The Climate, Diving Season and Best Time to Visit
August through November, when the water temperatures are around the 80°F (27°C) mark, is the Sea of Cortez liveaboard season.
Hammerhead sharks are most abundant here during September and October. From May through July, witness the spectacular mobula ray migration - this is also prime time for orca encounters. Whale sharks frequent these waters all year, with juvenile sightings peaking from late September to November when they gather to feed on plankton blooms near Bahía de los Ángeles (note: visibility decreases during these plankton-rich months).
Ports of Departure and How to Get There
Northern Sea of Cortez liveaboard cruises normally depart in the afternoon from Puerto Penasco. Trips that cover all sections of the sea may begin or end their cruise in Puerto Penasco or San Jose del Cabo. Cruises that include both the southern sites of the Sea of Cortez and the Socorro Islands, depart in the evening from Cabo San Lucas, or sometimes Cabo Pulmo.
Puerto Penasco is on the northern coast of the Sea of Cortez. Most guests fly through Phoenix Sky Harbor airport, 4 hours drive from Puerto Penasco. For San Jose del Cabo departures, guests fly into Los Cabos International Airport (a.k.a. San Jose del Cabo International Airport). You should plan to arrive the day before departure. The marina is 25 minutes from the airport and 5 minutes from downtown San Jose del Cabo. In all cases, an airport shuttle service can be arranged. More information on: How to get to Mexico.
You'll find each boat's departure ports clearly listed in the 'Departure Schedule & Prices' section of their web page. The boat operator typically arranges complimentary transfers from local hotels for guests staying overnight before departure. We'll email you comprehensive departure details once your booking is confirmed.
For your protection, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that specifically covers scuba diving activities and trip cancellations. You can request a competitive quote through our recommended insurance program:

Places to Stay
For travelers needing accommodations before or after their Gulf of California liveaboard safari, our partner HotelsCombined.com offers an extensive selection of Mexican hotels. Their user-friendly platform allows you to research options, consult with specialists via live chat, and complete secure credit card bookings. Every reservation comes with their Low Price Guarantee, ensuring you receive maximum value for your travel budget:
