Chankanaab coral reef system is considered to be one of the best diving destinations in the world since 1960s. It features a wide array of marine flora and fauna. It gained popularity primarily because of its exposure in one of the most fabulous films created by the famous oceanographer Jaques Cousteau. There are several regions where reefs abound and provide exciting and memorable underwater experience at all the diving levels.
The reef region is located south of Parque Chankanaab. It is ideal for snorkeling as it is only 350 yards away from the beach. It is a shallow area. The water is rarely deeper than 70 feet, so it is an ideal training place for those who want to learn scuba diving.
The area also features one of the best accessible reefs and a remarkable world of marine life. There is an abundance of a large variety of fish and other marine life. There is a large variety of reef for a snorkeler to see. There are underwater caves, an old sunken ship, crusty cannons, anchors, a sculpture of Virgin of the Sea, a goddess with a Mayan appearance and a fourteen foot tall statue of Jesus Christ.
The coral reef heads are covered with gorgonians and sea fans that feature myriads of micro marine creatures. You are only allowed to see them. You cannot touch the reefs or feed the fish as such activities are likely to damage the eco-system of coral and limestone formations here. The reefs offer an excellent opportunity for macro-photography. The area is excellent for night diving.
