Called Ah-Cuzamil-Peten (Land of Swallows) by its earliest inhabitants, Cozumel has been a favorite destination for divers since 1961, when Jacques Yves Cousteau´s documentary broadcast Cozumel´s glorious sea life to the world. Due to ecological importance and fragility most of the reefs surrounding the island were declared as the “Arrecifes de Cozumel” in 1996. Together with another 9 protected areas, this national park began Mexico´s Protected Natural Area System. Today, The National Park staff carries out various activities in order to properly manage and conserve the ecosystems.
Located in the Mexican Caribbean coastal zone, Cozumel is fringed by a complex coral reef ecosystem. Part of massive chain of reefs that stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to Honduras, it is the second largest barrier reef system in the World.
Cozumel is considered one of the best scuba diving sites on our planet for many reasons. One of them is undoubtedly the perfect visibility in turquoise water that reaches up to 50m. Divers can explore stunning coral formations, fascinating walls, slopes and many swim throughs. It’s said to be the drift diving capital of the world.
Cozumel is perfect diving spot not only for experienced divers but also for beginners.
Normally unusual for the Caribbean, in Cozumel it can be seen very colorful coral and abundant growth of sponge. Multicolored and spectacular marine flora and fauna bursts with sea life such as eagle ray, barracuda or toadfish. Cozumel is home to around 500 species of fish, 60 species of coral, 350 mollusks and marine mammals, algae, and seagrasses.
There are more than 30 dive sites waiting to be explored and the majority are located along the West coast and southern end of the island.
Pro Dive International’s PADI Five Star Dive Centers in Cozumel are located at the following beach resorts