Explore The Underwater Kingdom of Veracruz

Although Veracruz may not boast the hordes of tourists that flock to other Mexican diving resorts such as the Riviera Maya, Baja California or the Pacific coast, this is by no means a bad thing. In fact, the unique richness of this diving destination will have you questioning why there aren’t far more visitors, and thanking your lucky stars that you discovered this treasure trove of hidden gems!

Expert Instruction

Diving schools abound in Veracruz, with many along the seafront offering a wonderful variety of tours and excursions for divers of all abilities. Dorado Buceo Veracruz (www.doradobuceo.com/veracruz  ) is one such center, boasting nitrox compressors, three 35ft vessels and one 36ft vessel nicknamed “Don Beto”.

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Centro de Buceo Scubaver (www.scubaver.net ) offers many diving experiences, including courses for absolute beginners, teaching the basics and allowing you to achieve a qualification at the end of your training.

Another is Mundo Submarino (www.mundosubmarino.com.mx ), which offers an enormous range of diving experiences including night dives and search and recovery. 

Underwater Attractions

Diving season spans from May to September, and with a 745 km (462.9 mi) coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, the state of Veracruz has many attractions which pull divers to the region, including coral reef formations teeming with vibrant marine life. The waters have excellent visibility (20-30 m / 65.6 – 98.4 ft), which you can capture stunning photographs. Veracruz’s main reef system is over 10 million years old and has 17 separate reefs, 6 of which are close to the port city capital.

Another popular diving spot—with the remaining 11 reefs —is Anton Lizardo, further south. Isla Lobos, close to the city of Tuxpan, has a splendid lagoon for a unique diving experience, while the emergent platform reef of Isla de Sacrificio 1km (0.6 mi) from shore is part of a National Protected Area with National Marine Park Status.

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There are a large number of sunken ships to explore, including a military vessel wreck close to the capital’s port. Hundreds of coral species can be seen and there are also anemones, rays, squid, octopi, sponges, nudibranchs, angel fish, surgeon fish, scorpion fish and clown fish (so you can try to find Nemo!)

On the Shore

Veracruz’s charms aren’t only found beneath the waves. With on-land attractions that include the impressive coastal Fort of San Juan, the Museum of Naval History, the Pier, the Plaza de las Armas, the City of Veracruz Museum and fascinating close-by archeological sites such as Papantla, Xalapa, Coatepec, Cempoala, Quiahuiztlán and Tajín. You can also see the House of Conquistador Hernán Cortés.

 But if sea life is what calls out to you, then the city’s aquarium—located right on the seafront— should be your port of call.  At this world-class installation, there are amazing exhibits of fish, otters and sea plants from the state, as well as examples of marine ecosystems from different locations around the planet. Admire the majestic sharks, which will swim over your head menacingly in the tunnel tank. There are also penguins, dolphins and manatees. If you’ve been diving all week, you might have to resist the instinctive urge to jump in!  

Location:
Veracruz is almost 6 hours from Mexico City along highway 150D, or you can take one of the frequent connecting flights or buses from the capital to the coastal port.