Catalonia Riveria Maya

[handy andy]

Will be staying at the Catalonia from August 7 to 14, would like to do 2 tank dives the 8th through 13th, and would like an independent dive shop. Have gear, but would like just to bring BC and regulator, and maybe skin suit. Do operators charge for fins and masks? And what is the going rate for 2 tank dives? What about the cenotes dive charges? And do any ops pick up at the cat? Do I have to get a ride to town or what? First time to the cat, been to Coz a couple times, had a great time there, decided to try something different. Would be open to 3 tank dives maybe, if I don't get too worn out. Not a kid anymore. Jim

 

[LateBloomer]

Jim - where/with whom did you end up diving? I am going to the Riviera Maya (Grand Palladium Kantenah) Feb 2-9, and want to do some diving. I've heard mixed reviews about mainland diving, but am open to trying it. One thing that appeals to me is the bull sharks that are common this time of year. (I, too, live in KS and am desperate for some thrills!) I plan to take the ferry to Coz at least one day, too. Any recommendations?

 

[handy andy]

Had a good time at the Catalonia, Aventuras is a gated community, so you don't have to put up with beach peddlers, dope dealers and such, the Cat is close to a diveshop at Puerto Aventuras called Dive Aventuras, operated by an American named Mike. All the divemasters speak good English, and tried to help everyone get a good dive everytime. One guy used up his air quickly, and the divemaster let him use his aux. mouthpiece to stretch out his dive. Just hung on to his gear so they stayed together. Got a full 60 minute dive a couple times, with other air sippers.
If you just walk into the shop or call them directly, you can get a little better rate, as the reps at the hotel get a huge hunk of your pay for dives. Consequently, their dives are a little more expensive than places that do not rely on the tour people to keep them busy. They have ceynote dives, ocean dives, whatever you want to do, but they do not pick you up at the pier in the dive boat, they send a van around to pick you up. The cat is close enough for a 5 minute walk to the shop, you walk right by the dolphin shows. When you finish your dive, you can watch for free. Only have to pay if you do the encounters. Jim