Cenote Diving – 2 Tank Dive Trip for Certified Divers

Diving into the mysterious cenotes of Playa del Carmen offers a unique and unforgettable adventure for certified divers. Priced at $149 per person, this 7-hour tour takes you through some of the most captivating sinkholes in the region, such as Chac Mool or Dos Ojos. With a maximum of 4 divers per guide, the small group size ensures personalized attention and safety. The tour is ideal for divers with Open Water certification who have completed a dive within the last 6-12 months. While the experience is rich in visual wonders and underwater formations, it does involve some physical activity and a moderate level of fitness, making it best suited for those comfortable with a 50-foot depth limit.

A hallmark of this tour is the stunning clarity and vastness of visibility inside the cenotes. Visitors will see stalactites, stalagmites, and rays of light filtering through cracks in the cavern ceiling, creating scenes that resemble another world. The entire experience is led by a Full Cave Diver and Open Water Scuba Instructor, whose expert guidance helps make each dive both safe and engaging. The inclusion of dive lights, tanks, weights, and transportation makes this a well-rounded choice for those eager for a memorable cenote exploration.

Key Points

• Small Group Experience: Only up to 4 divers per guide for personalized attention.
• Two Dives at One Cenote: Each around 45 minutes, with a 45-minute surface interval.
• Expert Guides: Led by a Full Cave Diver and Open Water Instructor.
• All Equipment Included: Tanks, weights, and dive lights are provided.
• Transportation Included: Roundtrip ride from the Calle 4 Norte meeting point.
• Additional Costs: Entrance fees for cenotes (Chac Mool 300 MXN, Dos Ojos 600 MXN) are paid in cash; rental gear costs $25 USD.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Calle 4 Norte, Playa del Carmen at 8:00 am. After completing paperwork and fitting with your dive gear at the dive center, you board a 45-minute truck ride to the cenote of the day. The small group setting makes logistics smooth, and the guide handles all arrangements for the cenote entry.

You return to the dive center around 3:30 pm, making for a well-paced day filled with underwater marvels. The tour’s schedule balances active diving with enough downtime for refreshments and snacks, which are included during the surface interval.

The Cenote Stops: Chac Mool and Dos Ojos

The two main cenotes used for this trip are Chac Mool and Dos Ojos, both renowned for their clarity and impressive formations. Chac Mool features a deep, open cavern with impressive stalactites and stalagmites, while Dos Ojos is famous for its extensive tunnel system, offering a sense of exploration within a controlled environment. The choice of cenote depends on the day, but both promise stunning underwater vistas.

Dive Environment and Safety

Each dive takes place inside cavern setups with permanent lines established for safety and navigation. The max depth of 50 feet keeps the dives accessible for certified divers and ensures an optimal experience of the cavern’s features. The guide provides a comprehensive briefing on procedures and safety measures, emphasizing the importance of following established lines and respecting the environment.

The guide’s expertise as a Full Cave Diver and instructor ensures that safety remains a priority throughout the experience. It’s essential for participants to be certified and have recent diving experience, as the tours do not accommodate uncertified or out-of-practice divers.

Equipment, Cameras, and Additional Costs

All dive gear, including tanks, weights, and dive lights, are included. However, camera use varies by cenote, with some restricting or charging extra fees for photography—costs range from $20 to $60 USD. Divers should be prepared for possible restrictions and confirm camera policies in advance if capturing the scenery is a priority.

Physical Requirements and Suitability

Participants must be Open Water certified and have completed a dive within the last 6-12 months to join. The tour involves walking, gear handling, and swimming at a maximum depth of 50 feet, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness. The experience is suitable for divers comfortable with cavern environments and underwater navigation.

Reviews and Customer Satisfaction

All six reviews rate this tour a perfect 5 out of 5, highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views of the cenotes. At the time of review, the tour’s popularity is high, with bookings typically made 15 days in advance. The overall consensus emphasizes the visual spectacle and the professionalism of the staff.

Cancellation Policy and Flexibility

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled within this window, a full refund is provided. Weather-related cancellations are also handled flexibly, with options to reschedule or receive a full refund. This policy offers reassurance for those concerned about unpredictable weather in the region.

Cost Breakdown and Extras

The $149 price covers two dives, all necessary equipment, transportation, and refreshments. Additional costs include the cenote entrance fee (cash only), which varies between 300 MXN and 600 MXN, and optional camera rentals if photography is desired. Budgeting for these extras ensures a smooth experience without surprises.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This cenote diving experience suits certified divers seeking an environment different from open water. The clear, caverns filled with stalactites and stalagmites provide a scenic underwater journey perfect for those looking to see a mystical, otherworldly landscape. Because of the small group size and guided support, it’s ideal for divers who appreciate personalized attention and safety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an advanced diver to join?
No, a minimum of Open Water certification and recent diving experience are required, making it accessible for most certified divers.

Are the dives suitable for beginners?
Yes, as long as the diver is comfortable with a maximum depth of 50 feet and has recent experience in cavern environments.

What is included in the price?
The $149 fee includes two dives, tank and weight rental, dive light, roundtrip transportation, water, soft drinks, and a snack and sandwich.

How long are the dives?
Each dive lasts approximately 45 minutes, with a 45-minute surface interval for rest and refreshments.

Can I bring my camera?
Camera policies depend on the cenote; some do not allow cameras or charge extra. Confirm in advance if photography is important.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Calle 4 Norte in Playa del Carmen at 8:00 am and concludes back at the same point around 3:30 pm.

What are the main cenotes visited?
Chac Mool and Dos Ojos are the primary stops, both offering spectacular underwater scenery and formations.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to weather conditions, with options for full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.

How far in advance should I book?
Bookings are typically made about 15 days in advance; early reservation is recommended to secure a spot.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, roundtrip transportation from the Calle 4 Norte meeting point is included.

This cenote diving tour stands out through its small group size, expert guidance, and the breathtaking scenery of Playa del Carmen’s cenotes. It offers a well-organized experience for certified divers eager to explore the underwater tunnels and formations that make this region famous. While the costs for cenote entrance fees and optional camera rentals are extra, the inclusive price for the core experience remains competitive and provides good value for such a distinctive dive.