Backpacker types going to Coz in May. Deep Blue vs Eco Divers?

[Katie L]

Hi there! I'm going to Cozumel in a few weeks and am about to make a reservation, but I need some help choosing between the options. My friend and I (late 20's/early 30's) will be spending about four days on the island, flying into Cancun and going straight to Playa del Carmen then Cozumel via ferry. We're both on a tight budget, have stayed in many hostels over the years, and are pretty social, but not into the super touristy Cancun spring break/cruise ship party scene at all.

I've been in touch with Eco Divers and Deep Blue and they both seem like good options, but Deep Blue is slightly more expensive. Also considering Blue Magic. Do you have any opinions between the two? General vibe of the shop? Does one have markedly better equipment than the other?

I have 22 dives (still a beginner but adventurous) and have my AOW and Nitrox certs. she is uncertified and is interested in doing a Discover Scuba course and maybe a couple of the limited dives that you're able to do after that.

I'm mostly interested in having a DM that will actually guide me around, and to be around people of similar skill level so I can challenge myself but stay safe. If I could go somewhere and see a shark I would be thrilled.

I think we're interested in staying at the Beds Friends Hostel on Calle 10 Nte and 10a Ave Nte because it seems like the best hostel environment of the limited choices. Anyone familiar with that?

For reference, I have enjoyed the social nature of Utila and Koh Tao, though I'm not 21 anymore and a good diving experience is much much more important to me than a party.

 

[nodakdive]

Hi there! I'm going to Cozumel in a few weeks and am about to make a reservation, but I need some help choosing between the options. My friend and I (late 20's/early 30's) will be spending about four days on the island, flying into Cancun and going straight to Playa del Carmen then Cozumel via ferry. We're both on a tight budget, have stayed in many hostels over the years, and are pretty social, but not into the super touristy Cancun spring break/cruise ship party scene at all.

I've been in touch with Eco Divers and Deep Blue and they both seem like good options, but Deep Blue is slightly more expensive. Also considering Blue Magic. Do you have any opinions between the two? General vibe of the shop? Does one have markedly better equipment than the other?

I have 22 dives (still a beginner but adventurous) and have my AOW and Nitrox certs. she is uncertified and is interested in doing a Discover Scuba course and maybe a couple of the limited dives that you're able to do after that.

I'm mostly interested in having a DM that will actually guide me around, and to be around people of similar skill level so I can challenge myself but stay safe. If I could go somewhere and see a shark I would be thrilled.

I think we're interested in staying at the Beds Friends Hostel on Calle 10 Nte and 10a Ave Nte because it seems like the best hostel environment of the limited choices. Anyone familiar with that?

For reference, I have enjoyed the social nature of Utila and Koh Tao, though I'm not 21 anymore and a good diving experience is much much more important to me than a party.

I've done a week or so diving with Blue Magic, many years ago when they were under different ownership, etc. I've done a lot of diving with Deep Blue over the years. Both would be fine choices. I don't have any experience with Eco Divers, but would expect they'd do a good job. The important thing is to let the dive shop know your experience level and what you're looking for.

From your post, it sounds like you might be a great candidate for a private DM, for the first boat trip anyhow. Among other things, that's the way to get someone to "...guide you around...". A DM is responsible for guiding everyone, so that's already happening. If you want more personalized guiding, a private DM is what you need. Unfortunately, that's contrary to your tight budget situation, but would still probably be a good idea. Definitely talk to the dive shop about what you're expecting.

Based on where you're staying, Blue Magic would be pretty convenient. It would be about a 4.5 block walk to their shop. As I understand, if you can get to their shop they'll get you on the boat from there. It's about 6 blocks to Eco Divers and 7 blocks to Deep Blue. Add another 3.5 blocks to Deep Blue as you'd get on their boat downtown. Blue Magic leaves from the marina which will be about a 15 minute or so ride from their shop. I don't know Eco Divers point of boat departure.

As to the resort dives for your friend, I only have knowledge about Deep Blue. All of the instructors I've had experience with have been really good. From their website, a resort course is $75. It's conducted at a shore location. Boat trips (2 dives) after that are $115 per trip.

Have fun!!