Dive with Cristina

Located in the heart of the Mayan area, Dive with Cristina has been a fixture of the Cozumel diving scene for over 25 years. The centre operates within the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park, offering access to some of the most renowned reef systems in Mexico.

Whether you are looking for a structured dive trip or a private charter, the operation is built around small group sizes and personalised service. The team focuses on providing a professional environment for both recreational divers and those looking to begin their training in the water.

The team is led by highly experienced instructors, including a PADI Master Scuba Diver Trainer and NAUI Instructor. With over two decades of local knowledge, the staff is well-versed in the specific conditions and marine life of the Cozumel reefs.

Safety and diver attention are prioritised through a strict ratio, with a maximum of five divers per guide. This ensures that even in the currents often found around the island, you have the support needed to manage your buoyancy and navigation.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of training through PADI and NAUI affiliations. Beginners can start with Discover Scuba Diving or work through the Open Water Diver certification.

For those looking to advance their skills, various courses are available, including Nitrox training. The centre also provides specialised instruction in freediving, catering to those interested in breath-hold techniques.

The Nena is a 42-foot boat designed for comfort and efficiency during trips out to the reefs. She features a quiet inboard engine, which makes the transit to the dive sites more relaxing, and provides ample space for divers to move around.

On board, you will find plenty of shade and sun areas, a restroom, and warm freshwater showers for rinsing off after your dives. The boat is also equipped with a padded seating area and serves delicious lunches between dives to keep you fuelled for the day.

A full gear service is available on-site for those who prefer not to carry their own kit. This includes the availability of various rental items to ensure you are fully equipped for the Cozumel conditions.

Nitrox is available for use, allowing for extended bottom times on many of the local reef sites. The centre also maintains all necessary safety equipment, including oxygen, in accordance with local diving regulations and Coast Guard requirements.

The reefs are home to a vast array of tropical fish, including various species of angelfish (Pomacanthidae), parrotfish (Calotomus), and butterflyfish (Chaetodon). You will often see large schools of fish, including snappers (Lutjanus), jacks (Carangidae), and various grunts moving across the reef top.

Large pelagics and more familiar residents like eagle rays (Aetobatus) and nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum) are frequently encountered. You may also spot sea turtles, including the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), and loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), cruising the reef edges.

For those interested in macro life, the crevices and coral structures hold many surprises. Look for the splendid toadfish, various species of octopus (Octopus vulgaris), and different types of moray eels (Muraenidae). You might also find seahorses (Hippocampus kuda), scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), and various crustaceans like lobster (Homaridae) or spiny lobster (Palinuridae).

Diving in Cozumel typically involves navigating the reef structures of the National Marine Park. While the boat is equipped to handle local conditions, divers should be prepared for the typical reef environments found in the area.