Diving the Felipe Xicoténcatl C-53 Wreck: WWII History in Cozumel

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Most divers who visit Cozumel go for the beautiful diving along the world’s second largest barrier reef system. The Meso-American reef system spans almost 600 miles of ocean between the Gulf of Mexico and Honduras, and Cozumel’s spectacular reef formations, sea life, and exceptionally clear waters make this island one of the world’s most popular diving destinations. Divers are able to see beautiful coral heads, colorful sponges, tropical fish, rich, healthy ecosystems and steep walls that drop to thousands of feet deep. Tunnels and caves twist through the reef, providing a safe and diverse environment for many species, including some not found anywhere else on earth. Most of diving sites in Cozumel are located within the Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park (Parque Nacional Arrecifes de Cozumel), a protected underwater environment covering 29,000+ acres.

Cozumel isn’t particularly known as a wreck diving location, and for good reason. Ships that went down in rough waters offshore sank to depths far greater than any scuba diver could visit, and wrecks in shallower waters are eventually beat into oblivion by seasonal storms and tropical hurricanes that pass through the area. Fortunately, there are a few sunken ships here that are interesting dives and worthy of a dive or two on your next visit to Cozumel. One of those wrecks is the C53 Felipe Xicotencatl.