
Presidente InterContinental Cozumel Resort & Spa by IHG
★★★★★
★ 9.3/10 (1,117 reviews)
less than 1 km away as the crow flies
Dive centre · Riviera Maya · Mexico
5.0821 Google reviewsExplore the vibrant reefs of the Great Mayan Reef with PADI-affiliated training and signature drift dives in Cozumel.
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Cozumel stands as the largest inhabited island in the Mexican Caribbean, serving as a vital sanctuary for a vast array of marine life. The island is defined by its extensive reef system, part of the Great Mayan Reef, which offers some of the most consistent and colourful diving in the region.
Situated at the Marina ASIPONA Cozumel, Dive with Purpose Cozumel provides a gateway to these underwater landscapes. Whether you are looking to explore deep wrecks or navigate the reef flats, the island's geography provides a diverse range of environments for every level of diver.
The centre operates as a PADI affiliated facility, providing a structured environment for both recreational and professional training. The team is geared towards helping divers progress through the standard PADI progression, from initial certifications to professional levels.
Instructional services cover a broad spectrum, including specialty training in areas such as wreck diving, night diving, and coral reef conservation. The centre also facilitates environmental awareness through programmes like Dive Against Debris, ensuring that divers engage responsibly with the local ecosystem.
A comprehensive range of PADI courses is available, catering to everyone from those taking their first breaths underwater to seasoned professionals. Beginners can start with the Open Water Diver course or use the Open Water Referral to continue their training elsewhere.
Advanced divers can specialise through various PADI specialties, including Advanced Open Water Diver, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, and Night Diver. The curriculum also extends to technical and professional development, offering Divemaster training and courses in Search and Recovery, Underwater Navigator, and Coral Reef Conservation.
The centre provides Nitrox for divers looking to extend their bottom time on the reef. For those not travelling with their own kit, a selection of equipment is available for hire to ensure you are fully prepared for the Caribbean conditions.
Safety is a priority on site, with emergency oxygen being available for all divers. The facility is positioned to serve as a reliable base for those exploring the surrounding waters of the Cozumel coastline.
C-53 is a wreck dive designed for those seeking a new challenge. It offers an opportunity to explore submerged structures and is a favourite for divers looking to test their skills on artificial reefs.
Punta Sur/Maracaibo is a signature excursion that showcases the best of the local marine environment. This site is a staple of the Cozumel diving experience, offering the characteristic drift and visibility the island is known for.
And some of the dive sites the centre runs.
The reefs are defined by a stunning architecture of hard corals, including brain corals, elkhorn coral, and various sea rods and sea fans (Gorgoniidae). You will find a rich tapestry of life amongst the barrel sponges, giant sponges, and red coral sponges that coat the structures.
Large pelagics and schooling fish are a constant presence. You can expect to see large schools of fish, including barracuda schools, jacks (Carangidae), and various snappers (Lutjanus). Larger residents such as sharks, including Caribbean reef sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus), nurse sharks (Ginglymostoma cirratum), and bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas), are often encountered in the deeper sections of the reef.
Macro life and smaller inhabitants provide endless interest for the observant diver. Look for various species of octopus (Octopus vulgaris), moray eels (Muraenidae), and spiny lobsters (Palinuridae) tucked into ledges. The sandy patches and reef crevices host seahorses, scorpionfish (Scorpaenidae), and various species of shrimp and crabs.
Seasonal visitors include the Eagle ray (Aetobatus), which can be observed from 15 November to 15 April. Throughout the year, you will also encounter sea turtles, including Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata), and Loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta).
Diving in Cozumel is characterised by the reef's geography, which often facilitates drift diving. While specific current data is not provided, the local topography is well-suited to the drift diving style that defines the island's reputation.
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★★★★★
★ 9.3/10 (1,117 reviews)
less than 1 km away as the crow flies

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