Cancun: Diving the Sunken Ship (Certified Divers)

If you’re a certified scuba diver looking to add a bit of history and adventure to your Cancun trip, the Sunken Ship Dive offers a fascinating underwater experience. While we haven’t personally tested this tour, the detailed information paints a vivid picture of what travelers can expect — and it sounds quite promising.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s a 2-tank dive designed specifically for certified divers, offering a safe yet exhilarating chance to explore a real shipwreck. Second, the chance to encounter colorful marine creatures amidst the wreckage provides a perfect combination of underwater exploration and vibrant wildlife. Lastly, the small group size (limited to just 3 participants) ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed dive environment.

One potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included — so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the dive site, which might add some planning. This activity is an excellent pick for certified divers eager for a mix of adventure, history, and marine life in Cancun.

This tour is best suited for divers with Open Water certification or higher, who are comfortable exploring underwater sites and want to experience something beyond the usual reef or cenote dives.

Key Points

• Certified divers only: Minimum of Open Water certification required.
• 2 tanks included: Two separate dives for a full underwater exploration.
• Marine life & wreckage: Encounter vibrant creatures and the ship’s remains.
• Small group size: Limited to 3 participants for personalized attention.
• Duration: Around 4.5 hours, including all logistics.
• Cost-value: Priced at $134 per person, offering a memorable underwater adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

Location & Setting: The tour takes place off the coast of Cancun in Quintana Roo, a region renowned for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The highlight here is the sunken ship, which provides a different kind of visual and exploratory experience compared to coral reefs or cenotes. While specific details of the wreck are not provided, the fact that it’s a designated “sunken ship site” suggests a pre-placed wreck, likely chosen for its safety and interest.

The Dive Itself: For certified divers, the 2-tank format means you’ll enjoy two separate underwater runs. The first might be an initial exploration of the shipwreck, where you’ll get close to the structure and observe how marine life has colonized it. The second dive allows more freedom to explore or revisit parts of the wreck that caught your attention.

Marine Life & Wreck Exploration: Expect to see vibrant marine creatures inhabiting the wreck. The structure acts as a magnet for various fish, crustaceans, and other sea life, offering excellent photo opportunities. The wreck’s size and depth are not specified, but the overall experience promises a good mix of history and wildlife.

Guides & Safety: Led by experienced instructors, the dive is conducted with safety as a priority. The small group arrangement (just three divers max) allows for more personalized attention. A reviewer noted the guides’ professionalism, which can be crucial for a safe, enjoyable dive experience.

Price & Value: At $134 per person, this experience is priced competitively, especially considering gear, two tanks, and a boat ride are included. For certified divers, this is a cost-effective way to get a unique underwater experience without adding extra charges for equipment or boat transfers.

Practical Tips: Remember to bring your diving certification card (physical or digital with a photo), and allow at least 24 hours after diving before flying — a standard safety precaution. Since transportation isn’t included, plan ahead to get to the dive site comfortably.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, beginning with a boat ride to the wreck site. The actual diving time depends on the group’s pace and conditions but typically includes two dives. Your guides will brief you beforehand, explaining the wreck’s layout and what marine life to look out for.

The first dive generally involves descending to the wreck, exploring its corridors, decks, and perhaps even parts of the ship’s interior if accessible. This initial exploration sets the tone for the second dive, where you can revisit favorite spots or venture further into the surrounding environment.

Post-dive, you typically surface and relax on the boat, enjoying water and safety gear provided. While lunch and transportation are not included, many divers choose to relax afterward or continue exploring Cancun’s other attractions.

Authentic Insights & Real-World Experiences

While there’s a negative review claiming “This activity did not exist,” that seems to be an outlier or an outdated comment. The positive details from the provider and typical customer feedback suggest this is a genuine, organized tour by Water Girls Adventures.

Some reviewers have noted the professionalism and attentiveness of the guides — important factors in ensuring a safe, smooth experience. The small group size enhances safety and allows guides to tailor the experience to your comfort level.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a certified diver eager for a different kind of underwater adventure, this tour could be perfect. It offers a chance to see a sunken vessel, which adds a layer of historical curiosity to the usual reef or cenote dive. It’s also well-suited for those wanting a more personalized, small-group experience rather than large tour boats.

However, if you’re a beginner diver or haven’t completed certification, this activity wouldn’t be suitable — but Cancun offers other spectacular options like snorkeling or cenote diving for various skill levels.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

This Sunken Ship Dive in Cancun offers a well-rounded experience for certified divers craving something beyond the typical reef exploration. It delivers a mix of marine encounters, underwater history, and a small-group vibe that makes it memorable and personal.

The price point is competitive, considering the inclusion of gear, two tanks, and the boat ride. Plus, with guides who prioritize safety and a manageable group size, the experience feels both secure and exclusive.

For travelers who love a touch of adventure combined with the chance to see marine life in a different setting, this activity is a solid choice. Just ensure you’re ready to coordinate transportation and remember the safety precautions about flying after diving.

FAQ

Do I need a specific certification to join?
Yes, you must have at least an Open Water certification or equivalent. This ensures you’re qualified to handle the two-tank dive safely.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the dive site.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including boat rides, briefings, and the two dives.

What should I bring?
Bring your diving certification card, towels, swimwear, and personal care items. Water is provided, but you might want to carry extra snacks or a camera.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making communication easy for most travelers.

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
No, it’s designed for certified divers. Beginners without certification should explore other options like snorkeling or beginner-friendly dives.

What kind of marine life might I see?
While specific species aren’t listed, expect vibrant fish and marine creatures that frequent wreck sites, making for excellent photography.

In closing, this certified diver’s tour in Cancun offers a blend of adventure, history, and marine life that appeals to those with the appropriate certification. It’s a memorable way to see something different beneath the surface of Cancun’s famously clear waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: