Cozumel Dive Planning Checklist
Your Complete Guide to Planning the Perfect Cozumel Dive Trip.
📅 3-6 Months Before Your Trip
Book flights to Cozumel (CZM) or Cancun (CUN)
Reserve accommodations (dive resort, hotel, or Airbnb)
Research and contact dive operators for availability
Get dive insurance (DAN or equivalent)
Check passport expiration date (must be valid through travel)
📋 1-2 Months Before Your Trip
Book dive packages with chosen operator
Consider certifications (Nitrox, Advanced Open Water) if needed
Arrange airport transfers or ferry tickets if coming through Cancun
Notify bank and credit card companies of travel dates
Review dive skills or schedule refresher course if rusty
🎒 2 Weeks Before: Gear to Pack
Dive certification card (C-card) and dive logbook
Mask, snorkel, and fins (if bringing your own)
Dive computer (or plan to rent)
Wetsuit (3mm or 5mm depending on season and cold tolerance)
Dive light or flashlight for swim-throughs
Surface marker buoy (SMB) and whistle
Save-a-dive kit (O-rings, mask strap, zip ties, defog)
Underwater camera or GoPro (optional)
Reef-safe sunscreen (mineral-based)
Rashguard or UV protective clothing
Motion sickness medication (if prone to seasickness)
Dry bag for boat trips
💰 Financial Preparation
Withdraw Mexican pesos or have USD cash for tips and small expenses
Budget for marine park fees ($5-10 per day per diver)
Plan tip money for dive crew (10-15% or $5-10 per tank)
Set aside budget for gear rental if needed ($20-25/day)
Budget for Nitrox if desired ($10 extra per tank)
✈️ Day Before Travel
Check flight status and gate information
Print or download dive insurance card
Download offline maps of Cozumel
Confirm hotel and dive operator reservations
Pack dive gear in carry-on if possible (especially C-card and computer)
🏝️ Upon Arrival in Cozumel
Keep tourist permit (FMM) safe for departure
Check in with dive operator and confirm schedule
Try on rental gear if using (day before first dive if possible)
Locate nearest ATM and withdraw pesos
Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol the night before diving
🤿 Day of Diving
Arrive 15 minutes early to dive shop/boat
Bring C-card and any required paperwork
Wear swimsuit (boats don't have changing rooms)
Apply reef-safe sunscreen 30 minutes before boat departure
Bring towel, dry clothes for after dives, and cash for tips
Listen carefully to dive briefing (site conditions, hand signals, boat pickup)
Perform buddy check before entering water (BWRAF)
Equalize early and often on descent
🌊 Dive Site Wishlist
Palancar Reef (Gardens, Caves, or Horseshoe)
Santa Rosa Wall
Columbia Reef (Deep and/or Shallows)
C-53 Wreck
Punta Sur / Devil's Throat (advanced only)
Paso del Cedral
Paradise Reef (night dive)
Click the button above to download your printable checklist