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Diving on the Solmar V liveaboard
From Cabo San Lucas, the Solmar V currently has two diving itineraries: one to Socorro Island in the Revillagigedo Archipelago and one to Baja Peninsula and Sea of Cortez.
The Socorro Island itinerary is all about diving with sharks, such as hammerheads, reef sharks, silky sharks, and Galapagos sharks, but also with manta rays and other big marine life. If you want to see whale sharks, the months of November-December and May-June are your best bet. If you’re hoping to see humpback whales, December to April is the best time to go.
The Baja Peninsula and Sea of Cortez itinerary offers more than just diving. Explore the sea, desert, and mountains to discover the cultural, historical, and natural treasures of the area. This involves snorkeling with sea lions, bird watching, kayaking the estuarine, trying the local cuisine, and visiting ancient cave paintings.
To dive in Socorro Island, you’ll need to be at least either an Advanced Open Water Diver or Open Water certified with the Deep Specialty. Plus, you’ll need to have a minimum of 50 logged dives. This is due to the remote, deep dive sites and strong currents.
The water temperatures range between 74 F (23 C) and 80 F (27 C) throughout the year. So, depending on when you visit, a thin wetsuit (5 to 7mm) should do the job.
Most dives are from tenders, but what sets the Solmar V apart from other liveaboards is that you’ll be diving only nitrox. If you’re not certified, you can enroll in the PADI Enriched Air Diver Course (surcharge) on board.
And as for the equipment, you’ll need a dive computer (not available to rent onboard) and an SMB (provided onboard). You can rent all other scuba gear.
Highlights:
- Remote dive sites in Socorro
- Diving and land-based activities in Baja California
- Nitrox-only diving
Onboard the Solmar V
The Solmar V is a 112-foot (34 m) liveaboard, built to dive in remote areas in Mexico—like Socorro Island.
With a steel hull and wood interiors, Solmar V is as safe as it is comfortable. With 12 cabins, the dive boat can cater to 22 guests. There are four standard cabins and six superior cabins, which are slightly bigger and are located in the middle of the boat. If you’re prone to seasickness, you’ll feel less movement in this location.
But what makes this boat liveaboard stand out are its two single cabins, perfect for solo travelers who do not want to share a room.
All cabins are on the lower deck and have porthole windows. Plus, each room has air conditioning and a private bathroom with eco-friendly toiletries.
There is Wi-Fi available onboard at an extra cost, but if you want to disconnect, spend time in the cozy air-conditioned salon on the main deck. Here you can lounge, socialize, and use the TV and entertainment system. Next to the salon is the dining area with two big tables where you eat shared meals.
For the sun-lovers, the top deck has sun lounges and chairs—both in the sun and the shade. There are also extra mattresses under the sun at the bow on the main deck, offering an excellent view over the Pacific.
Located on the main deck, the dive deck takes up most of the space on board. There are benches, storage baskets, and a big camera table to keep your electronics safe. A few steps lead onto the dive platform for easy entry into the tenders or water.
Highlights:
- Single cabins
- Large camera table
- Wi-Fi available (surcharge)
Dining onboard the Solmar V
Food onboard Solmar V is a blend of American and Mexican cuisine. Breakfast is a cooked-to-order affair, while lunch and dinner are buffet meals.
All meals and snacks are included, so you can snack and drink all day. And during your meals, you can also enjoy free wine and beer (special wines and other drinks cost extra). Remember that if you drink, you won’t be diving again that day.
For special dietary requirements and food allergies, you must give Solmar V 30 days’ notice before your trip.
Highlights:
- American and Mexican food
- Free beer and wine with meals
- Caters to special dietary requirements
Things we like:
- Nitrox-only dives (unlimited nitrox)
- Pelagic marine life
- Two single cabins
- Free wine and beer during lunch and dinner
Things we don't like:
- 16% VAT not included
- National park fees not included ($25-87 USD per day)
- Small cabins with small portholes
Key Facts
| Year Built | 1980 |
| Max Divers | 22 |
| Price Range | Mid-range |
| Trip Length | 8+ Nights |
| Internet | Yes ($) |
| Nitrox | Yes (free) |
| Equipment Rental | Yes ($) |
| Camera Station | Yes |
| Air Conditioning | Yes |
| Min. Logged Dives | No minimum |
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