Are you looking for adventure in the crystal clear waters of Cancún which the entire family, regardless of their comfort level in the water, can enjoy? You have come to the right place! On this 3.5 hour excursion, you will spend a total of 2 of those hours swimming with wild turtles and large schools of brightly colored fish over some of the Caribbeans healthiest reefs and the planets most unique underwater sites.
The tour, which runs daily, begins with one of our air-conditioned shuttles collecting you directly from your hotel and bringing you to the dock for check-in. You will then be issued your own set of snorkeling equipment and, for less experienced snorkelers, be offered a short lesson by one of our English speaking guides. Here you'll learn proper kicking and snorkel clearing techniques so you'll feel both confident and safe in the water.
Once everybody feels proficient with their gear, we'll all jump on board our boat and head off to our first stop, El Meco Reef, which is only a short three minute journey from the dock. Here we will be swimming with various species of angel, butterfly and damsel fish who inhabit this reef which was formed over the remains of old Spanish shipwrecks and is a location where many 15th century antiquities such as canons, spades and coins were once found.
The next stop will see you getting chance to view some underwater art exhibits by local Mexican sculptor, Elier Amado Gil, and see how nature is slowing transforming them into its own art. These sculptures also offer a great opportunity to look for lobster who often make temporary homes in the holes and crevices Elier specifically included for them.
Our third stop is typically the favorite among snorkelers as you will be jumping in the water to visit with Green Turtles and, with a bit of luck, small rays in their natural habitat. These turtles are drawn to the area by the rich fields of Manatee Grass so they can often be found feeding. Please remember that these turtles are endangered though so direct touching or feeding is strictly prohibited.
For ye landlubbers:
Its worth noting that all five of these snorkel sites are located within a mile from the coast and it is highly unlikely that anybody will suffer from seasickness whilst on this adventure. Nevertheless, if anyone in your group feels nauseous, or even apprehensive on the water, there is a water taxi service running in the area which will be able to take them back to the land within just a few minutes without causing any disturbance to the rest of the groups tour experience.
Your pen-ultimate snorkel site will be at a shallow Cuban shipwreck which is situated roughly a three quarters of a mile from the coast. In addition to this wreck, there is also typically a large school of barracuda to be found approximately 45ft south east of the ships stern (rear).
The final site is located above some underwater “cenotes” or sinkholes which were formed hundreds, if not thousands, of years ago when the weight of the reef caused it to collapse in on itself. These small biomes are unique to the Caribbean and provide a sanctuary to various crustaceans and fish native to the area.
Upon return to the dock, you'll have the opportunity to take a freshwater shower and view the photos taken by your guide (available for purchase) before jumping back onto the shuttle which will run you back to your hotel.
No Sunscreen Please:
Unfortunately sunscreen, even so-called “coral friendly” variants, have been linked to damage on our coral reefs. In light of this, the local nature conservation authorities don't allow the use of sunscreen on any water based tour in Cancún. Cthulhu Divers recommends bringing a long sleeve shirt or rash guard for this adventure.
