Try dive in Cozumel island

Introducing Try Dive in Cozumel Island: An Authentic Beginner-Friendly Scuba Adventure

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring beneath the waves but aren’t certified or sure about your skills, this Try Dive in Cozumel Island experience might be just what you need. Designed for those without previous diving experience, it offers a guided glimpse into the underwater world of one of Mexico’s most celebrated reefs. From the comfort of a small group to expert instruction, this tour promises a manageable yet unforgettable encounter with the sea.

What we particularly love about this tour is the personalized attention—each instructor typically guides only 2-3 divers, ensuring safety and quality. Plus, the chance to see vivid corals, sea turtles, and rays in crystal-clear waters makes it a real highlight for lovers of marine life. The inclusion of all equipment and a straightforward, safety-focused approach means you don’t need prior experience to enjoy this adventure.

However, a consideration is the ferry ride to Cozumel, which costs around $30 on your own. Also, the tour’s focus on first-time divers means it’s best suited for those eager to try something new in a controlled environment, rather than seasoned divers or those seeking a full-length dive experience. Overall, if you’re up for a short, well-organized introduction to scuba, this tour offers excellent value and genuine fun.

This experience fits best for travelers who want to see the underwater beauty of Cozumel without the commitment of certification, and who appreciate small groups, safety, and personalized service.

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Designed for those with no previous diving experience or certification.
• Includes all equipment: Everything you need to participate is supplied, making it hassle-free.
• Small group attention: Typically no more than 2-3 divers per instructor ensures safety and focus.
• Stunning reef scenery: Expect to see colorful corals, schools of fish, sea turtles, lobsters, and rays.
• Short but intense: Two dives of about 30-40 minutes each keep it manageable and fun.
• Ferry cost: Round-trip ferry ticket (~$30) not included, an important budget consideration.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Meeting Point and Journey to Cozumel

The tour begins in Playa del Carmen at the Ultramar Ferry terminal, with a start time of 10:00 am. You have the option of hotel pickup, but additional fees may apply, which is convenient if you’re staying nearby. The ferry ride itself is a brief but scenic crossing, offering glimpses of the Caribbean waters and coastline.

The Boat Ride and Preparation

Once in Cozumel, you’ll board a dive boat at the marina. This part of the trip is where the magic begins—your instructor will prepare your gear, explaining how each piece works, safety rules, and some basic physics of diving. This thorough briefing helps demystify the gear and sets you at ease for your underwater adventure.

The Shallow Shore Dive

Your first dive is in a shallow area near the coast, just deep enough to stand comfortably. Here, you’ll get accustomed to breathing underwater, practice some basic skills, and build confidence. This shallow start not only reassures nervous beginners but also offers a glimpse of the marine environment without the pressure of depth.

The Reef Dive

After a break, a change of air tanks, and a bit of rest, you’ll head out for the main event—your second dive on the reef. This part is where you’ll see vivid schools of fish, moray eels, eagle rays, lobsters, and possibly sea turtles. The maximum depth of 12 meters (36 feet) keeps it accessible and safe for beginners.

The Instructor and Small Group Benefits

One of the most appreciated aspects, as noted in reviews, is the focused attention each diver receives. With instructor-to-diver ratios of 2-3:1, you’ll get personalized tips and reassurance. The instructor’s role is to ensure safety while maximizing your enjoyment and observation opportunities.

Post-Dive and Return

After the dives, you’ll have time to relax on the boat, enjoy lunch, and pack up your gear. The tour ends back at the meeting point in Playa del Carmen, making it easy to continue your day in town or head to your next destination.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package provides bottled water and all diving gear, making it a convenient choice. The added expense of underwater photos or videos is optional but can be worthwhile for capturing your underwater memories. Remember, the round-trip ferry ticket (~$30) is not included, so budget accordingly.

Real Travelers’ Insights

The reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 5 out of 5. One reviewer shared, “Lena was the best instructor a newbie could ask for,” emphasizing the personalized guidance and support. She pointed out that the variety of beautiful sights made the experience truly memorable.

Another review highlighted the stunning views of the reef, noting that the vibrant marine life and coral formations exceeded expectations. The small group setting was also praised, allowing for more individual attention than larger tours.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• The tour is suited for most travelers, but those with diabetes are advised against it—probably due to the physical demands of diving.
• Confirmations are usually prompt, but if booking less than 12 hours before, expect a quicker reply.
• The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
• The start time at 10:00 am helps avoid the midday heat and crowds, offering a more relaxed experience.
• Since the group size is limited to four travelers, booking early is advisable to secure your spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about the underwater world but hesitant to commit to a full certification or long dives, this Try Dive offers a safe, manageable introduction. It’s perfect for adventure seekers, families, or solo travelers wanting an authentic taste of Cozumel’s marine environment without significant time or financial investment. The small group format makes it especially appealing for those who value personalized attention.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just $200 per person, including all equipment and guided instruction, this experience offers remarkable value. It’s a chance to see Cozumel’s famed reefs with minimal fuss or prior experience. The clear waters, vibrant marine life, and attentive guides make it a memorable introduction to scuba diving.

While it’s not a deep or long-term dive, it provides enough of a taste to inspire future diving adventures or simply satisfy a curiosity about the underwater world. The focus on safety and education makes it a reliable choice for first-timers.

In essence, this tour is an accessible, well-organized way to enjoy some of the best marine scenery Cozumel has to offer, especially if you’re eager for an authentic, small-group experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone with no diving experience?
Yes. It’s specifically designed for beginners with no prior diving or certification needed. The instructor guides you through the basics and ensures you’re comfortable before your dives.

What is included in the tour?
You get all the scuba equipment needed, bottled water, and guided instruction. Photos and videos are available for an extra fee.

Do I need to arrange my own ferry ticket?
Yes. The round-trip ferry (~$30) is not included in the price. You’ll need to purchase this separately.

How long does the tour last?
It takes about 7 hours from start to finish, including ferry, boat rides, two dives, lunch, and return.

Is transportation from my hotel included?
Pickup from your hotel can be arranged for an extra charge, but the default meeting point is at the Ultramar Ferry in Playa del Carmen.

What’s the maximum depth for the dives?
The dives reach a maximum depth of 12 meters (36 feet), suitable for beginners and safe for most.

How many people are in a group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, with one instructor guiding 2-3 divers for personalized attention.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour depends on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Can I do this tour if I have health issues?
It’s not recommended for travelers with diabetes. For others, it’s best to consult with the guide beforehand to ensure safety.

To sum it up, this Try Dive in Cozumel experience strikes a fine balance between safety, adventure, and affordability. It’s an excellent way for first-timers to enjoy some of the Caribbean’s most stunning underwater scenery in a friendly, small-group setting. Whether you’re simply curious or eager to dip your toes into scuba, this tour offers a memorable glimpse into the vibrant life beneath the waves.