Dive-site story
Situated off the southernmost tip of Cozumel, Maracaibo is an exhilarating offshore drift site exposed directly to open ocean currents. The reef starts with a deep archway and buttress formations before plunging into a dramatic, vertical abyss. Because of its southern exposure and brisk currents, it attracts pelagic marine life that rarely ventures into the island's sheltered leeward shallows.
Deep swim-throughs and massive coral buttresses leading to a sheer drop-off into the blue
Frequent encounters with pelagic species including reef sharks and spotted eagle rays
Challenging drift dive reserved for experienced divers due to open-ocean conditions
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Spring and early summer offer calmer seas for boat navigation to the south tip, while winter brings high numbers of eagle rays.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caribbean reef sharkCarcharhinus perezi | Common | ||||||||||||
| Spotted eagle rayAetobatus narinari | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Loggerhead sea turtleCaretta caretta | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Great barracudaSphyraena barracuda | Common | ||||||||||||
| Black grouperMycteroperca bonaci | Common |
Marine forecast
