C53 Wreck Diving in Cozumel

One of my all time favorite dives is the Felipe Xicotencatl or C53 in Cozumel Mexico.

Originally built in Tampa at the Wilson Marine Shipworks in 1944. Measuring 184 feet long, 33 feet wide and 40 feet high from keel to the top of the super structure, this ship was put into service as mine sweeper for the US Navy as SCUFFLES.

In 1962 she was sold to the Mexican Navy, converted to an Admiral Class gun boat and named and numbered FELIPE XICOTANCATL C-53. From 1962 to 1999 she patrolled the Gulf of Mexico and the Mexican Caribbean sea serving in rescue missions and patrolling for illegal arms and drugs.

After 55 years of service C-53 was decommissioned and later donated to Cozumel underwater park. C-53 was sunk in 1999 in 82' of water just off shore from Chankanaab Park

Today you can dive the wreck with Blue Note Scuba in Cozumel.

154 feet (56.3 mts) long
33 feet (10.10 mts) wide
40 feet (12 mts) high
Displacement: 1000 tons

Do you enjoy Wreck Dives, contact us to complete a Wreck Diver Specialty.