Playing host to the largest marine reserve in the Caribbean, Cuba’s Gardens of the Queen or Jardines De la Reina (originally named by Christopher Columbus in honour of the Queen of Spain, Isabella I of Castile) is often referred to as the isle’s crown jewel.
Boasting one of the most vibrant marine ecosystems in the world, this rainbow-coloured corner of Cuba’s second largest archipelago has been wonderfully preserved due to strict environmental protection laws since 1996 – and boy, are we glad for it.
If you consider yourself a scuba diving or snorkelling enthusiast, this is one of the most enchanting places to explore the rich diversity of life under the water’s surface. With 650 uninhabited small islands and keys, the reserve stretches 840 square miles (2,170 square km) and bans on commercial fishing on various coastal stretches mean you’ll have front row seats to a treasure trove of awe-inspiring creatures including sharks, lobster, tarpon, grouper, and other fascinating species, as they elegantly float past. The beauty of it? These witnessed daily moments would otherwise remain a mystery.
The only way to describe this diverse underwater landscape is otherworldly; complete with mangroves, unique coral formations, canyons, towering pinnacles and beyond – it’s a city of rugged foundations intertwined with schools of vibrant marine life. You don’t hold the throne as one of the healthiest coral reefs in the Caribbean without undergoing some serious maintenance, though. Cuban Sciences and Environment Ministry regulations state the marine park is only open to a limited number of dive yachts to preserve and protect the area, keeping the total number of divers visiting to 3000 annually. If you are lucky enough to don your snorkel gear here, expect to be met by all creatures great and small, from silky and reef sharks to crabs, scallops, and sea urchins.
When is the best time to dive?
Whether it’s been on your bucket list for as long as you can remember or we’ve just persuaded you to take the leap (or should we say, splash), certain times of year are better than others with regards to scuba diving experiences. The best time to dive in Cuba is between December and April during the dry season (although it may be slightly more expensive) when the water is calm, sea temperature is a comfortable 25°C and visibility is good.
Other attractions at Jardines De la Reina
Be sure to make the most of your time on this idyllic archipelago. When you’re not exploring the deep blue, navigate through one of the many lush mangrove forests, where you’ll spot more incredible animals and marine life – including the saltwater crocodile and a wildlife sanctuary housing 68 species of migratory birds.
Want to discover the marine park over a few days? Head to Avalon Outdoors where you can stay in one of the gorgeous house boats, sleeping up to 30 guests with accommodation including suites with private balconies.
The best diving in Cuba
It may be the most popular site, but Cuba’s diving scene does in fact extend further than Jardines De la Reina. The Bay of Pigs is another popular place to visit for diving, with no less than 17 species of coral to discover – Cueva de los Peces (Fish Cave) is the place to head here, where you can admire the falling coral that spirals down 70m.
Another of Christopher Columbus’ discoveries is Cuba’s second-largest island, Isle of Youth (Isla de la Juventud). Rumour has it that divers have discovered chests with gold coins inside here, failing that, you’ll have beautiful coral reefs, a plethora of marine life, and the odd shipwreck to uncover.
Maria La Gorda is another of the best-known places to scuba dive in Cuba. Classified as a UNESCO biosphere reserve, this area has protected 38 species of coral, 27 species of gorgonians and 39 species of sponges to discover across its 50+ diving spots – so you’ll never get bored. Better still, visit the beach here in June and you’ll witness sea turtles nesting on the sands.
What is a coral reef?
Put simply-ish, a coral reef is an underwater ecosystem made up of colonies of coral polyps, which are held together by calcium carbonate. Stony corals (a cluster of polyps) form the foundation of coral reefs and come in all different shapes, sizes, and types – towering over the seafloor.
The four different coral reef categories include fringing reefs, barrier reefs, atolls, and patch reefs – each as unique as the next.
Fringing Reefs: The most popular type of reef, these are separated from the shore by narrow and shallow lagoons – perfect for little snorkellers.
Barrier Reefs: You’ve probably heard of the Great Barrier Reef, these reefs are separated by a larger lagoon or channel of deep water.
Atoll: An atoll is a ring-shaped reef or island complete with a coral rim that encircles a lagoon, either partially or completely. Many of these paradise-like islands can be found in tropical or sub-tropical waters.
Patch Reefs: These are small, isolated reeds that rise from the bottom of the island or continental shelf. You’re likely to find these nestled between fringing and barrier reefs.
Whether you have a passion for diving or simply want to take the opportunity to explore Cuba’s diverse underwater world during your time on the isle, we hope the above diving sites inspire your search to experience some of the best coral reefs in the world. Need help planning your adventure? Get in touch with our expert Love Cuba travel team and we’ll help you plan everything from your flights and accommodation to your itinerary.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com