Chankanaab - Cozumel

The Glory Wreck is one of those sites we always look forward to, particularly if we've had a few drift dives in the Strait and want something a bit more contained. This isn't some ancient relic, it's a 43-meter Chinese long liner, sunk on purpose, and it's doing a fine job of becoming an artificial reef. Dropping onto the deck, you'll feel that satisfying crunch of sand under your fins as you settle. We love poking around the captain's wheelhouse, a quick torch beam into the old control systems, imagining the crew. Visibility here usually sits around 14 meters, which is plenty for exploring the various rooms. Small schools of fish seem to understand the protection the wreck offers, darting in and out of the darker spaces. Look closely for nudibranchs, they're slowly colonising the surfaces, and we've even spotted a few eroded cowries tucked away. It's a relaxed dive, perfect for wreck enthusiasts who enjoy penetration, but also great for divers who just want to swim over and around a structure that's actively changing. Keep an eye on the sandy bottom nearby too, we often spot rays resting there.

Location
Cozumel, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
20.440800, -87.002700
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Arrecifes de 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 Chankanaab

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 Chankanaab

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 Chankanaab for recreational divers?
For recreational divers, the typical diving depth at Chankanaab reaches a maximum of 16 meters. This makes it a great spot for various certification levels to explore the vibrant reef.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can I expect to see when diving at Chankanaab?
When diving at Chankanaab, you can expect to encounter a rich variety of marine life on the vibrant reef. Keep an eye out for spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, turtles, stingrays, and moray eels, along with tons of reef fish. You might also spot the endemic Splendid toadfish, which is only found in Cozumel.
How difficult is diving at Chankanaab, and is it suitable for beginner divers?
Diving at Chankanaab is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers a rewarding experience, beginner divers should ensure they are comfortable with their skills or dive with an instructor due to this rating.
What is the best time of year or day to dive at Chankanaab for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year or day to dive at Chankanaab for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. For general guidance on dive planning, you might consult our When to Dive resource.
Do I need to be a certified diver to dive at Chankanaab, and are there any specific certification requirements for certain areas like the cave?
The provided information does not specify the certification requirements needed to dive at Chankanaab. Additionally, there is no mention of a cave dive site within the Chankanaab description provided.
What are the typical currents and water conditions like at the Chankanaab dive site?
At the Chankanaab dive site, you can expect excellent average visibility of 25 meters, offering clear views of the marine park. However, the provided data does not specify information regarding typical currents or other water conditions.