Cuba’s Gardens of the Queen and Avalon Liveaboards
Cuba, a hidden gem in the Caribbean, boasts an unparalleled diving experience that remains largely unspoiled. The Gardens of the Queen (Jardines de la Reina), an archipelago consisting of 250 pristine coral and mangrove islands, offers some of the most remarkable dive sites in the world. Declared a Marine Park in 1996, this area is home to some of the Caribbean’s largest populations of adult fish, including sharks, snappers, groupers, and jewfish up to 400 pounds.
Avalon Liveaboards operate in this marine paradise, offering exceptional diving and eco-adventure opportunities on three vessels: Avalon II, Avalon III, and Avalon IV.
Avalon II Liveaboard
- A comfortable, intimate 90-foot yacht, Avalon II hosts 20 passengers in 10 deluxe air-conditioned staterooms, each with private bathrooms.
- Guests can enjoy panoramic views, a Jacuzzi on the top deck, and spacious dining areas serving continental Italian cuisine alongside traditional Cuban dishes like rice and beans, fried bananas, and lobster.
- The Avalon II provides a fantastic opportunity to dive and explore the surrounding waters, where guests are likely to encounter sharks, rays, and a variety of fish species.
Avalon III Liveaboard
- A luxurious 160-foot motor yacht with 15 staterooms, including four suites with balconies, Avalon III offers spacious accommodations and a hot tub with panoramic views.
- Onboard dining merges Italian flavors with Cuban specialties, and meals are served on the breezy afterdeck. The vessel can host 30 guests and offers plenty of room for dive equipment.
Avalon IV Liveaboard
- Replacing the beloved Tortuga, Avalon IV is a newly upgraded 180-foot yacht with 20 staterooms, spacious lounges, and multiple sun decks.
- Guests can enjoy a comprehensive diving, fishing, and eco-adventure experience while participating in conservation programs dedicated to preserving the marine park.
Legal Travel to Cuba
For U.S. citizens, leisure tourism to Cuba remains restricted. However, travel under one of 12 specific categories, such as Support for the Cuban People, is possible through educational programs coordinated with marine researchers and conservation efforts.
For non-U.S. citizens, there are no restrictions, and leisure travel to Cuba is permitted.
The Marine Park’s Global Importance
Jardines de la Reina is one of the Caribbean’s most important marine conservation areas. Its ecosystems are interconnected with other regions, and the work of Avalon and Cuban governmental institutions ensures the park’s long-term protection. The success of these efforts contributes not only to the local marine environment but also has a global impact on marine biodiversity.
Dive into paradise and conservation at Avalon Liveaboards in Jardines de la Reina, where unforgettable underwater experiences await in one of the world’s most protected marine areas.
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