The C-53 Wreck, also known as Felipe Xicoténcatl, is a former World War II minesweeper that was deliberately sunk to become one of Cozumel’s most iconic dive sites.
Resting upright on a sandy bottom at about 20m deep, this 56m long and 10m wide wreck offers exceptional visibility, generally between 20 and 30m, and reaching up to 40m depending on conditions. It is home to abundant marine life, making it an accessible and safe destination for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this fascinating wreck.
The History Behind the C-53 Wreck in Cozumel
Known as Felipe Xicoténcatl, the C-53 wreck in Cozumel has a rich history dating back to World War II. Built between 1943 and 1944 in Tampa, Florida, by Wilson Marine Ship Works, it was originally named USS Scuffle (AM-298), a minesweeper used by the U.S. Navy in the Pacific.
The Scuffle took part in several major operations during the war, notably in the Gulf of Leyte during the Philippine invasions, as well as in anti-submarine and anti-aircraft escort missions between 1944 and 1945. It was decommissioned in June 1946.
In October 1962, the ship was sold to the Mexican Navy, which first renamed it ARM DM-05 and later, in 1994, ARM General Felipe Xicoténcatl (C-53), in honor of a Mexican military hero. For 37 years, the C-53 patrolled the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, contributing to the fight against illegal arms and drug trafficking, as well as taking part in search and rescue missions.
In June 2000, after being officially retired from service in 1999, the vessel was deliberately sunk near Chankanaab Marine Park in Cozumel to be transformed into an artificial reef and diving site.
Before being sunk, the ship was carefully stripped of all hazardous and contaminating materials, making it a safe habitat for marine life and a highly popular attraction for divers. Since its scuttling, the C-53 has become a refuge for a wide variety of corals, sponges, tropical fish, rays, and other marine species.
Its transformation into a wreck was planned and supported by local diving associations as well as the marine park administration, providing visitors with a safe underwater exploration site rich in biodiversity.
Why Dive the C-53 Wreck in Cozumel ?
Diving a wreck offers a unique feeling that few other sites can match, and the C-53 in Cozumel is a perfect example. As mentioned earlier, diving the C-53 means exploring a former World War II military ship!
What makes wreck diving so captivating is the feeling of exploration. Swimming through the corridors, bridges, and technical rooms of the ship gives the impression of stepping back in time. Every corner tells a story, and every submerged structure creates a fascinating setting.
The C-53 has been prepared to allow safe exploration. Openings were widened and hazardous elements removed, making the site accessible for intermediate divers while still offering excitement for the more experienced.
With excellent visibility and generally calm diving conditions, the C-53 offers a complete experience: visual, historical, and immersive. It is one of Cozumel’s most memorable dives, perfect both for wreck enthusiasts and for those discovering this type of site for the first time.
What You Can See at the C-53 in Cozumel :
A Tourist Submarine
During your exploration of this former warship, you might even get the chance to spot a tourist submarine!
In Cozumel, Atlantis Submarines offers a unique experience aboard a tourist submarine. Air conditioned and pressurized, this submarine descends to depths of up to 30m, providing a panoramic view of coral reefs, colorful marine life, and the C53 wreck, all without requiring a diving certification.
Marine Animals
The structure of the C53 Felipe Xicoténcatl attracts abundant marine life: schools of fish, tropical crabs, angelfish, moray eels, barracudas, rays, colorful corals, sponges… The wreck has now become an ecosystem of its own.
This wreck is not only a historic diving site but also a vibrant and diverse underwater ecosystem, perfect for marine life enthusiasts and underwater photography lovers.
When to Dive the C-53 Wreck ?
The best time to dive the C53 wreck in Cozumel is generally between December and April, which corresponds to the dry season and offers optimal conditions.
During this period, visibility is excellent (often between 25 and 40m), the water temperature remains pleasant (around 25 to 29 °C), and currents are usually moderate.
More specifically, diving the C53 wreck, located at about 21 to 24m deep, is possible year round thanks to the consistently clear waters of Cozumel. However, the high visibility and calmer conditions during the dry season make it the ideal time for an optimal experience.
What Certifications Are Needed to Dive the C-53 Wreck ?
To dive the C53 wreck in Cozumel, you need at least an Advanced Open Water Diver certification or its equivalent.
This certification allows you to explore the wreck safely, especially if you want to enter the interior sections of the ship.
What Is the Price to Dive the C53 Wreck ?
The price to dive the C53 wreck in Cozumel depends on your departure point. From Playa del Carmen, the cost is usually around 3800 MXN (about 202 USD). From Cozumel, it is also around 3300 MXN (about 175 USD).
This price often includes two ocean dives, equipment, and transportation. It may vary slightly depending on the dive center and the chosen departure point.