First-Time Scuba at Chankanaab Park: Beginner Dives, Coral Gardens & Underwater Caves
Spend two hours learning to scuba dive in Chankanaab Park with a PADI/SSI instructor, exploring coral gardens, statues, and shallow caves to a maximum depth of 8 meters. Ideal for first-time divers aged 10 and up, the experience pairs a 20-minute classroom with an hour-long guided dive and included park entry.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before arrival and reapply after your dive to protect coral and avoid irritating skin when snorkeling afterward.
Hydrate and eat light
Drink water before the dive and avoid heavy meals—small snacks help maintain energy without causing discomfort underwater.
Practice equalizing
If you’re prone to ear pressure, practice Valsalva equalization during the briefing to make the descent to 8 m comfortable.
Arrive early to redeem tickets
Meet at local #6 inside Chankanaab Park and bring your mobile voucher; allow extra time for park entry lines during cruise ship arrivals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Explore the park’s botanical gardens above the diving area for a peaceful contrast after the dive
- •Check shallow snorkeling near the statues for close-up shots of schools of juvenile fish
Wildlife
- •Parrotfish
- •Spotted eagle ray
Conservation Note
The park operates within protected-area guidelines to limit diver impact and encourage reef restoration; use reef-safe products and avoid touching coral to help preserve the habitat.
Chankanaab began as a public marine and botanical park intended to showcase coastal ecology and provide controlled access to the island’s reefs, supporting both education and tourism.
Photographer's Notes
- • Shallow reef gardens near the park entry
- • By the underwater statues (from a safe distance)
- • From a palapa looking back across the bay at sunset
What to Bring
Swimsuit and quick-dry layersEssential
Comfortable clothing for getting wet and changing before/after the dive.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the reef; required in many marine parks.
Water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated before and after diving helps prevent fatigue and decompression issues.
Light reef booties or water shoes
Useful for walking rocky areas and entering beach-based dive sites.
Common Questions
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 10 years old to join this introductory scuba program.
How deep will we dive?
Dives are guided to a maximum depth of 8 meters (about 26 feet), starting in shallow water where you can stand.
Do I need prior diving certification?
No—this is a beginner experience with a 20-minute basic class and supervised dive led by PADI/SSI certified instructors.
Is equipment included?
Yes—use of SCUBA and snorkeling equipment, lockers, and the park entrance ticket are included in the booking.
Are there medical restrictions?
The activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious cardiovascular conditions; disclose medical issues at booking.
How do I redeem my ticket?
Present your mobile or printed reservation at the park’s redemption desk (local #6) upon arrival to receive entry and gear instructions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Suitable for people in reasonable health with basic swimming comfort; not strenuous but requires mobility to enter and exit the water.
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