Museo Subacuático de Arte (MUSA)

Overview

MUSA (Museo Subacuático de Arte) is an underwater museum with over 500 life-size sculptures installed on the seabed between Cancún and Isla Mujeres, accessible by snorkeling, scuba diving, or glass-bottom boat. Created by sculptor Jason deCaires Taylor, it is one of the world's largest underwater art collections.

Highlights

• The Silent Evolution: 400 life-cast figures standing on the ocean floor, colonized by living coral.
• Man on Fire: A cement figure engulfed in sculptural flames, growing vibrant reef life.
• Conservation Mission: Each sculpture is pH-neutral, designed to encourage coral attachment and marine habitat creation.

History

Founded in 2009 by Jaime González Cano, Roberto Díaz Abraham, and artist Jason deCaires Taylor, MUSA was created to divert snorkeling pressure away from the endangered Manchones Reef. By 2013, coral coverage on the sculptures exceeded expectations.

Visitor Tips

• Choose your access: Snorkeling, scuba (for deeper galleries), or glass-bottom boat for non-swimmers.
• Book ahead: Tours depart from multiple marinas; advance booking guarantees morning slots with best visibility.
• Duration: 2–2.5 hours (including boat transit).