Cocos Islands – The Galápagos of Central America

Far out in the Pacific Ocean, around 550 kilometres from Costa Rica’s coast, lies Cocos Island National Park.

This is an uninhabited, jungle-covered volcanic island, surrounded by some of the richest marine life on Earth. Often called the Galápagos of Central America, Cocos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most exciting dive destinations in the world.

Because of its remote location, Cocos can only be reached by dive liveaboard, making it a true expedition rather than a typical diving holiday.

The journey from Puntarenas takes roughly 36 hours each way. but for divers seeking adventure, it’s worth every minute. The reward is spectacular: a pristine marine reserve with massive schools of hammerhead sharks, huge pelagic species, and untouched underwater landscapes.

Why Dive Cocos Islands on a Liveaboard

Liveaboards are the only way to experience Cocos, and they offer everything you need for an unforgettable trip. They come with full-board meal plans, comfortable cabins, expert dive guides, and multiple daily dives, in the best conditions.

Cocos is famous for its hammerhead shark aggregations, where hundreds of scalloped hammerheads cruise in formation over the cleaning stations of sites like Alcyone, Dirty Rock, and Bajo Alcyone.

You might also encounter silky sharks, Galápagos sharks, whale sharks, manta rays, and even dolphins. Large schools of jacks and barracuda fill the water column, while the rocky slopes and volcanic pinnacles provide shelter for colourful reef fish and macro life.

The dives are mostly deep and in strong currents, making this a destination best suited for experienced divers with over 50 dives. But for those ready for the challenge, the sheer scale and energy of the underwater life here are unlike anywhere else on Earth.

A True Expedition Above and Below the Surface

Life aboard a Cocos liveaboard is a mix of excitement and calm.

Between dives, relax on deck watching dolphins and seabirds, or take in the dramatic views of the island’s waterfalls and rugged cliffs.

Many trips include a short visit ashore to learn about Cocos’ natural history and the legends of pirates who once hid treasure here.

Because the island is completely uninhabited, every dive feels wild and untouched, just you, your dive team, and the open ocean. It’s a chance to disconnect from the world and reconnect with the raw power of nature.

A Cocos Islands liveaboard isn’t a casual getaway, it’s the ultimate dive adventure for those seeking something truly extraordinary.