Costa Maya: Two Tank Fun Dive for Certified Divers

Imagine exploring Caribbean waters teeming with vivid coral, curious fish, and the possibility of spotting sea turtles or nurse sharks—this is what a two-tank dive in Costa Maya promises. While we haven’t personally strapped on a wetsuit, plenty of adventurers have loved the professional guidance, breathtaking underwater landscapes, and relaxed pace of this dive experience.

What truly appeals to us are the friendly, knowledgeable staff who tailor dive plans to your experience, the pristine reef environment full of marine life, and the convenient location close to the cruise pier. However, if you’re new to diving or not certified, this experience isn’t for you. It’s best suited for certified divers looking for a relaxed yet adventurous day on the water.

Good To Know

• Professional guidance with experienced divemasters and small group ratios
• Access to diverse reef environments boasting over 65 coral species and 500 fish
• Flexible dive durations tailored to your comfort and experience level
• Includes equipment and amenities such as water, coffee, and snacks
• Boat transportation from the jetty is quick and efficient
• Ideal for certified divers seeking an authentic, well-organized Caribbean dive

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: A Dive Experience with a Personal Touch

Costa Maya’s two-tank dive tour offers a chance to explore some of the most vibrant underwater habitats in the Caribbean. What makes the experience particularly appealing is the dedicated team of guides who are not only friendly but also seasoned professionals, knowing exactly where to find the best spots depending on your comfort level and interests.

The tour’s moderate price of $98 per person feels like a fair deal when you consider the inclusion of full gear, boat rides, and supportive staff. Plus, the unlimited dive time and personalized planning mean you won’t feel rushed or constrained—an important factor for divers wanting to enjoy every minute beneath the waves.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is designed specifically for certified divers. If you’re not certified or a beginner, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, while the tour emphasizes marine life and reef health, some travelers mentioned that the actual boat ride to the dive sites is about 10-15 minutes, so expect a short but scenic trip across the water.

What to Expect: From Check-In to Your Last Splash

Meeting and Preparation at Mar Adentro Diving

Your adventure begins at the Mar Adentro Diving center, located inside the Blue Kay Ecocabañas, just a quick 5-minute taxi ride from the cruise port—roughly $4 USD per person. Upon arrival, you’ll spend some time filling out paperwork and checking your gear, which the staff will help transport to the boat. This process is straightforward, and the staff’s caring attitude helps put nervous divers at ease.

Once your gear is checked and fitted, there’s a brief safety and dive plan briefing. The guides are fluent in both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication. You’ll also fill out your paperwork, including certification details, allowing your guides to tailor your dives accordingly.

The Boat Ride and Dive Sites

The tour uses boats to reach the five different underwater landscapes, each between 45 to 90 feet deep—perfect for most certified divers. The boat ride is quick, about 10-15 minutes, giving you time to enjoy the stunning views of the Caribbean. The small group ratio of 1:5 helps ensure personalized attention, and if you prefer, you can pay an extra $30 USD to have a private Dive Master, providing a more tailored experience.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

First Dive: Pristine Reef Exploration

Your first dive lasts around 50 minutes, during which you’ll glide over coral gardens home to over 65 species of stony corals and more than 350 mollusc species. Expect to encounter turtles, moray eels, nurse sharks, rays, lobsters, barracudas, and groupers—if you’re lucky, a sea turtle might swim right past you, as some reviews highlight.

Reviewers mention the visibility is generally around 90 feet, which makes spotting marine life and appreciating the coral formations a real pleasure. The dive sites are selected considering your experience level, so beginners can enjoy the scenery comfortably while seasoned divers might explore some of the more varied landscapes.

Surface Interval and Beach Break

After the first dive, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 40-minute break at Blue Kay, a beautiful local beach. You can sip water, coffee, or munch on a fruit snack provided by the staff while soaking in the Caribbean sun and watching the sea. This downtime is also perfect for exchanging stories with fellow divers or simply enjoying the view.

Second Dive and Final Return

The second dive mirrors the first in duration and quality, giving you another opportunity to explore the reef’s vibrant life and intricate coral formations. Afterward, the boat returns you to Mar Adentro Diving, usually by early afternoon, leaving enough time to explore Mahahual or relax on the beach.

Diving Conditions and Additional Details

Diving conditions in Costa Maya are notably friendly, with most dives focusing on sites between 45 to 90 feet, making it accessible for many certified divers. The reefs here are well-preserved, hosting endangered species like sea turtles and Caribbean manatees, which makes every dive feel meaningful.

A notable feature is that all dives are boat-based, so you won’t need to worry about shore entry difficulties. The crew’s dedication to safety and environmental preservation shines through—many reviewers appreciated how guides were eager to share their knowledge about marine species and reef conservation.

Equipment and Amenities

The tour includes full scuba gear, excluding only dive computers, so you’ll need your own if you have one. The staff is helpful and attentive, checking gear and ensuring everyone is comfortable before heading out. Hydration is easy, with refreshments like water, coffee, and fruit snacks provided—perfect for staying energized.

Flexibility and Personalization

Dives are planned based on your experience, ensuring you stay comfortable and avoid peer pressure. If you want a more private experience, paying an extra $30 USD for a dedicated Dive Master is an excellent option. This can be particularly valuable for less confident divers or those wanting tailored attention.

The Value of the Experience: Are You Getting Your Money’s Worth?

At $98 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the inclusion of full gear, boat transportation, and guide service. The focus on safety, professionalism, and environmental respect makes it stand out from more rushed or commercialized options.

Compared to other Caribbean dive tours, this one emphasizes quality over quantity, with experienced guides ensuring that each diver gets the most out of their time underwater. The flexible dive times and small group ratios guarantee a personalized and unhurried experience—key for truly appreciating the marine environment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for certified divers seeking a relaxed yet adventure-filled day exploring vibrant reefs. If you value professional guidance and the chance to see protected species like sea turtles and sharks in their natural habitat, you’ll appreciate the care and knowledge the guides bring.

It’s an excellent choice for those who want a well-organized trip without feeling rushed, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and marine life. But if you’re not certified, or if you prefer shore-based snorkeling or non-diving activities, you’ll want to look elsewhere.

The Sum Up: The Ideal Dive Day in Costa Maya

This two-tank dive experience offers a fantastic blend of professional guidance, stunning marine biodiversity, and relaxed pacing. The small group sizes and tailored dive plans mean you can enjoy the reef comfortably, whether you’re a seasoned diver or looking to maximize your underwater time.

The inclusion of amenities and flexible options, like private guides, add to the overall value—making it a reliable choice for anyone wanting a genuine Caribbean diving adventure. The focus on reef health and conservation also adds a meaningful touch to the experience, making you appreciate the beauty and fragility of this underwater world.

For travelers who want a well-organized, friendly, and immersive dive, this Costa Maya tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize safety, marine life encounters, and quality over sheer volume of dives.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Do I need to bring my diving certification?
Yes, this tour is designed for certified divers, so you’ll need to present your certification.

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience takes about 4 hours, including check-in, boat rides, two dives, and the beach break.

Is gear included?
Full scuba gear is provided, except for dive computers. The staff will assist with fitting and checking your equipment.

How far are the dive sites from the dock?
The dive sites are reached by a quick 10-15 minute boat ride from the jetty.

Can I book a private guide?
Yes, for an additional $30 USD per diver, you can have a private Dive Master for a more personalized experience.

What is the best time of day to go?
The tour is typically available in the morning or afternoon, depending on your schedule.

Are there any restrictions?
This tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions like high blood pressure.

What should I bring?
Just your diving certification and any personal items you want, such as a towel or reef-safe sunscreen (applied 20 minutes prior to the boat ride).

Is there an entry fee for the park?
Yes, there is a $3 USD fee for the Mexican Caribbean Park, payable locally.

What if my cruise schedule changes?
It’s important that port times align with your tour; check with your cruise line or guest services if unsure.

This Costa Maya two-tank dive tour offers a balance of professional guidance, marine wonderland, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for certified divers eager to experience the Caribbean’s vibrant underwater life with trusted experts.

You can check if your dates are available here: