We gave our Scuba Instructors one job:
Find the best and most popular aggressor liveaboard experiences and review them.
With more than 20 vessels operating in 20 countries, it’s safe to say that the Aggressor fleet is one of the world’s favorite ways to go liveaboard diving in almost any sea.
Since the Cayman Aggressor was first launched in 1984, the adventure company has gone from strength to strength, and if you’re choosing a liveaboard dive trip, you’ve probably seen the Aggressor name come up time and time again.
But with so many dive-soaked adventures in the sun to choose from, which Aggressor liveaboard should you pick? Each ship is different, sailing in different oceans.
Fear not, underwater adventurer, DIVEIN.com is here to help you. We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best Aggressor liveaboard trips for your consideration, and gone over why we love them so much. For each vessel there’s a link to an in-depth review if you’re interested in knowing more about them.
Let’s kick things off with our number one choice, a liveaboard trip we’re excited to take and one that is well off the beaten track…
Top 10 Best Aggressor Liveaboard Experiences in 2023
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
-
6
-
7
-
8
Areas where you’ll find Aggressor Liveaboard experiences
Galapagos and the surrounding cluster of islands are some of the world’s best dive destinations. There is much more than an enthusiastic diver can expect. Galapagos Aggressor III offers fantastic dives with luxurious amenities and excellent service. While diving at these sites, you will have an opportunity to see exuberant dolphins and sea lions. Darwin and Wolf Island present school of hammerheads, giant whales sharks, and lots of jubilant tuna fish. The journey with the stunning liveaboard begins from Baltra on every Thursday noon. The main objective of the Galapagos Aggressor III is to provide an ultimate scuba diving experience at the beautiful Galapagos Islands.
Key facts:
Year built:2011- Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:16- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum- Nitrox:No
Aircon:Yes
Year built:2011
Rental equip:Yes ($)
Max divers:16
Camera station:Yes
Internet:No
Min logged dives:No minimum
Nitrox:No
Aircon:YesOur Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Some divers said that they saw whale sharks, school of hammerheads, sea turtles and iguanas that made the experience breathtaking. -
The consensus among people is that the liveaboard is intimate and personal with a organised diving plan that was not overbearing.
-
The cuisine served by the chef was top notch and it was served in a buffet style layout.
-
Many people said it was an experience that they would do again.
-
The divers recall always having a clean environment on and off the boat.
-
Many people were impressed with the speed the boat obtained in the open water.
Things we don't like:
-
A couple of people noted that several of the diving spots had bad visibility and this hampered their viewing experience. -
A few people claimed that they experienced some light sea sickness.
Raja Ampat Aggressor is a modern and high quality vessel regarded by many diver aficionados as one that takes you to an incredible journey off the Indonesian waters to witness its abundant marine life. It is a 30m vessel that is specially designed to offer safe sailing without compromising comfort and efficiency. It perfectly brings divers from one wonderful site to another breath-taking underwater view. Four main areas of its sail are Rajah Ampat, Cenderawasih Bay, Banda Sea and Triton Bay from where you can have close encounters with around 600 types of living corals, 1500 species of fishes, and over 600 kinds of shelled creatures known as mollusks.
Key facts:
- Year built:2015
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:17
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:Yes (free)
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:Yes (free)
- Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Several divers were happy because they got to see 3 rare sea creatures namely the pygmy seahorses, wobbegongs and crocodile fish.
-
Many people said that the crew was super effective in doing all the heavy lifting on the boat and they kept everything clean and in immaculate condition.
-
Some people stated that the diving master was well informed about all the sea life and took the divers to exact locations of the most marine life.
Things we don't like:
-
Some people claimed that bad weather made the boat leak from the roof.
-
A couple of people noted that some of the diving spots had less marine life than others.
Bahamas Aggressor was built in 2012 and renovated in 2014. The liveaboard measures in at 30.48 meters/100 feet and can take up to 14 passengers in 6 stunning cabins. It can obtain a cruising speed of 12 knots and will whisk you away to fantastic destinations. You will be treated to at least 5 dives per day and led by knowledgeable instructors who have years of experience. The food is freshly prepared and served in the dining room, there are also a saloon and sundeck where you can spend your leisure time.
Key facts:
- Year built:2014
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:14
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:No
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:No
- Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Divers said they went wreck diving and it was a highlight for them
-
Many people were happy with the crew and staff who catered to their needs
-
Divers said the night dives were excellent at Barracuda Shoals
-
Some people said the camera centre was a good addition to the liveaboard
-
The food is delicious and a mixture between Bahamas and American cuisine
Things we don't like:
-
A couple of people noted that the liveaboard was worn and tired
The gorgeous sailing beauty MV Palau Aggressor II is a prominent member of the Aggressor fleet, who are renowned for their quality service onboard and in water. She has been cruising with the sistership Palau Rock Island Aggressor for almost 23 years. In these successful cruising years, it has safely transported enthusiastic divers to Palau’s famous mushroom-shaped rock islands. The outstanding accommodation with phenomenal service from the top-notch crew has made it amongst the best liveaboards of its kind. Accept the challenge to face the strong currents in the vigorous water with an ultimate liveaboard Palau Aggressor II.
Key facts:
- Year built:2014
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:18
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:No
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:No
- Aircon:free
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Divers said they got to see manta, baby sharks and other marine life
-
Some people were happy with spacious cabins and deck areas
-
The food was delicious and well prepared
Things we don't like:
-
Divers said that the dive locations were crowded
-
A couple of people noted some of the cabins near the engine room is noisy
This liveaboard was built in 1972 and was refurbished in 2014 to all of its splendor that you see now today. With this liveaboard, you will get to view the unmatched beauty of the Costa Rican Islands and the abundant underwater landscapes. The Okeanos Aggressor I have a length of 33meters/110ft and a beamwidth of 7meters/24ft. Divers will be pleased to know that the liveaboard has a cruising speed of 10 knots which will make getting to dive spots quicker than with normal vessels.
Key facts:
- Year built:2014
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:20
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:Yes ($)
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:Yes ($)
- Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Divers said that everyone that you looked you were exposed to sharks
-
Some people said they loved the hike in the jungle on Cocos Island
-
Divers commended the crew and staff for being friendly and helpful
-
Divers said they liked the fact they got fresh towels and fruit every time they got back from a dive
Things we don't like:
-
A couple of divers noted that national park decides where dives should take place
-
Some divers said the boat was cramped and outdated
The Maldives Aggressor II is a world-class liveaboard yacht with year-round diving cruises to the stunning Maldives Atolls. It is built and powered for comfort, stability, and safety. It is diesel powered cruises at 12 knots. With 16 crew members, it can accommodate up to 22 passengers in 11 staterooms. There are 8 staterooms equipped with single beds, 2 staterooms with queen size beds and 1 suite with a king size bed. The Maldives Aggressor II has a beautiful saloon, sundeck with jacuzzi, deck chairs, chaise lounges, bar, grill, and a complete photo/video center.The menu onboard has plenty of options, with a variety of American dishes and local cuisine.
Key facts:
- Year built:2017
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:22
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:Yes ($)
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:Yes ($)
- Aircon:free
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Many people noted that the staff/crew, diving masters and liveaboard director knew what they were doing and they presented themselves as caring and very professional but always willing to engage and have a good time.
-
Divers said the seeing of manta rays, sting rays, nerve sharks, white, black and silver tip sharks was a memorable experience.
-
The chef out did himself serving many varieties of food that was delicious every single time.
Things we don't like:
-
Many divers noted that the water was not clear on some spots.
-
A few people claimed that the hot water was used up early in the morning so you must get up at least at 5 to prepare for the day.
The 35m Thai Aggressor diving liveaboard has everything you could desire to complete you diving vacation. The crew is ready and willing to attend to your needs; providing comfort and opportunities for fun to all levels of divers. The Thai aggressor even offers a full array of PADI courses to catch you up to speed or help you increase your diving knowledge and expertise.
Key facts:
- Year built:2013
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:16
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:No
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:No
- Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
Many people were happy with the ambiance on board the liveaboard as the other divers made it fun and enjoyable.
-
Some people stated that the crew was interactive and they stayed an amazing amount of time ensuring that everything was 100% correct for the passengers.
-
Divers commended the extensive briefings that covered safety concerns and the boats dive schedule was run efficiently.
-
The food was delicious and resembled some of the best restaurants in the world.
-
Many people said they were presented with warm towels after each dive along with a delicious spread of snacks.
Things we don't like:
-
Some people said that the Wi-Fi did not work properly even when they were on shore.
-
A couple of people noted that the liveaboard needed some repairs.
-
Some divers said the equipment needed replacement as it was kind of oldish.
The Cayman Aggressor was built in 2018 and is one of the newest additions to the Aggressor fleet. Cayman Aggressor has a length of 36meters/120ft and a beamwidth of 7meters/25ft. You will be exploring the major three Cayman Islands that include Cayman Brac, Grand Cayman and the crystal clear waters of Little Cayman. These sites will offer various wreck sites, wall dives, caves, swim troughs and rich diverse coral reef systems. In ideal conditions, you will be able to enjoy 27 dives all along the Cayman region.
Key facts:
- Year built:2018
- Rental equip:Yes ($)
- Max divers:20
- Camera station:Yes
- Internet:No
- Min logged dives:No minimum
- Nitrox:No
- Aircon:Yes
Our Overall Review
Things we like:
-
A couple of said they made lifelong friends while on the Cayman Aggressor V
-
Diverse said the conditions were always excellent with a lot of turtle and reef fish sightings
-
Some of the divers said they had the best experience at the Bay Wall
-
Many people said they would return to this liveaboard for another great experience
-
A lot of people were delighted by the creations of Chef Brian
Things we don't like:
-
A couple noted that the performance of the liveaboard in windy conditions was mediocre
Related Reviews
Calling all pelagic lovers, pay attention because here’s the trip for you. The Revillagigedo Islands, commonly called Socorro, are three barren volcanic outcrops — Socorro, San Benedicto, and Roca Partida. Because these seamounts are so far offshore, they’re a beacon to large pelagic species, including giant manta rays who are quite happy to cruise along right beside divers.
It’s not only the mantas that are friendly either; bottlenose dolphins also seem content to swim with divers, and the whale sharks aren’t reticent. This trip is definitely one for the bucket list. Mexico has quite a few actually. But, it’s not higher on our list for one reason only: the strong currents and unpredictable waters mean Socorro is best reserved for experienced divers chasing some serious wet and wild action.
Need to Knows
- Itineraries: 8-night trips available
- Home port: Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
- Passengers: 26
- Number of cabins:13
- Boat length: 135 feet
- Must-dive site: The Boiler, San Benedicto
- Night dives are not allowed on this trip
- Bring a warm (5 or 7 mm) wetsuit as the waters here are temperate
- Humpback whales can be spotted between November and June
That completes our list of the best 10 Aggressor liveaboard trips. Click on the Aggressor yacht that interested you most and read the in-depth review that will outline more of what you can expect.
We’re working on getting someone onboard the Arabian Aggressor and will review it as soon as possible.
We hope you’re inspired for your next adventure! For further information on these trips and more, head to the Aggressor website here.
Comments