Cozumel · Mexico · Reef · Drift
Paso del Cedral
Mild-current training reef for a first Cozumel dive
Photo: Chris Spain · CC0
Paso del Cedral is a reef off Cozumel that is often used for training dives. Its modest depth and often mild current make it a good choice for newly certified divers taking their first dive on the island.
Also known as Cedral Pass, El Paso De Cedral.
Where it is and how deep
20.3603° N, 87.0313° WApproximate position — the dashed circle shows where the site lies; your operator's briefing has the mooring.
The dive
The reef lies at around 12 to 18 m (40 to 60 ft), within Open Water limits for the whole dive. The current here is often mild, so the drift along the reef is gentle, although conditions vary and a stronger flow on the day changes the pace of the dive.
Marine life and season
The sources we used don't single out particular species here.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prime | Prime | Prime | Prime | Good | Good | Good | Fair | Fair | Fair | Fair | Good |
Season follows Cozumel: January–April is prime with December close behind; lighter trades keep the leeward side calm, though winter nortes can shut the port for a day. Peak hurricane risk falls in September and October.
Dive videos
Cozumel Diving: Paso del Cedral · Cozumel Everyday on YouTube
Questions divers ask
Is Paso del Cedral suitable for newly certified divers?+
Yes. The reef lies at around 12 to 18 m and currents are often mild, which is why it is used for training dives, although conditions can vary.
Sources
- Cozumel scuba diving dive sites — SSI
- Cozumel Scuba Diving Guide — Island Life Mexico
- Cedar Pass — ScubaGo
Photo credits
- A pale porcupinefish with brown patches, black spots and laid-back spines hovers over white sand beside a reef ledge. by Chris Spain, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
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