Descend to a 24‑meter sandy flat off Playa del Carmen for a single‑tank, certified‑diver experience with bull sharks. Short bottom times, experienced guides, and a conservation focus make this an intense—yet carefully managed—shark encounter.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off Calle 4 and the Caribbean air hits with the taste of salt and sun. A short walk from 5th Avenue brings you to Scuba Libre’s weathered blue shop; within an hour the pavement blurs into horizon and the boat bobs over a 24‑meter sand plain. The briefing is terse, practiced — weights, hand signals, the line to hold — and then the ocean takes over. You descend into a square profile, settle onto the sandy floor, and feel the current nudge you toward a cluster of shapes. The bull sharks arrive with quiet purpose, circling slow as if evaluating the visitors in their territory.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate to good cardiovascular fitness recommended—must be comfortable with descents to ~24 m and short surface swims.
Wildlife
History
Playa del Carmen transitioned from a fishing village to a tourist hub; shark encounters have become a tool to shift local value from catch to conservation.
Conservation
The SAVING OUR SHARKS program uses tourism revenue and monitoring to discourage shark fishing and promote responsible viewing protocols.
Reserve your spot on the Bull Shark Extreme - 1tank /Only for Certified Divers today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring your certification card
Evidence of a valid SCUBA certification is required at check‑in—no exceptions.
Check your dive computer
A reliable computer is necessary for a 24 m descent and to track no‑decompression limits during the 35‑minute bottom window.
Prep for seas and sun
Take motion‑sickness medication beforehand if you’re prone to it and apply reef‑safe sunscreen before arrival.
Respect the animals
Follow guide instructions: no touching, no rapid movements, and hold the line only when instructed to minimize disturbance.
Dive certification card
Required for participation and to confirm training level.
Dive computer
Tracks depth and no‑decompression limits for the 24 m descent and 35‑minute profile.
3mm wetsuit (or 5mm in winter)
Thermal protection for cooler water from November–March; 3mm is usually sufficient other times.
winter
Mask + fins
Personal fit improves comfort and visual clarity during close encounters and while holding the line.