Puerto Morelos: Shipwreck and Reef Diving Tour

If you’re thinking about adding a little underwater adventure to your trip in Mexico, a shipwreck and reef dive in Puerto Morelos might just be the experience you’re after. From what we gather, it’s a solid option for certified divers looking to explore some local marine history and vibrant life without spending all day in the water.

What really catches our eye is the chance to visit the C-56 Juan Escutia, the only shipwreck in Puerto Morelos, and then relax with a second shallow water dive among lively coral formations. We appreciate that the tour includes all the safety gear, guidance from experienced instructors, and a manageable four-hour window—making it accessible for those with a busy schedule or new to diving.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is geared toward certified divers, so if you’re not certified or have any respiratory issues, it might not be the best fit. Also, the price of $158 per person is quite reasonable considering you get two dives and expert guidance, but it’s always worth weighing whether that fits your budget and diving ambitions.

This experience seems perfect for seasoned divers wanting a quick, immersive look at Puerto Morelos’ underwater treasures. If you’re comfortable with your certification and eager to see a shipwreck along with vibrant reefs, this could be a memorable addition to your trip.

Key Points

• Certified Diver Experience: Not for non-divers; you need previous certification.
• Two Dives Included: One shipwreck exploration and a second shallow reef dive.
• All Equipment Provided: Wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tank, mask—ready to go.
• Guided Tours: Expert guides ensure safety and enrich your underwater experience.
• Time-Efficient: Just four hours, ideal for those on a tight schedule.
• Includes Safety and Marine Info: Briefings cover dive plan, safety, and marine life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What’s the Overall Experience Like?

We’ve seen plenty of reviews and descriptions that paint this tour as a straightforward, no-nonsense way to explore Puerto Morelos underwater. The meeting point at Dive Center Scuba Kraken is easy to find with its distinctive umbrella roof, and the process begins with paperwork and gear fitting. The transparency about equipment and safety procedures is reassuring, especially for those new to the area or nervous about underwater adventures.

Once onboard the boat, you’re looking at roughly a 15-20 minute ride out to the wreck, giving you a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and get a bit excited for what’s ahead. The boat rides are brief but scenic, and according to reviews, the captain and crew are friendly and professional, making everyone feel comfortable.

The Shipwreck: C-56 Juan Escutia

The highlight of this tour is the C-56 Juan Escutia, the only shipwreck accessible in Puerto Morelos. As the diver guide leads you around, you get detailed information about the ship’s history and purpose, which adds a layer of richness to the experience.

Exploring the wreck, you’ll see areas like the wheelhouse and other accessible sections—great for those interested in maritime relics. Reviewers mention that the wreck isn’t overly large but offers enough to keep you engaged, and the visibility around the wreck tends to be good, allowing clear views of the structural details and marine life hanging out nearby.

Marine Life and Reef

After the wreck exploration, you’ll surface for a break and then head back in for your second dive at a shallow water reef. This is where the underwater spectacle really comes alive, with marine creatures, corals, and schools of colorful fish. Many reviews talk about how lively and teeming the reef is, with some saying it feels like swimming in an aquarium.

The second dive, with a maximum of 45 minutes, is perfect for observing and taking photos—though the tour does not include pictures, so you’ll want to bring your waterproof camera. It’s a calmer, more relaxed environment compared to the wreck, making it an excellent way to wind down the underwater adventure.

What to Expect: The Details

More Great Tours Nearby

Meeting and Preparation

Your day kicks off at the dive shop where you’ll fill out paperwork and try on gear. The fit and condition of the equipment are critical for a comfortable experience, and reviews suggest the gear provided is in good shape. The staff are knowledgeable, explaining what you’ll do before you’re out on the water, with safety as a priority.

The Boat Ride

The boat ride is short but scenic—an opportunity to enjoy the sea and get a little pre-dive adrenaline. Depending on the day, the crew might chat about the marine environment or give a quick safety reminder.

The First Dive: The Wreck

Once you reach the C-56 Juan Escutia, your guide will lead the dive, ensuring everyone stays safe while exploring the wreck. It’s often described as an intriguing site with different spots to see—some mention the wheelhouse as a highlight. Visibility tends to be good, making it easier to appreciate the structure and the marine life that has made it home over the years.

The Second Dive: Reef Exploration

After surfacing and taking a break, the second, shallower dive allows you to float over vibrant coral and observe fish and other creatures. Many find this dive relaxing and colorful, a perfect contrast to the shipwreck exploration.

Post-Dive Time

Back at the shop, you get a chance to discuss your dives, compare notes, and even log your experience in your dive log. The tour wraps up within four hours, making it a satisfying half-day activity.

Pricing and Value

At $158 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering it includes two guided dives and all equipment. It’s especially appealing for those who want to maximize their underwater experience without committing to multiple days of diving. The guided aspect ensures safety and educational value, which many reviewers appreciate.

While the tour doesn’t include photos, bringing your waterproof camera is easy and often recommended. If you’re after professional pictures, you might need to look elsewhere, but for many, capturing their own shots adds a personal touch.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is best suited for certified divers already comfortable underwater. If you’re new to diving, or not certified, you’ll need to seek other options, such as snorkeling tours.

Given the focus on safety and guided exploration, it’s ideal for travelers who value structured, informative dives over freeform exploration. It’s also suitable for those who want a quick but memorable underwater outing—perfect if you’re pressed for time or exploring Puerto Morelos as part of a broader itinerary.

It’s not designed for non-swimmers or those with respiratory issues, and children under the required certification are not typically part of this tour. The experience is more of an adult or experienced diver activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a straightforward, well-organized way to see Puerto Morelos’ underwater highlights, this tour hits most marks. You’ll get the chance to explore a historic shipwreck and enjoy a vibrant reef, all guided by experienced professionals. The price is reasonable, especially considering the two dives and equipment included, making it a good deal for certified divers eager to add some marine adventure to their trip.

What we really like is the combination of history and marine life—it offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes Puerto Morelos special beneath the surface. The safety briefing and guide assistance build confidence, especially if you’re not a seasoned diver, and the short duration fits nicely into a busy travel schedule.

On the downside, the tour isn’t for non-certifiers or non-swimmers, and if you’re hoping for professional photos or a very large wreck, you might find the experience a bit limited. But overall, it’s a reliable, enjoyable outing that can leave you with fantastic memories and some great underwater snapshots.

Who Should Consider It?

This tour is perfect for certified divers wanting to experience a unique wreck site and lively reef without a full day commitment. It’s a good choice for travelers who appreciate guided safety, good equipment, and a manageable schedule. If marine exploration is on your must-do list and you’re comfortable diving, this tour could be just the thing to tick off a memorable adventure in Puerto Morelos.

FAQs

Do I need to be a certified diver to join this tour?
Yes, the tour requires previous diving certification and experience. It isn’t suitable for non-certified or non-swimmers.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear—wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tank, and mask—are provided, ensuring you’re ready to go without bringing your own.

How long is each dive?
The first dive at the wreck usually lasts around 30 minutes, and the second reef dive can go up to 45 minutes, depending on your air consumption and safety limits.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s designed for certified divers with previous experience. Beginners should look for snorkel or introductory diving options.

What should I bring?
Bring your dive log, waterproof camera, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and any personal items you need for after the dive.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, people with claustrophobia, respiratory issues, or without certification should not participate. Touching marine life and use of sunscreen are discouraged to protect the environment.

Can I take photos during the dives?
While photos aren’t included in the tour, you’re welcome to bring your waterproof camera to capture the underwater sights.

If you’re a certified diver eager to explore a shipwreck and vibrant reef in Puerto Morelos, this guided tour offers a nice balance of history, marine life, and safety within a concise four hours. It’s a dependable choice for those looking to add a splash of underwater discovery to their Mexico vacation.

You can check availability for your dates here: