Dive Site: Isla Montserrat

Dive site facts: Isla Montserrat

Current

Variable, can be strong (drift possible)

Visibility

9-30 m

Water temperature

21-30°C

Entry

Boat

Level

All levels (current experience helpful for drift)

Dive type

Reef, wall, drift, pelagic

Region / port

Loreto, Baja California Sur

Coordinates

26.0667, -111.25

Conditions & Currents

Currents around Isla Montserrat vary, but strong currents can be encountered, particularly during October and November, making these months ideal for drift diving experiences. While general conditions are often calm, divers should be prepared for varying current strengths, especially at deeper sites or specific times of year. Visibility is generally good, improving significantly from late summer into autumn, often reaching 24-30 meters. However, plankton concentration, which can create distinct layers and masses, can reduce visibility to 9-12 meters during June. Water temperatures can fluctuate, with thermoclines sometimes present around 13-15 meters in spring and early summer, where a plunge from 23°C surface temperatures to 15°C below is possible, requiring appropriate thermal protection.

Marine life & sighting chances

Eagle rays

occasional

Nudibranchs

common

Sea lions

common

Green sea turtles

occasional

Angel sharks

Summer and Fall · occasional

Guitarfish

Summer and Fall · occasional

Torpedo rays

Summer and Fall · occasional

Electric rays

Summer and Fall · occasional

Mobula rays

Spring, Summer, Autumn · common

Humpback whales

December-April · occasional

Whale sharks

Summer, Winter · occasional

Hammerhead sharks

Winter · occasional

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Isla Montserrat typically begin with a boat drop, allowing for exploration of the island's diverse topography, which includes rocky formations and walls. Depending on the site, you might follow a reef slope or drift along a wall. Depth progression varies but can include shallow, luminescent areas to deeper sections. Routes are usually guided to maximize encounters with schooling fish, nudibranchs, and other macro life, as well as potential pelagic sightings. Turn points are determined by air consumption and bottom time, ensuring a safe return to shallower waters. Safety stops are conducted in the clear, protected shallows, often around 5 meters, before surfacing to the dive boat.

Underwater photography

Isla Montserrat offers varied photographic opportunities, from wide-angle shots of rocky formations and schooling fish to macro subjects like nudibranchs. For wide-angle, a fisheye or wide-angle lens is excellent for capturing the expansive underwater landscapes and potentially pelagic encounters. Summer months with high visibility provide optimal natural light, reducing the need for strobes at shallower depths. For macro photography, a dedicated macro lens will highlight the smaller, often vibrant, invertebrates. Patience and good buoyancy control are essential to avoid disturbing the delicate marine life. Consider bringing strong video lights for any deeper sections or to enhance colors, especially when capturing shy species.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Isla Coronados

  Ancient dormant volcano, sea lion rookery

• Isla del Carmen

  Largest island, pinnacles, walls, seamounts

• Isla Danzante

  Reef sites, wall dive, nudibranchs

• El Bajo

  Underwater mountain, large pelagic species

• La Lobera

  Sea lion colony

Getting there & logistics

Diving Isla Montserrat is typically arranged through local dive operators in Loreto, Baja California Sur. Loreto is serviced by Loreto International Airport (MMLT). Trips to the dive sites are usually day trips by boat, and itineraries often combine dives at Isla Montserrat with other islands within Bahía de Loreto National Park. There are no specific permits mentioned for individual divers, as access is usually managed through licensed operators within the protected park area. Ensure all fees for park entry, if applicable, are included in your dive package. Loreto itself is a historic and charming town with hotels and restaurants within walking distance of departure points.

Safety & environment

While diving in Bahía de Loreto National Park is generally safe, divers should always carry appropriate dive insurance that covers emergency medical treatment and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber would likely be in La Paz, which requires significant travel time from Loreto. Evacuation in a serious emergency could involve air transport, underscoring the importance of comprehensive insurance. Site-specific hazards can include strong currents, particularly during certain months, so divers should be proficient in current diving techniques. Always follow your guide's instructions, maintain proper buoyancy, and avoid touching marine life to ensure both personal safety and the preservation of the protected ecosystem.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

FAQ

Isla Montserrat FAQ

Liveaboards diving Isla Montserrat

These liveaboards may visit Isla Montserrat on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Nautilus Explorer

Mexico

25 guests45 m

Valentina

Mexico

20 guests38 m

Rocio del Mar

Mexico

20 guests34 m

Nautilus Under Sea

Mexico

19 guests32 m

Nautilus Belle Amie

Mexico

32 guests45 m

Quino del Mar

Mexico

20 guests36 m

Nautilus Gallant Lady

Mexico

12 guests35 m