The Royal Playa

[rdowney]

We are staying at the Royal Playa from the 19th to the 28th and were wondering if anyone one knows if there is a dive shop associated with the hotel. If there isn't what are the recommendations for shops and do they leave from the pier that is by the Royal?

 

[ednedfred]

They have one but it is next door at the Gran Porto. Very small stand that contains scuba, towels, games, etc. No way I would dive with them; never seem busy other than passing out towels. I use Dave at Abyss, you can find him on Facebook. Great shop, been diving with his crew for over a decade. You generally meet at the hotel next to the Gran Porto, maybe a five minute walk from The Royal. For the record, really love The Royal (with the ball-and-chain) and Gran Porto (with kids). Make sure you stroll 5th avenue at night, tons of fun!

 

[rdowney]

Thanks Ed! (Ned? Fred?) The location is definitely a plus. Abyss looks good, I will see what packages they offer.

 

[giantfan]

My wife and I go to the Royal quite often, love that place. There is a small dive shop 1 block away (Dive shop Mexico, 20th street between 5th and 1st Ave) Google search for website. I always dive with them..... they are the best! Very flexible and small groups with personalized service. I got my AOW and Nitrox certs with them as well. I tried to dive with the outfit that is on site (water sports desk by the swing bar) and got screwed out of diving both times. I would never book a dive with them again!

 

[Ontwreckdiver]

I always dive with Nicolas from CenoteXperience Nico and his brother Martin are great guys and great dive guides. They have a small shop in Playa. Nico is never in a hurry and you can tell he really loves what he does. They get great reviews on here and T/A Cenote Xperience Reviews - Playa del Carmen, Riviera Maya Attractions - TripAdvisor