How Much Does a Liveaboard Cost?

Average liveaboard price ranges (2026)

These are typical per-person, per-night prices for a standard cabin with full board and 3–4 dives per day.

• Red Sea (Egypt): $170–$300/night · 7 nights from $1,200
• Maldives: $250–$500/night · 7 nights from $1,800
• Indonesia (Komodo, Raja Ampat): $300–$650/night · 10 nights from $3,000
• Caribbean (Bahamas, Belize, Cayman): $300–$550/night · 7 nights from $2,100
• Galápagos: $600–$900/night · 7 nights from $4,200
• Cocos Island: $700–$950/night · 10 nights from $7,000
• Socorro / Revillagigedo: $500–$800/night · 8 nights from $4,000
• Antarctica / polar expeditions: $1,200+/night · from $14,000

What drives liveaboard prices?

Hidden costs to budget for

Most operators advertise the headline trip price but not these mandatory extras:

• Marine park & port fees: $80–$400 (Maldives, Galápagos, Cocos especially)
• Nitrox: $100–$250 per week (often optional)
• Rental gear: BCD + regulator + wetsuit ≈ $150–$300/week
• Crew tips: 8–12% of trip price (industry standard)
• Single-cabin supplement: 50–100% if you want a cabin alone
• International flights: not included anywhere
• Travel + dive insurance: $50–$200 (DAN, DiveAssure)

How to get the best price

• Book 6–9 months ahead for peak season (Galápagos, Maldives Dec–Feb)
• Watch for last-minute deals 4–8 weeks out (often 15–30% off)
• Travel solo? Look for vessels offering 'no single supplement' weeks
• Shoulder season (May/Nov in many destinations) is dramatically cheaper
• Group of 4+? Many operators offer 5–10% group discounts