Diving in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Guide to Scuba Diving in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Cocos Island, located about 310 miles off Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is one of those rare places that truly leaves you speechless. This tropical treasure lies right in the heart of the Pacific Ocean and is home to a mesmerizing underwater world filled with unique species and untouched marine ecosystems that you won’t find anywhere else on Earth.

One fascinating detail about Cocos Island is that it’s completely uninhabited, except for a small team of about 20 park rangers and scientists who live there permanently. Overnight stays are not allowed, which adds to the island’s mysterious and untouched charm. The only way to get there is by taking a lengthy boat ride, which helps shield the island from mass tourism.

Cocos Island Costa Rica liveaboard experiences

Guide to scuba diving in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Unfortunately, it’s becoming harder and harder to find unspoiled natural spots like this anywhere in the world. That’s exactly why Cocos Island is considered one of the most popular attractions in Costa Rica for divers from around the globe. In recognition of its importance, UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site back in 1997.

So, if you’re thinking of scuba diving in Costa Rica, don’t miss the chance to explore a truly one-of-a-kind location where you can connect with the ocean on a whole new level. Below, you’ll find all the details you’ll need to inspire your trip to Cocos Island in Costa Rica and return home with memories of incredible underwater adventures.

Diving on Cocos Island, the main activity on this national park

Cocos Island is not only one of the most stunning national parks in Costa Rica, but it also ranks among the top 10 recreational diving destinations in the world. And it’s easy to see why.

Diving here gives you the chance to witness an extraordinary variety of marine life, including over 600 species of mollusks and more than 300 species of aquatic animals. It’s a haven for dolphins, sea turtles, rays, huge schools of colorful fish, and especially sharks, including the iconic hammerhead shark. The reason for this rich biodiversity is that several ocean currents meet around the island, which creates the perfect conditions for an explosion of marine life.

Scuba diving in Cocos Island

Diving on Cocos Island, the main activity on this national park

Because the environment is virtually untouched, the coral reefs and underwater landscapes remain vibrant and healthy. The water is crystal clear, offering outstanding visibility of up to 100 feet, which allows you to take in every spectacular detail. You’ll also discover deep underwater canyons, sheer vertical walls, and fascinating rock formations that add drama to the scenery.

Since mass tourism hasn’t taken over here, you can forget about crowded dive sites. Instead, you’ll enjoy a more peaceful, exclusive experience that makes Cocos Island feel like your own private underwater paradise.

That said, if you’re not into diving, Cocos Island might not be the destination for you, as its greatest wonders are hidden beneath the waves. But if you’re a diver, it’s hard to imagine a more thrilling and awe-inspiring place to explore.

How to get to Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Reaching Cocos Island takes anywhere from 36 to 48 hours by boat from the port city of Puntarenas, depending on sea and weather conditions.

Where is Cocos Island in Costa Rica

How to get to Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Since sleeping on the island itself isn’t allowed, all visitors explore it via liveaboard diving cruises that usually last between 8 and 10 days. These trips include the journey to and from the island, plus several days of diving and some time to explore the island’s natural beauty from the surface.

Because Cocos Island is a protected national park, you’ll need special permit to visit. But there’s no need to worry. Tour operators who run these cruises typically handle all the necessary permits and paperwork, so all you have to do is focusing on the adventure.

Best diving cruises in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

When choosing a tour to Cocos Island, you’ll find a range of options to suit different preferences, from pure diving-focused expeditions to more diverse tours that include snorkeling, nature hikes, and the chance to observe the island’s lush flora and fascinating fauna.

Each liveaboard boat offers its own set of amenities, so it’s definitely worth comparing things like the cabins, meal quality, and extra services. This way, you can choose the cruise that best fits your style and ensures the kind of unforgettable experience you’re dreaming of.

Below, I’ve included a quick overview of the main liveaboard options currently offering trips to Cocos Island.

MV Sea Hunter

The MV Sea Hunter is an excellent choice for diving enthusiasts, and the best part is that you can join one of their trips any time of the year. This is the liveaboard we personally chose, and I’ll share more about that experience later. Their trips typically last between 10 and 11 nights, giving you enough time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Cocos Island and its magical surroundings, with the chance to complete around 20 dives.

Onboard, you’ll find 8 standard cabins with either double or twin beds, each with its own private bathroom. If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, the two superior suites have windows, so you can enjoy serene ocean views from the comfort of your room.

MV Sea Hunter, best liveaboards at Cocos Island, Costa Rica

MV Sea Hunter

The ship also has a number of relaxing and social spaces, including a lounge with DVDs and video games, a minibar, a library, and a dining room where guests gather for meals and socializing. And if you’re one of those people who just can’t wait to check out and edit the photos and videos from the day’s dives, you’ll love the dedicated digital photography and video editing room.

Thanks to the zero-speed stabilizers, the ride is smooth, even if the sea gets rough, so you won’t have to stress if you’re prone to seasickness. And when it’s time to gear up, the dive deck is thoughtfully designed with individual stations for your equipment and free nitrox for certified divers.

  • Price from: $460 per day
  • Trip duration: 10-11 nights
  • Cabins: 10 total (8 standard, 2 superior suites)
  • Capacity: 20 guests
  • Requirements: Advanced Open Water certification and at least 50 logged dives. Deep Diving Specialty and Nitrox certifications are recommended but not mandatory—you can complete these courses onboard.
  • Included: All meals, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, dive package, nitrox, and laundry service
  • Required extras: Fuel surcharge ($200), Cocos Island National Park fees ($554–$633), local transfers ($100)
  • Optional extras: Tips, airport transfers, Nitrox course ($210), rental gear, Wi-Fi ($40)
  • Night dives: Optional and available at an extra cost of $50–$56 per dive
  • Island tours: Yes
  • Nitrox: Included for certified divers

Cocos Island Aggressor

The Cocos Island Aggressor is a 125-foot liveaboard, offering space for up to 22 guests. With 11 spacious cabins, each with its own private bathroom, you’ll have a comfortable place to rest and recharge after each day of diving. It’s also the largest vessel that sails these waters, so if you’re looking for plenty of room to stretch out and socialize, this is the one!

You’ll find many inviting common areas, including a cozy lounge, a sunny rooftop terrace, a bar, and even a grill for enjoying meals outdoors. The onboard dining is a highlight, with a professional chef preparing a wide variety of meals to please every taste.

Cocos Island Aggressor, the best liveaboard tour in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Cocos Island Aggressor

Expect everything from soups, salads, sandwiches, and seafood, to meat, chicken, and even homemade desserts. You’ll also have access to soft drinks, iced tea, coffee, and local wines.

The diving schedule includes 21 dives spread across a 10-night voyage, depending on ocean conditions. While they don’t offer night dives, that just gives you the perfect excuse to plan a return trip in the future.

One of the most popular spots on the boat is the on-deck bar, where divers love to gather between excursions, sip a drink, and share stories with new friends. And yes, island walks are included, which allows you to explore Cocos Island on foot.

  • Price from: $470 per day
  • Trip duration: 10-11 nights
  • Cabins: 11 with private bathrooms
  • Capacity: 22 guests
  • Requirements: Open Water certification and a minimum of 50 dives
  • Included: All meals, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, hotel transfer, and diving package
  • Required extras: Cocos Island National Park fees ($554–$633)
  • Optional extras: Tips, airport transfers, nitrox, rental equipment
  • Night dives: Not available
  • Island tours: Yes
  • Nitrox: Available, but not included

Okeanos Aggressor II

The Okeanos Aggressor II is one of the top-rated liveaboards for exploring this remote corner of Costa Rica, offering a smooth, comfortable ride and everything you need for a dream diving trip.

With 11 private cabins, this vessel can accommodate up to 22 guests. Some cabins are located in more exclusive spots on the lower and upper decks, providing not only extra comfort but also beautiful views that are bound to leave you in awe.

Okeanos Aggressor II, one of the best liveaboards in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Okeanos Aggressor II

Dining on board is a treat – most meals are served buffet-style with a wide variety of dishes to suit all tastes, while dinner is a curated menu crafted by the chef. Still, the standout evenings are when they host beach barbecues—a favorite among guests and the perfect reward after a hike through the heart of the jungle.

When it’s time to wind down after a full day of diving, the upper deck has just what you need: sun loungers, a jacuzzi, and a shaded cocktail bar. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the sunset and swap stories with fellow adventurers.

  • Price from: $430 per day
  • Trip Duration: 10-11 nights
  • Number of Cabins: 11
  • Capacity: 22 guests
  • Requirements: Open Water certification with a minimum of 50 logged dives
  • Included: All meals, snacks, drinks (including alcoholic), and diving package
  • Required extras: Cocos Island National Park fees ($554–$633), port fees
  • Optional extras: Tips, airport transfers, equipment rental, nitrox, nitrox course, additional dives
  • Night dives: Not available
  • Island tours: Yes
  • Nitrox: Available, but not included

Best diving spots on Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Cocos Island boasts over 780 square miles of protected marine territory, featuring more than 20 dive sites that offer jaw-dropping underwater biodiversity. One of the coolest aspects is that dive schedules are coordinated among all the liveaboards, so each boat gets exclusive access to a site at a time. This makes every dive feels like a private adventure.

Cocos Island Costa Rica scuba diving

Best diving spots on Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Some of the top spots include:

Manuelita

Perfect for beginners, Manuelita offers calm waters and depths ranging from 40 to 70 feet. It’s especially famous for its vibrant coral garden, where you can swim alongside white-tip reef sharks, blue sharks, and colorful schools of fish. It’s also a paradise for macro photographers, who come for amazing close-ups of eels, lobsters, and all kinds of tiny creatures.

Manuelita Channel

This channel sits between the main island and Manuelita and is best suited for more experienced divers, as the currents can get quite strong. Here, you’ll have a great chance of spotting tiger sharks, hammerheads, eagle rays, and manta rays. And if the ocean is on your side that day, you might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of a whale shark.

Manuelita Outside (also known as Manuelita Deep)

This is one of the most iconic and popular spots at Cocos Island. The depth ranges from 60 feet to well over 100 feet, and it’s home to several cleaning stations where you’ll find hammerhead, blacktip, and whitetip sharks all coming in for a refresh. It’s also packed with eagle rays, turtles, schools of jacks, and the occasional tiger shark. The huge underwater boulders here are perfect for hooking in and watching the marine life.

Dirty Rock (also known as Roca Sucia)

This is one of the island’s signature dive sites, consisting of a large rocky outcrop about 50 feet long. Depending on your experience, you can dive anywhere from 20 to 130 feet deep. The marine life here is wild and varied; expect to see blacktip and whitetip sharks, hammerheads, devil rays, eagle rays, marbled rays, dolphins, and massive schools of jacks all in a single dive.

Punta María

This site is a real hotspot for hammerhead and Galapagos sharks, especially around the cleaning stations. But that’s not all—you’ll also come across octopuses, marbled rays, bigeye soldierfish, and schools of snapper. It’s an underwater mountain that rises nearly 100 feet from the seabed, and dives typically range from 80 to 110 feet. Because of the strong currents, this one is recommended only for divers with solid experience.

Two Friends (Dos Amigos)

This dive site is named after the two large rock formations that define it. It’s well-known for its hammerhead shark cleaning stations and its most iconic feature: the Big Dos Arch. This stunning 46-foot underwater arch offers a unique dive experience with surreal rock formations and dramatic swim-throughs.

Along the way, you might run into manta rays, eagle rays, sailfish, wahoos, snapper, lobsters, and whitetip sharks. One of the most fascinating things here is the presence of black coral, which you can spot safely at about 100 feet. Since the currents are strong, this spot is better for advanced divers.

Alcyone or Submerged Rock

This dive site is world-famous for hammerhead sightings. It’s not uncommon to see entire schools of them circling around you. You’ll also have a good chance of spotting manta rays, whale sharks, eagle rays, barracudas, tuna, and large groups of smaller fish. The site sits at around 100 feet, so you’ll need a certification and some experience under your belt to dive here safely.

Viking Rock

Viking Rock is one of the toughest and deepest sites at Cocos. It’s a small island shaped like a helmet, and it drops straight down into a vertical wall that reaches almost 200 feet. Divers here descend along huge, stepped ledges where they can see tiger sharks, hammerheads, eagle rays, and countless reef fish. Because of the depth and the powerful currents, this site is strictly for very experienced divers.

Ubing Rock

This is a versatile dive site that works well for all levels. The depth starts at just 20 feet and goes down to about 110 feet. It’s centered around a massive rock that’s a magnet for hammerhead sharks, barracudas, and all sorts of photogenic reef fish.

Silverado

Silverado is famous for being the only known cleaning station for silvertip sharks on the island. The dive site only goes down to about 40 feet, so it’s beginner-friendly but still delivers something rare and thrilling.

Lobster Rock

At around 110 feet deep, Lobster Rock is one of my favorite spots for diving near Cocos Island, Costa Rica. You’ll find groups of whitetip sharks, manta rays, eagle rays, marbled rays, and, if you’re lucky, even the elusive pink-lipped batfish.

What animals can you see while diving in Cocos Island, Costa Rica?

Before my trip, I probably read a dozen articles about Cocos Island, and the more I learned, the more fascinated I became. One of the most surprising things I discovered was how isolated the island really is. Being so far from the mainland and pretty much everything else, its flora and fauna have evolved on their own, without much outside influence. Just like the Galápagos, Cocos feels like a world that’s been set apart for ages.

Schools of fish at Cocos Island, Costa Rica

What animals can you see while diving in Cocos Island, Costa Rica?

What really blew my mind was finding out that the island is home to two types of endemic mammals, two species of endemic reptiles, three endemic bird species, and around 30 species of endemic fish. That means these creatures exist nowhere else on Earth. Even more amazing is that these account for over 40% of the world’s known endemic marine life.

It’s this extraordinary biodiversity, shaped by underwater volcanic terrain and nutrient-rich ocean currents, which makes diving here so incredible. These currents bring everything the coral reefs need to flourish, and as a result, so many species thrive here.

Whale shark diving at Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Animals you can see while scuba diving at Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Here’s a look at just some of the amazing marine life you might spot during your liveaboard in Cocos Island, Costa Rica:

  • Sharks: The sharks at Cocos Island are a major reason why divers from around the world flock to this remote paradise. It’s one of the top places on Earth to see massive schools of hammerheads, especially around the famous cleaning stations where they pause to be groomed by tiny fish. Night dives off Manuelita are a favorite for spotting whitetip reef sharks, which really come to life after sundown. You might also come across silky sharks, Galapagos sharks, and blacktip sharks. If you’re lucky, summer may even bring you face-to-face with a tiger shark or a majestic whale shark.
  • Dolphins: Bottlenose and spotted dolphins are some of the most common animals in Cocos Island that you’ll often see swimming alongside boats. Spotting them underwater while diving is trickier, but it does happen!
  • Whales: Humpback whales are one of the island’s showstoppers. They migrate here from colder northern waters to breed, and you have the best chance of seeing them from December to April. During this season, you might even hear their haunting songs while you’re in the water, though spotting them on a dive is rare.
  • Turtles: Sea turtles are regular visitors. Green turtles are the most common, especially when they come ashore to lay eggs from July to November. You may also spot hawksbill or leatherback turtles in the surrounding waters. Since all these species are endangered, consider yourself incredibly lucky if you get a chance to see one up close.
  • Manta rays and other rays: Manta rays are truly unforgettable. These gentle giants glide effortlessly through the water and are often seen near the surface, making them fairly easy to spot. Your best chance to see them is from November to May. Eagle rays and marbled rays also cruise around the reefs, and with a bit of luck, you could see devil rays gliding through deeper currents.
  • Fish: The schools of jackfish, tuna, and barracudas are massive. Endemic fish are also plentiful, including the Cocos Angelfish, Cocos Whitebait, Cocos Triggerfish, and Cocos Snapper. The coral reefs are teeming with life, with brilliant reef fish lighting up the underwater world in every color imaginable.

Best time to visit and dive in Cocos Island

Cocos Island sits way out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, and because of that, its climate is pretty unique. The first thing to know is that it’s humid and tropical all year round. Rain is always part of the forecast, just in varying amounts. But that’s exactly what makes the island so green and its jungle so lush.

The air temperature stays surprisingly steady throughout the year, hovering between 81°F and 91°F (27°C to 33°C). The ocean is equally consistent, with water temps ranging from 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C). That said, you should be prepared for thermoclines. Those sudden shifts in water temperature can give you a chilly surprise during a dive.

Diving in Cocos Island in Costa Rica

Best time to visit and dive in Cocos Island

If clear visibility is what you’re after, the best time to dive is during the dry season, from December to April, when visibility can reach up to 100 feet. The currents are usually calm, which makes for a more relaxed experience. On the downside, there are fewer pelagic species during this period, and some liveaboard operators either pause their tours to Cocos Island, Costa Rica, or combine them with other tourist attractions.

Now, if you’re in it for the wildlife, the rainy season (May to November), is considered the best time for scuba diving in Cocos Island. Visibility drops to around 50 feet, but that’s still fantastic. This is when upwellings of nutrients attract massive schools of hammerhead sharks, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a whale shark drifting through the plankton-rich waters.

While diving conditions are tougher during the rainy season because of stronger currents and choppier seas, this is the peak time for liveaboard trips. After all, if you’ve come all this way to reach such a remote destination, you probably want to see everything it has to offer. And if you’re traveling around New Year’s, you might even witness migrating humpback or pilot whales, making your trip unforgettable in the best possible way.

What do you need for diving on Cocos Island?

As I mentioned earlier, diving around Cocos Island is no walk in the park. The ocean currents, waves, and water depth at many of the best sites can be challenging. That’s why most liveaboard cruises require you to have an Open Water Diver certification with at least 50 logged dives under your belt to make sure you’ve got the experience to dive safely.

Requirements for scuba diving in Cocos Island

What do you need for diving on Cocos Island?

That said, it’s highly recommended to have a Deep Diver specialty or even go ahead and complete your Advanced Open Water certification during the cruise. Most dives here are deeper than 60 feet, so being comfortable at those depths makes a huge difference.

In some cases, you can also dive with Nitrox or Rebreathers, depending on what each boat and crew are equipped for. Nitrox helps extend your bottom time a bit deeper, and Rebreathers have the advantage of not producing bubbles, making it easier to get closer to shy marine life without scaring them off.

Other things to do on Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Even though diving is the star attraction here, there are a few other exciting ways to explore Isla del Coco National Park:

Explore the Deep in the DeepSee Mini-Submarine

If you’re lucky enough to be aboard the Sea Hunter, you might get the chance to ride in the DeepSee mini-submarine—yes, the very one National Geographic used for some of their ocean documentaries.

DeepSee Mini-Submarine, an alternative to diving at Cocos Island

Explore the Deep in the DeepSee Mini-Submarine

This amazing little sub can take you as deep as 1,000 feet, giving you access to a whole new underwater world that even experienced divers don’t usually reach. Before the dive, you’ll get a detailed safety briefing to walk you through what to expect and how to handle any unlikely emergencies. But don’t worry! The sub is built to be incredibly safe. It’s buoyant, which means if anything goes wrong, it’ll automatically float back to the surface, and it stays in constant contact with the ship above.

Only two passengers and the pilot can go at a time, so be sure to book early if you’re interested. In return, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable views through a massive acrylic dome as you descend into the deep blue.

Take a guided land tour of Isla del Coco

Even though overnight stays on the island aren’t allowed, you can still step off the boat and explore some of Cocos Island’s surface. There are three guided tours available, but just keep in mind that joining one means you’ll have to skip at least one dive. You’ll also need a minimum of six people to make the trip ashore happen. Depending on what you’ve already experienced underwater, you can decide if you’re ready to swap the ocean for a bit of land time.

One of the options is a hike up to Iglesias Hill, the highest point on the island at 2,080 feet. The climb is worth every step. You’ll get an incredible panoramic view of the island’s lush terrain, dramatic cliffs, and the deep blue water surrounding it.

Guided land tour, part of some liveaboards at Cocos Island, Costa Rica

Take a guided land tour of Isla del Coco

Another great option is the hike to the Genio River waterfall, the largest on Cocos Island. It’s a breathtaking sight, and even better, you can take a refreshing swim in the freshwater pool below it. Scientists have found unusual freshwater fish in this pool, which makes this spot feel all the more mysterious.

Every land tour is led by a park ranger, who’ll walk you through the island’s flora, fauna, and natural viewpoints while making sure everything stays protected. There are only a handful of trails open to visitors, and they’re well-marked, so just stick to the path and enjoy. The island also has restrooms, showers, fresh drinking water, and a communication system in place.

My favorite route, though, is the trail from Wafer Bay, the island’s main bay, to Chatham Bay, one of the best spots for snorkeling on Coco Island, Costa Rica. Along the way, you’ll pass towering coastal cliffs, some reaching 600 feet high, and when you get to the end, you’ll be rewarded with turquoise waters and stunning white sand beaches. It’s the kind of landscape that leaves you speechless, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a completely untouched world.

Learn about the pirate history of Cocos Island

Yes, pirates! The stories tied to Cocos Island are endless. Famous names like Morgan, Drake, and Blackbeard are said to have stopped here, mostly to refill their ships with fresh drinking water. But the legends go much deeper than that.

Learn about pirates while scuba diving at Cocos Island

Learn about the pirate history of Cocos Island

Some tales are darker, involving prisoners, buried loot, and lifelong treasure hunts. The most famous story centers around Captain William Thompson’s treasure, which is rumored to be hidden somewhere on the island. People have spent years (some even decades) searching for it, but to this day, nothing has ever been found.

That’s part of what makes Cocos Island feel so mysterious. You’ll hear whispers about hidden tunnels carved out for unknown reasons and even stumble upon what’s left of an old prison. One way or another, this island has seen things we may never fully understand.

How much does a diving trip in Cocos Island, Costa Rica cost?

As one of Costa Rica’s most remote and exotic diving destinations, getting to Cocos Island isn’t exactly cheap, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it.

Prices usually range between $5,800 and $7,100, depending on the time of year. That includes your transportation and accommodation aboard the boat, all meals and drinks during the trip, plus the dives and other onboard activities.

Isla del Coco National Park in Costa Rica

How much does a diving trip in Cocos Island, Costa Rica cost?

Not all liveaboards include the national park entrance fee, which is $50 per day, or the required diving permit ($20 per day) and snorkeling permit ($10 per day). If you’re arriving on your own boat, you’ll also need to submit an official entry form and pay those same fees.

While the cost might seem high, this is a one-of-a-kind place. It’s also a popular destination despite its remote location. In fact, diving trips to Cocos Island depart weekly from Puntarenas, but they fill up fast. Some people book months, or even years, in advance to make sure they don’t miss out.

Recommendations for visiting Cocos Island in Costa Rica

Now that you’ve got the full picture of how tourism in Cocos Island works, here are a few helpful tips to make your experience even better:

  • Bring seasickness pills: The boat ride is long, and the ocean can get choppy, especially if you’re going during the rainy season.
  • Try to book your trip as early as possible: Peak season is June through December, and since only a few groups can visit each year, spots fill up quickly.
  • Respect the environment: Don’t take anything from the island, and don’t leave anything behind. It’s a wild, protected place, and your actions help keep it that way for future visitors.
  • Make sure your diving certification is up to date: Basic Open Water certification won’t allow you to access some of the deeper or more advanced sites, or go on night dives. If you can, I recommend getting your Advanced Open Water and Nitrox certifications ahead of time. Also, if you haven’t logged at least 50 dives, you might want to wait until you’ve got a bit more experience. Most cruises won’t even let you sign up otherwise.
  • Get travel insurance for Costa Rica that covers diving activities, and check the depth limits to make sure you’re covered. Medical care here is expensive, and there’s no medical facility on Cocos Island, so it’s important that your policy includes emergency evacuation. Personally, I always combine regular travel insurance with specific diving insurance for trips like this.

My experience diving in Cocos Island

Like I mentioned earlier, we traveled aboard the MV Sea Hunter, and we chose to go in September because we really wanted to see the famous hammerhead sharks, and maybe even spot a whale shark if we were lucky.

The journey started in Puntarenas, and from there, it was a long one: 32 hours across open sea to reach Cocos Island National Park. It might sound like a lot, but honestly, the time flew by. We bonded with the other divers, watched some marine wildlife documentaries, and helped ourselves to snacks and the minibar. It felt more like a movie night with friends than a long ocean crossing.

Our cabin was down on the lower deck. It was compact but cozy, with two twin beds, quiet A/C, a private bathroom, and even a little porthole looking out at the Pacific.

We typically did about four dives a day, and I’ll never forget our dive at Bajo Alcyone. That’s where my dream came true. We swam among huge schools of hammerheads, with jacks and tuna flashing through the water around us. It was absolutely mind-blowing. I’ve been lucky enough to dive in some incredible places around the world, but nothing I’ve seen even comes close to that moment.

My experience scuba diving in Cocos Island, Costa Rica

My experience diving in Cocos Island

We also explored the waters around Manuelita Island, where we saw whitetip reef sharks napping on the sand, octopuses hiding among the rocks, and, of course, lots of sea turtles. And more than once, dolphins came to swim alongside the boat.

The dive deck was super organized, with plenty of space and a personal locker for everyone. There was even a designated area for setting up cameras and other gear, which I really appreciated. After each dive, we’d head back to the lounge or hang out on the upper deck, swapping stories and soaking in the day.

I was surprised by the food; the meals (especially dinner) were amazing. Honestly, I didn’t think meals on a dive boat could be that good. The portions were big, the menu was varied, and even the vegetarian in our group had great options every day.

Before bed, we always took a few minutes to stargaze and chat on the deck under the night sky. This trip was truly one of the most memorable adventures I’ve ever had, and I’m already dreaming of going back.

Dive map of Cocos Island, Costa Rica

To help plan your trip, take a look at this map of Isla del Coco and its diving sites. It’ll give you a clear picture of where your liveaboard will take you, and what underwater sites you can expect to explore.

Diving map of Isla del Coco National Park

Dive map of Cocos Island, Costa Rica

That’s a wrap on Cocos Island, Costa Rica. If you’re an experienced diver looking to push the limits and see something truly extraordinary, don’t even think twice.

And if you’ve already done a liveaboard to Cocos Island, let me know who you went with in the comments. I’d love to hear about your trip!

Pura Vida!

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CHIEF ADVENTURER, TRAVEL GURU, AND MASTER PLANNER AT CAPTURE THE ATLAS
Hey there, I'm Ascen, your personal trip planner on a mission to help you craft the most incredible adventure of your life. While I'm based in Las Vegas, you won't find me there often. As a full-time traveler, I'm always on the go, exploring new destinations and capturing the world through my lens. From the enchanting shores of Almeria, Spain, where I grew up, to the far reaches of the globe, I'm here to provide you with detailed travel guides and practical tips to make your trip planning a breeze. Find out more about me here.
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