La Paz Explorer

Based in La Paz, Mexico, La Paz Explorer provides access to the diverse marine ecosystems of the Sea of Cortez. The centre operates primarily out of the Muelle Fiscal docks in downtown La Paz, making it easy to reach with local parking available just two blocks away.

With 15 years of experience, the centre focuses on small-group excursions that prioritise environmental protection and marine biology. Whether you are looking to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Balandra or dive the deeper reefs of El Bajo, the approach is always professional and science-led.

The team is composed of experienced dive instructors and marine biologists, providing a layer of expertise that goes beyond standard recreational diving. This biological insight adds significant value to every trip, particularly when observing the local fauna in their natural habitats.

Instruction is conducted in English, Spanish, and French, with German also spoken by the team. For those looking for guided exploration, the centre maintains a strict ratio of one guide for every six divers, ensuring attentive supervision on the boat and underwater.

La Paz Explorer is an official SSI Dive Resort, offering a comprehensive range of training programmes. Beginners can start with the Discover Scuba Diving programme, leading through to the Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver certifications.

The centre also provides various SSI specialty certifications for divers looking to refine specific skills. All training is conducted following high professional standards to ensure competence and safety in the Sea of Cortez.

The centre operates custom dive boats designed to accommodate up to 8 divers per trip. These vessels provide a comfortable platform for day trips, featuring on-board toilets and small freshwater showers on the 28ft models.

During your time on the water, you are provided with snacks, soft drinks, and lunch, which often includes local ceviche with vegetarian and vegan options available. The boats are equipped with first aid kits and oxygen for safety, and they depart directly from the Muelle Fiscal docks.

Full equipment hire is available for those not travelling with their own kit, including masks, snorkels, fins, and wetsuits. The centre ensures that the kit provided is of high quality to suit the local conditions.

Safety is a core priority, with oxygen kits maintained on board the vessels and at the centre.

The area is a haven for large pelagics and charismatic megafauna. You can encounter California sea lions at various sites, as well as dolphins, turtles, and rays. Depending on the season as determined by local authorities, whale sharks are also a significant attraction.

The reef ecosystems are populated by a variety of tropical fish, including Grouper (Epinephelus), Snapper (Lutjanus), and various species of Angelfish (Pomacanthidae). You will also see green jacks, sea urchins, and many other reef fish throughout the national park.

For those with an eye for macro life, the seabed holds a wealth of smaller treasures. Look out for the Octopus (Octopus vulgaris), Seahorse (Hippocampus kuda), Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani), and Frogfish (Antennarius), alongside various sea stars and Combtooth blenny (Blenniidae).

The diving environment is generally characterized by gentle currents, particularly within the protected sites of the national park. This makes the area accessible to a wide range of experience levels.

Visibility in the region is typically good, ranging between 15 and 30 metres, allowing for clear viewing of the reefs and rock formations.