🔎 TL;DR
- Arrecife Alacranes is a 140 km offshore atoll — the only coral atoll in the Gulf of Mexico.
- Designated a Parque Nacional (1994) and CONANP-managed, inscribed on UNESCO's biosphere-reserve network.
- Access: yacht charter only, minimum 2–3 day trip. No ferry, no day trips from shore.
- Pristine reef, turtles, seabird colonies, shipwrecks. A real expedition.
What Alacranes is
The Arrecife Alacranes is a coral atoll with 5 small islands (Isla Pérez, Isla Desterrada, Isla Desertora, Isla Pájaros, Isla Muertos). It sits on the continental shelf ~140 km north of Progreso. Because of the distance and lack of inshore infrastructure, it sees far fewer visitors than Caribbean reefs — and is consequently in much better ecological shape.
It is a Mexican Federal Parque Nacional (21,000 ha protected area, gazetted 1994). Since 2006 it is part of the Reserva de la Biosfera Arrecife Alacranes network.
Planning the trip
- Duration: 2–3 days minimum (1 day transit each way at charter speeds).
- Boat size: 40+ ft for overnight comfort and offshore safety.
- Permits: CONANP Parque Nacional entry fee + operator permit.
- Season: May–Aug (calmest seas, warmest water). Avoid hurricane season Sep–Nov.
- Cost: $3,500–7,000 USD all-in for 4–8 guests, 2 nights.
Plan an Alacranes expedition. Ask about Alacranes →
Frequently asked questions
Can I dive Alacranes?
Yes with a qualified divemaster aboard. Reef is healthy; dives are open-water. Bring your own dive computer and log.
Can I land on the islands?
Isla Pérez has a research station (IPN/UNAM) and is the access point. Other islands restricted for wildlife nesting.
Cell reception?
None. Satellite phone on the boat is standard; the captain must carry one.
Plan Alacranes
Dates + group size — we coordinate permits and an Alacranes-capable captain.