Yucab Reef
Cozumel, Riviera Maya & the Yucatan
Set along Cozumel’s gentle, turquoise-colored western coastline, Yucab Reef is one of the island’s most popular diving sites. Divers and snorkelers come here to admire this stretch of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System in all its glory. Angelfish, sea turtles, rays, barrel sponges, and a wide range of colorful corals are among the easiest to spot year-round.
The basics
The water is crystal-clear, with almost perfect visibility, making Yucab Reef a diver’s (and snorkeler’s) paradise. It’s a destination on many snorkeling and diving excursions, some of which also include stops at nearby Palancar Reef. While Yucab Reef is considered a beginner-friendly dive, mild-to-moderate currents make it classified as a drift dive. Anyone without diving experience should stick to snorkeling instead.
Things to know before you go
Check with tour operators about the current before planning a dive. Prior diving experience and certification such as PADI are required to access deeper sections of the reef. Bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful sea life on display, from moray eels and eagle rays to schools of jacks and spiky corals. If you plan on snorkeling—a great option given the water’s excellent visibility—then stick to the shallower sections of the reef closer to shore.
How to get there
Local dive operators typically go to Yucab Reef by dive boat, and the easiest way to get there is by joining an excursion alongside an experienced divemaster. Many tours depart from the Puerto de Abrigo marina, not far from Cozumel’s western cruise port. If you plan on snorkeling, you can bring your own gear or rent equipment, and head out from the shore.
When to get there
Luckily for divers and snorkelers, the best window for underwater explorations (May to September, when the water is at its gentlest) coincides with off-peak season for travel to the Mexican Riviera. It’s the rainy season, so plan for a morning outing in case afternoon showers hit. You can venture below the water year-round. From November to March, you’ll have a better chance of spotting bull sharks or eagle rays.
How to become a certified diver in Cozumel
Why not return home from your vacation with your scuba diving certification in hand? Many diving operators on the island offer short programs, allowing travelers to complete their training during their trip. If you’re a total beginner, opt for a PADI course that focuses on the fundamentals of open-water diving. Anyone with previous experience who needs to dust off their skills can take a refresher course.
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