Scuba diving in Cancún

It’s no wonder that Cancún, a vibrant city on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is world-renowned as a premier scuba diving destination.

With its crystal-clear warm Caribbean waters, dazzling beaches and thriving marine life, this tropical paradise is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts looking to explore the area’s incredible dive sites and underwater experiences..

Whether you are a novice, have some experience or are a diving pro, there are scuba diving tours in Cancún to suit your budget and level of experience.

Here's all you need to know about scuba diving tours, one of the most mesmerizing outdoor activities in Cancún.

What are the best scuba diving tours in Cancún?

Cancún offers an array of scuba diving tours to cater to all levels of experience. Some of the most popular diving tour options available include:

Scuba diving course in Cancún

Have you always wanted to learn to dive? Cancún is the ideal place to do so. With full day and two day certification courses available, you will leave Mexico confident in your newly attained diving skills.

After certification, your instructor will ensure that you have the chance to practice your skills at one or two of the memorable dive sites close by.

Cancún scuba diving tour for beginners

If you are a beginner, or even a complete novice, you can scuba dive in Cancún. On a day-long experience, you begin with a lesson in a pool where you can learn the basics and gain some confidence.

Once you’ve completed the necessary paperwork you will be able to experience two shallow water dives – one at the MUSA Underwater Museum and a second at a reef site such as Manchones Reef.

Cancún scuba diving tour by night

A night dive in Cancún gives you the incredible opportunity to see some of the incredible Caribbean marine environments and wildlife in a completely different way. Enjoy the sunset as you sail to the dive spot.

Next up, it is time to don your gear and a special lamp to help you navigate the water at night. This guided tour is unforgettable and will certainly be one of your highlights in Cancún.

Cenote diving in Cancún

A unique feature of the Yucatan Peninsula are the mysterious cenotes – freshwater pools, underground rivers and cavern systems.

In Mayan culture, these are seen as sacred spaces and on a diving tour of one or more cenotes you will have the chance to explore among the limestone stalactites and stalagmites that add to the magical underground atmosphere.

A certified and expert diver will accompany you on your excursion to ensure you have a safe, entertaining and educational experience.

Riviera Maya 7-day diving safari from Cancún

For keen divers wanting to explore as much as possible of the Mexican Caribbean, a week long diving safari provides plenty of variety and ensures that, weather permitting, you spend time at all the top dive sites near Cancún, Playa del Carmen and Tulum.

You have the option of diving at several cenotes and will be escorted by professional divers at all times to ensure a safe experience. This experience includes transportation, meals and accommodation on shore.

Cancún dive pack for certified divers

If you are already a qualified and certified scuba diver then you have a host of two and three location dive tours to choose between. The shipwrecks of the C-58 and C-55 minesweepers are among one of Cancún’s deepest dive sites, making it ideal for experienced divers.

In season, you can dive to observe the curious bull sharks that come to give birth in the region. For some extra personalized attention, you can enjoy a two-tank dive at some of the most popular reef sites or join a small group and explore the waters in Puerto Morelos Reef National Park.

How much do scuba diving tours in Cancún cost?

Scuba diving for beginners in Cancún can range in price from US$100 to US$250 per participant depending on group size and excursion length.

The two or three location dive pack in Cancún for certified divers vary in price. A wreck dive starts from US$115 per person, while a bull shark dive costs around US$190 per person. On a private basis, a two-tank experience costs from US$150 per diver depending on group size.

A scuba diving course in Cancún costs from US$150 per person on a small group basis at Puerto Morelos to US$500 per person for a 2-day open water diving course.

Night diving tours in Cancún include return hotel transfers and cost from US$90 per person. Cenote diving tours range from US$150 to US$300 per participant depending on tour length and the number of sites visited.

A 7-day Riviera Maya diving safari for up to 8 participants costs around US$2,800 per person. This includes transport, meals, all diving activities and three-star accommodation on a sharing basis on shore.

What is included?

Dive tour operators may have different inclusions depending on the type of tour you book. Professional and experienced dive guides, equipment rental, safety briefings, dive site information and marine life identification information are typically included in tour prices.

Beginner tours include a basic theory and practical lesson. Round trip hotel transfers may be offered and boat transportation to and from the dive site is included if your dive does not have shore entry. Light meals and refreshments may be included in the cost or made available at an additional cost.

Where does it start?

Most scuba diving tours in Cancún start at one of the local marinas such as Marina Hacienda del Mar, Marina Punta del Este and Marina Aquaworld or at dive centers located in the Hotel Zone or downtown Cancún.

Depending on your tour provider, transportation to the meeting point may be included or available at additional cost. You will be given details about your pick-up or exact meeting point when you confirm your tour.

How long does it last?

The duration of scuba diving tours varies depending on the type of tour, the diver’s competency level and the number of dives included. Tours for beginners usually take a half day.

Excursions for certified divers can range from half day trips with one to two dives, to full day trips with three or more dives. Advanced and speciality courses may require multiple days to complete. Liveaboard tours can last anywhere from a few days to over a week.

When is the best time for a scuba diving tour in Cancún?

Cancún offers excellent scuba diving conditions year-round. However, the best time to dive depends on your personal preferences and what you are hoping to see.

December to April is considered peak season for tourism, but generally offers excellent underwater visibility. This is also the best time to spot bull sharks.

May to September are great if you are wanting to experience uncrowded Caribbean dive sites and this is also the perfect time for cenote diving.

Are there any combo available with scuba diving tours in Cancún?

Scuba diving tours are usually stand-alone excursions, with the dive sites largely being determined by diver competence. Some dive tours do offer snorkeling for guests on board who are not going to be diving.

Is it safe?

Yes, scuba diving tours in Cancún are safe, as a dive instructor and safety equipment is provided. These excursions are not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions or other serious medical concerns. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.

Are children allowed?

Scuba diving tours in Cancún allow children from the age of 10 to participate. However, it is advised to check your selected tour before booking – some tour operators only allow children upwards of 15 years old.

What happens in case of bad weather?

Scuba diving tours in Cancún will be canceled if weather conditions are unsuitable, and you can reschedule your trip or get a refund.

Which other water activities can be done in Cancún?

• Boat tours in Cancún
• Parasailing in Cancún
• Flyboarding in Cancún
• Jet skiing in Cancún
• Surf lessons in Cancún
• Kitesurf lessons in Cancún
• Kayaking tours in Cancún
• Whale shark swimming in Cancún
• Stand up paddleboarding in Cancún

Travel tips

• Pack a reliable waterproof sunscreen and wide brimmed hat.
• Carry a towel and spare change of clothes.
• If you have a waterproof camera or waterproof casing for your phone or camera, you may be able to take some wonderful underwater photos on your excursion.