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Cancun Water Sports
Cancun Snorkeling
Cancun waters are clear and awesome for snorkeling. Visitors have access to a
calm, artificial lagoons ideal for viewing tropical fish and sea turtles from
small to large. Intermediates can head to Punta Nizúc, where coral outcroppings
attract large numbers of fish. Parque Nacional El Garrafón, across from Cancun
on Isla Mujeres, is another good spot for beginners and intermediates; tour
boats go there daily from Cancun and carry snorkeling equipment. Snorkeling
equipment is also available for rent at all the marinas and some of the hotels.
Cancun Scuba Diving
For the experienced scuba diver, Cancun would be a distant second choice to
Cozumel, but as dive spots go, none of the Caribbean is dull. At Punta Nizúc,
divers and snorkelers can explore the starting point of the Belize Barrier Reef,
which runs parallel to the Quintana Roo coast some 250 km (150 miles) south to
the Gulf of Honduras. It's card. Resort courses (for one dive accompanied by the
dive master) and certification classes are offered.
Parasailing
is popular at the busy Cancun beaches. The rider, strapped into a colorful
parachute and safety vest, is pulled high over the sand and surf by a speedboat;
after about 10 minutes of "flying" he or she is gently deposited back on land
with the help of two catchers. Most hotels post signs stating they are not
responsible for parasailing accidents and injuries that occur by their beaches.
Accidents do happen; watch a few passengers take the trip before you go up, and
check the harnesses for wear and tear.
Cancun Water Sports - Water-skiing
Most skiers prefer Laguna Nichupté, although some can often be seen on calm days
in Bahía de Mujeres north of the island. Equipment and instruction information
are available from the marinas.
Cancun Sailing and Windsurfing
Hobie Cat and Sunfish rentals are available at a few hotels and most of the
marinas. These small boats will give you a good fast ride if the wind is up.
Negotiate for the fee-sometimes you can get a good daily rate, better than the
hourly rate posted. Windsurfers provide exhilarating rides-skimming across
the waves at mind-blowing speeds. Lessons are available at most of the marinas.
Usually six hours of lessons will give you a good start. Sailboards are
available for rent at many of the hotels and marinas.
You'll see a lot of personal watercraft-Jet Skis and Wave Runners-on the lagoon.
These speedy water-cycles really move! Kayaking is becoming popular in the
Caribbean, and many hotels now offer kayaks to their guests free of charge.
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