Wreck diving in Mexico

One of my favorite dives is exploring shipwrecks. For some, they are just a piece of rusty metal; for me, they are filled with mystery, history, and adventure. They are an example of how the sea transforms everything. Wreck diving in Mexico became very popular 20 years ago when the goverment decided to sink this ships.

In the area of Cancún, Puerto Morelos, and Cozumel, we have some ships that were intentionally sunk as part of artificial reef projects to attract marine life and promote the area's biodiversity. They are like time capsules where diving into them is like taking a trip back in time.

In Cancún, you can dive the C58 and C55, both of which were minesweepers during World War II. Years later, they were decommissioned and sold to Mexico, and in 2000, the Mexican government decided to give them another use; both ships were sunk off the coast of Cancún to become refuges for marine life. With the arrival of Hurricane Wilma, they were split and displaced several meters. During the winter months, it becomes a cleaning station for eagle rays.

Both ships are located 25 meters deep, and it's common to find current in these sites.

Shipwreck C-58 - Cancun, Mexico

The most complete and vibrant ship is the C56, located in Puerto Morelos; it still has its cannon and is intact. You can explore it from the bottom to the part of the gunboat, filled with life, barracudas, groupers, eagle rays, and sometimes even cobias. Occasionally, the water is a bit murky, which gives it a somewhat gloomy yet exciting touch.

In Cozumel, we have the C53, perhaps the one with the least reef. Sunk near the Chankanaab park, you can explore it from the bottom, with wide openings and that intense blue contrast, it is worth a visit; it is the perfect backdrop for incredible photos.

Engine Room of Shipwreck C56 - Puerto Morelos, Mexico

With more than 15 years of diving these ships, I can tell you that the best time is between October and March since it is common to see schools of eagle rays. I would start with the ship in Puerto Morelos, as it has a line that leads you to the bottom, which you can use if you have trouble equalizing. Diving it with enriched air is the best.

If you want to witness this transformative effect of the sea, give yourself the opportunity to dive one of these gunboats during your next visit to the Riviera Maya.

Here are some useful tips:

• Before sinking the ships, they are first cleaned of materials and contaminants.

• Structures that could be dangerous for animals and people are removed.

• Your Open Water certification and a little experience are enough to dive them.

• Bringing a light would be very helpful for your photos and videos.

• Shutterfish collaborates with some Photo ID programs for eagle rays, so when you visit us, ask us for the latest on the project.

Our specialty is photo and video, so in addition to taking you to explore, we will give you time to take your photos and even help you find the best sho with you.