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Diving Vacations Offers Unique Treasures

By Chloe Gib


Cozumel diving and snorkeling is among the best on the planet. This is largely because the stunningly beautiful Mayan Riviera on the Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico) has the second biggest coral reef on the planet. Cozumel is a great base from which to explore this wonder, the great Mayan Reef.

The region features the second largest (by area) coral reef in the world. This Great Mayan Reef attracts thousands of divers each year. It was first gained prominence during the 1960s when the world renowned underwater explorer, Jacques Cousteau, highlighted the region.

The Mayan Reef consists of many separate reefs, some in deep and others in shallow water. This creates many opportunities for divers and snorkelers of all ages and proficiencies. Each reef has its own special features. The Yucab, Chancanab and Paradise Reefs are among the most popular. The boat ride to Yucab and Paradise can be as thrilling as the dive; marlin and flying fish often leap from the water.

The region is famous for its drift diving. Divers can float lazily above the reefs allowing themselves to be nudged along by the currents. Divers need not flip a fin. The water temperature is comfortable to warm throughout the year, sometimes as warm as 25-30 degrees Centigrade. Many divers choose to dive without a wetsuit.

The island is home to a good selection of dive operators. There are also a number of highly skilled instructors allowing existing divers to upgrade their skills. For example, it is possible for divers to receive instruction to get certified to dive with Nitrox (oxygen enriched air).

One popular dive trip configuration involves two more or less back-to-back dives, one before sunset and one after. This format allows a unique opportunity to experience the ocean during both the day and night. Operators offering this format normally leave at 1500 hours.

The mighty Yucab reef sits in the majestic Cozumel Marine Park (or Parque Marino), just a short way to the south of the beach town of Playa San Francisco. The reef gently cascades across several levels, making both deep and shallow dives possible. The prevailing current can be strong and unpredictable; caution is therefore advised at all times. Water visibility is typically excellent. Marine life is abundant. Some of the more prominent species include turtles, sharks, lion fish, clown fish, angel fish, grouper, sponges, sea fans, eagle rays, lobsters and eels. Yucab Reef offers some of the finest of Cozumel diving.




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