Socorro Marine Park Fee Increase: What You Need to Know
Are you planning a liveaboard trip to the Socorro Islands? Recent changes to marine park fees have introduced significant updates that divers need to be aware of. Bluewater Travel is always here to guide you through these changes and ensure that your travel plans remain smooth and stress-free.
What Happened?
Marine park fees for the Socorro Islands have increased significantly, from 1,811 to 3,622.02 Mexican pesos per diving day—approximately USD $97 to $195 (based on the 3-year average from OFX). A typical liveaboard trip with six diving days totals roughly $1,170, depending on the exchange rate used by the liveaboard. These mandatory fees apply to all visitors and are collected to support conservation efforts in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When is it Effective?
The new fees will take effect on January 1, 2025, and apply to divers traveling to the Socorro Islands from that date onward, regardless of when the trip was booked.
Why the Increase?
The Mexican government's fee increase aims to strengthen conservation efforts and protect the Revillagigedo Archipelago’s incredible marine ecosystem. Known for its giant manta rays, sharks, and other marine life, the funds will enforce illegal fishing, conduct research, and improve infrastructure.
Exceptions and Discounts
There are some important exceptions and discounts available for specific individuals:
- Retired Individuals (60+): The fee can be waived if CONANP approves the documentation submitted in advance. The documentation must be in English or Spanish and include an official document stating "retired" or "pensioned."
- Active Students and Teachers: A 50% discount requires proof of status. A valid ID card with a photo and current date is required.
All exception documentation must be submitted at least two weeks before the trip, as it requires government approval. The diver must pay the full fee if approval is not granted in time.
What This Means for Your Trip
At Bluewater Travel, we understand this change may raise questions and are here to help you navigate the new requirements. Most liveaboards collect these fees in advance as part of the trip payment process, though some may also accept payments onboard. Payment options vary by operator and may include pesos, USD, or Euros. Credit card payments often incur surcharges.
On boats that accept onboard payment, such as the Valentina, we strongly recommend paying in cash using pesos.
Our partners are actively working with Baja officials to advocate for a reduction in these fees, as the increase was unexpected and steep. In the meantime, we are committed to providing clear guidance to ensure your Socorro diving adventure remains seamless.
How Bluewater Travel Supports You
We are here to simplify your travel planning. We coordinate with liveaboard operators to ensure all necessary fees are handled efficiently. Our team will provide you with the latest updates and instructions specific to your trip so you can focus on enjoying the extraordinary diving experiences Socorro offers.
If you have questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Bluewater Travel is dedicated to making your dive travel stress-free and unforgettable.
For more information about Socorro and our liveaboard options, visit our Socorro diving page. To learn what to expect from a trip to Socorro, check out the photos and recap from our November 2024 Socorro group trip.
