Isle of Youth
Cuba’s second largest island — the Isle of Youth (Isla de la Juventud) — offers over 50 dive sites within a 6-kilometer diving zone. The Punta Frances National Marine Park is known for tunnels in coral walls, diverse marine fauna, and hosting international underwater photography competitions.
Underwater encounters include tarpons, parrotfish, barracuda, lobsters, and sea turtles, as well as sunken historic vessels. The flight from Havana to Nueva Gerona — the island’s gateway — takes less than an hour. The program suits divers of various experience levels, though wreck diving and tunnel navigation require experience.
What You'll See
Conditions
Season
November–April
Visibility
20–40 meters
Water Temperature
25–28°C
Level
Open Water and above
Duration
5–7 nights
Useful Information
Best Season
November–April (dry season, calm seas), December–February for peak shark action
Visa
Most visitors need a tourist card (visa) obtained before travel; several nationalities, including Russian citizens, enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Valid medical insurance and the online D'Viajeros traveller declaration (filed within 72 hours of departure) are required for everyone.
How to Get There
Fly to Havana (HAV) via Europe or Istanbul, then a 6–8 hour transfer to the port of Júcaro, where liveaboards depart for Jardines de la Reina. María la Gorda is a 5–6 hour drive from Havana; Isla de la Juventud is reached by a short flight to Nueva Gerona (GER).
Climate
Tropical, 22–32°C, rainy season May–October
Currency
Cuban peso (CUP); euros and US dollars widely used by visitors
Time Zone
UTC-5
