Traveling to Cancun is much more than enjoying beautiful beaches. You can also dive into a world where culture and nature meet beneath the sea. If you’re looking for a different and memorable experience, diving at the Underwater Museum of Art (MUSA) and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is a great option for you.
What is MUSA?
The Underwater Museum of Art, better known as MUSA, is located between Cancun and Isla Mujeres. It’s one of the few museums in the world that you explore underwater. This unique project combines contemporary art and marine conservation, with more than 500 submerged sculptures creating a stunning and silent landscape—broken only by the sound of your own bubbles.
Besides its artistic beauty, these sculptures also function as artificial reefs that help protect marine life, offering shelter to species like sea urchins, angelfish, lobsters, and turtles. The pieces are made with special marine concrete, which helps coral grow on their surface. Without a doubt, this museum’s originality blends art and marine conservation in a fascinating way.
Explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Very close to MUSA is the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Diving here is a one-of-a-kind experience where the vibrant colors of the corals will take your breath away. You’ll see colorful coral formations, sea turtles, schools of tropical fish, and other stunning species, creating an unmatched visual spectacle.
Visibility is usually excellent year-round, and there are options for both beginners and experienced divers.
Why Use Biodegradable Sunscreen
While exploring these underwater wonders, it’s crucial to be a responsible tourist. Many traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which are highly damaging to coral reefs and marine life. These ingredients can cause coral bleaching, affect growth and reproduction, and even harm other marine species.
By using biodegradable sunscreen, you’re choosing a product that naturally breaks down in water without releasing toxic substances. This helps protect the fragile health of the reefs and preserve the incredible biodiversity of the Mesoamerican Barrier for future generations. It’s a small action with a big positive impact!
Recommended Biodegradable Sunscreen Brands:
When shopping for your sunscreen, look for labels such as “Reef Safe,” “Biodegradable,” or formulas free of oxybenzone and octinoxate. Some popular and environmentally-friendly brands include:
- Maya Solar: Known for its natural formulas and approval in eco-parks.
- Coral Safe: Certified “Reef Safe” with natural ingredients.
- Raw Elements: Widely recognized for reef protection.
- Badger Balm: Mineral-based with non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
- Sun Bum (Mineral Line): Some of their mineral products are reef-friendly.
- Thinksport/Thinkbaby: Popular mineral-based options with high water resistance.
Always check the ingredient list to make sure the product is free from harmful chemicals and made with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the main active ingredients.
What to Do in This Underwater Adventure
During this underwater adventure, you’ll discover the art and wonders hidden in MUSA’s galleries. First, you’ll snorkel around the natural habitats of sea urchins, angelfish, lobsters, and turtles. Then, you’ll visit the museum’s themed exhibits, featuring over 500 sculptures by renowned artists like Jason deCaires Taylor. These pieces, anchored to the seabed, have become artificial reefs over time—offering refuge to marine life.
Prepare Your Gear
To get the most out of this experience, we recommend bringing:
- Comfortable clothes
- Swimsuit
- Biodegradable sunscreen (essential for protecting the reef and marine life!)
- Hat or cap
- Extra money for any unexpected needs or souvenirs
Tour Information: MUSA Snorkel
- Ticket type: MUSA Snorkel
- Minimum age: 8 years old
- Languages: Spanish, English
- Included: Non-alcoholic drinks and snorkeling equipment
- Not included: Dock/marine tax per person and transportation (available at extra cost, payable at check-in)
Safety Recommendations
This activity is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or adults over 65. Your safety is our top priority.
Additional Considerations
Use of cameras or professional equipment is the responsibility of each participant. Damaged equipment is non-refundable. For accessibility concerns, please contact the tour operator before booking.
And to wrap up your amazing adventure, visit the VIP Lounges by MERA at Cancun International Airport—the perfect space to relax before your departure.
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OUR VIP LOUNGES IN T2, T3, AND T4
After your underwater adventure, say goodbye to Cancún the right way. Our VIP Lounges by MERA in Terminals 2, 3, and 4 of Cancún International Airport are designed to offer comfort, peace, and exceptional service before your flight.
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