Want so see some amazing creatures up close? You’re in for a treat! The non-stop current that flows past the island from south to north gives Cozumel its reputation for true 100-foot visibility and perpetual drift diving. And with that fancy current comes plenty of food for this spectacular reef. In fact, some sponges, such as the Elephant Ear sponge, can grow as large as 12 feet across! Other sponges, like the Barrel sponge, can get pretty big as well. As you make your way along the wall - and it is significant and goes very, very deep, you’ll see such a variety of things. This is why Cozumel has become such a diving and snorkeling mecca.
I’ve taken the snorkel tour off the tour boats that allow you to “float” over Palancar Reef as the current takes you along. All you do is look down. At the end of the reef everyone gets back into the boat and there is a party-like atmosphere all the way back to the shore.
There are three major ocean currents that come together right here bringing an abundant variety of marine life to the area. The wall is right underneath you from 70 to 90 feet with breathtaking drop offs and very swift currents that can push you down or up. It looks as if no one has ever been out here before, sort of virgin territory, but, alas, people see Palancar almost everyday.
The current is very swift, but the boat stays right with you and not far away. And you’ll see manta rays, and quite possibly a shark or two down at the bottom. Keep your eyes open and notice what others are looking at as well.
There are a good many dive operations in Cozumel. You will have to go through online resources or make a decision once there as to the operator you use. Close by Cozumel, at Isla Mujeres, there is a known cave which always has a few sleeping shark there. Some brave divers pet the shark and that’s quite an experience!
So there are places to see huge rays and the mysterious shark. All you have to do is a little planning either online, or when you arrive in Cozumel as the operators are working every day. The trip to Isla Mujeres is a short hop on a ferry away. Plan in advance to get the very best prices and if you operate down there and would like us to list you here, please let us know.