Join us as we team up with renowned manta researcher, Dr. Madalena Cabral, Scientific Director of the Oceanic Manta Project at Mares de Mexico and professional photographer & conservation storyteller, Jay Clue, for a very special manta research expedition to Socorro and the Revillagigedo!

This is your chance to not only witness some of the most cutting-edge manta research firsthand, but also to get involved and help support the science behind protecting oceanic manta rays! Dr. Cabral's work focuses on trying to answer one of the ocean's greatest mysteries: where and how do oceanic manta rays reproduce in the wild? Her work uses specialized technology to ultrasound pregnant manta rays to see how they develop, as well as satellite tagging and more! This incredible research is already leading to several scientific publications, with more currently in development—an exciting step forward for both science and conservation.

Only 16 lucky guests will be able to join this special expedition as part of the manta research team alongside Dr. Cabral and Jay Clue. Each diver will be part of a 6-person group and will have multiple opportunities to assist and observe Dr. Cabral conducting manta research during the trip. If you would like to take a more active role, let us know, and you can also be assigned duties to help with the research project. Or for those who prefer to experience the project from a more relaxed perspective, the trip offers a rare opportunity to witness the research firsthand while also diving the Revillagigedo in small groups of just 6 divers.

Your trip purchase also directly contributes to manta research by helping fund satellite tags for the expedition, research logistics and more. So you are not only getting to be involved in the research, but also helping support the research and protection of manta rays in the Revillagigedo. Dive Ninja will also be making a donation in honor of each guest to help fund Dr. Cabral's research.

Beyond the diving, guests are invited to become part of the story. Many choose to contribute to the project through onboard activities such as the organization and curation of photo-identification data—an essential component of our research. These contributions have proven incredibly valuable. This unique combination of exploration, contribution, and discovery allows participants not only to witness these animals in the wild but also to play a part in uncovering their story.

The Nautilus Under Sea is probably one of the most loved liveaboard vessels in operation. From being the support boat for James Bond movies and a Deep Rover mission with Dr. Silvia Earle, she's definitely earned her fame! She's also appeared in IMAX films, supported numerous ocean documentaries & research projects, and is Dive Ninja's favorite ship for Socorro! We've been utilizing her for our Socorro trips since she was first brought from Cocos Island, Costa Rica, to the Mexican Pacific.

Completely rebuilt in 2017 at 105ft long with a heavy-duty steel hull built to American Bureau of Shipping standards, the Under Sea is designed for remote diving and ocean crossings. She comfortably houses 9 ensuite cabins, each with air conditioning, a full bathroom, and comfy beds. Her dive deck is massive and features a huge camera table with ample space for all guests. On the al fresco deck, you'll find an 8-person hot tub, comfy sofas in the shade for relaxing between dives, and lounge chairs for those who want to take in the views while working on their tan.

In terms of safety, the Undersea was the first SOLAS and ISM certified liveaboard and is one of only four in the world to meet these rigorous safety standards. She carries an array of safety features not found on most liveaboards, such as automated fire detection & suppression systems, a stabilization system, diver-tracking technology, and much more.

The ship also features a full bar with single malts, microbrews, a vast wine selection and drink specials every night! Plus an incredible chef preparing delicious meals and hot snacks all day long, an espresso machine, and so much more.

Please note that this is an actual manta research trip. As a result, you will need to sign an additional agreement to participate in the project and help protect the integrity of Dr. Madalena Cabral's research (for example, by not posting specific research data from our trip on social media). If you would like more info or to read the agreement before booking, please contact us, and we can send it over.

All participants must meet standard liveaboard requirements for Revillagigedo, including Advanced Open Water (or equivalent), having valid dive insurance, Nitrox certification, and a minimum of 50 logged dives.

As with any dive trip, we are at the mercy of Mother Ocean, and research activities will depend on the type of manta encounters we have. So bring all your good vibes, and let's have an epic trip while contributing to the research on these winged giants! In 10 years of running trips, we've never had a trip without any mantas.

Nearest Airport: Los Cabos International (SJD)

Located in San Jose del Cabo, Mexico

Embark:

Check in before 6 pm on January 14, 2028, at the Nautilus office in Cabo San Lucas. You can also check in early and drop off your bags if you like.

Pre Trip Dives:

Dive Ninja is offering a discounted pre trip dive package for all guests on this trip as well as a 10% discount on courses! Make sure to check the add-on section when you are checking out. Plus, anyone doing pre-trip dives with Dive Ninja can also store their luggage at our shop for the day until you go to Nautilus for check in.

Disembark:

We will return to port around 8:30 am on January 22, 2028 and disembark by 9 am. Nautilus offers a free shuttle service from the ship to their offices, as well as an additional shuttle to the airport for a small fee.