At what depth is the C-53 shipwreck located?

The C-53 rests at approximately 24 meters (80 feet) depth—accessible for advanced or certified divers.

What is the history of the C-53 Felipe Xicoténcatl?

Originally commissioned as USS Scuffle in WWII, transferred to the Mexican Navy in 1962, decommissioned in the late 1990s, and sunk in 2000 as an artificial reef.

What marine life can divers expect to see at the C-53?

Divers often encounter schooling grunts and snappers, garden eels, green moray eels, lobsters, crabs, barracudas, and seasonal visits from eagle rays.

Do I need a certification to dive the C-53?

Yes. You must be a certified diver—Open Water certification is required, and Advanced certification is strongly recommended due to depth and currents.

The C-53 felipe xicotencatl shipwreck in cozumel

C-53 Xicotencatl

C-53

Diving the C-53 Felipe Xicoténcatl: A Cozumel Wreck with a Story

C-53 Wreck, Uncover History Beneath the Waves

Dive into the past and explore the C-53 Felipe Xicoténcatl, a purpose-sunk shipwreck that has become one of Cozumel's most captivating Dive Sites. This former Mexican Navy minesweeper, now an incredible artificial reef, offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and marine biodiversity. Join Scuba Total Cancun for an unforgettable dive trip to Cozumel and discover why the C-53 is a must-do for any wreck diver.

Cozumel Wreck, from Minesweeper to Marine Haven

The C-53 Felipe Xicoténcatl was built in 1944 and served in the US Navy during World War II. (USS Scuffle) After a long and distinguished service, it was transferred to the Mexican Navy in 1962, where it patrolled the waters of the Caribbean. Decommissioned in the 1990s, the ship was prepared for its final mission: to become a sanctuary for marine life and a thrilling underwater attraction.

On June 6, 2000, the 184-foot vessel was ceremoniously scuttled off the coast of Cozumel, creating an instant artificial reef. Today, it rests upright in approximately 80 feet of water, a silent monument to its past and a bustling home to countless species of fish and coral.

Life on the C-53 Wreck

The C-53 is a testament to the power of nature's reclamation. What was once a steel hull is now a complex ecosystem. Divers can explore the ship's superstructure, swim through its cargo holds, and marvel at the incredible transformation.

Marine Life and Seasonal Highlights at Cozumel shipwreck

The C-53 is teeming with marine life. As you descend, you'll be greeted by schools of schooling fish like the ever-present grunts and snappers. Look closer, and you'll find green moray eels peeking out from the nooks and crannies. The wreck's hard coral formations provide shelter for lobsters and crabs.

Year-Round Residents: The bow of the ship is a special place where a colony of garden eels sways in the current. Everywhere you look, large schools of grunts, snappers, and other reef fish create a swirling spectacle. Keep a keen eye out for curious barracudas that often patrol the wreck, their silver bodies a striking presence. You may also be lucky enough to spot the occasional medium-sized Goliath grouper, using the ship's structure for a resting spot.
Seasonal Delights: During the winter months, you may be lucky enough to spot eagle rays gliding gracefully overhead. The wreck also serves as a cleaning station, attracting larger pelagic species.

Planning Your Dive in C-53: Requirements and Considerations

Diving the C-53 is an exhilarating experience, but it requires specific certifications and careful planning.

Due to its depth and potential currents, this dive is suitable for certified divers only. We require divers to have at least an Open Water Diver certification preferable Advanced Diver or equivalent experience. If you are not yet certified, our Team at Scuba Total Cancun can help you get the training you need.

Dive Conditions at C-53 in Cozumel

The C-53 is located in the Cozumel Marine Park, where visibility is typically excellent, often exceeding 100 feet. However, due to Cozumel's strong currents, the dive can be a drift dive, hidding from the current ,which requires good buoyancy control. Our experienced divemasters will guide you safely through the dive and help you navigate the currents.

Depth: 24 meters (80 feet)
Required Experience Level: Advanced or Open Water Certified Diver
Average Underwater Visibility: 30 meters (100 feet)
Average Water Temperature: 26º to 28 º C | 79º to 82º F

Book Your Dive with Scuba Total Cancun

Scuba Total Cancun is your gateway to the best diving in the Mexican Caribbean. Our experienced guides, top-of-the-line equipment, and commitment to safety ensure an unforgettable dive experience. We offer daily tours to Cozumel, including trips to the C-53 and many other iconic dive sites.

Ready to explore this incredible shipwreck? Contact us today or Reserve your dive trip and become part of the C-53's ongoing story.

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