Discover Scuba Diving on Paradise Reef, Cozumel — Two Introductory Boat Dives
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—able to swim and handle basic gear; not for those with serious cardiovascular or spinal conditions.
Overview
Breathe underwater for the first time on Paradise Reef—two guided boat dives inside Cozumel’s marine park with PADI instructors, shallow skill practice, and an easy surface interval with snacks. Perfect for cruise visitors seeking a safe, scenic introduction to scuba.
Discover Scuba Diving on Paradise Reef, Cozumel — Two Introductory Boat Dives
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The boat eases away from Marina Fonatur and the town’s low skyline slides behind you. Salt air sharpens the senses; a line of orange buoys marks the boundary of the marine park where the water turns from turquoise to a deeper, promising blue. On board, a PADI instructor reviews your gear and the plan: a short skills session in shallow water, then two guided dives over Paradise Reef—staggered breaths below, bright coral fans above.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early for paperwork and sizing
Be at the Marina Asipona Fonatur shop 30 minutes before departure to complete waivers and confirm gear sizes.
Hydrate and avoid alcohol
Drink plenty of water before diving and avoid alcohol for 24 hours to reduce risk of decompression issues.
Use reef‑safe sunscreen and cover up
Apply mineral-based sunscreen and wear a rashguard to protect both skin and coral life.
Bring a small waterproof camera
A compact underwater camera or housing will capture bright coral and schooling fish during the shallow first dive.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- queen angelfish
- southern stingray
History
Cozumel’s reefs are part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef and the surrounding marine park was established to protect these waters as tourism and diving grew in the late 20th century.
Conservation
Operators follow park rules and encourage no‑touch diving; bring reusable water and support businesses that use plastic‑free practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Miguel de Cozumel
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swim trunks or swimsuit
Comfortable swimwear under the rental wetsuit or for surface intervals.
Rashguard or thin wetsuit (1–3mm)
Protects skin from sun and minor scrapes while adding slight warmth in the water.
summer specific
Reef‑safe sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen protects your skin and the reef—chemical sunscreens can harm coral.
summer specific
Waterproof camera or phone housing
Captures underwater moments; red filter recommended for truer colors at depth.