Cancun: 2 Reef Dives at Punta Cancun for Certified Divers

Cancun: 2 Reef Dives at Punta Cancun for Certified Divers — A Detailed Review

Diving in Cancun becomes truly special with the Two Reef Dives at Punta Cancun tour, designed specifically for certified divers. Priced at $158 per person and lasting around 4 hours, this excursion takes you to some of the most stunning underwater sites on the outer edges of the bay. The tour departs from Real Inn Cancún and features full SCUBA gear, making it a convenient option for those ready for their next underwater adventure.

The tour focuses on drift diving along the Yucatan Current, offering extended bottom times at depths of approximately 55 feet (16 meters). It’s an ideal choice for divers who want to explore vibrant coral swim-throughs, encounter marine creatures like eels, rays, and nurse sharks, and enjoy the clarity of protected waters within the Cancun National Marine Park. While the tour suits certified divers with at least Open Water Diver Certification, it also emphasizes safety, offering a bad weather refund warranty and full equipment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Two guided reef dives in Punta Cancun included in the experience
• Full SCUBA equipment provided, including wetsuits, tanks, and weights
• Dives take place within the protected marine park, home to over 30 unique dive sites
• Diving depth of around 55 feet, with extended bottom times for exploration
• Small group experience limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention
• Suitable for certified divers with recent diving activity, offering a convenient 4-hour trip

Starting Point at Real Inn Cancún

The tour begins at Real Inn Cancún, where guests meet the guides before embarking on the adventure. This location offers easy access and a comfortable starting point. From there, a speedboat ride lasting approximately 25 minutes takes divers to the outer reefs of Punta Cancun, known for their vibrant marine environments and drift diving conditions. The boat is designed for small to medium-sized groups, ensuring a relaxed atmosphere and ample space for gear.

Punta Cancun’s Reefs: The Perfect Drift Diving Setup

Once on site, the dive sites along Punta Cancun offer an exceptional drift diving experience. These sites are located on the outer edges of the bay along the Yucatan Current, creating ideal conditions for effortless floating past coral formations and marine life. The depths around 55 feet allow for extended bottom times, so divers can thoroughly explore coral swim-throughs and observe a variety of reef fish.

The environment within the Federal Protected Area and the Cancun Marine Park means the reefs are well-preserved, with over 30 unique dive spots in the vicinity. This setting provides a safe, vibrant habitat for marine creatures like eels, rays, and nurse sharks, which are common sights during these dives. During winter months, the possibility of witnessing the annual migration of eagle rays adds a special touch to the experience.

What the Full SCUBA Gear Includes

The tour’s price covers all necessary SCUBA equipment, ensuring participants have everything they need. This includes BCD, regulator, mask, fins, wetsuit, tanks, and weights. The wetsuit is a 3mm thickness, suitable for water temperatures ranging from 78-82°F (25-28°C), which remain relatively stable year-round, making the tour viable in all seasons.

Guests receive purified drinking water onboard to stay hydrated, and all dock fees and taxes are included, removing hidden costs. This comprehensive package makes the experience straightforward and comfortably equipped.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience on the Water: Smooth and Guided

The speedboat transfer ensures a quick, scenic ride to the dive sites, allowing more time underwater. The guided tour offers insights into the marine environment, with guides speaking Spanish and English. The group size remains small—limited to 10 participants—so personalized attention and safety are prioritized.

Dives are scheduled to maximize the bottom time and the magical marine encounters. The drift diving along the current creates a sense of effortless movement through the underwater landscape, making the exploration both relaxing and exhilarating.

Marine Life Encounters: Expect a Colorful Underwater Scene

While exploring the coral swim-throughs, divers encounter diverse marine life. The reefs are home to eels, rays, and nurse sharks, along with numerous reef fish. During the winter season, visitors might experience the spectacle of eagle rays migrating through the area, adding a seasonal highlight to the trip.

The protected status of the reef means these creatures thrive in a healthy environment, and guides help point out the most interesting sights. The maximum depth of 55 feet allows for prolonged exploration, making it easier to spot and admire these remarkable animals.

Safety and Practical Tips for Divers

Participation requires Open Water Diver Certification or higher, ensuring divers are prepared for the conditions. If diving hasn’t occurred in the last six months, inform the team to ensure comfort and safety. The full equipment provided reduces the need for personal gear, although guests should be comfortable with basic SCUBA skills.

The tour runs usually in the evening, providing a unique experience with possibly calmer waters and a different atmosphere. The small group size enhances safety and allows guides to focus on individual needs.

Timing and Seasonality: When to Book

Cancun’s consistent water temperatures make this tour feasible all year, with 78-82°F (25-28°C) temperatures providing a comfortable diving environment. The high season from November to April offers dry weather, but visiting between May and September means fewer crowds and quieter sites, especially advantageous for those seeking solitude.

Diving in winter might also increase chances of witnessing eagle rays, which migrate seasonally. The 4-hour duration fits well into most travel plans, offering a full morning or afternoon of diving.

Cost and Value Compared to Other Options

At $158 per person, the tour provides two guided dives, full SCUBA gear, and access to over 30 dive sites within the protected marine park. The inclusion of dock and park fees and taxes adds value, and the bad weather refund warranty offers peace of mind. The small group size and personalized guidance justify the price for certified divers seeking quality underwater experiences.

Transportation to the dive sites is available as an extra, but the overall package remains competitive given the quality and inclusiveness of the offering.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation

Guests can reserve now and pay later, allowing for flexible planning. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making this tour a stress-free choice for spontaneous or well-planned trips.

The nighttime availability adds versatility, letting travelers choose the best window for their schedule.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

The focus on drift diving along the Yucatan Current creates a relaxed yet dynamic underwater experience. The full gear included ensures no last-minute equipment worries, especially for those who prefer to travel light. The tour’s small group size enhances safety and personal attention.

Plus, being within the Federal Protected Area and Cancun Marine Park ensures access to some of the most pristine reefs and marine life encounters in the region. The possibility of seeing eagle rays during winter adds a seasonal allure.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This experience is ideal for certified divers who want to explore multiple reef sites in a short timeframe, with extended bottom times and comfortable conditions. It suits those looking for guided, small-group excursions with all gear provided and a focus on marine life. Divers interested in drift diving and vibrant reef environments will find this tour particularly rewarding.

The Sum Up: An Accessible and Rewarding Reef Exploration

The Two Reef Dives at Punta Cancun tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed underwater adventure within the protected waters of Cancun. With full gear, small group sizes, and two guided dives, it caters to divers seeking a memorable experience among coral swim-throughs and abundant marine creatures.

While the depth of 55 feet and the seasonal possibilities—like eagle rays—are highlights, the overall success depends on recent diving activity. This tour stands out for its convenience, safety, and access to the diverse marine environments of Cancun’s reefs.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for certified divers eager to explore Mexico’s vibrant underwater world in comfort and style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a certification to join this tour?
Yes, a minimum Open Water Diver Certification is required to participate.

What gear is included in the tour price?
The tour includes full SCUBA equipment, such as BCD, regulator, mask, fins, wetsuit, tanks, and weights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there an age limit for participants?
The information does not specify age restrictions; however, participants should meet the certification and health requirements.

When is the best time to book?
Diving is possible year-round, but November to April offers drier weather, while May to September might provide fewer crowds and seasonal sightings like eagle rays.

Are there any additional costs?
Transportation, photos, and videos are not included but are available separately.

How long do the dives last?
Each dive’s duration isn’t specified, but the total tour duration is approximately 4 hours, including boat transfers and briefing.

What is drift diving?
Drift diving involves floating along with the current, allowing for effortless exploration of the reefs.

What marine animals might I see?
Expect to see eels, rays, nurse sharks, and a variety of reef fish. During winter, eagle rays may also be visible.

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
No, it’s designed for certified divers with recent diving activity; beginners should seek beginner-friendly options.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby