Reef update/restrictions in Cozumel

[jetskier]

Paradise, Chankanaab, Yucab and Tormentos are temporarily restricted in order to allow for natural rejuvenation of the reef ecosystems. Other popular dive sites such as Islote, Punta Celarain, Maracaibo, Chunchaka’ab, Punta Sur and Columbia have been declared areas of limited use. The National Marine Park will stringently enforce this.

 

In regards to tourism and the park, certain activities are prohibited or restricted within the National Marine Park area, such as “snuba” which is prohibited. A dive group cannot exceed 8 persons, and instructors are limited to two students. Fines for violating these restrictions will be severe, and dive operators must take into account that violations will be treated like federal crimes.

 

Some of the measures to be enforced include a greater distance between the reef and the diver, strict monitoring of diver buoyancy, and prohibition of night diving.

 

A strict rule of snorkel vests on the reef will be observed, and the use of cameras will be restricted. Guides are strictly prohibited from touching or lifting organisms to show their clients. The no-feeding rule will also be strictly enforced so fish will not stop eating their normal food of algae and seaweed.

 

The reefs that the National Marine Park recommends during the period of recovery are Punta Sur, Columbia, Palancar Caves, La Francesa and Paso de Cedral which were all minimally damaged.

Dave

[bobert]

Thanks for the info.