top-tier crew hospitality. The crossing from Cabo San Lucas takes about 24 hours, but once you’re there, you’re in another world.
You’ll also have the chance to log your dives, share photos, and swap stories with divers from around the world—all while soaking in sunsets over open ocean.
What You’ll Need
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Minimum of Advanced Open Water certification
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Comfort diving in current and blue water
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Surface marker buoy (SMB) & dive computer—essential
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Wetsuit 5mm–7mm recommended (plus hooded vest for chillier dives)
Want to feel even more prepared? Pool practice is available at SCUBA 2000 for our trip guests, and we offer 20% off all training and 10% off gear purchases before departure.
Final Thoughts
If diving with mantas, dolphins, and sharks in one of the planet’s last true wild frontiers is on your bucket list, Socorro delivers—and the Nautilus Explorer gets you there in style.
We’ll be setting sail on a full-boat charter in November 2027, and spots are already filling up. Want in?
Come to our Info Session on June 12th at SCUBA 2000 and meet the experts who pioneered this route. Let us help you plan the adventure of a lifetime.
Blog by Oz, MSDT, Scuba 2000
Master your skills. Know your gear. Dive the world.
