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A liveaboard is a boat specifically designed for multi-day diving trips where you eat, sleep, and dive all from the same vessel. Unlike day boats or resort-based diving, liveaboards allow you to reach remote dive sites inaccessible from shore and maximize your underwater time.
Liveaboards range from budget-friendly boats with shared cabins to luxury yachts with private suites, gourmet dining, and spa services. Most trips last 7-10 days and include 3-4 dives per day, plus the possibility of night dives.
Access to remote sites: Many of the world’s best dive sites—like the Galápagos, Socorro, or Tubbataha—are only accessible by liveaboard.
More diving: Expect 3-4 dives per day compared to 2 dives typical of day boats. Over a week, that’s 25+ dives versus 14.
Better conditions: Liveaboards can chase the best conditions, moving to different sites based on weather, currents, and marine life activity.
Immersive experience: Being on the water 24/7 with fellow divers creates a unique camaraderie and allows complete focus on diving.
Destination: Start with a destination known for calm conditions and reliable marine life. The Maldives, Red Sea, and Thailand’s Similan Islands are excellent for first-timers.
Boat size: Larger boats (20+ guests) offer more stability and amenities but less personalized service. Smaller boats (8-12 guests) provide intimacy but may feel the waves more.
Cabin type: Budget boats may have shared cabins or bunk beds. Mid-range and luxury boats offer private cabins with en-suite bathrooms. Consider your comfort needs.
Itinerary: Some routes are more demanding than others. Choose a trip suited to your certification level and experience.
Daily routine: Wake up, dive, breakfast, dive, lunch, rest, dive, dinner, optional night dive, sleep. Repeat.
Meals: Most liveaboards provide excellent food—often buffet-style with local and international options. Dietary requirements are usually accommodated with advance notice.
Cabins: Expect compact but comfortable accommodations. Storage space is limited, so pack efficiently.
Common areas: Most boats have a sun deck, lounge area, and dive deck. Higher-end vessels may include hot tubs, bars, and entertainment systems.
Dive facilities: Equipment rinse tanks, camera tables, and charging stations are standard. Nitrox is available on most boats (sometimes included, sometimes extra).
Seasickness: Even experienced sailors can get seasick. Bring medication (Dramamine, Stugeron, or patches) and start taking it before boarding.
Certification cards: Bring both your physical card and have a digital copy. You’ll also need your dive log.
Insurance: Dive travel insurance is essential. DAN (Divers Alert Network) offers excellent coverage.
Cash: Bring small bills for crew tips (typically $10-15 per day per person) and any extras.
Flexibility: Weather and conditions may alter itineraries. Embrace the adventure!
Social skills: You’ll be in close quarters with strangers. Bring a positive attitude and respect shared spaces.
Complete a medical questionnaire before your trip. Some conditions may require a doctor’s clearance.
Stay hydrated—diving and sun exposure are dehydrating. Limit alcohol consumption.
Don’t fly within 18-24 hours of your last dive. Plan your departure accordingly.
Listen to the briefings. Different boats have different procedures, and dive sites have unique characteristics.
Compare 100+ liveaboards worldwide. Best price guarantee + Free DAN dive insurance included.
Compare 100+ liveaboards. Best price guarantee + Free DAN insurance.
