Scuba Diving : FAQ

 

Why dive in Cozumel?

Effortless drift diving on world-class reefs, some of the most spectacular just offshore, is the main reason to dive in Cozumel. A warm two to three knot current makes drift diving addictive. Bargain prices, easy access from the U.S., and a blend of topside activities that includes great restaurants, noisy honky-tonks and authentic Sunday night fiestas in the town square are a few more reasons to dive in Cozumel.

 

 

What type of dive sites will I see in Cozumel?

Cozumel's coral reef formations are part of the Great Mayan Barrier, which stretches from the eastern coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula to the Gulf of Honduras. The Great Mayan Barrier is second in size only to Australia's Great Barrier Reef - and obviously much more accessible to American scuba diving enthusiasts.

 

There are three distinct categories of dive sites in Cozumel. Vertical walls range from 70 to over 130 feet and offer the diver the opportunity to see plate corals, sponges, deepwater gorgonians, and a variety of reef and pelagic fish species (Maracaibo Deep and Santa Rosa Wall).

 

Coral pinnacles offer great dives for every skill level. They range in depth from 30 to over 130 feet. These sites are formed by a picket line to towering coral plateaus that fuse together in a maze of tunnels, archways, canyons and swim-throughs (Palancar Horseshoe, Columbia Pinnacles and Punta Sur).

 

Coral gardens near the shore range from 20 to 50 feet and are great second dives. These gardens are loaded with tropical fish and they are the only place in the world where you will find the toadfish - a species only found in Cozumel (Cedar Pass and Santa Rosa Shallows).

 

Are dive locations rated regarding the diver's skill?

The following sites have been suggested for a diver’s skill level:

• Novice: Dalila.
• Novice to intermediate: Cedar Pass
• Intermediate: Santa Rosa Wall, Cedar Pass, Tormentos Reef
• Intermediate to advanced: Punta Sur, Maracaibo Shallows, Santa Rosa Shallows
• Advanced to expert: Barracuda Reef, Maracaibo Deep
  

What is the underwater visibility?

On an average day, you can count on 100 feet visibility. On an excellent day, you might see up to 300 feet.

 

What is the temperature of the water?

The temperature averages 75 degrees in the winter and 85 degrees in the summer. A light dive skin is often all you need to stay warm.

 

Are there safety rules associated with drift diving?

In drift diving you have to follow the dive guide and stay with your group. Your guide will maintain control by setting maximum depth and time limits. The dive boat follows the group's bubble trail and the guide's surface marker,so you must stay within visual range of your divemaster. The excellent visibility allows you to stay in visual contact without crowding.

 

How do I choose a dive operator?

Operators of diving charters come in all sizes. They can range from the modern to the department store variety, with fleets of boats to the corner operator who runs a single launch when possible. Looks can be deceiving and the quality of service can vary greatly. Use the following points to help select a dive operator.

• First, verify the certification and experience level of the dive operation - are they PADI, NAUI, SSI or Nitrox, certified?
• Verify the certification and experience of the divemaster leading your trip. Your safety may depend upon the guidance and decisions made by the divemaster.
• Consider the number of divers in your group and how many divers you want to have around when you travel on the boat and dive in the water. Determine the type of safety equipment on the boat.
• The operator should give you personal attention. The divemaster and boat crews usually reflect the attitude of the owner or manager of the dive operation. Determine how they treat divers and their reputation.
• Once you have answered the above questions to your satisfaction, consider the price.

 

What is SNUBA?

SNUBA is a shallow water diving system designed to introduce people, with no dive experience, to the excitement of scuba diving. With SNUBA, you breathe air under water, however there are no tanks or other complicated diving equipment. You can think of it as being similar to snorkeling, except that you have a 25 foot snorkel that doesn't let you inhale any water.

 

What is the Marine Park Fee?

Effective January 1, 2002, a Mexican law became effective that now requires a usage fee per day for anyone taking part in water activities inside the National Marine Park (where a number of dive sites are located). Check with your dive operator to determine whether or not the Marine Park. Fee is part of the dive fee or must be paid separately.

 

Can I become certified while I am in Cozumel?

Absolutely - check with the dive operator of your choice to determine the type of courses offered and the certifications that can be earned.

 

Are there recompression chambers in Cozumel?

There are three different chambers staffed with certified and trained personnel.

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