

Best for beginner divers, 6-24m, boat entry, mild current.
Palancar Caracolillo is a drift reef site located 2000 metres offshore from Puerto Aventuras. The reef structure ranges from 6 to 24 metres in depth, with an average of 18 metres. Divers encounter common species including Great Barracuda, French Angelfish, Blue Tang, Caribbean Spiny Lobster, Honeycomb Cowfish, Wrasses, and Black Durgeon. Less frequently, Nurse Sharks, Queen Angelfish, Green Moray, Indian Lionfish, Drum and Croaker, Peacock Flounder, and Snake Eels are recorded. The site features mild currents, though these can strengthen unexpectedly. Visibility varies between 15 and 60 metres. Access is strictly by boat, and divers should maintain buoyancy to avoid contact with sharp coral.
20.34299, -87.02880
Although the current here is generally mild, it can strengthen without much warning, so stay close to your guide and never fight the flow if conditions change. Boat-only access means confirming your operator's departure times in advance, as surface conditions in the straits can affect scheduling.
Boat tour only.
Recorded at this site
Depth
6-24m
Visibility
15-60m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
27-30°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
35 min
Best Time
Mar, Dec
Common sightings include Great Barracuda, French Angelfish, Blue Tang, Caribbean Spiny Lobster, Honeycomb Cowfish, Wrasses, and Black Durgeon. Nurse Sharks, Queen Angelfish, Green Moray, Indian Lionfish, Drum and Croaker, Peacock Flounder, and Snake Eels are also recorded.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners, though it requires boat access and an awareness of potential current shifts.
The reef structure ranges from 6 to 24 metres, with an average depth of 18 metres.
This is a boat-only site located 2000 metres from the shore.
March and December offer the most settled conditions for diving.
Diving at Palancar Caracolillo in San Miguel de Cozumel requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Palancar Caracolillo in San Miguel de Cozumel. Water temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C.
Palancar Caracolillo in San Miguel de Cozumel typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Palancar Caracolillo in San Miguel de Cozumel typically ranges from 15 metres to 60 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.