A.C.Divers

Located in the centre of Playa del Carmen, A.C. Divers has been operating since early 2020. The centre serves as a dedicated hub for both recreational divers looking to explore the Mesoamerican Reef and technical divers aiming to push their limits in the region's famous cave systems and deep walls.

The proximity to the coastline and the variety of local environments—ranging from the crystalline waters of the cenotes to the high-current reefs of Cozumel—makes this an ideal base for any diver. Whether you are starting your journey with an Open Water Diver course or refining your skills in a technical environment, the centre provides the structured training required for the local conditions.

The centre is affiliated with both PADI and SSI, allowing for a flexible approach to certification and training. They operate with a focus on small group sizes, ensuring that no more than four divers are assigned to a single guide. This ratio is designed to maintain a high standard of safety and allow for more individual attention during skills development.

All instruction and site direction is conducted in English. The team is equipped to handle a broad spectrum of diver needs, from those completing their first Discover Scuba Diving experience to seasoned divers pursuing advanced technical specialities.

The course catalogue at A.C. Divers is extensive, covering the full breadth of recreational and technical diving. Beginners can start with the Discover Scuba Experience or progress through the Open Water Diver and Advanced Open Water Diver levels. They also offer specialty training such as Night Diver, Deep Diver, Navigation, and Perfect Buoyancy.

For those moving into technical territory, the centre provides specialised training in Sidemount, Backmount Doubles, and the Tec 40, Tec 45, and Tec 50 series. They are also a destination for serious cave divers, offering Cavern, Cave, and Full Cave certifications, alongside Rescue Diver and Emergency First Response training.

For those not travelling with their own kit, the centre offers full equipment hire, including BCDs, regulators, wetsuits, fins, masks, and dive computers. This allows you to dive locally without the burden of transporting heavy gear.

Safety is a priority on-site, with oxygen availability maintained for emergency response. Nitrox is available for divers looking to extend their bottom times on reef or wreck excursions.

The local marine life is incredibly diverse, particularly around the reef systems. You will regularly encounter various species of reef fish, including parrotfish, surgeonfish, and snapper (Lutjanus). Schools of grunts and jacks (Carangidae) are common, alongside colourful reef fish and various species of angelfish (Pomacanthidae).

Large pelagics and sharks are a highlight of the region. You may see Great barracuda (Sphyraena barracuda), reef sharks (Carcharhinus), and bull sharks during your dives. Depending on the season, between 1st June and 15th September, you may also encounter whale sharks.

The reef architecture is built upon a foundation of hard coral (Scleractinia), brain corals, and various soft corals (Alcyonacea) and gorgonians. These structures provide a home for sea turtles (Cheloniidae), stingrays, and many species of crustaceans, including Spiny lobster.

Macro enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, from Nudibranch (Chromodoris willani) to various species of shrimp (Caridea) and octopus (Octopus vulgaris). Look closely for seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), anemones (Actiniaria), and smaller inhabitants like blennies and various species of crabs (Brachyura).

Conditions vary significantly depending on the dive site. The cenotes offer perfectly still water with no current, making them ideal for precise buoyancy work. In contrast, the Cozumel reefs are known for strong currents that often require experience or advanced training to manage effectively.

The Playa Reefs typically experience low to moderate currents, while the deep wall at El Cantil can present moderate conditions. Divers should always be prepared for the specific environment they are entering, whether it is the enclosed spaces of a cave or the open ocean of a drift dive.