Sea of Cortez Expedition – Rocio Del Mar

Join YSS Dive for a vibrant 7-night expedition through the legendary Sea of Cortez aboard the Rocio Del Mar. Often called the “Aquarium of the World,” this region explodes with color: turquoise shallows, sapphire-blue depths, golden desert cliffs, and reefs painted in coral, orange, and violet tones. For one unforgettable week, you’ll wake up each day surrounded by rich marine life and dramatic desert–sea landscapes.

On the surface, the adventure is just as exciting as the diving. Imagine a pod of dolphins racing alongside the bow, their sleek bodies flashing silver in the sun, or the powerful lift of a whale’s tail disappearing into deep blue. Your captain and crew keep a keen eye out for wildlife, so you won’t miss encounters with playful dolphins, majestic whales, or even the distant presence of an orca.

A highlight of the itinerary is our stop at Bahía de Los Ángeles, where you’ll have the chance to snorkel with whale sharks, the gentle, spotted giants of the sea. Floating beside these massive, slow-moving filter feeders as they glide through clear blue water is an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Beneath the surface, the Sea of Cortez is a paradise for both wide-angle and macro enthusiasts. For big-animal lovers, there are sea lions, schooling fish, rays, and (if conditions are right) the possibility of schooling hammerheads. For macro photographers, the details are pure magic: neon nudibranchs crawling across the reef, colorful blennies peeking from rocky crevices, dancing jawfish, and the occasional seahorse clinging to swaying sea grass.

As we head farther south, the water takes on a more tropical feel and the reefs grow busier and brighter. You’ll explore shipwrecks now transformed into thriving artificial reefs, where corals, sponges, and schooling fish have turned old steel into living sculpture. A special night dive is planned where powerful lights can attract mobula rays swirling through the dark water like silver wings.

We’ll also visit iconic sea lion colonies such as Los Islotes, where curious juveniles zip and spin around divers, and the remote islands may offer chances for short hikes between dives. Above the waterline, the stark, arid desert plunges straight into a shimmering cobalt sea. At night, with little to no light pollution, the sky fills with stars so bright it feels like you can reach out and touch them.

Throughout the adventure, you’ll enjoy comfort and convenience aboard Rocio Del Mar. The boat features 10 cabins, accommodating up to 20 divers, each with the privacy of an ensuite bathroom. The experienced crew is dedicated to safety, fun, and warm hospitality, from expert dive guidance to friendly service. Between dives, you’ll relax on deck, review photos, or savor delicious meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Join us in the Sea of Cortez and experience a week of rich colors, amazing wildlife, and warm YSS Dive community — above and below the surface.