

Best for advanced divers, 12-30m, boat entry, strong current.
El Cantil is a wall and drift dive located 500 metres off the coast of Playa del Carmen. The site features a vertical reef face dropping from 12 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Divers experience strong currents that require advanced certification and careful planning. Visibility is high, ranging from 30 to 60 metres, allowing for clear observation of the reef structure, which includes Caribbean corals and large sponges. Night diving is available at this location. Boat access is required, and divers must use a surface marker buoy. Species recorded around this area include various reef fish, stingrays, angelfish, and moray eels.
20.61530, -87.06290
Current direction and intensity at El Cantil can shift with little warning, so agree on a clear abort signal and drift plan with your divemaster before entering. A surface marker buoy is essential for every diver in the water.
Access info coming soon
Recorded nearby, within 20km
Depth
12-30m
Visibility
30-60m
Skill Level
Advanced
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-29°C
Current
Strong
Typical Dive
45 min
Species recorded around this area include Blue Tang, Round Stingray, Foureye Butterfly Fish, Queen Angelfish, and Goldentail Moray.
No, El Cantil is intended for advanced divers due to the strong currents and wall topography.
The site ranges from 12 to 30 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
Boat access is required for this site.
This site is a drift dive designed for scuba divers; it is not suitable for snorkelling due to the depth and strong currents.
Divers must manage strong currents throughout the dive and maintain awareness of sharks in the area.
Diving at El Cantil in Playa del Carmen requires the following certifications: Advanced. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near El Cantil in Playa del Carmen. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at El Cantil in Playa del Carmen. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 29°C.
El Cantil in Playa del Carmen can have strong currents. Advanced experience with drift diving and current navigation is recommended.
Visibility at El Cantil in Playa del Carmen typically ranges from 30 metres to 60 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.