Fish Market - Cozumel

The Kodiak Queen is more than just a wreck, it's a piece of history resting comfortably on a sandy seabed. We love that it’s a fuel barge that survived Pearl Harbor, given a new purpose here in the BVI. The sheer scale is impressive, dropping to around 19 meters, but the real show is the colourful art installation on deck – the kraken tentacles are our favourite, begging for a photo op. Schools of French grunt and yellowtail snapper swirl around the bow, thick enough to momentarily obscure your buddy. Get closer and you'll spot angelfish picking over the burgeoning coral growth. For keen-eyed divers, the sand below holds plenty of smaller creatures; we’ve seen spiny paper cockles and even the occasional green turtle cruising by. It’s a site that suits everyone, offering interesting structure for wreck lovers and plenty of fish life for critter hunters.

Location
Cozumel, Mexico, North America
Coordinates
20.812800, -86.866700
Type
wreck

Marine Protected Area: Arrecife de Puerto Morelos

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 Fish Market

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 Fish Market

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 the Fish Market dive site?
The Fish Market dive site has a maximum depth of 11m, making it a relatively shallow dive. This depth range is ideal for divers looking for extended bottom times and vibrant marine life in the upper water column at this Cozumel dive site.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at the Fish Market dive site?
Divers at the Fish Market can expect to encounter a remarkable abundance of marine life, living up to its name. The most prevalent species is the Grunt Fish, often found in large schools, alongside beautiful Queen Angelfish and French Angelfish. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
How difficult is the Fish Market dive site, and is it suitable for beginners?
The Fish Market dive site is rated as intermediate difficulty. While its maximum depth of 11m is relatively shallow, the intermediate rating suggests it might be more suitable for divers with some experience rather than absolute beginners. Divers should ensure they are comfortable with their skills before attempting this site.
What is the best time of year to dive at the Fish Market dive site for optimal conditions and marine life?
Unfortunately, the provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at the Fish Market for optimal conditions or marine life. For general information on diving seasons in Cozumel, you might consult a broader when to dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive at the Fish Market site?
The provided data does not specify the exact scuba diving certifications required for the Fish Market dive site. Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 11m, an Open Water Diver certification is typically sufficient for similar sites, but it's always best to confirm with a local dive operator in Cozumel.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions at the Fish Market dive site?
Divers at the Fish Market can expect excellent visibility, with an average of 17m, providing clear views of the abundant marine life. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions for this site. For more details on diving in Cozumel, you can explore our resources.