Dive Site: Palancar Bricks

About Palancar Bricks

Palancar Bricks is a distinct section of the expansive Palancar Reef, situated on the southern side of Cozumel Island in the Mexican Caribbean. This area is famously named after a shipwreck from the 1950s that scattered bricks across the reef floor, some of which are still visible today. Palancar Reef itself is a significant component of the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system globally, and is safeguarded under Marine Park Law since 1996, ensuring its thriving biodiversity. The dive site features a discontinuous wall adorned with coral formations interspersed with sandy slopes. Divers navigate these vibrant structures, encountering various coral types and abundant marine life. While the site is suitable for PADI Open Water certified divers, intermediate and advanced divers can explore deeper sections. The topography offers a mix of wall diving and sandy patches where specific marine creatures can be spotted. Palancar Bricks hosts a rich array of marine life typical of Cozumel's reefs. You can observe schools of colorful fish, hawksbill turtles, groupers, and nurse sharks along the reef. Southern rays are often found in the sandy areas, and the region is also home to the endemic Cozumel Splendid Toadfish. While specific seasonality for encounters isn't detailed, the overall Cozumel diving season extends for about ten months a year. Diving at Palancar Bricks typically involves a moderate current, guiding divers along the reef in a drift dive style. The clear waters of Cozumel enhance the experience, allowing for excellent visibility. Operators often match dive sites to current conditions and diver experience levels, making Palancar Bricks a flexible option for many. It's often part of a two-tank morning dive trip.

Dive site facts: Palancar Bricks

Depth

15–25 m

Current

Mild

Entry

Liveaboard only

Level

Intermediate

Dive type

Reef, Reef

Region / port

Mexico

Coordinates

20.3072° N, 87.0184° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Palancar Bricks are typically moderate, which is characteristic of drift diving in Cozumel. Dive operations frequently adapt plans based on daily current strength to ensure optimal conditions for all divers. The exceptionally clear waters of Cozumel, a result of the island's lack of river sediment and constant ocean exchange, offer excellent visibility, enhancing safety and the overall experience. Divers should be comfortable with drift diving techniques, allowing the current to guide them along the reef. While thermoclines are not specifically mentioned for this site, they are not a common disruptive factor in Cozumel's warm waters. Entry and exit are typically boat-based, and dive guides often lead groups to maximize enjoyment while navigating the current.

Liveaboards diving Palancar Bricks

These liveaboards may visit Palancar Bricks on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Nautilus Explorer

Mexico

25 guests44.8 m

$230/day

Valentina

Mexico

20 guests38.1 m

$430/day

Rocio del Mar

Mexico

20 guests33.5 m

$392/day

Nautilus Under Sea

Mexico

19 guests32 m

$261/day

Nautilus Belle Amie

Mexico

32 guests44.8 m

$323/day

Quino del Mar

Mexico

20 guests36 m

$377/day

Nautilus Gallant Lady

Mexico

12 guests35.36 m

$332/day