The German-speaking dive centre Deep Dive Mexico in Playa del Carmen offers unique experiences for divers and snorkelers who wish to observe sharks respectfully and safely in their natural habitat. Whether it’s bull sharks, Atlantic nurse sharks, or whale sharks – here, encounters with large fish become a life-changing adventure.
Diving with bull sharks – the ultimate challenge
Diving with bull sharks is the highlight for all thrill-seekers looking for something extraordinary. Between November and February, they come to the coast of Playa del Carmen. Deep Dive Mexico enables you to get up close to these impressive animals – without bait, without feeding, but with maximum respect.
The tour starts early in the morning at 7:00 AM. After a detailed safety briefing, which also covers behaviour towards the animals, you’ll head by boat to a nearby dive site: the so-called “Bullshark Point”. This is located in a spacious, sandy area at a depth of 22–25 metres, where visibility is often over 30 metres.
The dive is calm, almost meditative: divers descend in a controlled manner to the seabed, kneel with crossed arms on the sand, and slow their breathing. Without any provocation or lures, the bull sharks glide closer – curious, but never aggressive. They usually maintain a distance of 5 to 6 metres and quickly lose interest when they realise the humans pose no threat.
The water is crystal clear, visibility is ideal – and safety is the top priority. In the entire region, no diver or snorkeller has ever been attacked by a bull shark. Deep Dive Mexico places great emphasis on a natural and respectful interaction with the animals – no show diving, just an authentic encounter with one of the most impressive marine creatures on our planet.
NITROX is available free of charge for certified divers to allow for longer bottom times and additional safety.
Anyone who has dived with bull sharks will never forget this experience. Many guests report that this encounter has permanently changed their perception of sharks – and their relationship with nature.
Diving with Atlantic nurse sharks
While bull sharks appear seasonally, Atlantic nurse sharks can be observed all year round. These calm, nocturnal bottom-dwelling sharks are often encountered during reef dives.
Nurse sharks are particularly suitable for beginners as they are peaceful, slow, and shy. They rest during the day under overhangs or in caves and can be observed well with calm behaviour – ideal for relaxed dives without adrenaline, but with great fascination.
Snorkelling with whale sharks
Another natural wonder awaits you between May and September: snorkelling with whale sharks – the largest fish in the world. During this time, whale sharks gather north of the Yucatán Peninsula to feed on plankton.
During the season, Deep Dive Mexico offers German-speaking snorkelling tours to the whale sharks every Monday and Friday. In small groups and with experienced guides, you’ll travel by boat to the hotspots.
Despite their gigantic size – whale sharks can grow over 12 metres long – they are completely harmless. Snorkelling is conducted under clear nature conservation regulations, with respect for the animal and at a safe distance. This tour is also suitable for families and non-divers – a fantastic opportunity to experience marine biology up close.
