Cortez Diver
Registered
Hi, Am writing out of San Carlos bay, Sonora Mexico. Diving's beautiful right now; the ocean's sweet and warm. Sea of Cortez and san carlos bay scuba diving
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Hello everybody.
I live in the Phoenix area, and I'm interested in learning more about diving in San Carlos (never been there). Most of my experience is in California and the Caribbean. Any recommendations as to dive sites, dive shops, pricing and lodging in San Carlos would be really appreciated. Are there any safety issues that I should be aware of when diving in Mexico? I'm not at all squeamish about Mexico, btw, we spend alot of time in Rocky Point. It's just that a family member had an accident in Cancun a number of years ago, so I just want to be informed before my kids strap on a tank. (They are newly certified divers just back from the British Virgin Islands, ages 12 and 16, and itching to dive again -- so I have to find something affordable!)
Thanks in advance for you advice!
Amy Sparrow
Most of the diving is done out at San Pedro Island. About 1-2 hrs. each way depending on what boat you get on. If there's a class on your boat (often) they'll anchor in one of the protective coves in very shallow water. I did one dive in 30' or less towards the cliffs, some parts of it were 10' or less - and still found a lot of good stuff. There's Sea Lions near the "Lighthouse" and they'll usually come out to play - or at least take a look. Also saw eels, stingrays, puffers, and other tropical fish (Cortez Angels, wrasses etc.) on every dive. The coral is small and patchy, it's on a rock substrate so not like the BVI's. Water clarity can be hit/miss, one day we couldn't see the boat from the mooring (30'), the next day I'm sure the vis was 60' or better. This time of year the water should be mid-high 80's. It's almost guaranteed to see dolphins on the ride over.I live in the Phoenix area, and I'm interested in learning more about diving in San Carlos (never been there).