If you’ve come to Cozumel for the legendary “flying underwater” feeling, Paso del Cedral is your runway. Known for its steady, exhilarating currents and a reef structure that acts as a bustling highway for marine life, this site is a cornerstone of our 2026 Mission Diving philosophy.
At Blue Mayan Divers, we don’t just drift past the reef; we teach you how to read the water, spot the hidden gems, and move with the ocean, not against it.
Why Paso del Cedral is Cozumel’s Most Exciting Drift Dive
Paso del Cedral (often called Cedral Pass) is famous for its “conveyor belt” current. Unlike the towering walls of Palancar, Cedral is a relatively flat reef at 40–60 feet (12–18 meters), characterized by low-hanging ledges and wide-open sandy patches.
The current here can be moderate to strong, making it the perfect playground for divers who love effortless movement. It’s a site where you can cover an incredible amount of terrain while barely kicking, allowing you to focus entirely on the massive schools of fish that gather in the flow.
The Splendid Toadfish: Where to Find Cozumel’s Resident Icon
You cannot talk about Cedral without mentioning the Splendid Toadfish (Sanopus splendidus). This vibrant, purple-and-yellow striped fish is endemic to Cozumel—meaning you won’t find it anywhere else on the planet.
While they are notoriously shy, hiding deep within rocky crevices, our expert guides have mapped out their favorite “addresses” along the pass. In 2026, we’ve seen a healthy increase in the toadfish population, making Cedral the most reliable spot for a sighting. Pro-Tip: Look for the signature “croaking” vibration in the water and keep your torch handy to peek under the ledges!
Marine Life Encounters at Cedral Pass
Because the current brings in nutrient-rich water, the “traffic” on this highway is dense. On a typical 2026 dive, you can expect to see:
- Green Sea Turtles: Often seen resting under ledges or munching on sponges.
- Nurse Sharks: Frequently found napping in the sandy patches between reef sections.
- Massive Schools: Look for “walls” of Porkfish and Yellow Snapper that part as you drift through them.
- Eagle Rays: Keep an eye on the blue water off the reef edge; we are seeing more spotted eagle rays here than in previous seasons.
How to Dive Cedral Pass Safely in 2026
Fast water requires a sharp mind. At Blue Mayan Divers, we prioritize safety and reef health through our Small-Group Intimacy model:
- Neutral Buoyancy: With the current moving you horizontally, staying “trim” is essential to avoid touching the delicate sponges.
- Stay with the Group: In fast drifts, a small group ensures your guide can signal a sighting and everyone can see it before the current carries you past.
- Low Impact: We strictly follow a “look but don’t touch” policy to ensure Paso del Cedral remains pristine for the next generation of mission divers.
Plan Your 2026 Drift with Blue Mayan
Ready to find the Toadfish? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting comfortable with currents, Paso del Cedral offers a thrill unlike any other site in the Caribbean.