Dive Site Talk: Cozumel C-53 Wreck Dive

Cozumel C-53 Wreck Dive Site

Divers frequently visit the Riviera Maya for SCUBA diving, because of its exquisite underwater world and options. Diving in Cenotes is a unique adventure that blows even seasoned divers’ minds when first experienced. The Mesoamerican barrier reef features countless marine species, making it a paradise for any diver and underwater photographer. The marine park in Cozumel especially seems to have it all! But apart from drift, reef, cavern, and cave diving, are there any wrecks around? 
Absolutely, and if you scrolled through our previous blog posts, you know it! Apart from the Mama Viña wreck in Playa del Carmen, there are more wrecks to explore! The Cozumel C-53 wreck dive is one famous wreck just off Cozumel’s coast. 

In this blog, we will share with you everything you need to know about the C-53 Felipe Xicotencatl wreck dive in Cozumel’s marine park. 

The C-53 Wreck – Felipe Xicotencatl 

The famous C-53 wreck is also called Felipe Xicotencatl. Its original name is USS Scuffle and it was on duty during the 2nd World War for the United States of America. Launched in 1942 it used to be a minesweeper until 1962, when it was transferred to the Mexican Navy. This is when it was renamed to its current name. 

The Mexican Navy used the Felipe Xicotencatl to pursue illegal drug and arms trafficking in the Gulf of Mexico. After 37 years of service guarding the Gulf of Mexico, the C-53 finally retired in 1999. 

It had about one more year before it was intentionally sunk in the year 2000, next to the Island of Cozumel. The purpose of its sinking was to create an artificial reef and a new dive site. 

In cooperation with several dive shops, authorities, and Cozumel’s marine park, the site for the final rest of the C-53 was chosen near the Chankanaab dive site. In June 2000 the wreck finally sunk to rest on the intended site. Here it started its final purpose as an artificial reef, shelter for marine life from the current, and aquatic attraction for visiting divers and snorkelers. 

Cozumel C-53 Wreck Dive Site 

After its sinking in 2000, the wreck now presents a beautiful dive site to encounter different marine species and explore the outside and inside of the C-53. It’s easily accessible, features different mooring buoys for boats, and generally features great visibility and low to moderate current. 

Location 

Cozumel’s C-53 Wreck lies near Chankanaab Beach and Reef. A quick boat ride from either Playa del Carmen or Cozumel’s coast brings you to this fantastic dive site. 

Depth 

After its intentional sinking, the Felipe Xicotencatl wreck now takes its final rest at a depth of around 25 meters depth (80 ft). The shallowest parts of this dive site reach up to around 12 meters depth (35 ft). 

Dive Time 

Depending on your air consumption and dive profile, the immersion to visit this wreck can last anywhere from 35-55 minutes. As there are different levels to explore, it highly depends on how long you stay at the maximum depth and profile to determine your no-deco limit. 

Dive Site Conformation 

Cozumel’s C-53 Wreck is close to the coast, therefore sandy areas spotted with some coral structures surround the dive site. Its sheer size impresses divers at first sight, the Felipe Xicotencatl is about 56 meters long (184 ft) and approximately 10 meters wide (35 ft).

Requirements 

To participate in a dive at the C-53 Wreck it’s required to at least be certified as an Open Water diver. This is not the typical beginner dive. The most important thing is that you feel comfortable in the water and around wrecks. You don’t have to dive into the wreck if you don’t feel like it. There are many interesting spots to observe without penetrating the C-53. 

What To Expect From A Dive at Cozumel C-53 Wreck? 

Cozumel is a top destination for diving, and the C-53 wreck certainly is partially responsible for this image. Featuring different marine life inside and outside the wreck, you will certainly encounter aquatic species on your dive. Typically you will see schools of fish, jackfish, barracuda, and maybe a grouper around this dive site. Also often you’ll find lobsters or even a king crab under the wreck near the impressive propellers. 

On the port side of the wreck, there is a smaller coral structure, where lobsters like to hide also. Here you have a chance to see a moray eel as well. 
Because of its sandy surroundings, you may find some southern stingrays. They are looking for prey around the Felipe Xicotencatl, maybe you can even see a turtle passing nearby. 

If you decide to dive into the wreck with your guide, be aware that there might be some lionfish inside! Typically you’ll find a school of smaller silver-ish glittering fish inside the first deck. When working your way toward the front of the Cozumel C-53 wreck, you may come across some arrow crabs, wreck groupers, or even a moray eel! 

We recommend using a dive light when penetrating the wreck – your guide will be prepared and hand you one before the dive here. 
There are many big entries and exits, therefore there’s no need to fear getting lost inside the wreck. 

The mooring lines for diving boats attach to the wreck itself, which makes ascending comfortable. You can use these lines to ascend from your dive towards the end and complete your safety stop without drifting away from the dive site. 

Dive in Cozumel With Blue Life Diving 

Coming to visit the Riviera Maya and looking to do some diving in the Cozumel Marine Park? Blue Life runs daily trips to the best dive sites in Cozumel, and Cozumel C-53 Wreck. We are departing from Playa del Carmen directly to the marine park. We take you on a speedboat straight to the dive sites in Cozumel, diving to two different sites per outing. 

The boat drive to Cozumel is about 35-50 minutes and you’re ready for your underwater adventure at one of the world’s top diving destinations. Our highly trained and motivated guides will make sure to make your trip enjoyable and help create unique memories that will last a lifetime. 

You can choose between day trips or multi-day packages. Whether you want to dive only in the ocean in Cozumel and Playa del Carmen or add some Cenote diving to your vacation, we got you covered! Providing full service and logistics, we’re stoked to have you diving with us on your next trip. 

Get in touch for any further information or booking, we’re happy to help you make this a trip of a lifetime! 

We hope you enjoyed reading this blog about the dive site “Cozumel C-53 Wreck – Felipe Xicotencatl”. Make sure to read our other interesting blog topics! follow us on Facebook & Instagram, or contact us to book your dives!

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