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1 .Where is Cocos Island? Cocos Island is located 600 km
(approximately 375 miles) off the western coast of Costa Rica, in
the eastern Pacific Ocean.
2. What is included in the scuba charter? Accommodations
aboard the vessel, diving, compressed air tanks, weights and weight
belts, transportation from the San Jose office to Puntarenas on day
of arrival and departure, meals and snacks, non-alcoholic and local
alcoholic beverages are include in the charter rate.
3. How many days is the charter and how many dives can I
make? The Okeanos Aggressor offers 9-day, Saturday to Monday,
charters with 6 days of diving and 10-day, Tuesday to Friday,
charters with 7 days of diving. Most guests make up to three dives a
day.
4. When should I arrive in Costa Rica? You should arrive
in Costa Rica the day before your charter begins and plan on
spending the night in San Jose.
5. Are there any taxes or fees not included in the charter
price? A $25US per person/PER DAY (CASH ONLY, no traveler's
checks) Park Fee will be collected during your charter. The Costa
Rican government implemented this charge to maintain Cocos Island
and preserve its natural habitat. There is also a $10US per
person/PER DAY Dive Tax. This fee covers one diver for the entire
charter. A departure tax of $17 US per person will be collected upon
your departure from San Jose. These fees are levied by the Costa
Rican government and are subject to change, so please check with
your travel agent before your trip.
6. Do I need a passport? U.S. citizens are required to
have a passport. Non-U.S. citizens should check with the appropriate
consulate.
7. How do I meet the Okeanos Aggressor on the day of
departure? We recommend staying at the Amon Park Plaza Hotel
near the Okeanos Aggressor office. Otherwise, you need to arrange to
be at the Okeanos Aggressor office by 12:00 noon on the day of
departure. From there, guests will be transported to the port town
of Puntarenas (about two hours by bus) to board the boat.
8. Where does the Okeanos Aggressor dock? The Okeanos
Aggressor docks at the Muelle Coopeinpesa in Puntarenas.
9. What is unique to Cocos Island diving? Lots of large
pelagic animals, particularly the schools of scalloped hammerhead
sharks. White tip reef sharks are also abundant, as are schools of
tuna, jack and snapper. Whales sharks and dolphins are frequently
sighted.
10. What is the diving like around Cocos Island? Diving
around Cocos Island is more difficult due to its ruggedness and
currents. Diving from the dinghies has advantages, but can be
physically challenging for some.
11. What is the water temperature? Will I need a wet suit?
During the winter, water temperature ranges between 73 and 78F,
while in the summer it warms up to 78 - 80F. A wet suit is highly
recommended. A 1/8 inch suit with hood and booties is generally
sufficient for most divers.
12. Is there dinghy diving? Yes, almost all dives are made
from a dinghy.
13. Is there night diving? Night dives are scheduled at
the discretion of the dive master since sharks are so plentiful in
the area.
14. Are there any land tours? Weather permitting, guests
will be taken to the island for a hiking tour.
15. What type of topography can I expect to see in Cocos
Island? The island is volcanic in origin, and is therefore
mountainous. Dense jungle covers the land. Numerous waterfalls,
rivers and ponds are created by the regular rains.
16. What is the best time of year for diving? May through
October is generally considered prime diving, but conditions are
generally very good all year round.
17. When is the rainy season? The rainy season is from May
through November. Cocos Island supports a true tropical rain forest
and receives an abundance of rain, particularly around the mountain
peaks. Overcast skies and frequent showers are common.
18. When is check out time on the vessel? Check out is
between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m on the morning of departure. The crew will
transport you and your luggage back to San Jose, dropping you at
either the airport or your hotel. | 
