MV Solmar V Liveaboard Review

The vessel MV Solmar V is one of the long established and more famous of the liveaboards operating on the Revillagigedos Archipelago (often known as the Socorro Islands), the Sea of Cortez and Guadalupe Island.

These rocky, volcanic oceans are developing a reputation as “Mexico’s Galapagos” and a liveaboard vessel is a great way access these amazing dive sites.

The distinctive green and yellow steel hull of Solmar V liveaboard is 34m long and has a beam of 8m, making her slightly smaller in size than competition MV Valentina. MV Solmar V diving boat has 2 engines and is capable of cruising at 11 knots. This is ample space and speed for a comfortable voyage.

You can check the availability, schedule and prices for this Boat here.

Liveaboard layout & cabins

The vessel has, in total, berths for 22 Scuba divers or customers on their famous ‘Socorro’ itinerary. On the ‘Great White’ itinerary guest numbers are limited to 16.

At the bow of the MV Solmar V are 3 twin cabins (double bunk), 2 single cabins and then a further double cabin.

MV Solmar V Deck Plan

Meanwhile, elsewhere on the MV Solmar V for an additional fee, ‘State Rooms’ are available. In addition to the standard air-conditioning and ensuite facilities, the ‘State Rooms’ feature a private toilet facility, sink and shower. And, in addition, top-of-the-line ‘pillow top’ mattresses and TV/DVD player for your comfort and enjoyment.

MV Solmar V Cabin

The Solmar Five was designed with passenger comfort in mind and is fitted with traditional mahogany, brass fittings, luxury granite table tops and has a carpeted interior.

MV Solmar V Saloon

Outside the cabin you will find a comfortable saloon where all guests are very welcome to relax and make use of the media facilities onboard featuring HD TV, DVD facilties and stereo music system.

Upstairs there is a sundeck for those wanting a dose of vitamin D.

You may correctly anticipate to be well fed on Solmar V Liveaboard! From the moment you arrive onboard food and drink is always available made from, where possible, fresh local produce.

Tea, coffee and hot chocolate is always available – as is a supply of fresh fruit. From the wonderful continental breakfasts greeting early birds, through a three course lunch. Be prepared for your wetsuit to become increasingly tight during the voyage!

MV Solmar V Dive Deck

In the evening when diving has concluded there is a Mexican beer and Chilean wine at no extra charge as you unwind and discuss the excitement of the day with your dive buddy.

Scuba Diving onboard Solmar Five

With regard to the Scuba diving, Nitrox is available and highly recommended. Training is available onboard should you wish to expand your knowledge and increase your bottom time.

Having received your dive briefing, the dive deck is spacious and well capable of handling even a fully booked vessel. Tanks are traditionally arranged around the outside of the vessel with a handily placed central, multi-level, camera table – complete with a charging station and an air-gun. There are also 4 large rinse tanks, 2 dedicated to photographers.

MV Solmar V ‘Panga’

Although diving is sometimes conducted from the MV Solmar V, often diving is conducted from one of the two ‘panga’ dinghies. The diving is often exposed to ocean currents and the dinghy driver will always be there checking bubbles to ensure you are being monitored.

Sea of Cortez

Solmar Itineraries

Itineraries vary depending on the season and prevailing conditions, so please check before booking.

Prices on MV Solmar V range from approximately USD2,995 for a 5 day Guadalupe itinerary to USD3,950 for an 11 day Socorro itinerary meaning that while, not inexpensive, they represent good value for those seeking large pelagic animals and more challenging dives.