Islas Marietas: El Morro Dive Expedition

Introduction

Taking a trip to Jalisco’s waters isn’t complete without exploring the underwater world near Islas Marietas. This El Morro Dive Expedition promises an exciting, action-packed experience tailored mainly for divers who are comfortable with stronger currents and sea conditions.

What makes this tour appealing are three standout qualities: the chance to see giant mantas, the personalized attention from a dive master, and the opportunity to experience a diverse underwater landscape filled with colorful invertebrates. However, potential travelers should note that the site’s currents can be challenging, making it more suitable for experienced divers.

This excursion is ideal for those wanting a more advanced dive in a protected marine environment, blending vibrant marine biodiversity with the thrill of encounters with large marine creatures.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Advanced experience required due to currents and sea conditions at El Morro
• Giant mantas are frequently spotted, offering unforgettable moments
• Personalized attention from a dive master with a 5:1 ratio ensures quality guidance
• A 95-minute boat ride to a protected site provides a scenic pre-dive experience
• The tour includes all necessary SCUBA gear and a box lunch for post-dive energy
• It’s perfect for divers seeking rich marine ecosystems and authentic underwater encounters

The Location and Setting

El Morro is a small rocky formation situated north of the bay, part of the Islas Marietas protected area. Its notable feature is the dense covering of gorgonians, sea fans, sponges, and ascidians—a veritable feast for underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts alike.

The site’s remote location, about 95 minutes by boat from Puerto Vallarta, adds a sense of adventure, with a scenic journey across relatively open waters. The boat ride itself is often highlighted as a calming, yet exciting prelude to the diving, with chances to spot marine birds or even dolphins on the way.

What to Expect on the Tour

Pre-Dive Preparation and Briefing

Your experience kicks off with a boat departure, where you’ll meet your dive master—a key figure who keeps group sizes small (max 5:1 ratio) for personalized attention. Expect a thorough safety briefing, with emphasis on respecting marine life—touching is explicitly discouraged.

You’ll be asked to bring your diving certification and log, along with personal items such as swimwear, towel, snacks, and biodegradable sunscreen. For beginners, a separate group might be available, but overall, this tour is recommended for more seasoned divers.

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The Boat Ride

The scenic 95-minute ride to El Morro offers a chance to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and contemplate what awaits beneath the surface. The boat provides all necessary SCUBA gear, including masks, fins, wetsuits, regulators, and BCDs, so you won’t need to worry about packing your own equipment.

The Main Dive Experience

Once at the site, expect two tanks of diving, providing ample time to explore El Morro’s underwater landscape. The waters are known for their strong currents, which, while making the experience more exhilarating, require good buoyancy control and comfort in sea conditions.

Diving here means encountering a diversity of invertebrates—gorgonians, sea fans, sponges, and ascidians cover much of the rocky surfaces, creating a vibrant and textured environment. The experience is often described as colorful and lively, perfect for underwater photography.

The Marine Encounters

The highlight? Giant mantas are common visitors, gliding effortlessly through the water. Many reviewers mention frequent manta sightings, which can be awe-inspiring. One diver noted, “Seeing the mantas was a surreal experience, and the constant presence of marine life kept us captivated.”

Post-Dive Relaxation

After your dives, enjoy a box lunch with sandwiches, snacks, soft drinks, and bottled water—an appreciated touch after a physically demanding activity. This allows you to refuel and share stories with fellow divers before heading back to port.

The Value of This Tour

At $155 per person, this tour offers a lot for experienced divers seeking adventure and marine encounters in a protected environment. The inclusion of all SCUBA gear, boat transportation, and a personalized dive guide makes it a convenient, all-inclusive option.

Compared to other activities in Puerto Vallarta, this experience leans towards the more adventure-oriented side, providing rich marine biodiversity and the chance to see large marine creatures—not something you’d get in a typical snorkel tour.

Why it’s Worth It

• The chance to see giant mantas regularly is a rarity in many dive spots
• The small group sizes maximize safety, guidance, and personalized attention
• The scenic boat ride adds a layer of tranquility and anticipation
• The diversity of invertebrates creates vibrant, photo-worthy landscapes underwater

Considerations

This tour isn’t suited for non-swimmers, children under 10, or those prone to seasickness. Also, because of potential currents, it’s best for experienced divers comfortable with challenging conditions. Transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring biodegradable sunscreen to protect marine life
• Confirm your diving certification and bring your logbook
• Prepare for the possibility of strong currents—a good wetsuit and buoyancy skills are recommended
• Pack biodegradable sunscreen, snacks, water, and a towel
• Inform the operator of any dietary restrictions when booking
• Arrive on time for the boat departure and be prepared for a 95-minute journey

The Sum Up

The El Morro Dive Expedition offers a genuinely exciting experience for seasoned divers wanting to explore the underwater richness of Islas Marietas. The opportunity to see giant mantas, combined with the vibrant invertebrate-covered rocks and personalized guidance, makes it a standout adventure in the Puerto Vallarta area.

While the conditions require some experience and comfort in the water, those ready for a more challenging yet rewarding dive will find this tour well worth the price. It’s perfect for travelers craving marine diversity, large animal sightings, and a taste of Mexico’s protected waters.

For anyone eager to combine adventure, natural beauty, and marine encounters, this tour offers authentic, memorable moments in an unforgettable setting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s recommended for experienced divers due to currents and sea conditions.

How long is the boat ride to El Morro?
The boat ride takes about 95 minutes from the bay.

Are all diving gear included?
Yes, all necessary SCUBA gear—masks, fins, wetsuits, regulators, BCDs—is provided.

What is the maximum group size with the dive master?
A 5:1 ratio ensures personalized attention and safety.

What marine life will I see?
Frequent sightings of giant mantas and a variety of invertebrates such as gorgonians, sea fans, sponges, and ascidians.

Is food included?
Yes, a box lunch with sandwiches, snacks, soft drinks, and bottled water is provided.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, towel, snacks, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and your diving certification.

Are children allowed?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 10 years.

Do I need to pay a deposit?
Yes, a deposit of at least 50% is required to confirm your reservation.

Overall, the Islas Marietas: El Morro Dive Expedition is a fantastic choice for experienced divers eager to encounter large marine animals and vibrant underwater ecosystems in a protected setting. It offers a thrilling, well-organized day out that balances adventure with personalized guidance and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here: