The Caribbean is generally considered one of the most attractive diving areas in the world. The all-year-round warm waters are praised for their pristine character and surprising visibility, as well as for the rich marine life. During the last decade, the number of divers who come to this area has significantly increased and gradually, many countries started to focus on marine tourism – their major source of income. Cuba is one of these countries. The diversity of marine flora and fauna is exceptional. The main island of Cuba and its nearly
4,000 cays and inlets provide a perfect environment for local marine habitat. There are no strong marine currents here, and the warm, pure water is surprisingly clear; one can see through it for about 30 m.
The divers will appreciate the colorful coral gardens, charming meadows of gorgonians and sponges, or the intricate underwater structures formed by the currents. There are mysterious caves to explore, narrow channels, underwater escarpments. Cuban waters attract with the habitat of nearly 500 species of fish, 200 sponges and a great variety of mollusks, crustaceans, gorgonians, and algae. A very exciting option for divers, who long for some adventure, are the numerous well-preserved shipwrecks resting calmly on the seabed.
Cuba has a tendency to gain a reputation as an important diving haven. Nowadays, it has 37 international diving centers, 551 perfect sites for diving, 150 certified diving guides and – naturally the perfect marine conditions to establish themselves as a diver’s paradise. The infrastructure is improving, as well as the accommodation possibilities. The most famous diving sites include Maria la Gorda in the Corrientes bay, Varadero – the best known Cuban beach, Cayo Largo del Sur, or Playa Santa Lucia whose major charm are its 20 km of magnificent beaches and healthy corals.
