300 miles south west of Cabo Blanco, Costa Rica, is the Cocos Island Marine Park. This World Heritage Site is a lush green tropical paradise on the surface and a divers delight under the water, yet is a tiny dot on the landscape. But don't let her size fool you. This is a mecca for big fish and one of the 3 magical sites that form the so called Golden Hammerhead Triangle. Cocos can only be reached by liveaboard and what a liveaboard Scuba Travel offers up. The Undersea Hunter's Argo is a relative newcomer but is home to state of the art luxury on board and the absolute perfect platform from which to stride into this remarkable and unique environment.
Formed through the ages by volcanic action, the island is famous for the deep sea pinnacles and cleaning stations which attach predators of all shapes and sizes right onto the reef for some attention. Hammerheads are perhaps the main star, which school in breathtaking numbers, languidly cruising through the currents. But other big fish in the region are also drawn to Cocos, keeps looking out to the blue to see Galapagos, silver tip and black tip sharks. Even tiger sharks are not uncommon, piling on the adrenalin. Huge marbled rays congregate in channels along with manta. Batfish, jacks, tuna complete the fish swarms as dolphin chase and hunt. With frogfish and sea horses for those whose fancy is the smaller beasties, surely every taste is catered for. Diving Cocos is a must see where every minute underwater keeps getting better and satisfaction is guaranteed.
Cocos Travel Information
Location: Cocos Island in the East Pacific is the largest uninhabited island in the world, it's remote, wild and and excellent diving location. Cocos is located 300+ miles south-southwest of Costa Rica, accessible only by boat. The area is dived only by liveaboard and there are no places to stay on the island. Cocos Island National Park was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1997. In 2002, the World Heritage Site designation was extended to include an expanded marine zone of 1,997 km². In addition, it is included in the list of "Wetlands of International Importance". Cocos Island was short-listed as a candidate to be one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature by the New Seven Wonders of the World Foundation.
Languages: Spanish is the official language. English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist hotels and restaurants.
Religion: 90% of the population is Catholic.
Time: GMT –7 (GMT – 8 from the last Friday in April to last Thursday in September.)
Weather & Water Temperature: Persistent winds, cloudiness and constant rains are some of the characteristics of the humid tropical weather present at Cocos Island. The rainy season goes from May to November, a period in which tropical precipitations are very intense, with the skies down-pouring strong rain showers. In September and October storms increase reaching precipitations of 1000 millimetres monthly. Due to the fact that extreme rainfalls are present throughout the year, there is no way of defining a strictly dry season; however, it is usually affirmed that the dry season is from January to March. The annual average temperature is 25°C, with a maximum of 27°C and a minimum of 23°C
Electricity: 110 volts AC, 60Hz, 2 pin plugs. It is advisable to take an adaptor. We also highly recommend that you take a surge adaptor with you if using expensive and valuable appliances. If you have a specific electrical requirement please contact one of the Scuba Team who can discuss this with you and advise you accordingly.
Currency: The official currency is the Colon, US $’s are widely accepted as our major credit cards. Please be aware though that these may incur a high surcharge.
Tipping: Tipping is expected in Costa Rica and approx 10% of the service. If you are unsure what to give please do hesitate to contact us.
Visas: British Citizens do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days (Irish passport holders can stay for up to 30 days). Other nationals should contact the Costa Rica embassy on +44 (0)20 7706 8844.
Food & Drink: The biggest form of health problems with divers and tourists alike is being dehydrated. Please drink plenty of water before and after a dive.
Foreign & Commonwealth Office Travel Advice: For up to date advice on foreign travel please visit
http://www.fco.gov.uk.
Health & Vaccinations: Requirements vary from country to country, your own GP is the best person to speak to regarding relevant requirements. Make your GP aware that you will be scuba diving, as some medication is not recommended for Scuba divers.
Clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens most of the year, warmer clothes for cooler evenings. Waterproofing is necessary during the rainy season.
Passports: Passports much be valid for at least 6 months on your return to the UK.