Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Chankanaab Cozumel Scuba Diving — 1-Tank Intro Dive & Underwater Sculptures

Chankanaab Cozumel Scuba Diving — 1-Tank Intro Dive & Underwater Sculptures

Descend into Chankanaab Park’s clear Caribbean waters for a guided one‑tank introductory scuba dive. Explore shallow coral gardens, an ancient cave, and the park’s famous underwater sculptures with a certified instructor and park admission included.

Cozumel, Quintana Roo
2 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Arrive early for check-in

Meet at Chankanaab Park 15 minutes before your tour at the main palapa to complete registration and gear fitting without stress.

Mask fit matters

Bring a well-fitting mask if you have one—rental masks vary; a good seal makes entry-level dives far more comfortable.

Protect the reef

No touching, no taking—keep fins clear of coral and use a buddy’s handhold or the guide line to stabilize for photos.

Hydrate and avoid heavy meals

Drink water before the dive and skip heavy alcohol; the park includes a post-dive drink to enjoy after surfacing.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Botanical trail and small Mayan exhibit inside the park for shoreline exploration after diving
  • The park’s tequila tasting hut — a quick cultural stop paired well with a post‑dive snack

Wildlife

  • Green sea turtle
  • Southern stingray

Conservation Note

Chankanaab operates under marine-protection rules—follow no-touch and no-take policies; reef-safe sunscreen and proper buoyancy reduce long-term impact.

Chankanaab takes its name from the Mayan language meaning 'small sea' and has long been a gathering place linking coastal communities to the reef.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning (calmer seas), Golden hour at sunset onshore, After surfacing for park shoreline shots
Key viewpoints:
  • Underwater sculpture garden near the shallow site
  • Entry pier looking back at the palapa and shoreline
  • Shallow coral heads along the guided route
Subjects to capture:Underwater sculptures and coral formations, Turtles and schooling fish, Diver profiles with sunbeams through the surface

What to Bring

Personal dive mask

A well-fitted mask improves comfort and prevents fogging during your first dives.

Light wetsuit (3mm)Essential

Keeps you warm for longer bottom time when water cools in winter months.

Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects your skin while minimizing harm to coral and marine life.

Dive boots or reef shoes

Useful for walking rocky piers and protecting feet on the park’s shoreline.

Common Questions

Do I need to be certified to do this dive?

No—this is an introductory one‑tank dive for certified and non‑certified divers; instructors provide training and supervision for first‑timers.

How deep is the dive and how long will I be underwater?

Intro dives are typically limited to about 12 meters (40 ft), with bottom times around 25–35 minutes depending on air consumption.

Is the park accessible for non-divers or people with limited mobility?

Yes—Chankanaab Park has accessible areas and facilities; however, getting in and out of water for diving requires basic mobility; full assistance may be limited underwater.

What’s included in the price?

Price includes Chankanaab Park admission, a certified dive instructor, one air tank, a free drink after diving and one free locker per booking.

What is the age minimum for diving?

Age policies vary by operator; many introductory dives allow teens around 10–12 with parental consent—confirm during booking.

What should I bring besides swimwear?

Bring a towel, ID, reef‑safe sunscreen, any required medications, and your certification card if you’re certified.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

2 hours

Location

Cozumel, Quintana Roo

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Comfortable with basic swimming; able to move in water and follow instructor cues for equalization and safety stops.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Cozumel?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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