Ultra Freeze (EL Frio), Shipwreck Dive in Isla Mujeres

Ultra Freeze, Isla Mujeres. Photo Credit Denni Elgueta

Ultra Freeze, also known as El Frio, is a 61-meter (200-foot) shipwreck located 7 kilometres (11 miles) off the Caribbean coast of Isla Mujeres in Quintana Roo, Mexico. This massive vessel was once a large, hardworking freezer cargo ship that transported goods through the Caribbean and was deliberately sunk to create an artificial reef for divers. Its nearly intact hull offers an excellent wreck diving experience featuring a diverse ecosystem. Additionally, since it is situated just shy of a deep ocean drop-off, there is a greater chance of encountering exciting larger pelagic marine life.

In the 1970s, a catastrophic onboard fire led to her sinking. Today, her broken and scattered remains create an underwater maze that adventurous divers can weave through. Twisted metal, towering hull sections, and thick marine growth make the Ultrafreeze one of the most dramatic — and hauntingly beautiful — wreck dives in the area.

The ship is named for its past as a freezer cargo vessel, and the notably colder waters divers experience near the wreck also contribute to its nickname. The ship caught fire while docked in Isla Mujeres in 1978, suffering extensive damage that made it unseaworthy. To give the vessel a new purpose, authorities sank it as part of an artificial reef initiative. In 1979, it was towed southeast of the island and submerged in 29 meters (95 feet) of water, making it the oldest intentionally sunken ship in the area. Now, it lies just before the deep-water drop-off, providing divers with an adventurous experience accessible by boat.

The story of the ship did not end there. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew caused significant damage to the area. The storm broke the starboard hull and split the vessel in two, positioning the two halves at ninety degrees to each other in an L-shape. Both parts of the shipwreck remain upright and are still loosely connected, offering divers numerous entry points into the ship. Fortunately, the hurricane caused only minor damage to the coral growth that had begun to thrive on the wreck.

As you explore this wreck, the first thing that catches your attention, aside from the colder water, is the wheelhouse, located approximately 21 meters (70 feet) below the surface. It is beautifully adorned with vibrant hard corals. When you look inside the wreck, you'll notice a staircase, loose cables, open cargo holds, and various entry and exit points created by cracks in the ship.

At the right time of year, it is possible to see schools of eagle rays returning for their annual migration to the area. Shipwrecks are a popular hangout for these magnificent animals as they glide through the strong currents. Loggerhead turtles also return to the island during their mating season and can often be spotted near the wrecks. Among other favourites, sharks can also be seen, and if you're lucky, you might even encounter giant mantas.

Eagle Rays Above Ultra Freeze, Isla Mujeres. Photo Credit: Denni Elgueta

The wreck is about a 35 to 40-minute boat ride from the island, and the current in this area can be pretty strong. It is positioned on the island's windward side, so divers should be experienced and have completed recent dives. Additionally, since this is a deep dive, a strict screening process is in place to ensure the safety of both divers and guides.

Overall, this artificial reef is a successful example of a man-made structure deliberately sunk to become part of the environment. It enhances the ecosystem, provides a habitat for a diverse range of marine life, and offers an enjoyable experience for divers and photographers alike.

Depth

29 meters / 96 feet

Boat Ride

35 min

Dive Type

Drift - Strong Currents

Deep Dive

Artificial Reef - Wreck

Experience Level 

Advanced Open Water, Experienced Diver

Recent Dive Experience

Average Visibility Underwater 

20 mt / 65 feet

Average Water Temp

26 C°/ 79F°

Dive Time

25 - 30 min (Safety Stop Required)

To view the fish surveyed here with reef.org, click HERE.

👉 [Dive Ultra Freeze]

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Tracy Gunn is the founder and owner of Pocna Dive Center on Isla Mujeres, Mexico. A former banker turned adventurer, Tracy left a decade-long corporate career to pursue her passion for diving and island life. With over 35 years of diving experience and 24 years of living on Isla Mujeres, she now serves as a PADI Course Director, training the next generation of divers at her dive school. When she’s not underwater, Tracy shares her love for the island and the ocean through engaging blogs about diving, marine life, and Isla Mujeres culture. 

Interested in reading more from this author?

Blogs about Isla Mujeres, Mexico, and Recreational Scuba Diving: click here

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