Playa Del Carmen: Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef Diving

Playa del Carmen’s Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef presents an alluring proposition for the seasoned diver. Sunken in 1996, this preserved shrimping boat lies in depths reaching 100 feet, inviting exploration of its interior and the vibrant marine life that now call it home. Strong currents and technical diving requirements make this site best suited for experienced divers, who’ll be rewarded with an up-close encounter with moray eels, rays, and other captivating creatures. With flexible booking and small group sizes, this dive promises a personalized underwater adventure. But the real question is, are you prepared to take the plunge?

Key Points

• The Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef dive site is located in Playa del Carmen, Mexico’s Riviera Maya, and features a preserved shrimping boat sunk in 1996.
• The diving experience, suitable for experienced divers, lasts 3.5 hours and offers opportunities for multilevel and deep dives up to 30m (100ft) depth.
• The wreck site is known for its strong currents, diverse marine life including moray eels, rays, and sharks, and an overhead environment that requires additional caution.
• The dive package includes two dives, tanks, weights, and a certified guide, with equipment rentals and additional services available for an additional fee.
• The flexible booking and cancellation policy, with a 24-hour advance cancellation for a full refund, ensures a convenient and stress-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Location and Duration

Located in Playa del Carmen, the Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef diving experience lasts for 3.5 hours.

The dive site is set in the waters off Mexico’s Riviera Maya, providing adventurous divers the opportunity to explore a sunken shrimping boat intentionally submerged in 1996.

The group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

With the instructor speaking Spanish, the dive is suitable for those comfortable with the language.

Importantly, full refunds are offered for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, and divers can reserve now and pay later, making the booking process flexible.

Diving Experience

The Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef dive site is suitable for experienced divers due to the strong currents in the area. This underwater adventure is ideal for multilevel and deep dives, with depths reaching around 30m (100ft). The wreck itself is a sunken shrimping boat that was intentionally submerged in 1996, providing a fascinating exploration for divers.

Marine Life	Wreck Condition
Moray eels	Preserved intact
Rays	Facing south-north current
Sharks	Rich coral growth
Vibrant coral

Recreational divers without overhead environment training should exercise caution when visiting this site.

Inclusions and Rental Equipment

The dive package includes two dives at the Mama Viña Shipwreck and Reef site, along with the necessary diving tanks and weights.

Also provided is a certified guide to lead the way. Guests can enjoy complimentary drinking water while on board.

For those needing to rent equipment, a full set costs 300 MXN or individual pieces can be rented for 100 MXN each, including:

• Regulator
• BCD
• Mask
• Fins
• Wetsuit

Optional services such as transportation, photo/video, and Nitrox tanks are available for an additional fee.

Safety and Requirements

Minimum Open Water Diver certification is required to participate in the Playa del Carmen diving activity.

Those who haven’t dived in the last six months should inform the team to ensure they’re comfortable.

The activity is suitable for experienced divers due to strong currents, making it ideal for multilevel and deep dives.

Divers should exercise caution as the wreck site has an overhead environment.

The depth reaches approximately 30m (100ft), requiring advanced considerations.

Participants must adhere to all safety protocols and follow the guidance of the certified dive guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

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Site Description

The wreck faces the predominant south-north current and is preserved almost intact.

Exploring the interior reveals a rich tapestry of coral and marine life.

While not overly challenging, the site requires advanced consideration due to several factors:

1. Depth – The wreck sits at approximately 30m (100ft).
2. Currents – Strong currents are present at the site.
3. Overhead environment – The wreck’s interior presents an overhead environment.
4. Marine life – Divers may encounter moray eels, rays, sharks, and vibrant coral formations.

Recreational divers without overhead environment training should exercise caution when diving this site.

Currents and Marine Life

Strong currents pose a significant challenge for divers at the Mama Viña wreck site. The wreck lies in an area with strong south-north currents, which require advanced diving skills and experience to navigate safely.

However, the underwater environment is teeming with diverse marine life that draws divers to this location. Vibrant coral formations cover the wreck, providing a home for moray eels, rays, and even occasional shark sightings.

Divers must exercise caution and follow the guidance of the certified guides to fully appreciate the captivating beauty of the Mama Viña wreck while managing the strong currents.

Suitability for Divers

Experienced divers are best suited for the Playa del Carmen diving excursion due to the strong currents present at the Mama Viña wreck site.

The dive site is ideal for multilevel and deep dives, with a depth of approximately 30m (100ft). However, recreational divers without overhead environment training are advised to exercise caution.

The site offers several advantages for experienced divers:

1. Suitable for advanced divers due to strong currents
2. Ideal for multilevel and deep dives
3. Wreck site with preserved shrimping boat, intentionally submerged in 1996
4. Opportunity to observe diverse marine life, including moray eels, rays, and sharks.

Reservation and Cancellation Policy

Conveniently, the Playa del Carmen diving excursion offers a flexible reservation and cancellation policy.

Adventurers can reserve their spot now and pay later, hassle-free. What’s more, if plans change, they’re entitled to a full refund as long as they cancel 24 hours in advance.

This policy provides peace of mind, allowing divers to secure their dive without upfront payment and adjust their schedule if needed.

With free cancellation and a pay-later option, the Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef experience caters to the needs of last-minute planners and those with flexible schedules, ensuring a stress-free booking process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Diving Equipment?

Yes, you can bring your own diving equipment. The activity includes tanks and weights, but you’re also free to use your own gear if preferred. Just let the team know in advance.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?

The minimum group size is limited to 8 participants. This group size ensures an intimate and personalized diving experience with the certified guide, allowing for close supervision and attention to each diver’s needs.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?

The price quoted includes all necessary fees and taxes. There are no additional charges beyond the listed price per person. Transportation and optional services like photography may incur extra costs.

Can I Upgrade to a Private Tour?

Yes, private tours are available for an additional fee. Clients can upgrade to a private tour with just their group, providing a more personalized experience. The price for a private tour varies based on group size.

Is Photography or Videography Allowed During the Dives?

Photography and videography are allowed during the dives, but it’s an optional service that comes with an additional cost. Divers can rent underwater cameras and equipment from the provider if they want to capture their experience.

Recap

The Mama Viña Shipwreck & Reef in Playa del Carmen offers an exceptional diving experience for experienced divers. With vibrant marine life, a preserved shrimping boat wreck, and flexible booking policies, this dive delivers a personalized and memorable underwater adventure. While strong currents and depths up to 100ft make it best suited for skilled divers, the small group sizes ensure a tailored exploration of this captivating site.

You can check if your dates are available here: