Mero Ocean Adventure

Common General Questions

 

What distinguishes Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo from other places?

The marine life and geological formations that range from underwater mountains to coral reefs, make the coastal waters of Ixtapa – Zihuatanejo very special.

Type of Sea Life

We have a great number of organisms from small seahorses to great hunchback whales during the winter months. It is not uncommon to see large schools of dolphins on your way out to our diving sites, or come face to face with a great manta ray during your dive, and – why not? – watch a great whale shark that is amicably coming up close to investigate us.  There are also squid, moray, blowfish and an endless list of other organisms that you may be amazed to find in one single dive.

Types of coral

The corals that are best known in these reef areas are the so-called “polyps”, which are located within the area where we operate. However, we do not dive in all reef areas for reasons of ecological protection. These reefs are at a depth of between 3 and 40 feet. There are also a great number of tree corals that belong to different species of gorgons or gorgonians, as well as some fan-shaped corals of different sizes.

Type of ocean floor

The ocean floor is volcanic - in some zones forming extensions from the coast to the ocean - which result in canyon formations teeming with a great variety of organisms and making them excellent diving sites. There are also sand or rock floors and – as already mentioned before – ocean floors with coral reefs.

Sunken Ships

There are two ships on the bottom of the bay of Zihuatanejo. Both are visited regularly and will be of great interest to those in search of seahorses. In addition to being quite safe, these ships have developed their own ecological habitats, which was one of the goals in the creation of artificial reefs.

Caves

Due to the particular geological formation of the ocean floor, at some of the diving sites there are rock formations with conditions similar to those of caves but not quite as extensive as those in the Caribbean. In the area of the “Morros de Potosi”, however, there exists a cave system of impressive beauty.

Currents

Yes, there are currents, but not so frequently that they will occur in each dive. Not until we get to the diving site will we be able to determine their intensity. The up and down movement of a current is more typical for this area.

Visibility

Visibility changes from day to day. However, it can be said that in the final months of spring and in summer, fall and the beginning of winter, it is 50 + feet. Of course, there are summers when we measure an average of 80 and up to more than 100 feet in visibility. Temperatures during the winter months range from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Do the boats have showers?

No.

Is there shade on the boats?

Yes, however we do recommend you bring sun block.

 

 

Common Safety Questions

 

Do you have onboard radio communications?

Yes, we take a VHF radio with us, which is in contact with the diving operations and the port captain.

Is the staff trained in First Aid ?

Yes.

Do you have a first aid kit?

Yes.

Do you have oxygen on the boat?

Yes.

¿En donde está la cámara de decompressión más cercano?

There is one at the navy base in Ixtapa and another one in the port of Acapulco, at a distance of 3 and a half hours from Zihuatanejo.

Are there hospitals or clinics in a case of an accident?

Yes, there are two hospitals and a number of small clinics, as well as an ambulance service.

 

 

 

Common SCUBA Questions

How long does the boat take to arrive at the diving sites?

It varies, but it normally the trip will not be more than 25 minutes, with the exception of the special excursion to the “Morros de Potosí”.

When everybody is diving, does anybody stay on the boat?

Yes, the captain of the boat, who is generally a qualified dive master, will stay on the boat.

How many types of dives are offered?

There are generally two types of dives, doubles and singles.

How are the morning dives?

The morning dive is considered a deep dive from 60 to 90 feet, depending on the site.  It is important to note that this dive is only for certified divers.

How are the afternoon dives?

Following a 1- to 2-hour interval that is considered shallow, this dive is at a depth of 30 to 50 feet in shallow places close to the coastline.

How are the night dives?

Night dives are only suitable for experienced and certified divers. In this manner it can be determined how they will react during night dives.

Are lamps included in night dives?

Yes.

Can you go diving close to the ocean shore?

No.  There are no dives close to the ocean shore.

How many diving sites are there?

In Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo there are about 52 diving sites that range from coral reefs to underwater mountains (dips) and plateaus that are sticking out of the water.

Are all dives guided?

Yes, by dive masters and instructors or qualified guides.

Can one find diving companions?

Yes, all dives are organized following the couple system. If you come by yourself, we will determine who can be your partner, including one of the dive masters.

Must everybody form part of a guided group?

Yes.

What is the proportion of divers to dive masters?

1 dive master for 3 divers.

Can one bring company?

If they do not get seasick and if there is space available on the boat. Divers have priority.

Can the accompanying persons go snorkeling?

No, because the boat will have its motor running and follow the route of the divers, guided by their bubbles.

Is it essential that all divers are doing the same dive?

When it comes to the depth limits, yes, it is. If you are only going to do one dive, you can choose the deep dive or the shallow one.

What type of equipment is included in the dive?

A complete dive outfitting includes fins, visor, snorkel, tank, flotation vest, regulator, pressure gauge, depth gauge, wetsuit, gloves and boots.

What types of tanks are being used?

Aluminum tanks of 80 cubic feet and 3,300 pounds of pressure.

Can you rent tanks?

No. We only offer a tank refill service at a list price and only if you can show your actual diving log and certificate.

What type of protection is necessary for a dive?

As an additional service and at no additional cost, we offer 3-millimeter wetsuits in different sizes. During the last months of spring, in summer, fall and the beginning of winter a lycra suit is more than sufficient.

 

 

 

Common  Snorkel Questions

Where is the best place to snorkel in IXTAPA-ZIHUATANEJO?

Generally, the areas further away from town are better sites because the currents from rivers, marine traffic and other activities affect visibility and also the quantity and variety of marine life. Some of the best snorkel sites are around Islas Blancas. La Caleta and Playa Manzanillo, south of Zihuatanejo Bay are also excellent locations because they have have tranquil currents.

Is all equipment provided for the snorkel tours ?

Yes - life jacket, mask, snorkel and fins. You can also buy you own snorkel and mask from us if you would like to.

What if I have never "snorkelled " before?

No problem; our guides will show you everything and take you to the best areas to dive.

 

 

 

See you in Zihua!