Vacations in Cuba – The Best Diving and Snorkeling

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean is often associated with places like the Blue Hole in Belize, Sting Ray City in Grand Cayman, Santa Rosa Wall in Cozumel, and Wreck Diving off the coast of Aruba. While these are among the most sought after spots in the Caribbean, there is another island in the Caribbean that, while not generally associated with the best diving and snorkeling spots in the world, can stand up to even some of the most demanding underwater enthusiasts. .

While primarily known for its pristine beaches, beautiful architecture, and rich culture, Cuba is home to more than 500 dive sites and 360 snorkel sites within the Cuban archipelago, many of which have been declared national parks or protected areas. The preservation of Cuba’s natural ecosystem, both on land and in the water, is taken very seriously to ensure that the warm, clear waters and thriving biodiversity remain vibrant and healthy. The Main Island and the Keys of Cuba have an exceptional diversity of marine life and offer a variety of opportunities from the exploration of reefs, walls, narrow channels and shipwrecks. Conditions surrounding the island are consistently ideal with clear, warm waters and no strong currents.

Jacques Cousteau once claimed that he saw more fish on Cuban reefs than anywhere else in the world. However, you don’t just have to be an experienced diver; excellent snorkeling is available throughout the island from just a few meters from the shoreline to full-day excursions among the reefs and shipwrecks. Five of the best places in Cuba to dive are:

Bay of Pigs it is known for its underwater caves and sudden ocean walls and features many gorgonians, sponges and corals. A thriving marine life will satisfy divers and snorkelers alike, as most of the diving is done from shore.

Fat Mary is a biosphere reserve in the westernmost part of Cuba. Although quite remote, it is very rewarding for divers and snorkelers alike, as the seabed is among the best spots in the Caribbean and contains an abundance of marine flora and fauna.

Holguin On the north coast, it is home to innumerable schools of underwater species and magnificent coral reefs. Numerous dive centers offer excursions at very reasonable prices.

The Keys also on the north coast made up of inlets and keys, including Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa María and Cayo Guillermo. With 20 miles of coral reefs and perfect visibility, you’ll find turtles, moray eels, lionfish and dolphins in the thriving underwater world. Divers will experience incredible walls and impressive coral formations.

Santiago de Cuba on the south coast it has shipwrecks, vibrant flora and fauna and fantastic underwater topography.

All these locations in Cuba have accommodations ranging from All-Inclusive resorts to more modest hotels. Many of the resorts include snorkeling as part of their All Inclusive package and also offer day trips to more remote locations at very affordable prices.

With a safety record that is the best in the world and an extremely high regard for diver safety. Never having more than 5 divers per dive master and always having a highly qualified doctor manning their 10 recompression chambers means that Cuba is not only one of the most spectacular places to dive but also one of the safest.

The incredible beaches of Cuba are incredible not only on land but also underwater. If you are traveling to Cuba just to soak up the sun and enjoy the relaxed Cuban atmosphere, take a snorkel and enjoy the hidden world under the turquoise waters. For divers looking for world-class diving at less than world-class prices, hit the reefs and corals around Cuba and you’ll find that diving in Cuba will not only meet but exceed your expectations.