Scuba Diving
For most people scuba diving is often associated with distant locals such as Australia and Polynesia, but did you know that Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America offer some of the world's best and most popular dive sites? Accessible quickly and affordably from across Canada, the tropics are a great avenue for underwater experiences. Here everyone from first-time divers to novice adventure seekers will find a site that pleases and challenges him/her.
Palancar Reef
Cozumel, Mexico
Made famous by Jacques Costeau in 1954, Palancar Reef is Cozumel's most popular and arguably best dive location. Beautiful and bursting with colour, this coral mountain is home to over 40 individual dive sites that allow divers to explore crevices, ravines, canyons, caves and tunnels. The most noted of the Palancar sites is the Horseshoe (Novice) followed by the Caves (Intermediate, deep dive), Gardens (Novice) and Bricks (Intermediate). With depths ranging from approximately 50 to 110 feet, Palancar will excite both new and experienced divers alike.
Isla Del Cano
Costa Rica
Relatively new on the dive scene, the Isla Del Cano (Cano Island) is quickly garnering a reputation as the best adventure diving location in Costa Rica, and even one of the best in the world. With volcanic origins, the rock formations range from shallow reefs to deep walls. Marine life is abundant (sea turtles, dolphins, stingrays, morays, grouper and snapper) and white-tip shark sightings are common. Note, that this sight is a Biological Reserve, which means that diving is restricted to 10 divers maximum and only five of the sites are open to the public, so it is best to book as soon as you get to the hotel or before travelling.
Isla Catalina
Dominican Republic
Located off the southern coast (easily accessed from Punta Cana and La Romana) the Isla Catalina is ideal for year-round diving, with temperate waters and good visibility. The front of the Isla is protected by a Wall which starts at just 5 meters and plunges to approximately 40 meters. With the top full of marine life, coral and sponges, this is a fantastic choice for novices. More experienced divers should try the sites near the smaller island of Catalinita. Here you'll find an exciting mix or aquatic life including black tip sharks, hammerheads and big rays.
