Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) Guide
Dive into Art: Explore the Cancun Underwater Museum Guide
The Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA) is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering a blend of art, conservation, and adventure. Imagine snorkeling or diving amongst hundreds of life-sized sculptures submerged beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Mexican Caribbean. This isn't just a museum; it's a living, breathing artificial reef teeming with marine life, providing a stunning visual spectacle and a vital habitat for coral and other sea creatures. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a diving aficionado, or simply looking for an extraordinary adventure, MUSA promises an unforgettable journey into an underwater world. MUSA was conceived in 2009 by British sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor and local marine park officials as a way to divert tourists away from natural coral reefs, giving them a chance to recover. The sculptures are made from pH-neutral marine concrete, designed to encourage coral growth and provide a haven for marine life. Over time, the sculptures have transformed into vibrant ecosystems, covered in colorful coral and attracting a diverse array of fish, crustaceans, and other marine organisms. The museum now comprises over 500 sculptures divided into two galleries: Salon Manchones, shallower and suitable for snorkelers, and Salon Nizuc, deeper and designed for scuba divers. Visitors to MUSA can choose from a variety of activities to explore the underwater art. Snorkeling tours are a popular option for those who prefer to stay near the surface, while scuba diving tours offer a more immersive experience, allowing you to get up close and personal with the sculptures and the marine life that inhabits them. Glass-bottom boat tours are also available for those who prefer to stay dry. Beyond the art itself, the experience offers a chance to learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans. After your underwater adventure, be sure to indulge in some authentic Yucatecan cuisine at one of the many restaurants in Cancun, known for its delicious seafood dishes, cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork), and refreshing margaritas.
Transportation
The most common way to reach MUSA is by boat from Cancun or Isla Mujeres. Several tour operators offer snorkeling and diving excursions that include transportation to and from the museum. You can reach the tour departure points by taxi or local bus from the Cancun Hotel Zone or downtown Cancun. Some tours may include hotel pick-up and drop-off.