Explore Central Cuba
Diving in central Cuba means being able to dive off the north and the south coast of the island, which means diving in two different bodies of water; the North Atlantic and the Caribbean Sea. However, what they both have in common are warm waters, clear waters, a high abundance of colourful marine life and exciting diving opportunities. Divers can either explore these waters by signing up with a local dive centre or dive resort, which are scattered around this region, or they can get aboard a liveaboard and explore the region that way.
The experience of diving here is a relaxing one for the most part. With the visibility averaging around 30 metres, reaching over 40 metres in some spots, the water temperatures ranging between 22 and 29 degrees Celsius, and a lack of currents, diving here often just feels like flying. It is possible to dive here year round but the peak diving season runs between November and April when it is the dry season. Jardine de la Reina is known for its high abundance of Silky Sharks and Caribbean Reef Sharks, with high chances to spot numerous other species as well. Some other animals which inhabit these waters include Sea Turtles, different species of Rays, American Crocodiles and large Tarpon. The reason that there is such a high density of marine life is due to the flourishing coral reefs here which are made up of colourful marine flora including Sea Sponges of all shapes and sizes, Hard Corals, Soft Corals, Anemones, Sea Fans, Sea Whips and more. The topography on which these corals have clustered include tunnels, caves, caverns, steep walls, plateaus, sandy bottoms and more. These are the kinds of dives which divers will not forget easily due to the vibrant colours, variety of types of diving and stunning diving conditions.
Places to Explore
Cayo Santa Maria
Cayo Santa Maria is a tropical island which lies in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, off of the north coast of Cuba. It is attached to the mainland with a bridge and known for its tropical island features of sparkling turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. These relaxing vibes translate into the underwater world as well. The calm, crystal clear waters filled with a vibrant array of marine flora and fauna create almost a meditative diving experience. These species are attracted to, and live among the coral gardens, caves, tunnels and remnants of old wrecks, which results in some stunning dives. Divers can explore these waters either from the handful of dive centres or from liveaboards. Whether divers are hoping to gain new skills in dive courses or just relax above, and below the water, Cayo Santa Maria is the ideal diving destination.
Cayo Guillermo
Cayo Guillermo is one of the tropical islands which makes up the Jardines del Rey archipelago which lies off of the north coast of Cuba. It is known for its long stretches of sandy beaches, sparkling waters and flourishing coral reefs. The handful of dive centres and dive resorts take divers out on small speed boats to see the best of what is on offer here. There is also the possibility to explore this area by liveaboard. Diving here is incredibly relaxing as the conditions are usually calm, no currents, great visibility and a vibrant marine environment to admire. Dive over the rainforests of soft corals and gardens of hard corals and sponges, and keep an eye out for Nurse Sharks and Green Sea Turtles who tend to pop up.
Cayo Coco
Cayo Coco is a tropical island which lies within the Jardines del Rey chain, off of the north coast of Cuba, in the North Atlantic Sea and is known for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. There are numerous all inclusive resorts on this island and many diving opportunities. There are numerous dive resorts and dive centres here, but there are also opportunities for divers to experience this area on a liveaboard. The clear waters here hold an abundance of marine life which are attracted to the flourishing coral reefs, which extend over 40 kilometres. Conservation of the reefs here is a top priority for locals and so dive guides always prioritise this as well when taking divers out. Here divers can really enjoy a plethora of different marine species of all sizes, surrounded by clear waters and colourful reefs in the background.
Trinidad
Trinidad is a stunning historical town which lies on the south central coast of Cuba, which borders on the warm, tropical waters of the Caribbean Sea. There are a handful of dive centres in the coastal regions which are Cayo Blanco, Ensenada de Casilda and Peninsula de Ancon which have experienced guides who will show divers what the waters have to offer, but if divers prefer liveaboards, there are also a few which visit this area. Diving here means diving into crystal clear waters and spotting a large array of marine species among densely packed coral reefs.
Jardines de la Reina
Jardines de la Reina is one of the world’s most beautiful natural ecosystems also known as the Galapagos of the Caribbean.
Bay of Pigs
Bay of Pigs is a place with high biodiversity such as beautiful coral reefs, maze-like caverns, massive caves, and cenotes.
Cayo Largo del Sur
Surrounded by sugar powdered white sand beaches, you will find the idyllic island Cayo Largo with warm, shallow and calm water.
Cienfuegos
Cienfuegos is a city which lies in the bay Bahía de Cienfuegos, on the south coast of the island of Cuba. The city itself has stunning historical architecture, and underwater there is some stunning natural architecture. The local dive centres will take divers to the many dive sites here which lie between and 10 and 30 metres from shore by speedboat. There is a fantastic collection of coral formations, wrecks, channels, tunnels and more. All of these are accompanied by a wide array of marine species which create pops of colour in these clear waters.
Top Dive Sites Map
Diving in Central Cuba
Central Cuba offers a remarkable variety of dive sites that cater to both shore and liveaboard divers. One of the standout spots is the Bay of Pigs, renowned for its easy shore access and stunning underwater landscapes. Here, divers can explore colorful coral walls teeming with marine life and experience night dives that reveal nocturnal creatures such as octopuses and lobsters. The calm waters and vibrant ecosystems make it a favored destination for shore diving enthusiasts.
For those interested in wreck dives, the waters around Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo present intriguing opportunities. The sunken remains of vessels, like the shallow wrecks off Cayo Coco, are easily accessible and provide a habitat for diverse fish species. Liveaboard options in the region allow divers to explore more remote sites, offering a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether seeking the thrill of night dives or the rich history of wrecks, Central Cuba captivates with its underwater allure.
The best Months to dive in Central Cuba
Central Cuba offers excellent diving conditions year-round, making it a popular destination for divers. The region boasts warm water temperatures ranging from 24°C (75°F) in winter to 30°C (86°F) in summer, ensuring comfortable dives throughout the year. Visibility is typically impressive, often exceeding 30 meters (98 feet), providing clear views of the vibrant marine life.
While diving is possible all year, divers should be aware of the weather factors that can affect conditions. The region experiences trade winds, which can occasionally cause stronger currents and choppier waters, particularly from late fall to early spring. However, these factors are usually manageable and do not significantly hinder diving activities. The hurricane season, from June to November, may pose some risks, but diving usually continues outside of major storm events.
Statistics
Historical data and trends
