Cantarell - Cozumel

Felici Garden is a different kind of dive in Raja Ampat, and we really like that. It’s an active coral plantation run by the Sea People NGO, so you’re diving a recovery project. Max depth is a shallow 17m, making it perfect for longer bottom times and a more relaxed pace. Don't expect towering coral bommies here; this is about the little things, and about seeing a reef in progress. We love exploring the newer coral fragments, tiny structures already attracting a surprising array of life. Look closely in the sand and rubble between the planted corals. We’ve spotted Wasp Pygmy Gobies, the almost invisible Denise’s pygmy seahorse, and plenty of nudibranchs if you take your time. Clown anemonefish are a given, often with their Cleaner Mimic friends. You might even get lucky with a Reef Manta Ray cruising by in the bluer water, curious about the activity. It's a dive for those who appreciate macro life, conservation efforts, and a gentle exploration rather than a high-octane drift. Definitely ask Soul Scuba Divers for the latest on how to visit and perhaps even lend a hand.

Location
Cozumel, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
20.536600, -86.939600
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Manglares y Humedales del Norte de Isla Cozumel

Best Time to Dive in Cozumel

The warmest water temperatures in Cozumel occur in September, averaging 29.8°C (up to 32.1°C). The coolest conditions are in February at 26.9°C.

The calmest sea conditions are typically in September with average wave heights of 0.70m. Average current speed: 95.0 cm/s.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C (air: 26.2°C)
  • February: 26.9°C (air: 26.4°C)
  • March: 27.0°C (air: 26.5°C)
  • April: 27.5°C (air: 27.4°C)
  • May: 28.4°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • June: 29.0°C (air: 28.8°C)
  • July: 29.4°C (air: 29.4°C)
  • August: 29.6°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • September: 29.8°C (air: 29.5°C)
  • October: 29.6°C (air: 29.0°C)
  • November: 28.8°C (air: 27.9°C)
  • December: 27.9°C (air: 26.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Cozumel

Nearest Dive Centres to Cantarell

Marine Life in Cozumel

Home to 181 recorded species including 140 reef fish, 15 hard corals, 9 other, 7 sharks & rays, 3 seagrass & algae, 2 whales & dolphins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Cantarell

Based on average water temperature of 28.4°C, visibility 23 nmi, currents 87 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins (stiff blade recommended for strong currents)
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at the Cantarell dive site?
The maximum diving depth at Cantarell is 24m. Divers can expect to explore a beautiful wall with nice drop-offs within this depth range.
What marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Cantarell?
Divers at Cantarell can expect to explore a beautiful wall with nice drop-offs, characteristic of a vibrant reef environment. During the right season, it is common to encounter groups of eagle rays migrating through Cozumel.
How challenging is diving at Cantarell, and what level of diver is it suitable for?
Cantarell is rated as an intermediate difficulty dive site. Due to potentially strong currents that can push out or down the wall, it is best approached as a strong drift dive. Divers should be comfortable with such conditions and prepared to jump and exit together as a group.
When is the best time of year to dive Cantarell for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The best time to dive Cantarell for optimal marine life sightings is during mid-January through to the beginning of March. This period coincides with the migration of eagle rays through Cozumel, making it a prime time to encounter these magnificent creatures. For more information on seasonal diving, visit our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Cantarell?
While specific certification requirements are not explicitly stated, given Cantarell's intermediate difficulty and potential for strong currents, divers should possess at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. This ensures you are comfortable with drift diving techniques and managing challenging conditions.
What are the typical current conditions and other environmental factors divers should be aware of at Cantarell?
Divers at Cantarell should be prepared for potentially strong currents, which can push divers out or down the wall. It is best approached as a strong drift dive, requiring divers to jump and exit together as a group. The site generally offers excellent visibility, averaging around 25m.