A liveaboard dive boat is one of the best ways to immerse yourself into scuba diving
Veteran scuba divers like to avoid dry land as much as possible when they go scuba diving. This is true even when they sleep. But how is this possible you might ask and you may also be asking what does liveaboard mean?
The meaning of a liveaboard is a boat that is designed for people to spend their entire holiday on a boat, which is like a floating hotel. A dive liveaboard is a boat that’s been specially designed for recreational scuba divers for diving expeditions or safaris as a complete diving holiday.
For a complete list of the best liveaboard destinations from around the world, please scroll down to the bottom of this article. Or scroll through this list of dive liveaboards from Liveaboard.com.
The best way to do more diving is to book yourself on a scuba diving liveaboard. You can check the latest and best deals on liveaboards using the following window:
Table of dive liveaboards
This list of liveaboards is in descending customer rating order, followed by Scuba Diving Luxury Rating (SDE Lux Rating, see below), so the liveaboards with the highest customer rating and the best SDE lux rating will be at the top of the list. If you want to change the list order, use the “Sort by” dropdown below.
The Scuba Diving Earth Luxury Rating (SDE Lux Rating) is explained on each liveaboard review when you click the “Discover Liveaboard” link, and is my own Liveaboard Luxury Rating I’ve assigned to all liveaboards. Choosing between liveaboards is helped by customer scores, and if you get stuck choosing between two or three liveaboards, where each one has a high customer score out of 10, you can use the SDE Luxury Rating to help narrow down your choice.
Think about it like using Booking.com when searching for the best hotel. Booking.com also use a customer score where each customer rates hotels out of 10. This is similar to the liveaboard customer rating, which is also rated out of 10. But let’s say you only like to stay in hotels rated 8 and above on Booking.com, but you also want the hotel to have WIFI or parking, or to have a swimming pool etc. The features each hotel has is usually secondary to the score out of 10.
What does liveaboard mean?
The term liveaboard can mean a few things, but each meaning is linked to boats. So to answer the question ‘What Does Liveaboard Mean?’ let’s take a look at a few examples of boats that tend to be used as liveaboard accommodation.
What liveaboard boats include:
A liveaboard boat could be a boat that’s made by a boating enthusiast. This is typically a small yacht in a marina. Once they’ve built their small boat they will use this as their home and live-aboard. I once met a couple on a Caribbean Island who had built their own sailing boat. They had sailed it across the Atlantic. This is living aboard a boat to the extreme.
Sail-boats, powerboats and canal or narrow boats are also commonly used for ‘living aboard‘. There are many people who use their narrow boat as houseboats which are designed primarily as a residence.
A boat that is used for recreational scuba diving expeditions*. Boats designed for cruises where the divers live on the boat for the duration of the trip and use it as the diving platform. This is like a floating hotel for divers.
Arguably, you could say the traditional cruise is also a liveaboard boat too. Passengers live on board a cruise ship for a week, two weeks or even longer.
Living on a boat on the Thames. Even Sir Richard Branson lived aboard a boat for many years on the Thames in London. Sir Richard Branson made liveaboard trendy.
So essentially the meaning of liveaboard is a boat that’s been designed for people to live aboard it.
* When I say expeditions I mean scuba diving holidays or vacations. Liveaboard boats are specialist boats designed for diving cruises where the divers live on the boat for usually between 7-14 days, and use the boat as their diving platform.
Liveaboard boat facilities
On a liveaboard boat you’ll find the following:
Cabins for sleeping.
A bar.
An onboard restaurant.
For the purposes of a diving liveaboard boat, there will be places to store diving equipment.
Places to wash down your diving equipment.
Many dive liveaboards also have photo-stations, which are used to download and watch photos and videos you capture on each dive.
Liveaboards have easy-off and easy-on platforms for diving
Diving liveaboards will be equipped with an ‘easy-off and easy-on‘ platform for divers to get in and out of the water. Although on some liveaboard diving trips the dive sites may require the use of a rib or small inflatable like a zodiac to take the divers to and from the place of entry.
The majority of liveaboards are usually made from fiberglass or they are steel hulled boats. But in Indonesia traditional Phinisi boats are made from teak wood.
Liveaboard diving – what are the benefits to scuba divers?
Divers who are passionate and who are looking for a unique diving experience should consider a liveaboard diving trip. There’s a wide range of benefits that come from liveaboard diving vs resort diving.
Liveaboard dive boats make visiting remote dive sites achievable. There are many diving locations that are not diveable from a resort day-boat. A liveaboard boat makes this possible.
Night dives on sites not visited by day boats are open to those who chose a liveaboard expedition. Not many shore-based diving resorts organise night dives. But on a liveaboard, and depending on the location of the dive trip, night dives are the norm.
Many times you are away from light pollution making star gazing at night that much more enjoyable.
The freedom and that ‘get-away’ feeling is enhanced by living on a boat for a week or more.
Spend time with like-minded people.
Liveaboard dive trips are ideal for beginner divers to get plenty of diving under their belts.
Get away from it all and get loads of diving as a beginner diver
If you fancy getting away from it all. If you are fed up with the doldrums of everyday life, then I’d argue as a veteran scuba diver that there’s no better way to dive.
Liveaboard diving means you’ll be in great company. You’ll be spending time with fellow divers. You will be fully immersed (no pun intended) in the whole experience with like-minded fellow scuba divers.
You will likely spark up new friendships that could last a lifetime.
Diving remote dive sites becomes a reality with a liveaboard boat
One of the greatest benefits of liveaboard diving to me is the ability to get to unique and remote dive sites.
What’s great about this is you get to dive on sites that are more pristine and less dived. There will be less divers and usually there’s more marine life to enjoy.
Depending on the liveaboard dive boat you choose will depend on the number of other guests there are on board. Usually, liveaboard boats offer on-board accommodation for between 10-30 scuba divers at a time.
Choose your boat to suit whether you want less divers
The lower the number of passenger living on-board, the less divers there are on each dive site you visit. For me I prefer fewer divers, as I love to see underwater sea life more than I enjoy wreck diving. The less divers there are on a dive site, the more likely you are to see the larger creatures like dolphins, sharks, sea turtles and rays.
One of the fears beginner scuba divers have is not being able to put their equipment together. But after spending a week on a liveaboard trip will sort this problem out once and for all.
This also means you will have put your diving equipment together 21 times over the course of a week. This will help to cement the process in your mind. Even better would be to spend 14 nights on a dive boat!
A liveaboard boats means quiet with no light pollution
If you don’t like the noise of parties and nightlife a liveaboard diving holiday takes you away from all of this. In-between dives and during downtime you can relax with a good book and enjoy the scenery.
Even better, you will be away from the light pollution of cities. This means you’ll really benefit from dark night skies. If you never experienced the view of a true sky at night without light pollution, this will be a treat.
Lie on the deck of the boat and gaze up at the stars and milky-way and enjoy. See if you can spot the slow moving satellites or the space station, which become easy to see on a pollution-less night sky.
Relax in luxury on a liveaboard boat
Many of the liveaboards even have luxury facilities like hot tubs built-in for extra relaxation. Why not pamper yourself.
If you’re a lover of food you can delight in the on-board cuisine. You’ll find that the liveaboard cuisine often follows that of the country you’re visiting. Be that Indonesia, you’ll be eating Indonesian food; be that Thailand, you’ll be eating Thai food, and so on.
Food on a liveaboard diving trip is all a part of the diving experience. Take an early morning dive before breakfast and enjoy the breakfast even more.
Diving from a liveaboard boat couldn’t be easier these days. From diving the Red Sea in Egypt to remote dives sites like Socorro Island to dive with manta rays, take your pick from these destinations below.
Liveaboard diving destinations in alphabetical order from around the world
Below is a list of the best liveaboard dive destinations from around the world. To scroll through the liveaboard destinations, click on the ‘Next’ button below the description of each liveaboard destination. To scroll back, click on the ‘Previous’ button.
You can also search of a specific dive destination too in the search box below.
Liveaboard diving - liveaboard.com - liveaboards from around the world
The Best Liveaboard Dive Destinations Around The World
Antarctica Liveaboard Diving
Why Choose Antarctica For Liveaboard Diving:
A chance to dive with playful penguins amongst underwater ice formations.
Liveaboards in Antarctica are a fantastic way to fully experience and appreciate the magical icy splendour of one of the world’s remotest and lesser-visited areas.
Offering incredible polar diving for experienced cold water divers, you can expect to see an array of captivating wildlife as well as spectacular underwater ice formations and dazzlingly bright blues as the sunlight hits the water.
Best time to goto Antarctica:
The best time to visit Antarctica is between November and March. December and January see the warmest temperatures and most sunlight, and are popular times for an expedition to the Antarctic region
Tips for divers going to Antarctica:
You will need to have prior experience of diving in cold conditions to partake in scuba diving in Antarctica on a liveaboard cruise. You will also need to ensure that you take suitable gear for diving in cold conditions.
Your kit list should include a dry diving suit with a hood (or attachable hood), gloves, boots, a stabilizing jacket, a mask, and a weight belt. Other equipment includes a compass, knife, underwater torch, thermal underwear, and underwater computer, watch, or gauge.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Antarctica:
A whole other world waits beneath the surface of these iceberg filled waters. Liveaboards in the Arctic offer an exceptional chance to experience stunning scenery, interesting wildlife, a different way of life, and striking natural phenomena.
If you’ve ever dreamt of spotting a polar bear in the wild, an Arctic expedition cruise could be just what you are looking for. Always wanted to see the northern lights? Head to the Arctic! There are so many incredible attractions and activities you can enjoy on a trip to the Arctic, including fantastic polar diving.
Best time to go to The Arctic:
The best time to take expedition cruises in the Arctic is from April to September. The peak tourism months are between June and August. The summer months sees the midnight sun, while the winter months offer the best opportunities to see the magical northern lights (Aurora Borealis) dancing in the sky in all their colourful glory.
Tips for divers going to the Arctic:
Your packing list for your Arctic liveaboard cruise should include clothes that are appropriate for cold conditions and that can be worn in layers.
You will also need good quality diving gear for cold conditions, including a dry suit, gloves, and boots. Freeze-protected regulators, a stabilizing jacket, a knife, a torch, a compass, a computer / watch / gauge, a pressure gauge, a mask, fins, and a weight belt should also be taken. Weights are available to borrow from the ship.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Arctic:
Diving in Australia is literally immersing yourself in an underwater paradise.
Liveaboard diving in Australia is a must for many divers', and when anyone considers Australia as their next holiday destination, it's impossible to overlook what is on offer underwater. With a coastline of over 25 000 kilometres, much of it in tropical and sub tropical waters, the 'lucky country' is blessed with outstanding diving, guaranteed to please all levels from a novice up to the most experienced.
The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) in Queensland is deservedly on many people's bucket list, with countless stunning reefs to explore from the many dive tours available from Cairns and the surrounding area.
Best time to go to Australia:
Diving on the GBR is great all year round, with water temperatures ranging from 24c in the winter (July/August) to 30c in summer (December/January). Minke and Humpback whales can be seen between June and November, whereas the summer months offer the best visibility and warmest waters to take advantage of the array of life on the reef.
The best time to visit the Rowley Shoals in Western Australia is between September and December, and because diving via liveaboard is the only way to explore these pristine reefs, early booking is advised.
Tips for divers going to Australia:
English is the native language in Australia, although many liveaboard operators have crew who are capable of communicating in many common languages.
Local currency is the Australian Dollar, and most major international credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs readily available (although not on board!).
Electricity is supplied via 3 pronged sockets, of 230 volts (50Hz) - make sure you acquire the correct adaptor! Most liveaboards can rent full equipment, but you will be required to bring your certification and log book as part of the safety protocol.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Australia:
Your Bahamas scuba diving adventure will plunge you into crystal clear waters teeming with large pelagics among magnificent coral gardens, hidden caves, historical wrecks and vertical walls.
There is no better way to see this picturesque archipelago of islands than on a Bahamas liveaboard, it's an easy, comfortable and enjoyable way to travel and explore the underwater world. It certainly contains all the elements for a possibly unforgettable experience. The Bahamas is an archipelago consisting of 700 islands located in the Atlantic Ocean.
The Bahamas provides a mecca for paradise islands, crystal clear waters and thriving wildlife, in and out of the water.
Best time to go to The Bahamas:
Diving in the Bahamas is possible all year round. Each season provides divers with a different kind of diving experience, all which have their own individual charm. The springtime (April and May) provide a high abundance of the Mahi Dolphin Fish, a very unique fish that is also not extremely common. In the winter time (November to March) there are high chances to see schools of Hammerhead sharks, an experience on its own.
Tips for divers going to The Bahamas:
When it comes to temperatures and diving conditions, they can vary but not to extremes that would prevent anyone from getting into the water. November commences the winter weather, bringing in cold fronts from time to time. Mostly these are mild, if stronger, then it can have an effect on the visibility, but not for more than a day or so.
The waters around this time are around 25 - 26 degrees Celsius (77-80 degrees Fahrenheit) so even though it is winter, they are still pleasant temperatures to dive in. The summer months, which are June to September, have the best conditions with waters being around 30 degrees Celsius (85 degrees Fahrenheit).
The riskiest months for storms is August, however, they are not at all frequent and would only affect the visibility for a day or two.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Bahamas :
One of the smallest countries in Central America, Belize has one of the largest barrier reefs in the world.
Liveaboard diving in Belize offers divers the chance to visit the amazing Belize Barrier Reef, the largest in the Northern hemisphere and second largest reef system in the world. A dive cruise onboard a Belize liveaboard will take divers to the famous Blue Hole, a giant blue submarine sinkhole that offers a unique dive into its depths.
Belize the country is a democratic, English and Spanish speaking nation. Located on the Eastern Coast of Central America, the weather is mild, the topography spectacular, and with the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere, is reputed as one of the regions best diving destinations.
From shallow coral gardens to plunging walls in warm turquoise waters, the 300 km Belize Barrier Reef has pristine dive sites among hundreds of atolls and cayes and one giant blue hole. Luxury Liveaboards offer dive trips with the benefit of visiting a wider area at your leisure, without hordes of other dive operators visiting the same sites.
Best time to go to Belize:
Belize can be dived year round. Generally, the best months to dive Belize are from March to June, with April to June being whale shark season in Placencia (South). While you may experience some rainfall during this time, the 'wet season' is usually August to October. It is, however, during these months that the water temperature is at its warmest of 28/29C.
Water temperature rarely goes below 26C and visibility remains good (up to 40m) throughout the year away from the mainland. Average air temperature in Belize is 27C with generally calm surface conditions. Currents vary between destinations but conditions are ideal for all levels of diving from beginners to seasoned divers. Budgets for liveaboards range at around 229 euros per day.
Tips for divers going to Belize:
Minimum logged dives of approx. 60 are required for some of the dive sites and check dives on Belize liveaboards are often held on the first day.
The only recompression chamber in Belize is located on the north side of the airstrip in San Pedro. The chamber stands on Radio Frequency 14.4600 twenty-four hours a day.
There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to Belize, however, we recommend standard protection against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, influenza, typhoid and hepatitis A. There is an endemic Malaria and Dengue Fever risk, especially during the rainy season. For advice on Malaria and Dengue, and the possible threat of the Zika virus seek professional medical advice before travelling. Foodborne diseases such as salmonella, amoebic and parasitic infections are not uncommon. It is recommended that you drink only purified bottled water.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Belize:
Why Choose The Cayman Islands For Liveaboard Diving:
With more than 350 dive sites, crystal clear waters, 30m visibility and spectacular marine life, scuba adventures are abundant in the Cayman Islands.
Liveaboard diving in Cayman Islands surely can't get any better, with over 350 dive sites, these Caribbean Islands boasts an amazing claim of being able to dive a different dive site every day of the year. With historic wrecks, colourful coral gardens and dramatic walls draped in an abundance of photogenic marine life, this three-island archipelago is widely regarded as one of the top diving destinations in the world.
Rising up out of the warm crystalline waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Cayman Islands are renowned for their outstanding natural beauty both on land and beneath the waves. Located around 480 miles south of Miami and nestled between Cuba and Jamaica, the British Crown colony consists of three islands - Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
Grand Cayman at 76 square miles is the largest of the group and the main island, followed by Cayman Brac - home to the group's most dramatic topside landscapes, and Little Cayman - a nature lover's paradise.
Best time to go to The Cayman Islands:
The Cayman Islands boast year-round diving but the months of May and June offer the best chance for good diving conditions. The average water temperature for this period is a balmy 82F - 86F.
Tips for divers going to The Cayman Islands:
There are no minimum logged dives requirements for liveaboard diving in the Cayman Islands, but divers must have good buoyancy to avoid impacting fragile marine life. As always, ensure you have adequate insurance for both the travel and scuba diving portions of your trip. The official currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar, although US Dollars are widely accepted almost anywhere on the island. The official language of the island group is English, spoken in a variety of accents. English is also the language used by the liveaboard staff, crew and customer care team.
Electricity voltage in the Caymans runs at 110-120 Volts (Same as U.S./Canada), socket types are North American Non-Grounded, North American Grounded. Please note that these may not be identical to U.S./Canadian sockets, and may require an adapter.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Cayman Islands:
Colombia is one of the world’s ultimate dive destinations thanks to the vast underwater garden of the Pacific Ocean and the abundant, tropical marine life of the Caribbean Sea. Beyond Colombia's 1,600 km of coastline, divers will discover a seascape of coral formations, caves, and shipwrecks harboring incredible aquatic life.
Colombia is one of South America's best diving destinations with great opportunities to come face to face with pelagic like whale sharks, hammerhead sharks, and humpback whales to small seahorses, shrimps and crabs.
Dive enthusiasts enjoy a Colombia sea safari to the coast of Providencia, the world's third longest barrier reef. Boasting a diverse and abundant ecosystem, warm tropical waters and excellent visibility, Providencia has a reputation for awesome diving.
Vibrant coral reefs, caves, sunken pirate ships, blue holes and fantastic walls offer something for every scuba diver. Popular dives include the steep walls of Blue Hole and Contour, mysterious caves and fissures at NX and Tete's Place, shallow coral gardens at Bajo de San Felipe and Left Channel and shipwrecks such as Planchon, a World War II tanker.
Best time to go to Colombia:
Like much of the Caribbean, scuba diving in Colombia can be done year round. However, the best time to come to Colombia is from January to March and June through August. During these times water visibility is best for scuba diving. With an ideal water temperature of 26C, and visibility ranging from 12 - 30 meters scuba divers enjoy amazing liveaboard holidays in Colombia.
Tips for divers going to Colombia:
Acclaimed by the United Nations as one of the top dive sites in the world, Malpelo Island is home to massive swarms of hammerhead sharks and silky sharks. Once a penal colony, these three remote rocks can only be reached aboard a Colombia diving cruise and are known for steep walls, underwater caves and schools of pelagics. This is an adrenaline pumping dive and a must see for thrill seekers.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Colombia:
With marine sanctuaries and remote islands harboring giant rays, sharks and whales, scuba diving in Costa Rica is the ultimate liveaboard adventure.
Liveaboard diving in Costa Rica is the big draw for divers who wish to explore the amazing dive area Cocos Island - where it's become known as a hotspot for large schools of sharks.
Lying between the marine rich waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, Costa Rica is a small but bold Central American country, blessed with stunning rainforests, diverse wildlife, and incredible scuba diving. Liveaboard diving in Costa Rica will allow the adventurous to travel far out to sea, exposing themselves to an underwater world rarely matched across the globe.
Best time to go to Costa Rica:
Due to its position near the equator, diving at Costa Rica's best sites is possible year round. There are slight seasonal differences - the dry season is from December to May, thus offering calmer seas and the best visibility. In the rainy season from June to December, the visibility is normally slightly less (although still commonly up to 25 metres!), but the increase in plankton can result in higher numbers of sharks, whales, and other marine life. Water temperature on average is a pleasant 28 degrees Celsius.
Tips for divers going to Costa Rica:
Spanish is spoken nationally as the main language, but English is widely understood, especially in the tourism industry. ATMs are generally easy to find and will dispense the local currency - the Costa Rican Colon - and most major credit cards are widely accepted. Plug sockets are similar to the US (2 pronged), with a voltage of 110V and frequency 60Hz.
Gear wise, most liveaboard operators will have equipment available to rent on board, although you'll need to let them know when you book. Divers are welcome to bring their own equipment and are advised to have their certification and log books on hand.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Costa Rica:
Fishing restrictions ensure Cuba’s abundant marine life. Cuba liveaboard diving is the perfect way to experience such magnificent diversity.
Liveaboards in Cuba will take divers to dive sites that are visited less frequently than those nearer the shore, with unspoilt habitats and pristine reefs. Cuba is a country known for its giant cigars, legendary rum, and colourful dancing, but with its status as the largest island in the Caribbean Sea, it has a lengthy coastline with picture perfect white sandy beaches and fabulous scuba diving opportunities in the surrounding waters.
A Cuban liveaboard cruise tends to last for around a week, visiting a number of different areas allowing guests to undertake multiple dives per day. The Cuban government has made it a priority to protect its marine environment, which has resulted in healthy ecosystems thriving in ideal conditions and is a perfect place to spend time on a liveaboard dive trip.
Best time to go to Cuba:
Due to favourable conditions, a tropical climate and warm waters, diving is possible year round in Cuba. The visibility is always fabulous (often over 30 metres), with average yearly water temperatures of 25 degrees Celsius. The high season is normally from December to March. Prices may be a touch higher, however, this is arguably the best time for diving. Having said that, the 'low' season from April through to November still has excellent diving conditions, and may well be a little cheaper.
Tips for divers going to Cuba:
The language spoken in Cuba is Spanish, but in the tourism industry you should be fine with English.
Cuba's currency system is a little strange, yet unique. There are actually 2 forms of currency used in Cuba - the one most likely to be used by tourists and that you'll receive from money exchanges is the Convertible Peso. Bear in mind that outside of Cuba you cannot purchase the Convertible Peso, so it's best to bring some cash (the safest are Euro, Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollars) and exchange it at the airport 'Cadeca'.
US dollars are accepted, but you'll be charged an extortionate exchange fee so try not to. The other currency is the Cuban Peso, which as a tourist you are unlikely to need much. It's used by locals to pay for day to day expenses, such as groceries; it's a good idea to have a small amount in your back pocket in case you need to use them for something such as a taxi ride, small snack etc.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Cuba:
Djibouti is a “must dive” destination for divers in search of the largest shark on this planet - Whalesharks. And a Djibouti liveaboard will get you in the water to see these gentle giants. Liveaboards in Djibouti allow divers and snorkelers to experience these pristine and untouched waters bordered by the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Djibouti is not a well-known place and also not the first place people think of when you mention diving, and yet it is a marine paradise. It's also a great place for chances to see Whalesharks at certain times of the year.
The country itself also has much to offer, being essentially split into three with something for everyone; the coastal areas, the volcanic plateaus and the mountain ranges. The volcanic earth is what aids the coral reefs off the coast to flourish as much as it does, with healthy soft corals of every colour imaginable plus multiple sponge species and extremely large schools of fish.
Best time to go to Djibouti:
The liveaboard safaris that are offered usually run from October until the end of May/early June, mostly due to weather reasons as in July and August there is the most rain, affecting visibility and opportunities to dive. In general the climate here is warm and humid, with October to April being the coolers months, and therefore the most pleasant.
Tips for divers going to Djibouti:
Liveaboards will have equipment for rent, however bringing your own will save renting costs and is always more comfortable. The staff will need to be sure about your dive experience so remember to bring along your log book and certification cards. There are three main languages which are spoken in Djibouti; French, Arabic and Somali, however, in the more touristy places there will be people who speak English and the liveaboard staff will also speak English.
The currency which they use here is the Djiboutian Franc, the exchange rate is 196 Franc for 1 Euro.
The electricity plugs which are used ae the standard European two round pong plugs; type C / E with a voltage of 220 volts.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Djibouti:
Why Choose The Dominican Republic For Liveaboard Diving:
A special place to see humpback whale breeding grounds. The Dominican Republic has something special to offer wildlife enthusiasts. Liveaboards in the Dominican Republic offer the unmatchable experience of snorkeling with Humpback Whales.
For a life-changing chance to commune with nature on a scale of majesty that human beings rarely experience, select liveaboards have gained access to the protected waters where the entire North Atlantic Humpback Whale population meets to breed.
If you join them, you’ll hear their unearthly songs, witness the largess of their graceful immensity, and feel the thrill of their playful rolls and breaches. Luxury liveaboards in the Dominican Republic run from January through March with a seven night itinerary.
Best time to go to The Dominican Republic:
Luxury liveaboards in the Dominican Republic snorkel Silver Bank within the months of January through March, while the Humpback Whales are congregating en masse.
Tips for divers going to The Dominican Republic:
If you’re going to spend a lot of time in the water, it’s best to bring your own fins and mask.
This ensures that you’ll have a good fit for your face and feet. Ill-fitting gear can be a huge distraction and sometimes even a safety hazard. You should carefully check the packing list supplied by your operator; they’ll provide advice on everything from the thickness of your wetsuit to the range of your camera lenses and binoculars. Spanish is the language of the Dominican Republic. The local voltage runs at 110 V and frequency at 60 Hz; the sockets are types A and B.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Dominican Republic:
Why Choose Egypt & The Red Sea For Liveaboard Diving:
Scuba diving in Egypt's Red Sea invigorates divers as they navigate spectacular reefs, millions of brilliantly-colored fish and corals, or historical wrecks. Liveaboard diving in the Egyptian Red Sea is spectacular, the land is known for its ancient history - Pharaohs and Pyramids but is also a mecca for scuba divers and snorkellers.
Wrecks, colourful corals and big fish abound but it's the off-shore sites such as Daedalus, The Brothers & St. Johns, only reachable by dive liveaboards which can provide the ultimate thrill and the best experience.
Best time to go to Egypt & The Red Sea:
The best time to dive in Egypt is all year-round. With depths ranging from 5 meters (15 feet) to depths limited to recreational divers to even deeper dives for technical divers and visibility ranging from 15 meters (50 feet) to 70 meters (230 feet), Egypt diving season knows few limits.
But be sure to take note of the currents, which could make for nice drift dives when planned properly. The water temperature in Egypt's Red Sea is 21 degrees Celsius (70 Fahrenheit) at its coldest and 30 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) at its warmest, which is like a soak in a bathtub of luxury with great visibility and underwater life.
Tips for divers going to Egypt & The Red Sea:
Minimum logged dives are required by some Red Sea liveaboards or on certain itineraries. Ensure you bring along your dive certification card and proof of dive experience (log books). Check dives are common on liveaboards and are often held on the first day. Electricity voltage runs at 220-240 volts; the standard socket is EU-style two-pin.
Remember to bring plug adaptors for your electrical gadgets. A step down transformer will be required for appliances that normally operate on 110-120volts (USA/Canada), to avoid serious damage. This will convert 220/240 volt electricity to 110/120 volts.
The Red Sea is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world, so adjusting your weights to compensate for greater buoyancy will be necessary.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Egypt & The Red Sea:
With over 4000 square miles of stunning coral reef, Fiji offers divers adrenaline pumping shark encounters and tranquil manta rays visits. Fiji, the heart of the South Pacific, a beautiful country with a friendly and fun local native culture that consists of 333 islands.
That makes Fiji a great liveaboard diving destination. Jacques Cousteau mentioned it to be the Soft Coral Capital of the World. Enjoy the underwater wonders and stunning sunsets above. Liveaboard dive tours in Fiji will take you to less-visited, beautiful remote and colourful reefs with pristine corals.
Best time to go to Fiji:
In Fiji, you can dive all year round. Visibility is best from July until December when the water is coolest at 22-25 degrees . Summer in Fiji is from November to April, this is the rainy season with water temperatures of 28-30 degrees. The waters then are rich with plankton which attracts big fish like whales and manta rays.
Tips for divers going to Fiji:
Be sure to bring your dive certification card and logbook as most liveaboards will require to see proof of certification level and experience.
The local time is 12 hours ahead of UTC (GMT).
The local currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). Visitors are advised to make any currency exchange at the airport, prior to leaving the terminal building.
Languages spoken in Fiji are Fijian and Hindi but everyone is united by English.
Electricity current in Fiji is 240 volts AC 50 Hz with three-pin power points - the same as in Australia and New Zealand.
Visitors staying less than 4 months in Fiji do not require a visa.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Fiji:
Experience world-renowned diving in Galapagos and see a spectacular array of sea life and underwater geomorphological formations. Liveaboard diving in Galapagos captures the imagination like nowhere else. It is a paradise for anyone who is passionate about nature.
The islands famously inspired Charles Darwin´s theory of evolution and is home to a vast number of animals and birds that can only be found in Galapagos. The Marine reserve is no exception with Galapagos sharks, marine iguanas and Galapagos penguins.
No surprise then that Galapagos Marine reserve is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and subject to the strictest protection. Most divers who venture to Galapagos are looking to visit the spectacular Darwin and Wolf islands only accessible by liveaboard. On these isolated islands, divers can find huge schools of scalloped hammerheads, silky sharks, manta rays and of course whale sharks.
Best time to go to The Galapagos:
Diving in Galapagos is fantastic all year round but there are two distinct seasons.
The warm season is December to May with water temperatures around 23-25°C/75-80°F. The conditions are calmer and currents are less at this time of year. It is a great time to see huge numbers hammerheads, silkys and Galapagos sharks.
The cooler season is June to November with water temperatures dropping to 16-18°/60-65°F. Rougher sea conditions and strong currents make the diving more challenging. The cool season is all about whale sharks which are around the islands of Darwin and Wolf at this time. There are still large schools of hammerheads and occasional silkys and Galapagos shark around the islands.
Visibility is generally between 10 and 21 meters (30 to 70 feet) and conditions can be challenging because of the surges and currents common in the area.
Tips for divers going to The Galapagos:
Diving in Galapagos can be cold especially in the cool season, and most liveaboards offer 3-4 unmissable dives per day. 7mm wetsuits and hoods are recommended for comfort.
The water is about 6 percent saltier, so adjusting your weights to compensate for greater buoyancy is necessary.
Gloves or a reef hook are a necessity. Strong currents mean holding onto rocks, which are almost always covered in sharp barnacles.
Bring lots of extra memory for cameras and GOPROs, you won’t want to miss a thing.
Most liveaboards offer the opportunity to do land visits. These offer a unique insight into one of the world´s most biodiverse ecosystems.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Galapagos:
Only recently opened to recreational diving, scuba divers in Greece will discover a pristine and prolific underwater seafaring history.
Bordered by the Aegean, the Ionian and the Mediterranean Seas, Greece is quickly becoming a scuba diving hot spot. Until 2005, the government greatly restricted diving in order to protect the vast number of ancient artifacts, sculptures and important archaeological relics being removed from underwater sites.
Restrictions have been eased and its underwater history has been opened to scuba divers. Scuba divers may find unexplored dive sites among the dozens of islands scattered around Greece’s Ionian and Aegean Seas. The potential for exciting new discovers is luring scuba divers to Greece, making it a top liveaboard diving holiday destination.
Dive sites abound in the seas surrounding Greece. As such, a Greece liveaboard diving holiday is the perfect way to explore many of them. Among the historical underwater expanse is a considerable amount of sea life. The Aegean and Ionian Seas are home to nudibranchs, invertebrates, crabs, shrimp, eels, seahorses and octopi to name a few. A Greece sea safari will take scuba divers to the best dive site in the Ionian and Aegean Seas.
Best time to go to Greece:
While scuba diving is a year round activity in Greece, spring and summer offer the best sea conditions. Water temperatures range from 16C in the winter months to 27C during the summer. Air temperatures range from 11C in the winter to 30C in the summer. During the spring and summer seasons, visibility often exceeds 20 meters.
Tips for divers going to Greece:
Marathonissi, also known as Turtle Island, offers divers the opportunity to see giant loggerhead turtles, octopus, moray eels, cuttlefish, flying fish, grouper, bream, wrasse and parrotfish. Greece liveaboard diving holidays offer scuba divers hassle free diving, high quality service and luxury accommodations for the ultimate adventure. During the spring and summer seasons, visibility often exceeds 20 meters.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Greece:
The waters surrounding Guatemala and Belize are crystal clear and visibility is excellent. You will see not only a great variety of colorful coral, but also a multitude of fish.
Liveaboards operating in the waters of Guatemala and Belize take divers to a wide array of dive sites. From shallow coral gardens to plunging walls, the warm turquoise waters and abundant sea life, there is something for everyone.
More than 300 meters across and 135 meters deep, this spectacular hole is a day sail away aboard a Guatemala and Belize liveaboard. The dive is deep so time is limited to approximately 30 minutes.
Scuba divers will descend 40 meters to discover stalactite formations and then ascend to shallower depths to spend time among the cruising sharks. Off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark-Ray Alley are two of Belize’s most popular dive sites. Aboard a Guatemala and Belize sea safari, divers will discover vivid, multi- colored fish, nurse sharks, tarpon, and turtles.
Best time to go to Guatemala:
Scuba diving can be done year round in the waters of Guatemala and Belize. Visibility is often 30 meters or more. Water temperatures range from 30° C during the summer to 26° C in winter. Water currents vary from destination to destination and can be dependent on weather conditions.
Tips for divers going to Guatemala:
Scuba diving can be done year round in the waters of Guatemala and Belize. Visibility is often 30 meters or more. Water temperatures range from 30° C during the summer to 26° C in winter. Water currents vary from destination to destination and can be dependent on weather conditions.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Guatemala:
Plunge in to the nutrient rich waters of the Pacific Ocean and dive sunken volcanoes, see an underwater Turtle cleaning station, or dive with gentle Giant Manta Rays at night.
Hawaii has excellent dive cruises for unique underwater adventures. Liveaboard diving in Hawaii may not be the hot topic in the dive world, but ask many people around the world what their ultimate bucket list vacation destination is, and you will often hear Hawaii as their response.
The Hawaiian Islands are a volcanic archipelago located in the central Pacific Ocean. The Hawaiian islands have it all—beaches, mountains, rainforests, temperate forests, waterfalls, volcanos, and the biggest attraction for divers, world-class scuba diving. A limited number of dive liveaboards currently operate in Hawaii, making it an even more exclusive dive destination.
Best time to go to Hawaii:
Hawaii’s tropical climate makes it a fine place to visit any time of year. The vast geographical diversity means that weather varies greatly from location to location.
On the Big Island, the west coast (where many of the fantastic dive sites are located) has mostly sunny days and low average rainfall. The Hawaiian Islands draw large populations of humpback whales every year from December to May.
These baleen whales prefer the warm, shallow waters for mating and nursing young, and they migrate by the thousands from Alaska for reproduction purposes. During these months, divers may be able to hear the whales serenading during their bottom time. If luck is on your side, you may even spot one swimming by.
Average air temperatures range from highs of 81˚F - 88˚F to lows of 66˚F - 73˚F. Average water temperatures range from a high of 82˚F to a low of 72˚F.
Tips for divers going to Hawaii:
Presentation of current certification card is required upon diving. Don’t forget to bring along your dive log as well so as to track dive specs and record amazing sights seen.
Hawaii is the 50th state of the U.S., therefore the U.S. dollar (usd) is the national currency and English is the primary language.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Hawaii:
The Bay Islands of Honduras feature lush coral, impressive sponges, iridescent fish, large manta rays, and elusive whale sharks. Liveaboard diving on the underwater mountain range of Roatan, Utila, Guanaja offers scuba divers dramatic walls, vibrant reefs and cracks and crevices to explore in depths ranging for 5m to 60m.
This area is famous for whale sharks, dolphins, and rare black coral.
Best time to go to Honduras:
You can dive the Honduras Bay Islands all year long. The pleasant, tropical climate experiences little fluctuation in temperature. The average temperature is 29.4° C. Humidity is highest from May to September. Water temperature varies between 27-31° C. Dive visibility ranges from 24m-45m but can diminish slightly during the rainy season which runs from October to January.
Tips for divers going to Honduras:
Guanaja is the most remote of the Bay Islands and includes shallow reefs, wrecks, volcanic outcroppings and wall dives. Take a Honduras diving cruise to Mestizo Reef, featuring two life size head-and-shoulder statues of Christopher Columbus and local chief, Lempira. There is also a shipwreck, Spanish cannons and a 16th century bell to explore among a large variety of fish and thriving coral life. This dive is the perfect underwater photography opportunity!
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Honduras:
A relatively new dive tourism destination, but offering an incredibly rich marine life, Explore India's Andaman Islands with huge numbers of reef fish and pelagic shoals.
Liveaboard diving in India is largely centred around the beautiful Andaman Islands which sit in the middle of the Bay of Bengal. In India liveaboards are a relatively new concept as is tourism in general. Fortunately, this means the hundreds of islands that make up the Andaman Islands are fairly deserted and you might find that on many liveaboards in India you have the dive sites to yourself.
This peaceful region of India has a great deal to offer divers and has remained wonderfully isolated and untouched.
Best time to go to India:
Dive safaris in India sail from late December until early May and during this season the water temperature is fairly steady from 27-30 C. The weather during this period is normally good with sunny days around 25-30 C with cooler nights. The sea conditions are also excellent with calm clear days and great visibility. It is possible to see mantas during this time as well as whale sharks.
Tips for divers going to India:
The Andaman Islands are well known for having a very laid back vibe without a very developed tourist infrastructure.
This is a very refreshing and enjoyable experience but don't expect lots of facilities on land so bring spares of anything you can't live without. It is a good idea to take ample mosquito repellent and long clothing for the evening, although they should be less of an issue aboard a boat than on land.
Adaptors will be necessary for anything you don’t want to use the charging stations on the liveaboard boat for. The three pinned plug is standard with 230 volts the norm.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to India:
Liveaboard SCUBA diving in Indonesia boasts the greatest variety of marine life found throughout the world. Indonesia is an undisputed liveaboard diving and scuba diving mecca.
As the world's largest archipelago, Indonesia holds four times more ocean than land and stretches from Indian Ocean paradises to the Pacific's bursting biodiversity hotspots.
This wealth of water makes liveaboard diving in Indonesia the best way to plunge into a kingdom of unparalleled sights and experiences. With 34,000 miles of coastline, 11,000 uninhabited islands, more than 500 species of coral and over 2,000 species of fish, this really is what makes scuba diving in Indonesia such a diver's paradise.
Best time to go to Indonesia:
The best time to dive in Indonesia is between May and September; however, Indonesia dive safari season really is year around. Monsoon season usually hits in December and lasts through June.
If you are looking to see sunfish, you should go between July and October. Water temperatures in Indonesia range between 20 and 28 degrees Celsius (71 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit) depending on what time of year and location. Visibility ranges between 6 to 50 meters (20 to 160 feet) or better with depths going up to 40 meters (140 feet). Currents are generally mild but can be strong in some areas.
Tips for divers going to Indonesia:
Bali is one of the main departure locations for liveaboard diving Komodo via Lombok. Bali's main liveaboard departure port is Benoa, in the south of the island. International flights to Bali depart regularly from around the world, often with a transfer in a nearby Southeast Asian country like Kuala Lumpur or Singapore. If you're in Southeast Asia already, direct flights are available.
The port of Sorong, a city in the province of West Papua, is a major departure location for liveaboards in Indonesia travelling to Raja Ampat and Ambon. From Sorong, dive sites in Raja Ampat and nearby are easily accessible.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Indonesia:
Escape the crowds and dive the beautiful Mediterranean Sea.Liveaboard diving in Italy offers the opportunity to explore one of the most tranquil and beautiful regions in Europe.
The waters around the Tuscan Archipelago are particularly famous for diving. The calm clear waters and rich marine life make this area very popular for liveaboards in Italy. In Italy liveaboards are often sailing boats which thanks to placid sea conditions and dramatic coastlines, mean visitors will enjoy a peaceful and stunning sail.
Best time to go to Italy:
Scuba diving in Italy is good all year around with fish life and excellent visibility whenever you decide to visit.
There is a difference in temperature between the summer months and the winter both in the water and on land. In the summer the water temperature reaches 27-28 C and above the water it can climb to 35 C or more. From the Autumn until the Spring the water drops down to around 13-17 C in the water so be sure to bring the right suit.
The warmer months are the best time to see the most critters around the Italian coast but are also the most popular and therefore the busiest period. In the winter you might well enjoy have many of the dive sites just for yourselves.
Tips for divers going to Italy:
Italy is a very well developed European county but the islands tend to have less facilities and a more relaxed atmosphere so you may not find spares and other items you want to purchase there.
The currency is the Euro and exchanges and banks can be found easily. The language of the country is Italian but most people speak English and Spanish as well.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Italy:
As one of the world's most remote scuba destinations, divers can avoid the crowds in Madagascar's Indian Ocean and enjoy pristine seascape and unusual marine life.
Liveaboards in Madagascar are opening up some of this island nation’s most spectacular dive sites. The island of Madagascar has been the place to go for wildlife and rainforest tours, a haven for eco-tourists. This appreciation for nature has also spread to the underwater world.
Endemic marine life and a huge variety of sharks and corals have put Madagascar on the liveaboard diving map.The diving in Madagascar had, for many years, been focused around the Nosy B island region, thanks to the many passing whalesharks.
Best time to go to Madagascar:
Although there is year round diving season in Madagascar, between May and December is generally the most popular time of year.
In July and August when the weather is at its coolest and most temperate is the high season. Madagascar enjoys very warm waters especially in the North where the temperature is between 26°-29°, on the cooler end of this scale in the spring months.
October to November is the best time to see whalesharks in Madagascar, they are passing around Nosy B and the surrounding islands frequently in this period. This region is also famous for the migration and birthing of humpback whales. Between July and October these huge creatures come to the east to have their calves before migrating through the archipelagos. It is not unusual to spot them breaching from dive cruises in Madagascar.
Tips for divers going to Madagascar:
The people in Madagascar are very proud of their beautiful island and most speak Malagasy the local language as well as French.
Learning a few words in Malagasy is a great idea and is bound to impress the local people when you stop off for a visit on the more remote islands. The currency in Madagascar is ariary which is used for most transactions. However, prices can be in Euros for very expensive items and hotels and occasionally Euros will be accepted for these kinds of payments.
Be sure to bring spares for anything you can live without. In Nosy B and other larger islands there are many dive centers and shops but in the remote archipelagos you are not likely to find much other than souvenirs and food on sale. Be sure to bring European style plug adaptors for charging equipment on-board as well.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Madagascar:
Scuba diving in Malaysia meets every divers' expectations for seeing colorful marine life, sharks and rays, and historical wrecks.
Liveaboards in Malaysia will allow divers to visit some of these amazing areas. Malaysia is known world-wide as a cultural and architectural paradise, but only scuba divers and snorkelers visiting the country's pristine marine ecosystem, will fully experience Malaysia and all it has to offer.
A liveaboard dive cruise will allow visitors to explore the best diving this region has to offer. The country is made up of two similarly sized regions separated by the South China Sea - the Peninsular Malaysia, which shares a border with southern Thailand and East Malaysia (Borneo).
Best time to go to Malaysia:
The equatorial climate is moderated by the surrounding oceans so the islands enjoy temperatures between 28-34 degrees C (82-93 degrees F) though temperatures can vary from the peninsula to the east. Average rainfall is 98 inches (250 cm) per year. Cool sea breezes make even the high humidity pleasant.
Sporadic, heavy rains are common during the rainy season of December though March, though Malaysia is generally unaffected by monsoon season. Malaysia remains a popular dive destination year-round, but the best time to dive Sipadan is thought to be between April to September when the surface waters are most calm.
If you rarely get a chance to wear a "shortie", now is the time. Water temperatures range from 26-30 degrees C (70-80 degrees F).
Tips for divers going to Malaysia:
Malaysia boasts a wide range of other adventures and activities that can transform a liveaboard trip in to the vacation of a lifetime. Plan for extra days so you can continue to enjoy Malaysia's unmatched biodiversity as you tour the jungles of Borneo, climb Mount Kinabalu, hike, bird watch, see Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, raft, kayak, go caving in Gunung Mulu National Park or take the time to relax on picture perfect sandy beaches and clear, turquoise waters.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Malaysia:
Liveaboard SCUBA diving in the Maldives offers some of the world's most pristine and colourful reefs along with luxury dive boats that satisfy the choosiest of vacationers.
Diving in the Maldives by liveaboard offers the best in many must-have tropical SCUBA experiences. Deserted, white sand islands peep up out of the ocean by only two meters, stretching seamlessly into an underwater paradise of wildlife nourished by the Indian Monsoon current.
The Maldives' crystal clear waters are home to mantas, whale sharks, and reef sharks, not to mention the brilliant flatworms and ghost pipefish who hide among its wrecks, coral gardens, channels, and pinnacles. Maldives liveaboards offer itineraries encompassing the world-class dive sites of North Male Atoll, Ari Atoll, Baa Atoll, Hanifaru Bay, Rasdhoo and many more, including remote atolls in the far north and south where you'd be hard-pressed to see another liveaboard.
Best time to go to Maldives:
The best time to dive in the Maldives is all year. However, some people prefer to avoid monsoon season, which hits the area in April and continues to bring rain through October.
The water temperature typically ranges between 26 to 30 degrees Celsius (80 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit) with visibility from 20 meters (65 feet) to as far as the eye can see. Water depths include shallow reefs, deep walls, and everything in-between ensuring every diver can find their perfect dive.
For the more intrepid diver, there are slow currents in many areas and extremely strong currents jetting through the atoll passes for the more experienced thrill seeker. Whatever your tastes, Maldives has the diving suited just for you, which can be enjoyed in mild outside weather ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius (75 to 91 degrees Fahrenheit).
Tips for divers going to Maldives:
Minimum logged dives are required by many Maldives diving liveaboards, Scubaspa Yang and Ying being the exceptions. Ocean Divine requires 20, MV Orion and Amba require 50, and Carpe Vita requires 100. Safety briefings on boats like Scubaspa Yang and Ying are conducted on day one. Check dives on Maldives liveaboards are often held in Male on the first day.
A free 30 day visa is issued on arrival to all tourists in the Maldives. However, tourists must possess a valid passport, a valid outbound ticket and either a reservation confirmation in a hotel or enough funds to cover expenses for the duration of their stay (30 USD per. day).
There are no compulsory vaccinations for travel to the Maldives unless you have been in a country with increased yellow fever risk sometime in the nine days previous to arrival. In such cases, you must have proof of a yellow fever vaccination. We recommend standard protection against tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, polio, influenza, typhoid and hepatitis A. Electricity voltage runs at 220-240 volts; the standard socket is UK-style three-pin, but many resorts have universal sockets to accommodate non-UK tourists.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Maldives:
Take the plunge into Mexico's spectacular Cenotes, climb into a cage for a personal encounter with a great white shark or swim among a school of humpback whales.
Liveaboard diving in Mexico is extremely popular with divers looking to encounter large pelagics. Deciding to join a liveaboard trip in Mexico means you will visit some of the most spectacular dive sites and areas, all located on the west side of Mexico.
These dive sites focus more on the impressive marine life you will see, and less on extremely colourful reefs, but believe me, when you are seeing the marine life there you will have no time to even realise that there is no colourful reef as a backdrop.
Best time to go to Mexico:
Mexico is an all year round diving destination but the best times to go depends on the marine wildlife and their presence at the dive sites.
Socorro has the calmest seas from November to May with the waters being around 28 degrees Celsius (82 degrees Fahrenheit) in November, 21 degrees Celsius (69 degrees Fahrenheit) in February and back up to 25 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) in May. These winter months also bring with them the main spectacles; thousands of humpback whales which come here to breed, and many manta rays.
The visibility here depends solely on the plankton in the water which depends on the moon, but in general, the visibility is great.
The best months to dive in Guadalupe are August to October with the best visibility to see the many rowdy male sharks which are around during this time, but waters here are colder, around 20 degrees, so a wetsuit is important. If Hammerheads is what you are hoping to see then September and October are the best months to go.
Tips for divers going to Mexico:
Each liveaboard has their own minimum dive experience level, most expect to have your Advanced Open water with at least 50 logged dives, but there are a few which only need you to have your Open Water and no minimum logged dives please always check this before booking and it is important to remember your dive logs/logbooks.
The main language is Spanish, however, English is widely spoken all around the country and on the liveaboards. The currency is the Mexican Peso and you can easily exchange all popular currencies such as US dollars and Euros etc.
The plug is the same plug as the US; two flat prongs with the standard voltage being 127V. Please remember to bring an adaptor for all your electrics if you are not coming from the US.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Mexico:
The remoteness of Micronesia ensures pristine marine beauty and the adventurous diver will be well rewarded.
Liveaboards in Micronesia offer a scuba diving wonderland to this collection of small islands. The abundant marine life, vibrant corals gardens, plunging walls, spectacular drop-offs and a plethora of World War I and II wrecks make the area a world class dive destination and perfect for dive liveaboard cruises.
Of the many islands of Micronesia, the main diving destinations are Chuuk/Truk lagoon and Palau. If wrecks are what you are most interested in, then boarding a liveaboard going to Chuuk/Truk lagoon will provide you with an incredible assortment of wreck dives, all from WWII.
TRUK LAGOON: or also known as Chuuk Lagoon, An old Japanese naval base in WWII, more than 60 ships and 200 aeroplanes went down here, which has created around 50 wreck dive sites. If you are looking to dive with wrecks, it can't get much better than this.
Best time to go to Micronesia:
There are three main seasons, the high season runs from December to March and during this time there are flat, calm seas and drier weather.
The shoulder seasons are April, July and August, October and November when where the winds are stronger and more rainfall, and lastly the low season, May, June and September where the weather fluctuates the most, but during these months there are the least amount of visitors and lowest prices. Many of the dive sites have specific requirements, such as needing to be a wreck diver or cave diver, so please do check before going.
Tips for divers going to Micronesia:
Because Micronesia is connected with the United States, they speak English all around. However, there are around 11 local languages in Micronesia. They also use the US dollar as currency.
Most liveaboards will have equipment for rent, however bringing your own will save renting costs and is always more comfortable. The staff will need to be sure about your dive experience so remember to bring along your log book and certification cards.
The electricity voltage here is 120 V and the plug type they use is A/B; flat double prong, so remember to bring adaptors with you for your electrical appliances if needed.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Micronesia:
With a rich and diverse marine ecosystem untouched by tourism, divers aboard a Myanmar liveaboard will feel a great sense of privilege to witness the awesome sights of a region that has largely been unexplored. Myanmar liveaboards are not yet well known, but this could change over the coming years as divers discover what this untouched area has to offer.
Located in Southeast Asia bordered by Thailand, India, Bangladesh, China and Laos, Myanmar (also named Burma) is populated by 51 million people and it's 1930km (1200m) uninterrupted coastline stretching along the Bay of Bengal and the Andaman Sea is starting to emerge new diving sites. Myanmar's capital city is Naypyidaw and its largest city is Yangon (Rangoon).
Best time to go to Myanmar (Burma):
Myanmar has a tropical climate and liveaboard diving season is October to May, with the best conditions in the Mergui Archipelago from December to April, when the seas are at their calmest and visibility highest. Sea temperatures vary from 26C in October to 30C by February.
February to May sees the greatest number of visits from whale sharks and for manta rays is February to May a good time to go diving.
Tips for divers going to Myanmar (Burma):
Myanmar is more conservative than nearby countries. Many people still wear traditional dress - the longyi for men, the htamein for women, both sarong-like garments.
You rarely see anyone expose their knees or shoulders, and you will make everyone more comfortable if you adjust. Tipping is not part of local culture and not expected. Never use your feet to point at a person or thing. We recommend you consider insurance to cover health, diving and travel activities, including trip cancellation.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Myanmar (Burma):
Oman is a largely undiscovered diving paradise. Warm waters, pristine dive sites and a multitude of marine life make this a remarkable liveaboard dive holiday.
Liveaboards in Oman are a relatively new concept, the country only opened up to tourists at all in recent years. Thanks to this long period of isolation, the waters around the coast of the rugged middle eastern nation are virtually untouched. The region enjoys spectacular scenery with a long coastline and dramatic cliffs.
The best diving in Oman is found in the more remote islands and peninsulas at Musandam and the Daymaniyat Islands and Hallaniyat Islands. These areas offer a wide variety of dives with long shallow reefs, perfect for naturalists and beginners.
Best time to go to Oman:
Dive cruises in Oman are year-round and the best time to dive in Oman depends on your personal interests and taste. In the winter-time, the water is a little cooler, around 22-24 C, but so is the air temperature making it more comfortable for land based excursions.
Plankton blooms and nutrient rich waters mean this is a great time for marine life too. Oman. In the summer, the weather and water are warmer though and in May and June Green and Hawksbill sea turtles are nesting on the island beaches. Water temperatures at this time can be between 28 C and 30 C, with thermoclines dipping as low as 23 C at depth. Whalesharks visit the Oman area with the chance of sightings at their best during the months of August & September.
Tips for divers going to Oman:
Oman enjoys a warm tropical desert climate year round, although the summers can be very hot with an average of 30 C. It is advisable to stay hydrated especially when diving and to wear sunscreen in the daytime. The local language is Arabic but most Omanis speak very good English as well.
The currency is the Omani Rial and it is worth noting that while currency exchanges are prevalent throughout Oman’s cities not all ATM machines will accept cards from foreign countries. Diving is new but fairly popular in Oman so you will find a few dive shops in the big cities if you do forget anything. Out in the islands on the other hand, there will be little opportunity to replace anything so take extras of anything you can’t dive without.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Oman:
Divers will find everything in Panama's waters from sharks, whales, dolphins and marlin to brilliantly colored tropical fish among vivid corals in the Caribbean Sea.
Liveaboard diving in Panama probably isn't on the tip of most divers tongues, but Panama has an amazing biodiversity while it also has one of the most complex ecosystems on earth: primal rainforests, untouched beaches and high mountains. Divers highlights however will undoubtedly be the Pacific and Caribbean marine environments neighbouring Panama.
Liveaboard Vessels will take you out to the wild with-sharks-filled Pacific Ocean to the south. Going on a liveaboard cruise is highly advised while they take you to otherwise unaccessible areas. The country of Panama was named after an indigenous word meaning, "abundance of fish" - what more can we say?.Panama's waters contain large numbers of pelagics such as manta rays, stingrays, tuna, amberjacks and whale sharks.
Best time to go to Panama:
Just nine degrees north of the equator, Panama is hot and humid year round. The rainy season is from May to November and the dry season is from December to April (with less humidity and almost no rain.). Panama is not in the hurricane belt, but it can get strong winds from nearby storms. Air temperatures throughout the year range from 20-32C , being a bit cooler in the winter/dry season. Water temperatures vary between coasts.
Best season to dive in Malpelo island is from May to September with a peak in July and August, when silky sharks arrive at the island in large groups. Temperatures: from April to December/beginning January 28C and thermoclines around 24C .
During Malpelos' cold season from January to March with water temperature between 14 and 23C ), hammerhead sharks may be closer to the surface, furthermore thats the best time to see the sandtiger shark.
Tips for divers going to Panama:
Due to unpredictable weatherconditions, diving south of Panama is a little tricky and can be challenging and therefore more suitable for experienced divers.
Be sure to bring your dive certification card and logbook.
Come prepared with exposure suits for a range of temperatures. Marine conditions are variable.
The local time is -5 hours GMT.
The local currency is the Panamanian Balboa and the US dollar. Languages spoken in Panama are Spanish and English.
Electricity current in Panama is 110 volts, 60 Hz.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Panama:
Why Choose Papua New Guinea For Liveaboard Diving:
Divers will speak the phrase “more fish than water” after an unforgettable liveaboard dive holiday among the rich waters of Papua New Guinea.
Papua New Guinea liveaboard diving offers divers the exceptional chance to really get away from it all, as you explore the stunning array of remote wrecks and reefs of this undersea paradise. PNG, as it is often known, is made up of more than 600 volcanic, jungle-clad islands and scattered coral-fringed atolls amid the crystal waters of The Coral Triangle.
Famed as a marine biodiversity hotspot, this area of the western Pacific Ocean is home to six of the world's seven marine turtle species, more than 2,000 species of colourful reef fish and an astounding number of vibrant corals.
Best time to go to Papua New Guinea:
May to November are the most popular months for diving in PNG, but with a warm to hot and humid climate throughout the year and water temperatures ranging from 24-29 degrees Celsius (75-84 Fahrenheit), there is no bad time to dive Papua New Guinea, and little need for much neoprene.
Most likely due to being out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the visibility throughout the local liveaboard diving is generally excellent, but can range from 15 - 45 meters (50 - 150 feet) depending on when and where you are.
Tips for divers going to Papua New Guinea:
Pack light if you are flying on smaller flights within Papua New Guinea to the port of departure of your liveaboard, as baggage allowance on domestic flights in PNG can be as little as 10-16kg (22-35lbs) for a checked bag. Remember to pack your most important dive gear in your carry on bag, such as your dive computer and regulator, and if you have a DIN reg, it's best to take your own adaptor just to be sure.
Electricity is 240V/50hz like in Australia and New Zealand and plugs are also like theirs, but some liveaboard boats are fitted with both 110V and 220V outlets for recharging batteries on board. If in doubt bring a travel adaptor or two, to keep all your diving gadgets charged up for that whaleshark or hammerhead encounter.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Papua New Guinea:
With 7,107 islands, liveaboard diving in the Philippines is still top of the list with its abundant and highly diverse marine life at around 2,000 species of fish.
Liveaboard diving the Philippines offers an abundance of world-renowned sites, and with over 7000 islands dotting its tropical blue seas, there will be plenty to choose from.
Located at the northern corner of the Coral Triangle, breathtaking biodiversity is a given; scuba divers visit the Philippines all year round to see amazing corals, encounter whale sharks, explore historic wrecks, and wonder at the wealth of odd-shaped critters. Serious divers head to the remote atolls of world-famous Tubbataha Reef National Park, where large pelagic marine life cruises over thriving coral gardens 150 kilometres away from land.
Best time to go to The Philippines:
Philippines diving season is all year round, but there are distinct seasons that affect dive conditions, such as during typhoons in the months of September to December.
The dry season from March to June is usually when the water is warmest and the visibility best, making it the best time to dive in the Philippines. Water temperature in the Philippines during dives vary at around 23-30 C / 73-86 F depending on the season. Visibility ranges from around 5-45 metres/16-148 feet but carries strong seasonal and local variability.
Certain marine wildlife also appears during particular months such as the whale shark, which appears around March to May, and premier dive spots such as Tubbataha Reef are best dived during the seasons of March to June when visibility is best.
Tips for divers going to The Philippines:
Getting to Cebu City is easy with a 1.5 hour flight from Manila. Cebu City International Airport also receives direct flights from select Southeast Asian countries nearby, and some international flights via transfers in neighbouring regional countries. Flights to Puerto Princesa run regularly from both Manila and Cebu City. Travellers can choose between Cebu Pacific and Philippines Airlines.
To get to Manila or Cebu City, direct flights are available from many Southeast Asian countries. International flights will usually transfer in the region before flying into the Philippines.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Philippines:
Stunning atolls and the crystal clear waters of the South Pacific lure divers to explore an amazing diversity of underwater delights.
Liveaboards in Polynesia offer a prime experience of the South Pacific’s far-flung paradise islands and atolls. French Polynesia was one of the last places on Earth to know humans, and to this day, only half its 118 islands are inhabited. The Tuamotu archipelago, located in the remote waters northeast of Tahiti and the other populous Society Islands, is the prime destination for luxury liveaboards in Polynesia.
Here, legendary SCUBA diving destinations like Rangiroa and Fakarava, the two largest atolls in Tuamotu, live up to their reputations of crystal clear water and bountiful marine life.
Best time to go to Polynesian:
SCUBA diving in French Polynesia is possible all year round. January through March are the warmest, most humid months, with a water temperature of around 28 degrees Celsius. It’s drier from July through November, with a water temperature of around 24 degrees. Humpback whales can be seen during the colder season, as well as spawning Marbled Groupers (in June and July).
Tips for divers going to Polynesian:
The local currency in French Polynesia is the French Pacific Franc. It’s recommended that you bring money from your home country to exchange at the international airport in Pape’ete, Tahiti.
There are exchange offices on big islands like Tahiti and Bora Bora, as well as ATMs. However, once you reach remote islands in the best liveaboard diving locations, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a working ATM, and there are no exchange offices. Most nationalities receive a 90-day stay visa-free; just make sure your passport has three to six months remaining validity at your date of entry.
For your electronics, you should note that French Polynesia runs voltage of 110/220 V, frequency of 50-60 Hz, and has plug outlets type A, B, E.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Polynesian:
Saba and St. Kitts offer some of the most dramatic and breathtaking scuba diving experiences in the Caribbean.
A liveaboard to Saba & St.Kitts in the Caribbean offers the stunning scenery of two different islands emerging from the Caribbean Sea will be the backdrop of your liveaboard trip. St Kitts, an island of 3 volcanic mountain ranges covered in a lush green rainforest with rocky outskirts and Saba, an active volcanic island which stretches beneath the surface providing a great array of marine life to look out for on your adventures.
Best time to go to Saba St Kitts:
Diving here in this part of the Caribbean can be great any time of year. With an average water temperature of 22 - 30 degrees Celcius and an average visibility of 20 metres you are sure to enjoy your dives around these beautiful islands. It can be slightly colder between October and May so you may require a 5mm wetsuit instead of 3mm shortie.
Tips for divers going to Saba St Kitts:
The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar at 2.7 to the United States Dollar (USD), however, the USD is as widely accepted on both islands. You will need to remember your travel adapters for D/G plug types (230V) if you wish to charge the all important camera so you can take your memories away with you. Due to the tropical climate, it is wise for onshore visits to carry a thin but effective waterproof; the islands are dense with rainforest.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Saba St Kitts:
Liveaboard scuba diving in Seychelles is an adventure taking you to some of the most unique diving anywhere in the world.
Liveaboards in Seychelles offer sailing trips for divers and non-divers alike from the comforts of modern yachts or traditional schooners. Renown also for their granitic island formations, the Seychelles offers both granite-based reefs as well as the more common carbonate tropical reefs, both flourishing with diverse marine life.
A great choice for divers to explore this fantastic dive area on-board a comfortable liveaboard. The Republic of Seychelles are geographically a part of Africa located 1600km (994mi) east of Kenya, in the west part of the Indian Ocean.
Best time to go to The Seychelles:
The Seychelles is a year-round liveaboard diving destination. The best months to dive are from March to May and September to November, when waters are the calmest and dive boats can reach the more remote sites. During these months the water temperature is at its warmest of 29 degrees Celsius (84 degrees Fahrenheit) and visibility remains good (up to 30m).
The South-East Monsoon in July through to August brings strong winds and unpleasant surface conditions. Water temperature drops to around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) and the cooler waters attract the whale sharks searching for nutrient-rich plankton. The average air temperature yearly is between 24-32 Celsius. Currents vary between destinations and depths range from 8 to 30m.
Tips for divers going to The Seychelles:
Additional liveaboards fees usually include gear rental (not covered), at 10 euros per dive. Some Liveaboards cater for a certain number of dives per trip, any additional dives and night dive incurring a surcharge.
For non-divers equipment for snorkelling, kayaking and Stand-Up Paddle Boards (SUP), may be available depending on your choice of Liveaboard. Nitrox is not readily available onboard, please check with your dive operator. Every diver needs to purchase their own dive insurance. If you have any questions about extra fees in Seychelles, please contact us directly. Electricity voltage runs at 220-240 volts and uses the British standard square three-pin, 13 amp sharp electric plug.
The currency is the Seychellois Rupee and the official languages are Seychellois Creole, English and French.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Seychelles:
Why Choose The Solomon Islands For Liveaboard Diving:
The definitive liveaboard destination, the remote, unspoiled waters of the Solomon Islands harbour a diverse ecosystem among an astonishing armada of World War II wrecks including ships, aircraft and submarines.
Exploring the Solomon Islands on a liveaboard dive boat is ideal as the region is an unspoiled wonderland. You will discover pristine reefs with high fish counts and over 500 species of hard and soft corals as well as abundant opportunities for wreck diving due to the region's role during World War II. Of the 922 islands that make up this archipelago, only 147 are populated.
Uncrowded and untamed, these islands are considered a key Eco-tourism destination in the South Pacific.
Best time to go to The Solomon Islands:
Excellent diving in the Solomon Islands is available year around. There is a minimal rainy season from November to April but it is not monsoonal. Cyclones rarely venture into this region.
The Solomon Islands are a tropical destination. The air temperature ranges from 23-34 Celsius (74-94 F) and the water temperature averages between 26-29 Celsius (79-84 F). Visibility averages 15m (45 ft) although 21-30 m (60-90 ft) is not uncommon.
Tips for divers going to The Solomon Islands:
Electricity is 240v and access will be with Australian or UK style plugs.
English is widely spoken and the local currency is the Solomon Dollar. There are banks and ATMs in Honiara and Gizo. Credit cards are widely accepted but if heading to the more remote islands it is advised to change some currency.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Solomon Islands:
Considered the ‘‘pearl in the Indian Ocean', Sri Lanka offers excellent scuba diving. An abundance of tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs and well preserved ship wrecks are waiting to be discovered.
Liveaboards in Sri Lanka are incredibly luxurious and have something for everyone underwater. Sri Lanka Liveaboards take you to the stunning reefs for drift diving over staghorn corals, brain corals and flower corals at the same time as allowing you to visit some of the hundreds of wrecks in local waters.
There is diving for all when choosing liveaboard diving in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka, a small island off the coast of India, is best known for its history during WWII as an important part of the Silk Route, however the cultural background of Buddhism now gives it a peaceful charm.
Best time to go to Sri Lanka:
Luxury liveaboard tour options for all recreational divers in Sri Lanka set sail during the months of November to February. The waters are temperate at around 28 degrees celsius and offer great visibility during this time (up to 40 meters). Specialist tech wreck weeks are offered in the months of May and June on the East coast for those who have the experience.
Tips for divers going to Sri Lanka:
Local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR) at about 145 to the 1 USD. You will need to remember your travel adapters for D/G plug types (230V) if you wish to charge the all important camera so you can take your memories away with you.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Sri Lanka:
Why Choose St Maarten/Martin For Liveaboard Diving:
Scuba divers in St Maarten and St Martin enjoy warm Caribbean waters, vibrant underwater landscapes and an abundance of colorful tropical fish.
Liveaboards to St.Maarten/Martin will usually incorporate numerous local dives sites in the area and operate dive itineraries between St. Maarten & St. Kitts. Located in the crystal waters of the Caribbean Sea this historic island offers not only the best shopping experiences in the Caribbean, but has become renowned for its amazing diving as well.
The island is surrounded by national parks that aim to protect, preserve and enhance the stunning natural beauty of the marine environment, creating an absolute paradise for divers, especially underwater photographers. The majority of dive sites are found on the southern, Dutch half of the island, St. Maarten.
Best time to go to St Maarten/Martin:
Diving is available all year round since both air and water temperatures remain fairly constant. During winter, air temperatures may dip to 82F (28C) and water temperatures 79F (26C), with summer air and water temperatures a toasty 89F (32C) and 85F (29C) respectively.
Being tropical there is a rainy season, which is sometimes known as hurricane season. Normally this lasts from June to November, but rarely is weather strong enough to halt or disrupt outings.
Tips for divers going to St Maarten/Martin:
Although you don't need to show proof of your dive experience, it's always a good idea to bring your dive certifications even if they are available online (and you may want to bring your log book with you anyway to note your awesome experiences during the dive cruise!). An Open Water certification, or equivalent, fulfils the minimum requirements for most sites.
St. Maarten/Martin and Saba all accept the US Dollar, while St. Kitts accepts the Eastern Caribbean Dollar. English, French and Dutch are the main spoken languages.
Electricity runs at 220 to 240 Volts at 60 Hz on St. Maarten/Martin and St. Kitts and typically a Type C Europlug socket; but 110 Volts at 60 Hz on Saba utilising Type A or B sockets. Double check the labels on your electrical gadgets, as you may need an adapter and a step-down transformer or voltage converter.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to St Maarten/Martin:
Diving in Thailand gives scuba divers the chance to experience the lush underwater life of the Andaman Sea with relative ease and comfort. Liveaboard diving in Thailand offers enough to tempt any serious diver, with healthy reefs, schools of fish, barracuda, whale sharks, and manta rays. But the country's food, people, and landscapes put the icing on the cake.
It's no wonder that Thailand is a world favourite for divers and Southeast Asia-lovers alike, who return year after year for affordable liveaboard dive trips to incredible underwater destinations. Thailand is filled with some of the world's best dive sites, the most popular areas being Koh Tao and Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Phuket in the Andaman Sea.
Best time to go to Thailand:
The best time to dive in Thailand is year-round. However, the peak Thailand diving season for the Gulf of Thailand is from May through September and from October through April for the Andaman Sea.
The water temperature in Thailand ranges from 28 degrees Celsius (82 Fahrenheit) to 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit). Visibility in Thailand's waters is optimum throughout the area with an average of 30 meters (100 feet). Diving depths will typically vary depending on the dive site, but usually, do not exceed 36 meters (120 feet). Currents are usually mild and the overall air temperature is hot with high humidity.
Tips for divers going to Thailand:
North Andaman liveaboard trips usually depart from Khao Lak or Phuket. Getting to Phuket is easy with a 1 hour flight from Bangkok or direct international flights from Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Singapore, and other Southeast Asian destinations. Khao Lak has no airport.
For entry-level divers, Khao Lak's proximity to the Similan Islands makes it a great place to combine a PADI Open Water course with amazing day trips to Thailand's premier Andaman dive destination.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Thailand:
A tropical island paradise like nowhere else on Earth, Tonga is an unspoiled marine haven for sea turtles, manta rays, tuna, marlin, wahoo, whale sharks and their most renowned visitors, the humpback whales.
Tonga consists of over 170 islands nestled in sparkling turquoise waters. Ships sit undisturbed, coral gardens shimmer and volcanic activities have created a playground of tunnels, lava tubes and massive walls. Tonga is one of only three places on Earth where you can witness the majestic humpback whale.
Best time to go to Tonga:
While diving can be done year round in Tonga, the best diving is between May and November. The average air temperature in the northern islands is 27°C, while the southern islands average 23°C. By November, the water temperatures can reach 28°C, and then drop to 21°C during the winter months. Visibility is outstanding year round, often beyond 40 meters.
Tips for divers going to Tonga:
Migrating pods of humpbacks are annual visitors to Tonga where they stay from July through September to court, mate and give birth in the warm tropical waters. Because Tonga is largely unpopulated, it has astonishingly clear waters and unadulterated marine beauty. Underwater photographers will delight in the amazing conditions and spectacular scenery.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Tonga:
Explore an immense, flourishing coral reef ecosystem and spectacular wall diving in Turks and Caicos. Opting for a Turks and Caicos dive liveaboard will bring about the pleasure of experiencing stretches of pristine marine park untouched and untainted by modern day man.
Due to its protected status, the reef systems are teeming with exciting and noteworthy sea life. Channel your inner explorer and search the islands notorious dives sites for treasures abound. Areas such as North West Point, Grace Bay, French Cay and West Caicos may offer up common sightings that can include Caribbean Reef Sharks, Nurse Sharks, Hawksbill Turtles, Bottlenose Dolphins, Spotted Eagle Rays, Eels, Grunts, Snapper, Grouper, Horse-eyed Jacks, and a plethora of other common tropical Caribbean fish.
If luck is on your side, it is also possible to see Blacktip Sharks, Hammerheads, Tiger Sharks, Manta Rays, and depending on the time of year, Humpback Whales. Drift along sheer walls, hover above gardens of black coral and elephant ear sponges, investigate wrecks and navigate swim-throughs. See all that Turks and Caicos has to offer underwater by way of a liveaboard dive cruise.
Best time to go to Turks & Caicos:
Turks and Caicos is lovely to travel to for a liveaboard cruise year round.
Low average rainfall, high average days of sunshine, consistent average water, surface, and air temperatures, serene seas and breezy trade winds mean there is really no bad time to go. If going ashore is of interest, something to keep in mind is that the lowest prices and fewest tourists will be found throughout April and May. However, the peak season prices from December through March may be well worth the additional expense, as migrating Humpback Whales are passing through the area from January through March.
Average water temperatures will typically range from 28-29C/82-84F in the summer months and 23-26C/74-78F in the winter months. Average visibility is 25m-40m. Average air temperatures will typically range from 29-32C/85-90F.
Tips for divers going to Turks & Caicos:
Presentation of current certification card is required upon diving. Don't forget to bring along your dive log as well so as to track dive specs and record amazing sights seen.
English is the national language of Turks and Caicos. The boat crew members speak English. The US dollar (USD) is the national currency of the islands.
Electricity is 110-volt. American electronics are suited for this level of current, but it may be necessary to travel with an adaptor if travelling from Europe or with European electronics.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Turks & Caicos:
Vanuatu, a chain of 83 tropical islands in the South West Pacific, is the perfect holiday destination for scuba divers seeking rare adventures in paradise. Vanuatu offers scuba divers a chance to experience warm, clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life in protected sanctuaries, shallow reefs, deep drop-offs and sunken shipwrecks.
Port Vila boasts many dive sites with a variety of marine life, including large pelagics and a Vanuatu sea safari is the best way to experience them all. The "Star of Russia", a three masted sailing ship built is 1874, lies in 36 meters of water and offers scuba divers easy access to the interior teeming with tropical species including Bat fish, Crocodile fish, lionfish and eels.
Located off the coast of Espiritu Santo, the SS "President Coolidge" sank in 1942 and is the largest wreck dive in the world, resting in of 21 - 70 meters. Guns, helmets, gas masks and ammunition are scattered across the deck and bow while the interior still contains cannons, jeeps, medical supplies and the captain's personal effects.
Best time to go to Vanuatus:
Diving in Vanuatu is a year round activity, however peak season is from March through November when visibility and temperatures are best. Water temperatures range from 22-28C and visibility between 10-40 meters. The climate in Vanuatu is varied. Winter is the dry season (April to October) with temperatures averaging around 23°C. In the rainy summer season (November to March) temperatures average 28°C.
Tips for divers going to Vanuatu:
Because ten dives are required to see the entire ships, a Vanuatu liveaboard diving adventure is the ideal way to dive this wreck. A diving cruise to Vanuatu's North Efate takes scuba divers to the Tongoa Wall where they have the rare opportunity to explore the crater of an active volcano.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Vanuatu:
Enjoy a liveaboard dive holiday among the unspoiled waters of the Caribbean's best kept secret. Venezuela's pristine seascape is teeming with marine life. Venezuela boasts hundreds of kilometers of coastline and beautiful tropical islands with pristine turquoise waters and abundant marine life. One of the Caribbean's best kept secrets, Venezuela is relatively unknown to the mainstream diving world.
As such, it offers unspoiled diving. Along with healthy, vibrant coral reefs, divers will also find interesting rock formations, swim throughs and caves teeming with fish. Los Roques offers some of the best liveaboard diving in Venezuela. This archipelago is a pristine, remote scuba diving destination. In its warm clear water are pinnacles, caves coral gardens, reefs, walls and drop-offs.
Massive sponges in bright yellows, oranges, reds and purples along with nutrient rich seagrass beds harbor an impressive number of species including lobster, wrasses, parrot fish, barracudas, rays, groupers, snappers and four different species of turtles.
Best time to go to Venezuela:
Because of its tropical location, scuba diving can be done year round in Venezuela. Air temperatures are typical 30C and water temperatures range from 26C - 28C, but at some sites thermoclines can drop this to 25°C. Visibility is usually excellent and ranges from 12 to 30m.
Tips for divers going to Venezuela:
For those looking for a sea safari among virgin dive sites, Venezuela's Los Roques has it. Off the north east coast of Venezuela is Isla Margarita, a popular dive destination. Aboard a Venezuela diving cruise along Isla Margarita, divers plunge into warm, sparkling water to swim along reefs packed with large queen angelfish, banded butterfly fish, parrot fish and huge grouper.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to Venezuela:
Why Choose The Virgin Islands For Liveaboard Diving:
With crystal clear waters, numerous reefs, immense coral, and famous wrecks, the British Virgin Islands are a scuba divers paradise. Liveaboards in the Virgin Islands are offered on the Cuan Law, a sailing trimaran with all the things a diver needs on board. Virgin Island liveaboards take in the scenery of the beautiful Caribbean Islands whilst allowing you to visit wrecks and reefs a plenty.
You will not be disappointed by everything liveaboard diving in the Virgin Islands has to offer. A sun bathing hotspot set sail in Virgin Islands to enjoy the life at sea. You will have the chance to visit the islands to shop and see the sights of these old Dutch and British Virgin islands whilst on your dive liveaboard.
Scuba diving in the Virgin Islands you will find large schools of tropical fish, incredible reefs and some brilliant wrecks. The Coral gardens here will impress you and you will find lobster, turtles, moray eels, goliath grouper and Nurse sharks under water on your Virgin Islands tour. Your opportunity to take in famous ship wrecks is here on your Virgin Islands cruise.
Best time to go to The Virgin Islands:
Enjoy your liveaboard boats in the Virgin Islands year round. Here you can expect surface temperatures of 24-32 degrees celsius and water temperatures at around 24 - 27 degrees celsius. You will enjoy 18- 30 meters visibility. All in all making for great dive safari conditions. Check the conditions carefully to plan your wetsuit choices, whilst most should be good in a shorty others may need a 5mm full suit in these waters.
Tips for divers going to The Virgin Islands:
The currency at the Virgin Islands is the US dollar. You will need to remember your travel adapters for American plug types (110V) if you wish to charge the all important camera so you can take your memories away with you. Visa requirements will differ for different passport holders please check with your government's website for updates on this. Sun cream is all important when BVI diving, the temperatures may not feel too hot but when on deck you will need to keep yourself protected.
For the latest prices & more information for your dream liveaboard trip to The Virgin Islands:
To find out more about ‘what is liveaboard diving‘, please go to ‘Liveaboard.com‘ for details. Or as an alternative, try out ‘Dive The World‘ to see their full list of liveaboards.
I hope you enjoyed this article about what does liveaboard mean
I’d love to hear from you. Tell us about your adventures of diving and snorkeling, in the comments below. Please also share your photos. Either from your underwater cameras or videos from your waterproof Gopro’s!
If this article hasn’t answered all of your questions. If you have more questions either about snorkeling or scuba diving (or specifically about what does liveaboard mean), please comment below with your questions.
There will also be many more articles about scuba diving (and snorkeling) for you to read and learn about these fabulous sports.
Have fun and be safe!
What Does Liveaboard Mean? (What Is A Liveaboard Dive Boat?)
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Article written by Russell Bowyer who has been a scuba diver since diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Australia in 1989. After his first dive he trained as a BSAC diver in the UK. He attained his Diver Leader certification with BSAC. He then went on to become a scuba diving instructor, teaching others how to dive and was voted as Diving Officer and Treasurer for the Saffron Walden BSAC club too. Russell has dived all over the world, including the UK, on liveaboards in the Red Sea, the Caribbean, South Africa and the USA. Russell is experienced in all dive types, including drift diving, deep dives that involved decompression stops and recreational dives too.
