Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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Sea Trek at Chankanaab: Walk Underwater in Cozumel's Marine Park

Sea Trek at Chankanaab: Walk Underwater in Cozumel's Marine Park

Step into a transparent helmet and walk the sandy floor of Chankanaab National Park while colorful reef fish thread through the water around you. Sea Trek makes underwater exploration accessible to non-swimmers and families, pairing a brief safety briefing with a unique, guided ocean stroll.

Cozumel, Quintana Roo
1–1.5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Arrive 20 minutes early

You must check in 20 minutes before your start time to complete paperwork and safety briefings—late arrivals may lose their slot.

Bring cash for park entrance

Chankanaab offers a discounted entrance price that must be paid in cash at the gate—have small bills ready.

Wear water shoes

A sandy bottom can hide coral bits; water shoes protect feet when stepping on the shoreline ladder and while snorkeling afterward.

Avoid scheduling tight connections

Groups are small and operations can slow during high season; don’t book time-sensitive activities immediately after Sea Trek.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Short snorkel route to the nearby coral garden—easy to reach after Sea Trek
  • A small on-site botanical area showcasing native medicinal plants and local craft stalls

Wildlife

  • parrotfish
  • sergeant major (tropical damselfish)

Conservation Note

Park entry fees fund reef conservation and maintenance; visitors are asked to use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral to minimize impact.

Chankanaab was protected in response to reef degradation and overfishing; the park has long been a site for conservation education and sustainable tourism on Cozumel.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Morning (calmer water), Late afternoon (softer light on the shore), After your Sea Trek while snorkeling
Key viewpoints:
  • The seaside ladder descent for helmet-portrait shots
  • Along the shallow sand lane where fish gather
  • Park lookout near the entrance for coastal context photos
Subjects to capture:reef close-ups, helmeted diver portraits, guide–guest interactions

What to Bring

Water shoesEssential

Protects feet on the ladder and against rough sand or stray coral fragments.

Biodegradable sunscreenEssential

Protects your skin without harming the reef—apply before arriving.

Underwater camera or housing

Captures helmet-diver portraits and close-ups of reef life; choose a model rated for shallow saltwater.

Light towel and change of clothesEssential

Useful after the dive for drying off and staying comfortable for the rest of your day.

Common Questions

Do I need to know how to swim?

No—Sea Trek helmets keep your head dry and you walk on the sand; basic mobility and the ability to stand are required.

What is the minimum age and weight?

Participants must be at least 8 years old and meet the minimum weight requirement (around 80 pounds/36 kg).

How long is the experience?

The full visit is about 80 minutes including briefing, helmet time and a chance to snorkel afterward.

Can I bring a camera?

Yes—small waterproof cameras or housings are recommended; phones should use an approved waterproof case to avoid fogging.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?

Chankanaab Park has wheelchair-accessible facilities and transportation options, but helmet-dive access requires descending a seaside ladder, so check accessibility needs with the operator ahead of time.

What if I have a health condition?

Sea Trek is not recommended for people with serious spinal, cardiovascular issues, or pregnancy—consult your doctor and inform staff of any medical concerns.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

1–1.5 hours

Location

Cozumel, Quintana Roo

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for most people who can stand and walk short distances; no swimming required

Free cancellation available

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