Dive
or snorkel
Cozumel is respected as one of the best diving sites in the world. Sadly
enough everyone knows this and it is now said that you see more divers
than fish on a visit to the wall at Palancar Reef. Though partly true,
the diving is exceptional and due to the recent protection of the reef
as a national park, fish are abundant. Huge Groupers and Jew Fish swim
right up to inspect their human visitors with little fear of a spear through
the head.
The coral formations are awe inspiring, and the water is crystal clear
with visibility up to 150 feet. This visibility is due to the ever present
swift current that moves you along on a sightseeing adventure.
If you want to dive with a dive shop, make sure they have good boats and
certified divemasters. Try Del Mar Aquatics, a $2.50 cab ride from the
pier. You had better be an experienced diver, though, as people in these
large dive groups are left pretty much on their own.
One safe and exciting way to dive, is to take a private dive trip with a Cozumel dive shop. That way you and your group can enjoy yourselves without the hassle of diving with other people. You can see more, and see what you want. Many also offer private scuba instruction for all levels... beginner through dive master.
If diving is not your bag, take one of the snorkel catamarans. The reef
in Cozumel is so shallow in places that you can see as much snorkeling
as you would diving. For about $30 they will take you to 2 different reefs
and even sail you to a secluded resort for a decent buffet on the beach.
Missing the underwater wonders of Cozumel would be a great shame if you've
gotten yourself that far. For just $18 you can go on one of the smaller
glass bottom snorkel boats that leave right from the pier. No lunch, but
the snorkeling is good
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