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Drift Diving in Cozumel

© Linda Gettmann

A branch of the Gulf Stream sweeps along the north/south oriented island of Cozumel producing currents that range from barely noticeable to well over three knots. Usually the farther offshore you go the stronger the current. The finest diving is found on the crest of a near-vertical wall that runs the length of the western shore of the island. Since this shore faces the mainland across a narrow channel, the weather there is typically much better for diving than on the more exposed Eastern Shore.

Because typical conditions on the western side are calm seas but strong currents, drift diving is the norm in most locations, especially those on the wall. As in any open water situation, you should always carry an emergency signal device such as a whistle, safety sausage, flashing light, or other device capable of being seen from a distance.

Some reefs can be dived either from boat or shore, depending on how energetic (or lazy) you feel; other reefs are best dived by boat. You will find that a few days can be spent diving from the shore for the cost of a taxi ride or two to entry and exit areas.

A “live boat” technique is generally used by dive operations in drift dive situations where the boat follows divers’ bubbles and meets them at the end of the dive. A dive guide is often provided at both ends of a group of divers in order to keep them together while on the reef and to aid pickup on the surface.Be sure to honestly describe your previous experience, swimming abilities, and any special concerns to the divemaster on the boat. Given the strong currents around Cozumel, it is not recommended that you rent a boat and go out on your own without a local dive guide or captain. There are special skills required to operate a “live” boat safely around divers, and Cozumel’s waters favor using professional operators only.

For shore dives, an exit spot some distance down current must be selected and inspected in advance, since it may be impossible to return to the starting point. Booties and gloves are recommended to deal with rocky ironshore along some areas of the coastline. Many hotel piers can serve as excellent starting and end spots for shore dives. They often feature ideal entrances and exits, such as concrete steps and ladders, and are generally placed in areas sheltered from very strong currents. If you are planning to dive from shore, be sure not to swim any farther than your capabilities allow for a safe, easy return. Ask the local divemasters to help you evaluate water conditions before jumping in. You should also take along a dive flag on a float. The usual current direction is parallel to shore from south to north, with speed increasing as you get farther offshore, but the current sometimes reverses direction and occasionally can take a seaward course. Before your dive, arrange with someone on shore to keep watch along the expected drift pathway and to meet you at your exit point at a given time. That way, if you have any problems en route, help can be summoned promptly.

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