SNUBA Cozumel: Underwater Adventure at Chankanaab National Park
Breathe underwater without bulky tanks on SNUBA at Chankanaab National Park. This two-hour guided experience puts you in shallow reef zones—perfect for families and non-certified divers—while emphasizing safety, accessibility, and reef stewardship.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive with Cash for Park Entry
The discounted Chankanaab entrance fee ($19 USD) must be paid in cash at the park entrance and is not included in the SNUBA price.
Be 20 Minutes Early
Check in at the SNUBA kiosk at least 20 minutes before your scheduled time to complete waivers and gearing up.
Use Biodegradable Sunscreen
Only reef-safe sunscreen keeps oils and chemicals from damaging corals—apply before arrival and wear a rash guard if possible.
Wear Water Shoes
Rocks and algae around the shore can be slippery; water shoes protect feet while getting on and off the dock.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Botanical garden paths inside Chankanaab with small cenote swim areas
- •A short shore snorkel near the park’s eastern edge where nurse sharks are occasionally seen at dusk
Wildlife
- •Parrotfish
- •Spotted eagle ray
Conservation Note
Park fees and guided programs fund reef patrols and restoration; visitors are asked to avoid touching coral and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce bleaching risk.
Cozumel was an important island for Maya pilgrimage and later developed as a managed park to balance tourism with reef protection.
Photographer's Notes
- • Along the SNUBA descent line where fish gather
- • Shallow coral terraces that hold colorful macro life
- • The dock for silhouette shots of masks and hoses against the horizon
What to Bring
Biodegradable sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while reducing harm to coral and complies with park rules.
Underwater camera or GoPro
Captures colorful reef life and keepsakes from the shallow dive.
Water shoesEssential
Helpful for rocky shore entries and walking around the park.
Light rash guard or swim shirt
Provides sun protection between brief surface intervals and conserves warmth in early-morning slots.
Common Questions
Do I need any diving certification for SNUBA?
No certification is required; SNUBA uses a surface-supplied air system and is guided by a professional for participants ages 8 and up.
Is the park entrance fee included?
No—the discounted Chankanaab entrance fee ($19 USD cash) is paid at the park entrance and is not included in the SNUBA booking price.
What medical restrictions apply?
Not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with significant heart or spinal conditions; consult your doctor if unsure.
How deep does SNUBA go?
Typical SNUBA depths at Chankanaab are shallow, usually between 10 and 20 feet—deep enough for good reef viewing but within recreational shallow-water limits.
Can cruise ship guests join easily?
Yes, but confirm local time versus ship time, arrive early, and allow extra time for transport from the port; SNUBA advises meeting 20 minutes before your slot.
Will I be cold underwater?
Water temperatures are warm year-round, but some guests prefer a thin wetsuit or rash guard in early-season mornings for comfort.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
San Miguel de Cozumel, Quintana Roo
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; must be able to enter water and tread/float with guidance for short intervals
Ready to Explore San Miguel de Cozumel?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now