Dive Site: Punta Sur Sur

About Punta Sur Sur

Punta Sur, located at the exposed southern tip of Cozumel, represents one of the region's most dramatic and challenging dive experiences. This site is a system of deep walls, extensive coral formations, and large passages, with its standout feature being the entrance to the Devil’s Throat cave system. The dive site is commonly divided into two primary sections: the northern area, which encompasses the main Punta Sur reef with its large passages and the spectacular Cathedral cavern, and further south, the renowned Devil's Throat at the island's very tip. Divers often combine both sections in a single dive to explore the full spectrum of its unique topography. Marine life encounters are frequent, with graceful eagle rays commonly observed, particularly from December to March. Caribbean reef sharks are occasionally seen in deeper sections, which also host vibrant black coral and enormous barrel sponges, creating rich habitats. Following the deeper portions, the dive often transitions into shallower areas, where divers can find stingrays foraging in the sand and nurse sharks resting, offering a serene contrast to the deeper, more complex sections. Due to consistently strong and sometimes unpredictable currents, alongside significant depths, Punta Sur is exclusively an advanced dive. Divers are required to hold an Advanced Open Water certification, and many operators mandate a prior skills-assessment dive to ensure proficiency in Cozumel's demanding conditions. This preparation guarantees that divers can safely navigate the complex passages and deep sections, making it a highly rewarding experience for those ready for its unique challenges.

Dive site facts: Punta Sur Sur

Depth

18–41 m

Current

Moderate

Entry

Liveaboard only

Level

Advanced

Dive type

Wall, Reef

Region / port

Mexico

Coordinates

20.2741° N, 87.0016° W

Conditions & Currents

Punta Sur is characterized by strong and often unpredictable currents due to its exposed location, making it a premier drift diving destination. Visibility at the site is consistently excellent, typically ranging from 80 to 120 feet (24 to 37 meters), which is crucial for navigation despite the swift water movement. Entry is usually a negative entry, allowing divers to quickly descend and integrate with the current flow. Divers must demonstrate proficient buoyancy control to avoid contact with the reef while moving through the water column. The significant currents and depths necessitate meticulous gas planning and the ability to manage both rapid descents and ascents, particularly when traversing the site's various tunnels and passages. Surface conditions and potential boat traffic should always be considered when planning safety stops and surfacing.

Liveaboards diving Punta Sur Sur

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

Nautilus Explorer

Mexico

25 guests44.8 m

$336/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