Jardines de la Reina
The Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen) archipelago off Cuba’s southern coast is a marine reserve stretching over 240 kilometers, compared to the Great Barrier Reef and the Galapagos in terms of marine biodiversity. Access to the archipelago is only by sea, ensuring minimal human impact.
About 80 dive sites include coral walls covered with sponges and gorgonians, wreck diving opportunities on the remains of 17th-century Spanish galleons, and encounters with silky, reef, and nurse sharks. The program starts from Jucaro port with accommodation on a floating hotel or dive vessel.
What You'll See
Conditions
Season
November–May (high season)
Visibility
20–40 meters
Water Temperature
25–29°C
Level
Open Water and above
Duration
6 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
