Chunchacah - Cozumel

Grande Passe is one of those spots that feels like a proper ocean gate. We often drop onto a plateau, maybe 10 or 12 metres down, before easing into the channel itself. The current here is the main event, and we go with it, not against it, so it's a drift dive. What we love about Grande Passe are the pinnacles, absolutely smothered in gorgonians, like purple and orange trees in an underwater forest. Keep an eye out for the Electric Flame Scallop, they’re truly striking. This is a site where you spend a lot of time looking out into the blue. We've seen blacktip and whitetip sharks cruising past, often grey sharks too. Schools of tuna, jacks, and barracuda frequently whip by. Our favourite time to dive it is on an incoming tide – the water tends to be clearer, and the bigger fish seem more active. The entry and exit can sometimes be a bit sporty, so you need to be comfortable with a bit of chop and current. Grande Passe is for divers who appreciate a good drift and the thrill of pelagic encounters rather than seeking out tiny critters.

Location
Cozumel, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
20.271800, -87.010900
Type
pinnacle

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 Chunchacah

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 Chunchacah

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 depth range for diving at Chunchacah?
The dive site Chunchacah offers a consistent depth for divers. You can expect to dive at a constant 70 ft (21m) throughout the entire site. The maximum depth recorded for this site is 21m.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Chunchacah?
Divers at Chunchacah can anticipate a vibrant display of marine life and coral formations. The site is populated with large coral heads, abundant fan corals, sea plums, sponges, and other gorgonians. Keep an eye out for impressive eagle rays, sharks, and turtles, alongside plenty of whelk and conch.
How challenging is the Chunchacah dive site, and what skill level is recommended?
The Chunchacah dive site is rated as intermediate in difficulty. This is partly due to currents that are often unpredictable, requiring divers to be comfortable with varying conditions. Therefore, an intermediate skill level is recommended for those planning to explore this site.
When is the best time of year to dive Chunchacah for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions at Chunchacah. For general guidance on seasonal diving in Cozumel, please refer to our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required for diving at Chunchacah?
The provided information does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications recommended or required for diving at Chunchacah. Given its intermediate difficulty, divers should ensure they possess the necessary skills and experience for such conditions. We recommend consulting with a local dive operator in Cozumel for specific requirements.
What are the typical current conditions and water visibility like at the Chunchacah dive site?
At the Chunchacah dive site, divers should be prepared for currents that are often unpredictable. Despite the variable currents, the site boasts excellent water clarity. Divers can typically expect an average visibility of 28 meters, offering clear views of the abundant marine life.