Cancun: Shipwreck and Reef Dives

Thinking about adding a splash of history and adventure to your Cancun trip? This Shipwreck and Reef Dive experience offers just that. It’s a solid choice for anyone with some diving experience looking to explore WWII remnants and the lively marine ecosystem of Cancun’s second reef. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special, along with some of its quirks, to help you decide if it’s right for your travel plans.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines a touch of history—diving into WWII shipwrecks—with vibrant underwater scenery. Plus, the small-group format (1:2 or 1:4 instructor-to-diver ratio) promises a more personalized experience. On the flip side, the fact that these dives are considered “advanced” means it’s probably not ideal for complete beginners. If you’re comfortable with your open water skills, though, this is a pretty rewarding outing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, marine life, and a slightly more challenging underwater adventure.

Key Points

• Historical interest: Explore WWII shipwrecks impacted by Hurricane Katrina, with options for interior exploration.
• Marine encounters: Expect to see barracudas, groupers, moray eels, and in winter, the spectacular sight of Eagle rays.
• Advanced level: The dives reach depths of up to 85 feet, suitable for experienced divers.
• Comprehensive gear & transport: All necessary diving equipment is included, plus door-to-door transport from Cancun hotels.
• Small groups: Personalized guidance with a low instructor-to-diver ratio.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve today without paying upfront.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

This tour is designed for those who already have their open water certification and feel comfortable with more depth and slightly more complex dives. The two dives are scheduled to take you to both the shipwrecks and the vibrant reef, making it a fulfilling underwater day.

The Shipwrecks: C-55 and C-58

The main draw here is the chance to explore wrecks from around World War II. These ships, impacted by a 2005 hurricane, now rest on the seabed as artificial reefs teeming with marine life. The C-55 and C-58 wrecks are accessible for experience divers, and if you’re comfortable penetrating wrecks, you’ll love the opportunity to explore inside through multiple levels.

One of the highlights, according to reviews, is the history behind these wrecks. You get a sense of stepping back in time, even if just for a moment, as you look at the corrosion and remnants of war. And for those who have done offshore wreck explorations before, these aren’t just shallow relics—they reach depths of up to 85 feet, adding a bit of a thrill.

Marine Life and Reef Exploration

Beyond the wrecks, the second reef offers a lively scene. The average depth of 55 feet makes it accessible yet still offers a taste of the underwater world’s vibrancy. Expect to see barracudas, groupers, moray eels, and sometimes lobsters. During the winter, the spectacle of Eagle rays makes the experience even more memorable—these graceful creatures appear in large numbers and add a dramatic touch to the underwater views.

Travelers have mentioned how well-organized the dive process is. The provided top-tier equipment—BCD, regulators, fins, masks—means you’ll be well-prepared, which is especially important given the depth and complexity of these dives.

What’s Included and How it Works

For $132 per person, you get two dives, all necessary equipment, and round-trip transportation from any hotel in Cancun’s hotel zone. If you’re staying in Playa Mujeres or Playa del Carmen, you can also be picked up for a small extra fee, which adds convenience.

The tour lasts about 4 hours, which includes transportation, briefings, and the dives themselves. With small group sizes, the instructor can really give personalized attention, and reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides—a huge plus for those wanting to learn more about the wrecks or marine species.

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The Downside: Considerations

While this tour is fantastic for those with some diving experience, beginners might find it a bit too demanding due to the depth and the possibility of penetrating wrecks. Also, because it’s a longer, more involved experience, it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a quick or very relaxed activity.

And, as always with wreck diving, there’s a bit more risk involved, so comfort with your skills and equipment is important. The winter months are noted for eagle rays, but this is seasonal, so don’t count on seeing them year-round.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

If you’re a diver with some experience seeking a blend of history and marine life, this tour hits the right notes. Enthusiasts who enjoy exploring wrecks and are comfortable with depths will find it especially rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you want a more personalized guide experience with small groups.

However, if you’re a beginner, or if you prefer shallow, relaxed snorkeling or diving, you might want to look elsewhere. The advanced level of this experience means you should be confident in your skills before booking.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Cancun Shipwreck and Reef Dives tour offers a compelling mix of history and vibrant marine ecosystems. It’s well-suited for experienced divers who want to see WWII wrecks and encounter a variety of marine species in a scenic reef setting. The inclusion of high-quality equipment and transportation makes it convenient, while small groups ensure a more intimate, guiding experience.

This tour’s real strength lies in the expert guides and the chance to explore wrecks that aren’t just submerged relics but part of the underwater environment now teeming with life. It’s a memorable addition for your Cancun adventure if you’re after a dive that’s both educational and visually stunning.

If you’re comfortable with the level of challenge, it’s a worthwhile way to spend half a day. Just remember, it’s not suited for absolute beginners or those looking for a leisurely, shallow snorkel. But for those ready to push slightly beyond the basics, this tour delivers a meaningful underwater experience.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, this experience is designed for advanced open water divers because it reaches depths of up to 85 feet and involves wreck penetration, which requires more skill and comfort underwater.

Are all diving equipment included?
Yes, the tour provides complete gear including BCD, regulators, fins, and masks. You won’t need to bring your own unless you prefer to.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is transportation provided?
Absolutely. Round-trip transport from any hotel in Cancun’s hotel zone is included at no extra cost. Pickup from Playa Mujeres or Playa del Carmen is available for a small fee.

How long does the tour last?
The whole experience takes about 4 hours, including transportation, briefing, and the two dives.

What marine animals might I see?
Expect to see barracudas, groupers, and moray eels. In winter, eagle rays are a highlight due to their seasonal appearance.

What is the typical group size?
Guides keep groups small—either 1:2 or 1:4 instructor-to-diver ratios—for a safer and more personalized experience.

Are the wrecks safe to explore?
Yes, but interior penetration is generally for experienced divers. The wrecks are impacted by a hurricane, so they are not pristine but are stable enough for exploration with proper training.

What should I bring with me?
Apart from the gear provided, bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and possibly a camera to capture the underwater scenery.

Where do the dives take place?
The wrecks are located near Cancun’s second reef, at an average depth of 55 feet, with some parts reaching 85 feet deep.

Hopefully, this gives you a good sense of what to expect. If you’re prepared for a slightly more challenging underwater outing with a dash of history and a splash of marine life, this tour could be a highlight of your Cancun trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: