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Our Bahamas trips are different

April through November, departing from Miami, and diving some of the most pristine sites in the Bahamas chain.

Liveaboard diving in St. Croix, Virgin Islands

Join our Winter-only trips in the USVI

Repositioning Trips on Juliet

Juliet heads south each winter, you can join the adventures but don’t forget your sea legs.

Diving and Sailing in the Bahamas

Juliet is a charming 100′ Liveaboard Schooner primarily based in Miami running week-long diving trips to the Bahamas every spring, summer, and fall. In the winter look for us in St. Croix where we are based December through early March.

Liveaboard Diving

Voted #1 US-Based Scuba Diving Liveaboard by Sport Diver Magazine. 104′ vessel, 12 passengers, and five friendly and experienced crew members to anticipate your every need. Come see what all the fuss is about.

Multiple Destinations

One week at your choice of four destinations: Bahamas and Florida Keys from downtown Miami April to November, or meet us in Puerto Rico or the US Virgin Islands each winter.

Travel in Comfort

We’re constantly improving accommodations. Six private cabins, 2 ensuite cabins have private heads and showers for extra privacy and 4 standard cabins have plenty of storage and space to stretch out.

For over 15 years & counting…

Juliet Sailing and Diving was founded in 2003 by Captain John Beltramo, who had explored the Bahamas since the early 90s. He had been diving all over the world, and chose to base a scuba diving liveaboard company in the Bahamas because there is something special here. Sold in 2016 to long-time crew member and captain, Liza Hash, Juliet still runs primarily out of Miami, providing trips to the Bahamas in the Bimini area where there is an abundance of fish life and beautiful dive sites. Here we find some of the most breathtaking reefs along the eastern edge of the Santaren Channel – when the weather cooperates, that’s where you’ll find us.

Some of our most popular…

Diving Tours and Packages

7-day Bahamas Trip

7-day St. Croix Trip

4-day Bahamas Trip

11-day or 2-week Repositioning Trips

Repositioning Trips

What they say

Customer Testimonials

The four crew members on Juliet this past week are some of the most wonderful people I have had the honor to meet! Their care and concern for each of us as individuals made for a very pleasant experience! We cannot wait to see them all again

I had an incredible time, and I can truly say it was the best dive trip I have ever been on.

Crew went above and beyond to make the trip an enjoyable and memorable one.

The diving was awesome and was a fantastic experience, I look forward to doing again.

The time I spent on the Juliet was fantastic. The Captain and crew did everything within reason to make the trip safe and enjoyable. I highly recommend to anyone to charter with the Juliet where ever she is berthed.

What makes these trips is the crew and I simply cannot say enough good things about [them]. They went way beyond reasonable to provide a first rate experience. There was never any question about safety or how things were being done. Overall a fabulous experience.

The crew? were fantastic. They were engaging, fun, communicated well, and set excellent boundaries and expectations in professional and respectful ways. I can?t say enough about how great the trip was.

Crew was fantastic! Friendly, informative, helpful, interactive, low key! The briefings were great, fun learning sessions. Good mix of down time, diving and fun. Good variety of diving, great group of seasoned divers, excellent food!

What an amazing trip! The food was amazing, and I always leave feeling recharged and content. The crew is professional, but also makes me feel like family. Cannot wait until the next time I get to dive with you!

In the 20+ years I?ve been going on diving trips around Florida and the Caribbean?.. this by far was one of the best trips ever!

The crew is very down to earth, ?the dive sites are ?amazing, ?and the accommodations are just right. It is a trip I always enjoy!

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Hash Marine

DBA Juliet Sailing and Diving 25 SE 2nd Ave Suite 406 Miami, FL 33131

866-5JULIET (558-5438)

Copyright 2024 by Juliet Sailing and Diving.

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DIVE Magazine

Scuba Diving Luxury Travel Magazine

DIVE Travel Awards 2021: best scuba diving liveaboards

1 November 2021 15 minutes

During the 2021 DIVE Travel Awards, 245 different vessels were voted by readers as the best scuba diving liveaboards to sail away with in 2022. Here’s a closer look at the Top 10, with some of the best comments made by readers during the vote

Coralia raja ampat, indonesia, bilikiki solomon islands, dewi nusantara raja ampat, indonesia, nai’a fiji, mermaid ii indonesia, mermaid i indonesia, nautilus explorer mexico, sea hunter costa rica/cocos island, spoilsport queensland, australia, wunderpus komodo, indonesia, the rest of the top 25 liveaboards:, the complete list of entries to the 2021 dive travel awards, more dive travel awards.

DIVE Travel Awards: The Winners!

DIVE Travel Awards 2021: best dive centres or resorts

DIVE Travel Awards 2021: best scuba diving destinations

DIVE Travel Awards 2021: Top 5 dive centres and resorts by region

Www.coralia-liveaboard.com.

The Coralia, a traditional  Phinisi  build, is based in Raja Ampat and offers year-round trips around the islands and also to Komodo, Alor and the Banda Sea. She is 48m in length and caters to 16 guests in eight cabins. On the main and upper decks are four large master cabins, each with a double bed, wraparound picture windows and private balcony. On the lower deck are two double cabins and two twin cabins. All rooms are ensuite with air-conditioning and lots of storage.

On the main deck is a large indoor salon and dining area. There is an outdoor lounge, which also has tables set up for al-fresco dining, sun loungers and sofas for chilling out. On the top deck are several comfortable sun loungers and a massage area.

There is a spacious dive deck with personal storage space, free nitrox, two tenders for diving and an extremely large dedicated camera room with charging points.  Itineraries vary from seven to 11 nights and explore the Dampier Strait, Wayag, Misool, Batanta and Kawe around Raja Ampat and other locations including Komodo National Park, Alor, the Forgotten Islands, Maumere and the Banda Islands. Up to four dives a day are available, as well as other activities such as bird-watching, hiking and snorkelling.

Voter Comments:

Very comfortable, famous food (buffet), very good dive guides, excellent cruise directors (Debbie, Jerry, Ronan) – KW, Germany

This boat feels like my second home. No task is too big, and the doughnuts. My god, the doughnuts. – AM, India

Literally the most amazing people and life-changing dive trip! Best in class! – MM, USA

Great cabins, awesome routes and dive spots and the best cruise directors in the business! – CG, Singapore

Excellent location and staff. Caring management and excellent food and spacious rooms highly luxurious and affordable boat – SS, Australia

Beautiful vessel, utterly competent crew and same mission values as their land-based operation PAPEX – RK, Australia

Brilliant diving thanks to dive directors knowledge. Boat facilities, diving area, food, relaxation areas. Ambience altogether. – NP, UK 

www.bilikiki.com

Bilikiki Cruises has been operating in the Solomon Islands for 28 years and has a well-deserved reputation for comfort, safety and service. Offering trips from seven to 14 nights around the Florida and Russell Islands, Marovo Lagoon and Mary Island, itineraries include five dives per day for up to 20 guests accommodated in ten air-conditioned ensuite cabins. All trips start and finish in Honiara, the capital of the Solomons and home of the international airport. Bilikiki operates in a way that benefits people in local communities by paying to dive on the ancestrally owned reefs and buying local produce from islanders.

The Solomon Islands are part of the Coral Triangle with a staggering diversity of marine species, coral and dive sites – yet they remain one of the least dived areas of the world. Consistently great visibility and year-round 28-30°C (80-86°F) water temperature plus a great variety of dive sites with huge drop-offs, coral gardens, caves, sandy critter dives, seamounts, points teeming with fish and numerous WWII wrecks. 

Bilikiki is just the right size and it travels through wonderful villages and supports the locals by buying fresh foods for the boat. It’s a wonderful, intimate experience, both with the locals, and the crew. Lovely people, great experience!!! – RN, USA

Best service, comfortable boat, great food and stunning diving in remote areas. Simply the best. – JZ, Australia

Been diving on the Bilikiki 5 x in the last 15 years and LOVE the boat, the crew! And mostly, the diversity of the Solomons Islands! My go-to place if I can get there! – NS, USA

Very stable comfortable boat. Authentic experiences with islander crew and visits. Service goes above and beyond. – ACS, UK

Love the style of diving the crew is great (local and managers) the floating markets and support of local communities. – LR, USA

Bilikiki is a world-class operation. The staff is attentive, the food delicious and everything is geared to your location. – DW, USA

Professional, friendly and go to the best sites in the Solomon Islands (e.g. Mary Island) otherwise inaccessible! The boat life is fun and staff are amazing – supportive and lovely. The food is amazing too! – MW, Australia 

www.dewi-nusantara.com

Dewi Nusantara placed first in the 2018 DIVE Travel Awards, and ranks highly yet again for the fourth year in succession, having placed second in 2019 and sharing third spot with Nai’a in 2020. Named after the goddess of the Indonesian archipelago, Dewi Nusantara is a 57m, three-masted schooner launched in 2008, designed to cater to a maximum of 18 guests, accommodated in eight spacious en-suite, air-conditioned staterooms, including the aft ‘Master and Commander’s’ cabin, which is the size of a large hotel suite. Spacious decks, lounge and dining area afford plenty of room for relaxing in between dives.

Nitrox divers and underwater photographers are well catered for, and Dewi Nusantara has an extraordinary range of itineraries throughout the Coral Triangle, including Raja Ampat, Ambon, Banda Sea, The Forgotten Islands, Halmahera, Ternate, Triton Bay, Cendrawasih Bay, North Sulawesi and beyond.

I’ve been on many liveaboards in my 50 years of diving. In fact, I helped refit and manage, what most consider the first ‘luxury’ liveaboard, in the Solomon Islands. Dewi’s operation is a cut above all the vessels I’ve had the pleasure to dive from. The boat is always impeccably maintained. The divemasters are super knowledgeable. The food is stellar and the behind-the-scenes operation is next to none. – BJ, USA

Fabulous staff, fab food and service ranging from food prep to room maintenance to guiding underwater. – KA, Canada

The crew treats you so well. The accommodations are superb! You feel like family right away. – AS, USA

Have been on this beautiful schooner six times and can’t wait to return! The accommodations are great, the staff are all amazing, the food and service are incomparable and the diving and snorkelling spectacular no matter what itinerary! – KF, USA

Hands down the most beautiful liveaboard ever made. Spectacular and large accommodations, non-stop food and epic diving presented by the most customer-focused and safety-conscious crew. – EM, USA

The Dewi Nusantara is an outstanding boat with a dedicated staff to meet all your diving needs. Most wonderful way to dive. – LAA, USA 

  www.dewi-nusantara.com

Www.naia.com.fj.

NAI’A, one of the first liveaboards to operate around the islands of Fiji, is a name that many divers will recognise, having run her first charter in 1993. The luxurious 38m steel ship has been nominated in the Top 25 for the past five years in the DIVE Travel Awards, sharing a well-deserved third place with Dewi Nusantara in 2020, thanks in large part to enthusiastic campaigning by the Fijian Tourist Authority. 

Designed and built in Holland, NAI’A caters to 18 passengers in nine air-conditioned staterooms with ensuite bathrooms, with a sun deck, dive deck and spacious dining area, plus a camera room for photographers. Nitrox is available and rebreather divers can be catered to on request. 

Fiji is known as the ‘soft coral capital of the World’, one of the best places for shark encounters, and is home to five of the world’s seven turtle species. NAI’A’s itineraries cover the spectacular barrier reefs of the Bligh Water and the Koro Sea, and on longer charters head further out into the ocean to explore pristine reefs that are otherwise rarely visited. 

Wonderful experience, great food, exceptional crew, kava evenings, and incredible diving. – L, UK

Beautiful diving, wonderful food, Great crew and boat. One of my favourite things was the explanation of local customs and people. Our shore excursion was amazing! – BD, USA

We have dived worldwide and nobody come close to the Nai’a …place, crew, amenities. Perfect combination!!! – J&S, USA

Of all my liveaboard experiences, Nai’a is by far the best! Best diving, most wonderful crew and lovely ship and BBC accommodations! – SF, USA

The best liveaboard dive boat and crew. Luxurious, accommodating and all-round amazing – IC, Romania 

www.mermaid-liveaboards.com

Mermaid II was built and started sailing in the year 2000, since when she has been continuously improved and hailed by her owners as ‘possibly the best in her class’, one of the most comfortable and diver-friendly liveaboards in Indonesia. She was a Top 25 finisher in 2020 and has jockeyed for position with her sister ship, Mermaid I, for some time, finally beating her for the first time since the DIVE Travel Awards began.

Mermaid II has eight deluxe cabins that offer all the comforts a diver needs, with a large panoramic window overlooking the ocean. Each cabin has a private en-suite bathroom with hot water showers and sink, plus camera-charging outlets, storage space, wardrobe and life jackets. Itineraries include Komodo, Raja Ampat, the Banda Sea, Alor and Ambon. 

I’ve done six trips with Mermaid 2 to Komodo, Raja Ampat and once from Raja Ampat to Ambon. All amazing trips which is why I keep going back to this boat. When I return it’s like going to see my family again. Truk Odyssey is a completely different experience, I’ve ticked it off my bucket list and am booked to go back again in 2022 after Covid ends. – JK, Australia

Wonderful fun crew, extremely knowledgeable, always felt my safety was their first concern. The boat was clean and very well maintained and food excellent. – JP, USA

Concierge diving with the most knowledgeable, professional, and experienced dive guides in Indonesia. – CH, USA

Perfect organization, comfortable boat, best team, fabulous route, incredible diving experience. – OB, USA

The best liveaboards: excellent service, routes, support and staff. – GC, UK 

  www.mermaid-liveaboards.com

The 28m, steel-hulled Mermaid I has eight cabins with air-conditioning,  TV & DVD players, single, twin or double beds, a large wardrobe, plenty of storage room and an ensuite bathroom with showers. With one single cabin, she takes 15 guests.

A range of itineraries to complement those of the MV Mermaid I are available.

The Mermaid 1 has become our favourite. We have had the opportunity to dive with them several times. Their service and boat is absolutely top-notch. We have been on @30 liveaboard trips with a dozen or so operators. – CR, USA

Absolutely luxurious liveaboard, best I’ve ever been on. Food delicious and amazing staff. – CP, Australia

I have been on the Mermaid 1 & 2 numerous times in Komodo and Raja Ampat. The diving, safety, food and most of all staff are the best we have experienced on over 15 liveaboards… which is why we keep going back to them. – LH, UK

Mermaid liveaboards offer a professional service both on land and onboard, the vessels themselves are really comfortable. For the Komodo trips they disembark and embark from Beno Bali, so the time we have we can use effectively to explore the nature and underwater world – SC, Indonesia

We have dived with Mermaid for 15 years in Komodo, Mergui, Raja Ampat and the Banda Sea. They have the perfect mix of personal touch, good food (Thai and Indonesian), safety and reliability. Even when they cannot bring to a promised location or provide a guaranteed sighting, the service recovery is excellent. -KKMA, Singapore 

www.nautilusexplorer.com

Nautilus Explorer placed fifth in our 2017 Travel Awards, and have gone from strength-to-strength to once again place in the Top 10 this year. The Canadian-built steel-hulled Nautilus Explorer was launched in 2000 and has a total of 13 air-conditioned staterooms, including three superior and one premium suite – which features a full-size bathtub – on the upper decks.

Nautilus specialise in big animal encounters and offer itineraries around the islands of Socorro and Guadalupe. Socorro, part of the Revillagigedo archipelago, is famous for encounters with oceanic manta rays and up-close and very personal meetings with dolphins. Guadalupe is home to at least 228 recognised individual great white sharks, and are spotted on three out of every four cage dives conducted in the area.

Other large fish such as scalloped and giant hammerheads, Galápagos, whitetip reef, silver-tip, silky, tiger and oceanic whitetips are also regularly spotted, with dusky, whale and threshers putting in the occasional appearance.

Never have I been on a safer (fire safety, electrical charging, evacuation, drills & practice, and even shark safety) and roomy liveaboard. Even to the point of COVID safety! And the diving – note I have seen many shark operations and this was by far the most efficient shark wrangling for photography hands down! – RT, USA

Because I’ve been to Revillagigedo and Guadalupe on it and it’s the most comfortable boat ever. – AM, Mexico

Great service on a world-class boat with a great crew going to an amazing location; Socorro Islands. – TH, UK

Great hosts, good prices, good times! – JL, USA

Breathtaking service and excellent dive professionals – BI, UK 

www.underseahunter.com

A regular Top 10 finisher and 2017 Travel Awards Champion, Sea Hunter, is something of a gold standard for all other dive boats, combining the large-platform, functionality and powerful machinery of a working marine research boat with the comfortable and relaxed interior of a modern yacht.

Since 1995, the 35m-long vessel has hosted international celebrities and filmmakers – together of course, with thousands of regular divers and photographers –  many of whom make the long-range expedition to the remote Cocos Island, during which comfort and stability over the 36-hour journey are important. Ten guest cabins with private baths provide luxurious accommodations for up to 20 passengers, and the spacious vessel is dedicated to the most serious of photographers with individual gear storage and private camera/strobe storage shelves with 110 & 220-volt AC power.

Located in the eastern tropical Pacific 300 miles southwest of Costa Rica, Cocos Island was declared ‘the most beautiful island in the world’ by Jacques Cousteau. Volcanic in nature, the island is a giant seamount that attracts a huge array of pelagic visitors, including large schools of jacks and tuna, and the huge numbers of schooling hammerheads that are most synonymous with the island. Dolphins, mantas and marbled rays, giant moray eels, marlin and sailfish are commonly encountered, as are silky sharks, silvertips and tiger sharks. 

They provide excellent and safe service every time, at the best diving destination possible. The crew and boat itself are fantastic and always make sure you are comfortable and have a wonderful trip. – TM, Jamaica

The Undersea Hunter Group is skilled, professional, safe, knowledgeable, and friendly. – GS, USA

Seahunter and Argo set the bar for other liveaboards. – HF, USA

The absolute best crew and dives. – BM, USA

Love love love! – GMR, USA 

www.mikeball.com

Spoilsport placed 8th overall in the 2020 DIVE Travel awards, the first Australian liveaboard to have ever been nominated by our readers, and cements her place among the best liveaboards in the world with another Top 10 ranking for 2021.

Spoilsport is the 30m-long, twin-hulled flagship of Mike Ball Dive Expeditions, based in Cairns. Spoilsport has a total of 14 cabins, four premium doubles with ocean views, four standard cabins with twin beds and ocean views, and four club cabins with bunk beds, all of which have ensuite bathrooms. There are a further two budget cabins with bunk beds and shared toilet facilities. The huge dive platform has more than enough space to cater for a full guest complement, as has the lounge and dining area.

Spoilsport ranges across the northern Great Barrier Reef – including the legendary Cod Hole and Ribbon Reefs – heading out into the Coral Sea to Osprey and Bougainville Reefs, depending on the itinerary. Dwarf minke whales put in regular appearances during dives at Ribbon Reef #10, and humpback whales can often be spotted alongside the boat. Sharks are everywhere. As an extra treat, special itineraries feature a low-level flight over the vast expanse of the Great Barrier Reef between Cairns and Lizard Island. 

The most incredible diving experience with the minke whales – the liveaboard was well equipped, dives were supported by staff and marine biologist, fabulous food and the dive sites on the Great Barrier Reef were outstanding. – FG, Australia

First-class operation. Recommended to US friends. They loved it. – WO, Australia

Fabulous itinerary, crew, food, safety – PB, Australia

The best team I know! – GP, France

Great facilities. Excellent crew. – BM, UK 

www.wunderpusliveaboard.com

Wunderpus was a new entry to the 2020 DIVE Travel Awards when she placed second overall in the Top 10 liveaboards. Traditionally-built from ironwood and Indonesian teak, the 25m-long, 4.8m-wide vessel first set sail in 2014 and caters to just a small number of people with spacious, comfortable accommodation. There are just two double cabins with queen size beds, and two double-twin cabins with a queen-size bed and a single bunk, and all four cabins are equipped with AC and fan, ensuite bathrooms with hot water, 100 per cent biodegradable reef-safe shampoo and soap, and a hairdryer. She has two upper decks with comfortable sunbeds for relaxing – one shaded and one uncovered, for tanning and stargazing at night.

Wunderpus plies her trade throughout Komodo National Park in Indonesia, one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet with the possibility to encounter almost every form of marine life, from black sand macro to whale sharks and manta rays, among stunning coral reefs, often with strong currents and spectacular drifts. Combined with the small number of divers on board, the Wunderpus crew make a special effort to schedule dives away from busier reefs, making it a great option for divers who like to get away from the crowds. 

Wunderpus are an amazing operator and really have one of the best approaches to diving Komodo. With a strong emphasis on conservation, they truly are one of the best operators to dive within the national park! – JA, Malaysia

My liveaboard choice over the last eight years. Never disappoint. – AA, Indonesia

The world’s best diving from the most sumptuously luxurious liveaboard. – JB, UK

Awesome choice of dive sites, good food great guides – BD, Philippines

Great boat with a touch of luxury – MH, Malaysia 

• Ambai, Indonesia
• Emperor Elite, Red Sea
• Febrina, PNG
• Palau Siren
• Damai I, Indonesia
• Arenui, Indonesia
• Calico Jack, Raja Ampat
• Oceania, PNG
• Pindito, Indonesia
• Rocio del Mar, Mexico
• Argo, Cocos Island
• Okeanos Aggressor, Costa Rica
• Blue Horizon, Egypt
• Galapagos Aggressor
• Pelagian, Indonesia

Aboya, Indonesia ● Adelaar, Indonesia ● Adishree, Indonesia ● ● Aelous, Red Sea ● Aldebaran, Egypt ● Alila Purnama, Indonesia ● Amalia, Indonesia ● Amba, Maldives ● Andromeda, Egypt/Sudan ● Aqua Galapagos ● AquaCat Bahamas ● Aquasport, Egypt ● Atlantis, Egypt/Sudan ● Avalon, Cuba ● Bahamas Aggressor ● Belize Aggressor ● Bella 1, Egypt ● Bella 2, Egypt ● Black Manta, Indonesia ● Black Pearl, Micronesia ● Blackbeards, Bahamas ● Blue Dragon, Komodo ● Blue Fin, Egypt ● Blue Force One, Maldives ● Blue Manta, Indonesia ● Blue Marlin, Komodo ● Blue Melody, Egypt ● Blue Planet 1, Egypt ● Blue Spirit, Maldives ● Blue Voyager, Maldives ● Blue, Egypt ● Blueshark One, Maldives ● Busy Girl, Indonesia ● Cahaya Mandiri, Raja Ampat ● Cajoma IV, Komodo ● Calepso, Tioman, Malaysia ● Captain Sparrow, Red Sea ● Caribbean Explorer 2 ● Carlton Queen, Egypt ● Carpe Diem, Maldives ● Carpe Novo, Maldives ● Carpe Vita, Maldives ● Cassiopeia, Egypt ● Cat Ppalu, Bahamas ● Cayman Aggressor ● Charlotte, Egypt ● Cheng Ho, Indonesia ● Chertan, PNG ● Clasina, UK ● Coral Queen, Egypt ● Current Junkies (Komodo, Indonesia) ● Damai II, Indonesia ● Deep Andaman Queen, Thailand ● Diamond Explorer, Egypt ● Discovery Palawan, Philippines ● Diva Andaman, Thailand ● Diva Marine, Thailand ● Dive One, Egypt ● Dolce Vita, Red Sea ● Dolphin Dream, Bahamas ● Donia, Red Sea ● Duke of York Maldives ● Dune Croisières Nord Egypte ● Eco Blue, Maldives ● El Alsson International School ● Embun Laut. Komodo ● Emperor Asmaa, Red Sea ● Emperor Atoll, Maldives ● Emperor Echo, Red Sea ● Emperor Explorer, Maldives ● Emperor Leo, Maldives ● Emperor Raja Laut ● Emperor Serenity, Maldives ● Emperor Superior, Red Sea ● Emperor Virgo, Maldives ● Emperor Voyager, Maldives ● Epica, Raja Ampat ● Eureka, Australia ● Four Seasons Explorer, Maldives ● Freedom I, Egypt ● Freedom III, Egypt ● Freedom VIII, Egypt ● Gaia Love, Indonesia ● Galapagos Master ● Galapagos Sky ● Galatea, Seychelles ● Giamani, Thailand ● Grand Sea Serpeant, Egypt ● Grandezza, Maldives ● Halleluijah, Thailand ● Hammerhead I, Red Sea ● Hammerhead II, Red Sea ● Honors Legacy, Maldives ● Horizon III, Maldives ● Humboldt Explorer, Galapagos ● Hurricane, Red Sea ● Ikan Biru, Indonesia ● Independence 2, Egypt ● Indo Aggressor ● Indo Siren ● Infiniti, Philippines ● Jakare, Indonesia ● Jardines Aggressor ● Jaya, Indonesia ● Juliet, Red Sea ● Keana, Maldives ● King Snefro, Egypt ● Komodo Dancer, Indonesia ● Kona Aggressor ● Kudanil Explorer, Indonesia ● Maldives Aggressor ● Manta Queen, Thailand ● Mariana, Maldives ● Marselia Star, Maldives ● Mata Ikan, Mersing, Malaysia ● Mimic, Komodo ● Mistral, Egypt ● Moana, Indonesia ● Mola Mola, Indonesia ● Moonimaa, Maldives ● Mutiara Laut, Indonesia ● Nautile Evo, Red Sea ● Nautilus Belle Amie, Mexico ● Nautilus Gallant Lady, Mexico ● Nautilus Undersea, Mexico ● Neomi, Indonesia ● Nouran, Red Sea ● Ocean Dream, Egypt ● Ocean Hunter, Palau ● Ocean One, Maldives ● Ocean Trek, Australia ● Ocean Window, Egypt ● Oceana Maria, Philippines ● OK Maldives, Maldives ● Oman Aggressor ● Ondina, Indonesia ● Orca Cruise Maldives ● Orion, Maldives ● Palau Aggressor ● Philippine Siren ● Polar Pioneer ● Quino El Guardian, Mexico ● Raja Ampat Aggressor ● Raja Ampat Explorer ● Rascal, Indonesia ● Red Sea Aggressor II ● Reef Prince, Australia ● Roatan Aggressor ● Rock Island Aggressor, Micronesia ● Royal Evolution, Red Sea ● Sachika Liveaboard, Maldives ● Samambaia, Indonesia ● Samara II, Indonesia ● Samata, Indonesia ● Sarah, Maldives ● Scubaspa, Maldives ● Sea Queen , Egypt ● Sea Safari 6, Indonesia ● Sea Serpent, Egypt ● Sea Spirit, Maldives ● Sea Star, Seychelles ● Seaduction, Red Sea ● Seahorse, Indonesia ● Seven7Seas, Red Sea ● Shakti, Indonesia ● Silversonic, Australia ● Sky Dancer, Galapagos ● Smiling Seahorse, Thailand ● Snefro Love, Red Sea ● Snefro Pearl, Red Sea ● Snefro Spirit, Red Sea ● Socorro Vortex, Mexico ● Sokharaja, Komodo ● Soleil 2, Maldives ● Solitude One, Micronesia ● Solmar V, Mexico ● Solomons PNG Master ● South Moon, Sharm El Sheikh ● Southern Image, Western Australia ● Spectre, California ● Spirit of Freedom, Cairns, Australia ● SS Thorfinn – Chuuk ● Sun Spy Northland Dive, New Zealand ● Sunshine, Egypt ● Swell, Alaska/British Columbia ● Taka, Solomon Islands ● Tala, Red Sea ● Tatawa, Komodo ● Tempest, Egypt ● The Junk, Thailand ● The Phinisi Cheng I São, Thailand ● The Seven Seas, Indonesia ● Theia Dune, Maldives ● Tiarè Liveaboard Indonesia ● Tibruon Explorer ● Tiger Blue, Indonesia ● Tradewinds Adventures, Raja Ampat ● True North, Australia ● Truk Master ● Truk Odyssey ● Tui Tai, Fiji ● Turks and Caicos Aggressor ● Turks and Caicos Explorer II ● Typhoon, Egypt ● Valentina, Mexico ● Valhalla, UK ● Valkyrie, UK ● Velocean, Indonesia ● VIP One, Egypt ● VIP Shrouk, Egypt ● Waow, Indonesia ● Wellenreng, Indonesia ● Whirlwind, Egypt ● White Manta, Indonesia ● Wind Dancer, Cocos Island

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What Are the Best Destinations for Liveaboard Trips?

How to book a liveaboard trip.

If you love scuba diving trips, maybe it’s time to take the next step and try a liveaboard trip. Rather than sleeping in a hotel and taking a boat ride each morning to your dive sites, your hotel is the boat. You’ll sleep, eat, dine, and socialize on your boat while traveling around to various dive sites (and yes, liveaboard ships are much larger than your average dive boat.) 

Liveaboards can be a great way to meet other avid divers, reach destinations that would be too far for a day trip, and maximize the number of dives you’ll do in a single trip. 

What to Expect on Your Liveaboard Trip

A “liveaboard” is a scuba diving trip where you’ll on the boat the whole time—hence the name “liveaboard.” You’ll have all your meals on the boat, usually in a communal setting with your fellow divers. Liveaboard boats can range in length from a few days to two weeks or longer.

Some liveaboards offer extra experiences like snorkeling, kayaking, or even an onboard masseuse, but the focus is always on scuba diving. You’ll usually be able to fit more dives a day in on a liveaboard trip than on a land-based trip. An aggressive schedule can include five dives a day, plus opportunities for night diving . 

Even “luxurious” liveaboards are informal. Divers will often spend all day in a swimsuit and liveaboards rarely require shoes. Because liveaboards usually cater to more experienced (or at least enthusiastic) divers, it’s common to have presentations in the evenings on niche diving topics like rare local species, photography tips, or marine conservation. Diving isn’t a part of the trip—it’s the whole trip. 

Remember that liveaboards are also social experiences. Even the largest liveaboards will have no more than 40 or so guests. In addition to diving with the fellow travelers on your boat, you’ll also be sharing all meals and, likely, a relatively small common space (it is a boat, after all.) If you’re the type of person who likes to have your own space and keep to yourself on vacation, a liveaboard may not be the best fit for you. If you'd like to give it a try, book a shorter liveaboard as a part of a longer vacation.

How Do Liveaboards Compare to Dive Resorts?

You may have stayed at some hotels billed as “dive resorts,” which usually include unlimited tanks for shore diving or several boat dives built into the cost of your stay. A liveaboard is the same concept: the price includes all your dives (sometimes unlimited dives) in addition to the cost of your room, food, and any additional costs. You may sometimes pay extra for alcoholic drinks.

On a liveaboard, you’ll be able to access dive sites too far from land for a day trip. You may be doing more blue-water diving in deeper oceans. That means you may not be able to see the bottom, and there may not be a fixed point of reference, like a reef. There’s usually a better chance of spotting sharks and whales during blue-water dives. Of course, many of your dives will likely be on reefs, and dive boats should always be able to share the sites they visit, as well as the recommended certification levels, before you book. Liveaboards almost always have multiple dive guides to accommodate divers of different levels. 

You’ll also be able to do more dives on a liveaboard, including night dives. You’ll either dive directly off your liveaboard, or you’ll load into a smaller zodiac boat to take a quick trip to the site. Either way, it’s quick and easy to get in the water. You don’t need to be an advanced diver to go on a liveaboard trip, but you do need to be willing to take a vacation totally focused on diving. You also may be spending a lot of time sitting around your boat if the weather or ocean conditions aren't conducive to diving on a certain day.

How Much Do Liveaboards Cost?

The cost of a liveaboard scuba diving boat depends primarily on two factors: where in the world you are, and what level of luxury you want. In countries where diving is more expensive, like the Maldives and Costa Rica, so too are the liveaboard trips. Countries like Egypt and Indonesia where diving is generally cheaper will have more affordable options.

Liveaboards also range in levels of luxury. Boats like California’s Pacific Star run extremely laid-back two- and three-day trips to Catalina Island in which divers stay in shared bunk-style rooms for around $300 per person. Conversely, in Egypt, $100 a day will get each diver a private room with air-conditioning and gourmet meals.

Budget trips will likely have shared accommodations and shower facilities, while more luxurious options will have rooms more akin to cruise ships, along with amenities like pools, spas, and cinema rooms, or other non-water entertainment options. 

The best places to do liveaboard trips are areas where either access from the shore is difficult or impossible (like the Red Sea) or where the best dive sites are too far to reach on a day trip (near Komodo, in Indonesia.) Most popular scuba diving destinations will have various liveaboard options, but here are some of the most popular:

• Sea of Cortez, Mexico:  For a chance to see super rare giant squids, sea lions, and huge manta rays, book a boat in the Sea of Cortez. The body of water is a protected marine area and has the potential to see a huge range of marine life on a relatively short five-day trip. Try the Nautilus or the Rocio Del Mar .
• Komodo, Indonesia: The islands around Komodo like Raja Ampat have some of the healthiest reefs and the most amazing marine species in the world. Come here for rare creatures, adventurous drift diving , and great opportunities for shark sightings. The various dive sites are practically inaccessible by other means—and you won’t find Komodo dragons anywhere else, of course. The Mermaid II is a modern, luxurious option while the Samambaia has more of a traditional sailboat feel.
• The Maldives: In a country of 1,200 islands, it's no surprise that liveaboards are a great way to get around. Since there are so many small island resorts dotted among the atolls, you may be able to spend an afternoon on land at a luxurious island spa or enjoying a resort restaurant. Being able to spend so much time on land is a rarity with most liveaboards. Try the Emperor Explorer or the more budget-friendly (and smaller) Maldives Aggressor II .
• Red Sea, Egypt: Most boats on the Red Sea start from Sharm-el-Sheikh, one of the few relatively safe places for Westerners to currently visit along the waterway. Short three- or four-day trips are available in the north part of the sea, though taking a longer seven- or eight-day trip will bring you to some of the clearest water in the world in the southern Red Sea. Liveaboards here are also some of the world’s most affordable. Both the Sunlight and Emperor Echo start at under $100 a day.
• Cocos Islands, Costa Rica: Love hammerhead sharks? Head to Costa Rica’s Cocos Islands, far off the coast of Costa Rica. The islands are so far, in fact, that there’s no other way to reach them and once you’re there, you’ll want to do dozens of dives. It’s a reliable spot for huge schools of hammerhead sharks. Consider the Undersea Hunter if you're keen to maximize your time with sharks.
• Fiji: It’s not cheap, but a Fijian liveaboard will take you to uninhabited islands completely unreachable by other means. You can encounter a variety of different types of dives in Fiji, from dives with feeding bull sharks to dives in coral gardens and reefs where giant mantas feed. Liveaboards are a fairly new concept in Fiji so expect more routes and options to develop in the next few years. The Nai'a is a posh ship worth the splurge.
• Galapagos Islands: Another destination known for shark diving, the Galapagos Islands are where Darwin first discovered how species evolve in isolation. Just like how Darwin saw some of the world’s rarest species here, so too can liveaboard divers. From whale sharks to penguins, you’ll see it all underwater in the Galapagos. Dives here tend to be for more advanced divers as currents can be unpredictable and you’ll likely need a thick wetsuit or a dry suit. It's not the cheapest place to do a liveaboard, but the Archipel is fairly reasonable with a starting rate of around $250 per person per day.

Booking a liveaboard is akin to booking a hotel, though you may be limited on your dates as most boats have set schedules. You can do an online search for the destination you want to visit plus “liveboard,” or check out dive-specific booking sites like PADI Travel or Liveaboard.com . Liveaboard boats have small groups and welcome questions in advance, so feel free to ask about everything from the room selection to dive sites and crew-to-guest ratio before you book. Many liveaboards for expert divers can accommodate beginners with a little notice, so if you’re considering a more “advanced” destination, reach out to your boat of choice before you rule it out.  As with any scuba diving destination, remember to tip your guides, especially if they help you get a once-in-a-lifetime view of schooling hammerheads or baby whale sharks. 

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As a full service PADI Dive Liveaboard, you can hunt for pirate’s treasure or take the plunge into Poseidon’s playground exploring some legendary sites favorited by the best liveaboard dive trips including unique sites that are off the tourist grid. Our dive liveaboard caters to small dive groups which ensures exciting encounters with a variety of fascinating marine life. Hone your skills with private PADI instruction (which can be completed aboard our dive liveaboard) before joining our search for the illusive spotted Jaguar shark.

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It’s your custom sailing vacation so if scuba diving boat trips are not your jam, don’t worry as there are plenty of activity and itinerary options that will keep you in on this one of a kind adventure. It’s the small details that perfect the experience and make CruiseNautic stand out. A mojito sipped after a day of dives afloat your private dive liveaboard. The cold beer enjoyed mid hike. There’s more where that came from, but we can’t give away all our trade secrets online.

Whatever type of adventure you have in mind, be it on the wind for a pure sailing vacation or exploring below with a dive liveaboard, we strive to surpass a good challenge. We’re here to craft your adventure with precision. A CruiseNautic sailing expedition is sure to leave you renewed, refreshed and thinking about canceling your flight home.

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Liveaboards in The Caribbean

With an area of over 1 million square miles, the warm clear waters of the Caribbean offer a breathtaking array of underwater adventures and are an excellent first-time liveaboard option. Just as each of the 30-plus island nations enjoys its own individual charm, so the  diving  varies widely to suit all levels and tastes.

Find out why the Caribbean is one of our Best Liveaboard  destinations.

There are dozens of  liveaboards  available throughout the Caribbean, offering everything from 6-night to 14-night itineraries to suit all manner of budgets. Here are some of the most popular liveaboard areas in the Caribbean.

The Bahamas archipelago is a popular year-round liveaboard destination. Known for its excellent visibility, great coral reefs, and dive site diversity, we also consider Tiger Beach in the Bahamas to be one of the world's best locations for shark diving . With over 700 islands to discover, visiting by liveaboard is the best way to experience the Bahamas.

Interested in corals? Read about the best coral reefs in the world .

Belize is a lesser-known dive destination offering enormously varied diving on fringing reefs, protected within the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System . It is described as one of the most pristine reef ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere, and the best way to experience this country’s unique coastline is by liveaboard. 

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) , officially the Virgin Islands, are a British overseas territory located in the Caribbean to the east of Puerto Rico. BVI are a collection of 60 unspoiled islands that pack the best of the Caribbean into one convenient destination. From the culture and history of BVI’s four largest islands to the pristine natural splendor of more than 50 smaller isles, every place offers its own special magic.

The Cayman Islands offer a fantastic diversity of diving to suit all levels, with some of the best marine life in the Caribbean. The largest of the three islands, Grand Cayman lies the furthest west, while Little Cayman and Cayman Brac sit 75 miles to the east. As such, exploring via liveaboard is the easiest way to discover the best of all three islands in one trip.

Year-round diving is possible amongst Saba ’s intriguing underwater volcanic topography. The marine life around Saba Marine Park’s 30 dive sites is unique and diverse, and divers can expect to spot hawksbill turtles, stingrays, sharks, and lots of colorful tropical fish. The island is characterized by steep cliffs and a lack of beaches, so access by liveaboard is a great option.

Click here to  read about the Best Shark Diving in the World . 

Silver Bank, Dominican Republic

One of only three places in the world where visitors can safely snorkel with humpback whales , trips to the Silver Bank are tightly regulated to protect these awesome giants. As such only a few liveaboards visit between January and April each year, and places onboard are heavily contested.

Interested in whales? Learn all about diving in Moorea .

Turks and Caicos is a year-round scuba diving destination boasting some of the best wall dives in the Caribbean. One of the islands' main draws is the abundance of sea turtles. This group of islands also hosts a thriving underwater ecosystem with marine species such as orange elephant ear sponges, grey reef sharks, angelfish, eagle rays, and nurse sharks, not to mention great macro life .

Interested in macro photography? Check out our article on the "Macro Heaven," Anilao .

Start planning your perfect liveaboard trip! 

1. Already know where to go?   Use our  live availability search tool , and  select your date range and boat  to find your next trip and click on ' Booking Request'  to submit your booking.

2. Want to pick a boat first?  Go to   full list and reviews of liveaboards in Caribbean  available at Bluewater Travel.

3. Not sure where to dive or when to go?  Go to our  liveaboard diving season and area guide .  

4. Need assistance?  Contact us .  Our travel advisors can recommend the right destination and boat based on your requirements and preferences.

Looking for a land-based option? View our selection of  dive resorts in Caribbean .

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DIving season

The majority of Caribbean destinations are diveable year-round, however, hurricane season runs from June through to November, and only the southernmost islands fall outside the hurricane belt. While there is quite a low chance of being affected by a storm, rates tend to be cheaper and there are fewer visitors during this time, so don’t discount it as an option.

Peak tourist season is from December until April, and many of the big tourist resorts such as Cozumel and Grand Cayman can be pretty crowded. If you are planning to spend some time ashore before or after your trip, make sure to research and book ahead so as not to be disappointed.

Liveaboards in The caribbean

Bluewater Travel can help you book a liveaboard in the Caribbean and 40+ destinations worldwide  at the same price or even lower than booking any other way.  We know the boats, cabins, diving, and logistics better than anyone else in the industry. Email us  today or leave us a message through the live chat box to start planning your dream dive vacation in the Caribbean! 

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13 Best Liveaboard Sailboats (under 30 & 50 ft)

Choosing a boat to live on is a big deal — something you definitely want to get right. There are plenty of options to pick from, which can make the choosing process a bit daunting. So to help you navigate those deep waters (no pun intended), here is an article summarizing the 13 best liveaboard sailboats under 30 and 50 feet.

So what are the 13 best liveaboard sailboats?

Catalina 30, pacific seacraft flicka 20, nonsuch ultra 30, aventura 34, island packet 35, peterson 44, prout snowgoose 37, gulfstar 44, beneteau oceanis 50.

Beautiful lineup, isn't it? Let me explain what makes these so special.

Picking the Right One Matters

Picking a liveaboard sailboat belongs among those kinds of decisions that require months, if not years of research and testing.

It is not like choosing a car - those are more or less the same, and although they vary widely in terms of comfort, feeling, and performance, rarely you would encounter one that wouldn't get you from point A to B reasonably.

The same goes for a house or an apartment. Regardless of if you get a 200 square foot condo or a 30,000 square feet mansion, it will most of the time provide a warm shelter with a shower and a kitchen and a bed, fulfilling its basic functions.

But this is only the case because there is extensive infrastructure in place helping cars and houses. A car can only get you from A to B thanks to roads. A house can only have a shower and a kitchen if it is connected to a grid.

But on a boat, you are on your own.

The sea doesn't adjust its waves for your comfort. If something breaks, there is usually not a repair shop nearby. You aren't always connected to water or electricity. And if you don't like what you see around yourself, it's not like you can just leave.

So a liveaboard boat needs to provide what a house does, what a vehicle does, and more, plus it needs to provide this regardless of if you are docked in a marina or in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. That is a lot to ask, especially if we are talking about boats around 30 or 50 feet.

Fortunately, every single boat on this list is an all-star that ticks all the right boxes. Let's see why.

I know, I hear you, it isn't exciting enough as it doesn't perform that well. Sure. But we are talking about a boat that is supposed to be a house too. So why is it on the list?

This boat has been in production since 1975, which means that it has been extraordinarily well-refined according to the suggestions of thousands of owners. And this manufacturer is known for listening to the sailors' feedback. It is a very popular model, so finding spare parts for it will always be easy. Its famous well thought through the salon, and cabin layout is generous and spacious, so Catalinas are comfortable boats to live on. Plus, the boat has quite a wide beam, great ballast/displacement ratio as well as low sail area/displacement ratio, making it a stiff boat under sail, which adds to stability and comfort.

Good condition MkIII Catalinas can be found for about $35,000, but given the volume of these on the market, you can find a usable one even for around $15,000.

This one is a hero. I'd be hesitant to call such a small boat a comfortable liveaboard if it wasn't for this model. For its size, the interior is very spacious. It is also made for comfort since it seems to be inspired by the aforementioned Catalina 30. In fact, after reading some reviews, I am confident in saying that you will not find a significantly more comfortable 27 footer out there.

It also has a talent very uncommon for liveaboard boats - you can put it on a trailer, which can make your life easier when it comes to certain trips. But most importantly, it is a beauty. Just look at it.

Pricing this boat is a tricky task. You can buy nearly new ones (2015) for around $140,000, but even for $50,000, you can stumble upon models from both the 80s and the 2000s. This means the condition is a big factor, and you gotta inspect your choice well. The good news is that whatever your price in that range, you will find a boat for that money. The bad news is that the cheaper you go, the more effort will the potential repairs take.

I thought the Nor'Sea 27 is gonna be it, but let's push the size limit even more with the 20 foot Flicka, this tiny, towable, but seaworthy beast that accomplished several circumnavigations. Upon entering, you will be amazed at how spacious and equipped with amenities the interior is. Its designer lived on this boat with his partner (who too was a naval architect) for years and cruised all around the world - and what a proof of confidence in his own design that is.

Truth be told, there is a lack of deck space, but underneath it has the comfort and size of a boat a few meters larger, a space you can comfortably live in. Due to its size, it is easy to operate, tow, and sails better than what you would expect from a boat this length.

This boat is incredibly charming, and so its owners rarely sell it. In fact, it has amassed quite a following since it was designed into existence. So expect to spend quite some time searching for one for sale. Once you do find one, it will cost you around $30,000 - $40,000.

This one's a weird one. But because of it, a very spacious one. It is structured as a catboat, that is, with the mast being all the way on the front of the boat, which makes for impressive space below the deck. It has all the necessary amenities, including a shower, so for the liveaboard lifestyle, this boat definitely deserves to make this list.

The single sail catboat design also means it is easy to handle single-handed, which makes for great solitary passages.

Expect to pay around $40,000 to $60,000 for this one.

Though I am trying to keep this list in lower price ranges, I have to put this one in. If you don't mind the price tag of around $170,000, this boat is marketed as the currently cheapest liveaboard catamaran. As previously mentioned, cats offer the most in terms of space, and this model is a brand new one. Thus when it comes to service troubles and costs, you wouldn't pay much. The look is modern, relatively minimalistic and sleek, so for those of you who would like to give the liveaboard lifestyle a go but get cold feet upon seeing boats from the 80s, this is a way to make sure things remain stylish.

The modernity, space, and attention to practicality when it comes to using this as your home, make this a great entry-level liveaboard choice.

Again, this is no performance vehicle. Rather it focuses on the usual cruiser aspects - space, stability, sturdiness, and convenience, which makes it an ideal candidate for your choice when looking for a new floating home. Aside from the spacious interior, this boat also has an unusually large cockpit, great for those lunches on the deck.

As if the designers knew this might be used by the liveaboard people, this boat is easy to handle, which means even under sail, you won't have issues focusing on what you came for in the first place - sea living.

This boat can be found on the market for around $75,000 - $100,000.

The great thing about the Hunter 33 is that it was designed as more of a house than a sailboat. The attention to accommodation details is great here; there is plenty of space for sleeping the owners as well as the occasional visitors, it has a fantastic headroom throughout the boat and one of the most spacious and comfortable dining spaces seen on boats this size.

Food preparation and consumption was probably high on the priority list of the makers; the kitchen has an L shape, which adds to the convenience.

The price spread on these is quite large, with the bottom around $55,000 for the 2004 models and the top around $95,000 for the 2013 models.

This one is for those who don't mind sacrificing luxury for space. If in the middle of the ocean, it makes sense that one would want as much of usable space as possible, so if you are okay with the simplicity that will inevitably come with a system like this, you have found your match.

An undeniable advantage of such a design approach is that the storage space is maximized. Long passages with the need for plenty of room for equipment and provisions won't be a problem here. The simplicity of this boat is not just in terms of design, but even the electrics and plumbing. Thus if something breaks, you will have an easier time fixing it.

This being an older model, you can get your hands on one for around $30,000.

Since we are mostly looking at cheaper boats here, most of them aren't new - in fact, they likely have quite a few years behind them. The build quality is thus important. You want to go for builds that will last. Peterson is known for this, so it's gotta be on the list. As far as this list goes, it is quite a large boat. Moreover, it is one that has been built with spaciousness in mind, both when it comes to living spaces and storage.

A neat thing about this boat is its attention to performance. It isn't a racer; rather, it fits in the performance cruiser category, but they haven't made too many speed-related compromises here.

Peterson 44 can usually be found for $80,000 - $100,000.

There needs to be a catamaran on this list - they are, by definition, more spacious than monohulls, providing a large living area, which is, of course, an attractive characteristic for a liveaboard boat. Especially if they have a solid bridge deck, creating yet more square feet of usable space, which Snowgoose has. Unfortunately, they tend to be costly. While it is easy to recommend a bunch of half a million dollar cats, to make this list more within reach of the average sailor, I've found this beauty that you can get for around $100,000.

Aside from the extra space, this model is a true bluewater cruiser, meaning you won't be limited by its abilities when planning your journeys.

Those of you who had the pleasure of sailing this boat know why it needs to be here. It was built for a liveaboard lifestyle. Its wide body makes for one spacious interior which is well ventilated, (a very important aspect) with a beautiful galley and it has a large aft cabin with a huge bed. It was made with comfort, practicality, and convenience in mind.

Not to sound like a salesman, but believe me when I say this boat is a genuine pleasure to be on. If you want the homey feeling, you don't get much closer than this in this size range.

Expect to pay around $80,000 - $100,000 for this one, though some digging around and 'fixing her up' can knock this number down significantly.

This is another easy choice, space being the reason. Not only does it have an extra-large main cabin and salon with a kitchen, many small Parisian apartments could envy, but it is also very generous in terms of storage space. Stocking up for longer crossings will be a pleasure on this one.

Also, it was built as a racer-cruiser, so you won't be making many compromises in terms of performance, as is often the case with comfortable boats.

All of this comes for a price, though. You might be able to find one for around $100,000 if you put some time into your search and won't mind a bit of travel to see it, but otherwise, the average price is around $130,000.

Let's end this list by stretching the ceiling too with this fifty-footer. It was designed as a holiday cruiser, and it is a popular choice among charter companies. The designers know that there are places in Europe where it is very easy to get a sailing license, so many inexperienced people who don't want to give up the comforts of their home end up on these boats. Oceanis 50 is thus comfortable, spacious, easy to sail, and the attention to accommodation details, amenities, and practicality, is very high.

As such, it is designed to house whole families, so if you live there as a couple, you will have a floating house for yourself, and if kids come, no need to buy a new boat. Even on the deck, this boat is designed for pleasure cruises, so as far as that goes, you will be taken care of. As far as their seaworthiness goes, some consider Beneteau an entry-level holiday brand, and some models are indeed more designed for coastal hopping than large crossings. But that can be fixed with some proper fitting.

If you fancy a new one, you will find yourself paying above the $500,000 mark, but older models start a bit above $100,000. Which is something a person who just sold all their possessions to escape to the sea is more likely to have. Just be a bit careful with boats sold by charter companies. Their previous owners serviced them regularly, but you can be sure the hundreds of sailors that touched the helm weren't necessarily skilled or kind to them.

So there you have it. $15,000 - $50,0000 range, 20 - 50-foot sizes, from cozy towable boats to large sailing houses. A range anybody can choose from to pursue the liveaboard dream. Nothing is stopping you now, so hit the yachtworld.com website and start browsing.

Know though that if you really want to take advantage of the boat market, you might have to travel quite a bit. If you are an American, the strong dollar will make it enticing to look for a boat in European countries without the EUR currency. Or you might find plenty of cheap models in Turkey, for instance. It requires more effort, but in return, it might save you tens of thousands of dollars.

Fair winds!

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A complete beginner's guide to liveaboard diving

What to expect and how to best prepare for your first liveaboard trip..

Did you just become a certified diver? Many congratulations to you, new diver! A whole new world has now opened up to you! Receiving your Open Water certification is a little like obtaining your driver’s license; you have finished the course, but now all you need to do is to practice your newly learned skills. What will be your next step to gain more dive experience? How about exploring new dive sites and destinations on fun diving trips?

There are two different ways of expanding your dive horizon. Choose shore diving or day boat diving if you want your holiday not to be solely about diving. For the more hardcore fans, there is liveaboard diving.

When your main goal is to gain more dive experience quickly, we highly recommend you go on a dive liveaboard holiday. The mantra on all liveaboard trips is: “Dive, eat, sleep, repeat.” If that sounds like music to your ears, this is a great opportunity for novice divers to get a good chunk of dive experience within a relatively short time. You will enjoy multiple daily dives on different dive sites and in various aquatic environments. It is the easiest and most exciting way of exploring the underwater world.

How does it work on a liveaboard?

A few days diving out on the ocean accompanied by like-minded people who all love diving; what could possibly be more fun? There is a distinctly nice social aspect to liveaboard life; it is very easy to make friends on board, whether you travel solo or with a friend/partner. During meal times - of which there are many - as well as after the last dive, everyone gathers together in the dining area. A great time for all guests to chat about the day’s dives and share their photos/video footage and previous diving experiences. There is a good chance you can pick up on some relevant dive knowledge from your fellow divers! The cruise leader puts together the dive groups according to dive level and experience. Do not worry if you do not have a dive buddy; you will get one.

Usually, the diving day starts with a light breakfast plus coffee & tea and is followed by the briefing for the first dive. The first morning dive is often one of the best dives of the day, as some marine life wakes up early and has already started hunting for their breakfast, while other species don’t fancy the early morning activities and are sometimes even still asleep.

Returning from the dive, a full breakfast will be ready for you to tuck into. Take a relaxing nap after your meal so you will be geared up for your next dive. Then, the cycle repeats itself - remember: “Dive, eat, sleep, repeat.” Depending on whether a night dive is scheduled, dinner will be served before or after the last dive of the day.

Continuing Diving Education

Most liveaboards will allow you to continue your diving education during the trip. As a beginning diver, your options are the Advanced Open Water course and Nitrox/Enriched Air course. The Advanced Open Water course will enable you to dive to a maximum of 40 meters depth, as opposed to a maximum of 18 meters from the Open Water course. It consists of five Adventure dives, of which two are mandatory: the Deep dive and the Navigation dive. You can freely pick the other three dives, depending on your liveaboard itinerary. Wreck, Night, Fish Identification, and Drift Dive are only a few of the many adventure dives you can choose from. Talk to your instructor to see which ones are possible on your trip.

Nitrox/Enriched Air is highly recommended when diving on a liveaboard. You do not need Advanced Open Water certified to do a Nitrox/Enriched Air course. Enriched air means that the air in your tank contains more oxygen than the 21% in normal air. Usually, a Nitrox dive tank is filled with 28-32% oxygen. The higher oxygen percentage extends your bottom time per dive and lets you stay longer at shallower depths. Diving with Nitrox is a sensible idea, especially when you do multiple dives daily, as it reduces the chance of decompression sickness.

Where to go for my liveaboard holiday?

There are so many beautiful diving destinations, so where to start? Novice divers are advised to choose a relatively easygoing itinerary for the beginning of their diving career. This means you should look for areas with few ocean currents, challenging dive sites with wreck penetrations, etc.  Depending on where you are located in the world, great first-time liveaboard destinations include the Egyptian Red Sea , the Bahamas , Thailand , and the Philippines .

Each destination is different, but they all offer vibrant coral reefs with dazzling numbers of colorful tropical fish. Expect beautiful seascapes with fan corals, coral bommies, pinnacles, reef walls, sea mounts, caves, and overhangs where you can look for lobster, octopus, moray eels, or other residents. Do not forget to look out into the blue now and then, as you never know what may swim by.

What to pack for a liveaboard?

Once you have chosen your liveaboard destination, it is time to check your packing list to ensure you bring everything you need for your trip. Most liveaboards will let you rent their dive gear if you do not have or wish to bring your own. Do double-check with the Liveaboard.com reservations team to ensure this is possible.

Provisional packing list:

• Personal dive gear (if you have any) – mask, dive computer, wetsuit
• Swimsuits – bring several, so you always have a dry one.
• Sea-sickness medication
• Reef-safe sunscreen and sunglasses
• Ear plugs and eye mask
• Comfy clothes & sarongs
• Sneakers or sturdy sandals - in case you get to go on land during the trip
• Camera gear & chargers
• Cash for crew tips – most liveaboards have a tip box where you can deposit the tip.

There are many great liveaboard destinations; how do you choose your first? Read Where to go for your first liveaboard  for a breakdown of some great beginner-friendly destinations.

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Ultimate Liveaboard Packing List: What to Bring on a Liveaboard Dive Trip

The links below may be affiliate links. If you shop through them, I’ll earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For full information, please see my  disclaimer  here.

Are you going on your first scuba liveaboard trip and have no idea what to bring? In this post I will share with you my liveaboard packing list.

You’ve probably booked your first liveaboard and you’re just about ready to go to your dream dive destination. Everything is pretty much perfect until you realize you still have to do some packing!

In my experience, packing for a liveaboard trip might be a bit different than packing for a regular dive holiday. On a liveaboard trip, you’ll most likely spend days at a time at sea and in very confined spaces so this is something you should consider.

If you find the idea of packing for a liveaboard trip daunting, don’t worry, I’ve got you!

I’ve done a liveaboard in the Great Barrier Reef and a liveaboard in Tubbataha Reefs , so I know a thing or two on what you should bring and what you should just leave at home.

Continue reading for some tips and suggestions on what you should pack for a scuba diving liveaboard holiday. I will go through different travel essentials and recommendations so you don’t feel overwhelmed or you don’t overpack!

Dive and travel documents

What to wear on a liveaboard, what toiletries and personal care products to bring on a liveaboard, scuba diving gear to bring for a liveaboard dive trip, underwater camera and electronic devices, bags and travel must-haves.

Passport – If you are traveling internationally, check your passport’s validity. As a general rule, your passport must be valid for another six months before you depart for international travel. I know divers who completely forgot to check their passport’s expiration date and they had to cancel the trip.

Visas- Double-check what the rules of entry are for the country you are visiting. Depending on your nationality, some may require you to apply for a visa before arrival. In some countries, vaccination cards or covid-19 testing might still be a requirement before entry. Arrange for these prior to departure.

Cash and Credit Cards – Find out what is the best way to pay in the destination you are heading.

Cash is still king and still the best way to pay for basic needs while traveling. Avoid carrying too much though but also remember that you will be heading to remote areas and sometimes underdeveloped countries. ATMs and money changers might be scarce or far in between.

Many places do not have credit card facilities and you may be asked to pay in cash for most things. Visa and MasterCard are mostly accepted. But in some countries or businesses, they may add a 3-5 % surcharge to cover banking fees.

Inform your bank that you are traveling abroad and will be using your card there on specific dates. This is to avoid your card from getting blocked.

You might also want to bring cash on your liveaboard for any additional expenses like your liquor consumption or to buy souvenirs.

If you’re happy with the service and experience, you can also tip the crew in cash. Ask the liveaboard what their recommendation or policy is on tipping.

Dive and travel insurance – Make sure to get one so you’re covered while traveling and diving. Some travel insurance policies will not cover diving accidents and some diving insurance policies will not cover travel emergencies.

Remember that for liveaboard destinations hospitals and emergency facilities may be scarce or hard to find. Getting dive and travel insurance can give you that extra peace of mind in case of an emergency. I personally use Divers Alert Network (DAN) .

You can also check SafetyWing . It is an international travel medical insurance that can cover you while you are outside your home. COVID-19 coverage is also included! Enter your details below to get a quotation.

Swimwear – Since you will be diving multiple for several days. I recommend packing at least two swimsuits. I hate wearing wet swimwear at the beginning of each day so I usually pack 3 to 4 sets of bikinis. This allows the suits to dry.

Between dives

Microfiber Poncho – I highly recommend wearing this to keep you warm after a dive. Ponchos are usually made with towel-like material so it will help dry off the salty water. It will also give you some protection from the wind chill.

Beach cover up or “sarong” – For ladies, a light cover-up can be useful to be worn between dives. The breathable and quick-drying material is perfect for tropical destinations. I like to bring a sarong as I find this versatile. It can be worn as a wrap around the torso, as a headcover from the sun or it can be used to lay down on while you’re working on a tan.

After diving

Regular clothes – If you are diving multiple times a day, you’ll most likely change into regular clothes only at the end of the day when all the dives are done.

I usually bring one change of clothes per day. But feel free to repeat outfits. I’ve seen divers wear the exact shirt for three days straight and no one really cares. As long as you have good hygiene and have terrible body odor, people won’t mind.

If you’re going on a 2-week liveaboard, it doesn’t make sense to take 14 different outfits so don’t worry about repeating outfits. Some liveaboard will also have laundry service.

Wearing shorts, shirts or tank tops is perfectly acceptable. Find out what the surface temperature is and dress appropriately.

I like to wear light beach dresses as I find them more comfortable. They do not take up much space compared to shirts and shorts.

Hoodie or light jacket – It gets a bit more chilly at night so you can wear a hoodie or jacket to stay warm. Cabins can also get too cold so this might come in handy.

Sleepwear- I bring one to two sets of sleepwear depending on the duration of the liveaboard.

Underwear- This is self-explanatory!

Flipflops/ slippers/ thongs- This is possibly the only footwear you’ll ever need while on a liveaboard.

Shoes/ Sandals – Once in a while I do pack a sturdier pair of sandals, rubber shoes, or sneakers depending on the itinerary.

Socks- If you bring closed shoes then bring extra socks as well. An extra pair is also handy for keeping your feet warm at night. When you are doing multiple dives, wearing socks can help protect your feet from getting blisters.

Accessories

Sunglasses- Bring eyewear with polarized lenses and UV protection. You will be staring out at sea most of the time and the glare from the sun can hurt your eyes.

Hat / Head scarf / neck buff- Useful to protect yourself from harmful rays of the sun. These breathable sun masks are great for your outdoor adventures.

Jewelry – Leave your expensive jewelry at home. I know some couples even leave their wedding rings and wear a silicon ring band instead.

Towels – Confirm with your liveaboard if they provide towels. If they don’t provide them, bring quick dry towels for saltwater and another for freshwater use. You can also take this cool microfiber dive map towel so you and your new liveaboard dive buddies can plan for your next dives.

Please consider getting toiletries made of sustainable materials to reduce plastic and the diminishing of our resources.

Read: 11 Tips for Sustainable Travel in the Philippines

Shampoo and Conditioner – most liveaboards provide this but if you’re particular I suggest taking your favorite hair product in smaller travel-sized bottles to save on space. I’m sure you will not need 1 Liter of shampoo for your 3-week trip.

I love taking my shampoo and conditioner bars. If you need some recommendations, here is a list of the best zero waste shampoos and conditioners .

Body soap – You will be living in close quarters with a lot of people so good hygiene is important.

Deodorant – You will be sweating a lot with all the physical activity so wear deodorant to avoid bad body odor.

Dental Care Kit – Pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, and even your floss and mouthwash if you want. Nobody wants bad breath and you gotta keep those smiles sparkling as you take selfies of your vacation!

Facial Skin Care Products – Whether it’s a two-step or ten-step regimen taking care of your skin should not go on vacation too. You’ll be exposed to the harmful rays of the sun so take your cleansers and moisturizers.

Lotion – exposure to sun and salt may leave your skin feeling dry so you need this to keep your skin moisturized. I personally like using coconut oil as it helps with my tan and it smells good!

Reef-safe sunscreen – To avoid damaging your skin and the reef, bring your own reef-safe sunscreen .

Hairbrush or comb + hair ties – Messy hair, don’t care? Remember that salt water can leave your hair damaged and in a tangled mess. Here are some tips on how to care for your hair when spending a day diving or on the beach.

Leave in Conditioner – Many divers recommend wearing leave-in conditioner to avoid hair damage. If you are looking for a product that cares for your hair and the ocean, you can check out Stream2Sea reef-safe leave-in conditioner .

Lip Balm – Did you know that you can get lip sun burn too? Bring lip balm with SPF protection to avoid sun damage on your lips

After-sun lotion- If you are prone to sunburn, bring some aloe to soothe your skin after extreme sun exposure.

Birth Control or Contraception – be a responsible adult and bring your own supply. Especially if you’re traveling solo, it’s very easy to hook up with someone on board. I have seen it happen after a couple of drinks!

Medicines and First Aid- Pack a small medicine/ emergency kit in your bag that has your preferred/ familiar brands of medicine.

Include in your first aid kit some waterproof bandaids and anti-bacterial creams in case you get cuts and scratches. Never expose open wounds to ocean water as it will get infected and make it worst. I once had to drink antibiotics and stay out of the water for a few days just to let an open wound heal.

Some people might have more sensitive stomachs than others so bring antimotility medicine for diarrhea or food poisoning. Allergy medicine and pain relievers are also good to bring.

Pack some motion sickness pills and other remedies that may help with seasickness .

Prescription medicine should be labeled properly. Bring extra just in case you have travel delays or you need to stay longer in the country.

While the liveaboard may have its own first aid kit, it might have a limited supply. They might also not have what you need and access to a pharmacy might be difficult when you are diving in remote areas.

Eyemasks and earplugs and sleeping pills – If you have trouble sleeping in new places, you will thank yourself for bringing these three things. These may also come in handy when you find yourself being roommates with a person who snores.

Sanitary napkins, tampons, or menstrual cup – I know we all hate it when our trip coincides with that time of the month but it shouldn’t stop us from having fun! You can still scuba dive while on your period .

Pack your own supply of tampons or pads even if it’s not that time of the month yet. You never know when your period decides to come early.

You might also consider switching to a menstrual cup as they’re more eco-friendly! I also find that they’re comfier to use than a pad or tampon especially while traveling.

For more feminine product recommendations, check out my post on eco-friendly menstrual products for a zero waste period .

For more eco-friendly travels, check out this article on what essentials to include in your Zero Waste Travel Kit .

Most liveaboards will have gear rental on board but so but if you will be bringing your own scuba diving kit here are some of the things you might want to bring with you for your liveaboard trip.

Exposure Suit – Ask your liveaboard what exposure suit they recommend you wear for the destination you will be visiting. I usually wear a 3mm suit for tropical weather diving.

Dive skins/ dive leggings / rash guards – when waters are a bit warmer I sometimes skip the wetsuit but still wear leggings and a rash guard to avoid any dangerous marine animals that may sting me. Many liveaboard locations are in remote areas and the last thing you’d want is to have a medical emergency from an animal sting.

This can also be good for sun protection if you don’t like wearing sunscreen.

Dive leggings and rash guards can serve as an extra layer of insulation. The silky fabric can help you get in and out of your wetsuit.

Check these posts: Best Scuba Diving Rash Guards for Women of Different Styles, Shapes, and Sizes Best Scuba Leggings: 10 Brands To Help You Look Good While Diving 9 Best Whale Shark Leggings For Your Active Lifestyle

Dive Computer – you will be doing multiple dives and having your own dive computer will help make sure you are diving within your limits. make sure batteries will last you for the entire dive.

BCD (Buoyancy Control Device)

Regulator Set

Fins (with boots)

Snorkel – Some destinations may require you to have snorkel attached to your mask during dives, so bring it. Some surface entry and exit might be difficult too so this can be useful in some situation.

Compass – I’ve done a self-guided dive on a liveaboard before and you’ll definitely need to know how to use one.

Weight Belt or Integrated Weight Pockets – liveaboards will provide you with the weights so just bring your weight belt or pockets.

Emergency Signal Devices – Anything can happen at sea. For instance, you can lose your dive buddy or need to do an emergency ascent. You can be swept away by a current and drift away from your dive boat. If you’re in remote locations, having your own safety signal devices might be the only thing that saves you during an emergency.

I usually carry a Delayed Surface Marker Buoys (DSMB) and a whistle . While others also carry a mirror that can bounce sunlight and be used as a signaling device. Some divers also bring a Nautilus Lifeline Marine GPS as an extra precaution.

Reef hook – Some destinations where currents are strong will allow you to use a reef hook. This dive accessory will allow you to hook yourself on a rock and tether yourself to avoid getting swept away. Some places may not allow this as it can damage a reef if used incorrectly.

Gloves – If you are diving in temperate waters, they might allow wearing gloves but in many areas, especially if it is a marine protected area, wearing gloves is prohibited. This is to discourage divers from touching the reef or holding marine life. Check with the liveaboard what the local policy is when it comes to wearing gloves.

Dive socks – these comfortable socks can be worn with your dive boots or full-foot fins to eliminate chafing and blisters especially if you are doing multiple dives a day. Check out these colorful dive socks that will make your dives more fun and enjoyable.

Dive hood – this can help keep you warm especially if you’re doing multiple dives.

Dive Light – If you have one take it and experience a night dive while on a liveaboard. If you do not have one, you should be able to rent one. If you need to purchase one before your trip, here are the 10 best dive lights for recreational divers .

Save-a-dive Kit – If you are not familiar with this, it is basically your bag of spare gear or parts. Some people suggest bringing extra fin straps, extra masks, extra o-rings, bungie cords, tie wraps and anything that may fix or “save a dive” when something goes wrong with your dive gear. I personally don’t carry one since I don’t mind renting.

Mask defog – You can bring your own but you can also just ask from the dive shop. They usually use liquid soap to defog masks. You can check out this Reef-safe defogger from Stream2Sea for an eco-friendly anti-fog solution.

Dive Knife or Line Cutter – Occasionally you might see fishing nets and lines underwater. These will come in handy when you need to rescue an animal from a ghost net. I carry an Aqualung Stainless Steel Blunt Tip Dive Knife.

Log book – Don’t forget to record your liveaboards experience in your logbook. In case you need to buy a logbook before your trip, here’s a list of the best dive log books .

Dry Bag – I recommend getting one as you will be going on a lot of boat rides and possibly some island hopping. This will keep your valuables dry and protected while in transit.

Here is the scuba equipment and dive gear I bring on my dive trip

My Scuba Diving Gear Regulator: Scubapro MK25 Evo , C300 and C200 2nd Stage BCD: Aqualung Axiom Mask: TUSA M-212 Freedom Ceos Snorkel: TUSA SP-170 Platina Hyperdry II Booties: Poseidon Pink Dive Boots Wetsuit: Seavenger Scuba Leggings: Ocean Spirit by Aurora Wetsuits (For a 10% discount, use Coupon Code: DIVERBLISS) Vest Hoodie: Scubapro Hybrid Hooded Vest Dive Watch: Suunto D4i Novo Dive Knife: Aqualung Blunt Tip Knife My Underwater Camera Gear Underwater Camera: Canon G7X Mark II Underwater Camera Housing: Fantasea FG7XII Video Lights: Big Blue AL1200XP Dive Insurance Divers Alert Network (DAN)

Mobile phone – While you might want to go on a digital detox, having your mobile phone will still come in handy for taking photos and staying connected with the resort of the world, even in the most remote areas. Make sure that your plan covers roaming or get a local SIM card if you need to.

Invest in a protective and waterproof case too.

Underwater camera- With the beautiful reefs and marine life you’ll encounter, you’re going to wish you had a camera underwater!

If you’re just starting out and not sure what camera to bring, here are my top recommendations for the best scuba diving camera for beginners . Make sure the camera you get can go down at a depth that matches the level of diving you are doing.

I personally bring my Canon G7X Mark II for my travels and diving. I highly recommend this underwater camera since it’s compact and affordable. I’ve written a Canon G7X Mark II review for you to check out if you’re looking to buy a camera before your trip.

I also use a GoPro Hero9 and GoPro underwater housing .

Don’t forget to include your underwater camera accessories:

• camera lenses
• camera tray
• arms and clamps
• video lights

Charger and Extra Batteries – You’d be surprised by the number of people who have actually forgotten these and left them charging at home! Consider getting extra batteries cause you never know how much time you have to recharge them.

Memory Cards- Don’t put all your photos on one card. I take several memory cards as I have experienced losing some and even having the card corrupted… Bye-bye photos of your best vacation ever!

Laptop or smart pad- If you’re bringing your camera, a laptop or smart pad can be used to back up your files and review images you had taken. You can also fill it with your favorite music, ebooks, and games to keep you entertained.

Headphones – If you like some alone time, these will come very useful, especially in a diver-filled boat! Find a noise canceling headphones to block out any disturbance. This is perfect for anyone who doesn’t feel like socializing 24/7.

Drone – These are great to capture aerial shots of your dream destination. It will give you and others a rare glimpse of where you went diving. Some places might require you to get a permit for this ahead of time, so check with your liveaboard if this is allowed and if there are fees involved.

Power bank – While your liveaboard will have outlets, power banks can come in handy while you’re in transit. You can be traveling several hours just from one place to another and it’s always a good idea to have a portable charger with you.

Power Strip- If you have a lot of gadgets that need re-charging, bring a power strip for convenience.

Travel Adaptor/ Converter – Ask the liveaboard what outlets they have on board. You might need to bring a travel adapter or a converter for your gadgets.

Dive Luggage – Bag choice really depends on what kind of travel you are doing and the difficulty of accessing the destination. Remember that you might need to ride tiny boats, buses, trikes, and jeeps to get to the port where your liveaboard is docked, and having wheeled luggage might actually be more difficult to transport.

Also, consider that there might not be enough space on your liveaboard vessel and in this case a dive duffle bag works best. When I went on a liveaboard in the Great Barrier Reef , they asked us to leave our big suitcases in their dive shop and only bring what we need for 3 days of diving.

Packing cubes – these will help you keep your things organized

Entertainment – If you don’t intend to bring gadgets with you, bring a book to read or something to keep you entertained during downtime.

Refillable Water Bottle – You need to stay hydrated while you’re diving and having a refillable water bottle can help you keep track of the amount of water you are consuming. I bring mine wherever I go. These insulated flasks from Waterlust even have a cute ocean-inspired design that divers will love.

Snacks – While you will be well fed on your liveaboard, it’s still good to bring your own favorite snack or candy to munch on. This is great especially if you tend to get homesick and just want something that is not just yummy but also comforting. Snacks from your home country can also be great to be shared with everyone divers and crew included.

Positive mindset – Leave your stress and worries behind and don’t bring your negative vibes on board. You are most likely to have a good time if you bring an open mind and heart along with you. Have fun, create memories and make new friends.

Pin this for later!

Are there items that I forgot to include but should be on this liveaboard packing list? Leave a comment below!

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