Puerto Morelos: Shipwreck and Reef Diving Tour

An Honest Look at an Underwater Adventure in Quintana Roo

For travelers seeking a memorable underwater experience in Mexico’s Caribbean, the Puerto Morelos Shipwreck and Reef Diving Tour offers a compelling blend of history and marine life. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a well-structured, value-packed experience that appeals especially to certified divers eager for a glimpse beneath the waves.

What we love most? First, the chance to explore the only shipwreck in Puerto Morelos, the C-56 Juan Escutia — a relic that adds an element of maritime history to your trip. Second, the second shallow water reef provides a lively, colorful setting with plenty of marine creatures for underwater photography and observation.

A single possible drawback? The tour is geared toward those with diving certification and previous experience. If you’re not certified or have respiratory issues, this experience isn’t suited for you.

This tour is a solid pick for adventurous certified divers who want a combination of history, marine biodiversity, and a relatively short, manageable schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Shipwreck Exploration: The C-56 Juan Escutia is Puerto Morelos’ only wreck, offering a unique and historical underwater site.
• Two Dives in One Tour: A deeper wreck dive followed by a shallow reef exploration ensures variety and full use of the 4 hours.
• Instructed and Guided: Safety and marine education are woven into the experience, with guides leading the way and sharing insights.
• All Equipment Provided: Wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tank, and mask are included, making it straightforward to join without extra gear worries.
• Ideal for Certified Divers: The tour requires previous certification, making it less suitable for non-swimmers or beginners.
• Flexible Booking and Cancellation: You can reserve with confidence and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Getting Started: From Land to Underwater

Your adventure begins at Scuba Kraken, the designated meeting point with its distinctive umbrella roof. It’s a friendly, accessible spot where you’ll handle paperwork, fit your equipment, and listen to a comprehensive safety briefing. Expect about 15 minutes to get ready and a short boat ride of roughly 15-20 minutes to the wreck site.

The safety briefing is a crucial part of the experience. Here, guides explain dive plans, safety procedures, and provide background on the shipwreck and marine life. This is where your confidence and understanding are built.

Once you’re suited up and aboard the boat, the journey itself becomes part of the fun. The boat ride offers a chance to take in the scenery and prepare mentally for what’s ahead.

Exploring the C-56 Juan Escutia

Once at the wreck, the real magic begins. You’ll descend with your guide, who will point out notable features like the wheelhouse and other accessible sections. This wreck isn’t a sealed-off submarine — it’s an intriguing relic that offers plenty to see without risking damage.

Many reviews praise the variety of the wreck’s areas, which allows for a more relaxed, explorative experience. Be sure to follow your guide’s instructions, maintain good buoyancy, and refrain from touching the wreck or marine life. Touching is discouraged not only for safety but to preserve these delicate habitats.

The average bottom time for the first dive is around 30 minutes. This allows plenty of opportunity to appreciate the ship’s structure and observe local marine species. Past participants have appreciated the clarity and calmness of the water, which makes for great photographs.

Second Dive: A Shallow Water Reef

After surfacing and taking a break, you’ll proceed to your second dive at a shallow reef. It offers a different perspective — vibrant coral formations, schools of fish, and perhaps even a glimpse of larger creatures.

The maximum dive time here is about 45 minutes, affording ample opportunity to explore at a more leisurely pace. Many reviews mention the “teeming marine life” and the “colorful coral,” which makes this second stop equally engaging. It’s a perfect way to wind down, especially if you’re eager to take photos or simply enjoy the underwater environment.

More Great Tours Nearby

Post-Dive and Logbook Time

After your dives, you return to the boat and then the dive shop. This is a good moment to review your experience, share stories with fellow divers, and perhaps get your dive log stamped. Many find this part useful for keeping track of their progress and diving memories.

The entire tour lasts about four hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that fits well into a broader itinerary of Mexican Riviera adventures. It is typically offered in both morning and afternoon slots, giving flexibility to your plans.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $158 per person, the tour offers good value considering the inclusion of all equipment, guided instruction, and both dives. When you factor in the opportunity to explore a shipwreck — a feature not available in many nearby reefs — the cost becomes even more justified.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is geared towards certified divers. Non-swimmers and those without prior certification should look for beginner-friendly options. Also, since sunscreen and alcohol are not allowed on the boat, planning for sun protection and hydration is wise.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for certified divers with some experience who are comfortable exploring wrecks and reef environments. It’s perfect for those who want a quick but meaningful underwater encounter, blending history with marine beauty. If you’re looking for a relaxed, guided experience that emphasizes safety and education, this tour fits the bill.

If you’re traveling with non-divers, consider other options like snorkeling or land-based tours. And if you’re a beginner or seeking an introductory experience, this tour isn’t the best fit — it’s designed for those with existing certification.

The Sum Up

The Puerto Morelos Shipwreck and Reef Diving Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic underwater experience that captures both marine biodiversity and historical intrigue. The guided format ensures safety while providing insight into the wreck and local marine life, making it a rewarding choice for certified divers.

The convenience of all gear being included, along with flexible booking options, makes it a practical choice. It’s particularly appealing for travelers looking for a short, meaningful underwater adventure without the need for extensive planning or extra gear rental.

Ultimately, this tour provides a satisfying combination of education, exploration, and fun, making it a great way to discover the underwater world of Puerto Morelos. It’s best for those who want a reliable, guided experience that balances adventure with safety and comfort.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
No, the tour requires diving certification and previous experience. It’s designed for those comfortable with wreck and reef dives.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear, including wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tank, and mask, are provided, so you won’t need to bring your own or rent elsewhere.

How long does each dive last?
The first dive around the wreck typically lasts about 30 minutes. The second shallow reef dive can go up to 45 minutes.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is there a safety briefing?
Absolutely. A detailed safety briefing covers dive plans, procedures, and marine life info, ensuring you’re prepared.

Are photos allowed during the dive?
While not included, many divers bring waterproof cameras, but be mindful of safety and marine life preservation rules.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Scuba Kraken, easily identified by its umbrella roof, which is a friendly and accessible gathering spot.

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 4 hours, including the boat rides, dives, and post-dive discussion.

What if I have breathing issues or other health concerns?
The tour is not suitable for those with respiratory issues or other health problems that could affect diving safety.

This Puerto Morelos tour offers a meaningful blend of history and natural beauty—an excellent choice for certified divers seeking a memorable Caribbean underwater adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: