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.  We will be going under the Marine Research and Conservation efforts and may have the opportunity to be involved at an intro level once on the Livaaboard.

An underwater paradise is all that comes to mind when you first enter the water. Imagine the vertical walls covered with brightly hued sponges, huge Pilar Corals, black corals extending its branches in the contrasting blue water. Many species of gorgonians, fragile laminar corals showing their beautiful shapes through crevices, canyons and caves. The mangroves providing an incredible nursery area for young fish populations, filtering the water that goes to the reef together with the sea grass beds and in return receiving protection from the open ocean wave energy; all interconnected in a very fragile net that helps keep its variety, richness and splendor.

The biggest populations of adult fish in the Caribbean, Sharks, Snappers and Groupers up to 400 pounds are an everyday experience. Sharks are one of the main attractions and you can see them everywhere. You can easily dive with 6 different species: Silkies, Reef, Lemon, Black tip, King Hammerhead and nurse sharks. From July to November you have the chance to swim with Whale Sharks. Gardens of the Queen is certainly one of the last virgin reefs known by man. Dive and snorkel sites are well protected from the winds and sea currents. Visibility is more than 40 meters. There is a wide variety of fish and corals.

Our Accomodations:

Jardines Avalon F II is a 130 foot vessel with 10 deluxe comfortable state rooms with air conditioning and individual thermostats. All cabins have private bathrooms and 2 beds (one full, one twin). The vessel has an overall capacity of 20 passengers and 9 crew members. The design and interior decor give the yacht a touch of intimacy, refinement, a sense of warmth and simplicity. Each space is created to provide its guests with maximum comfort and safety. The boat guarantees all our guests a pleasant, exciting and exclusive cruise through Jardines de la Reina. Each room has panoramic windows to enjoy the breathtaking view of the Caribbean beaches.

Jardines Avalon F II offers to the divers a lot of space for dive equipment and photo and video cameras . On the top deck a Jacuzzi (500-gallon hot tub) ,with panoramic view: ideal space to drink a mohjito after the last dive at sunset.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

• 3 Meals Daily w/ Snacks
  • All meals, snacks, filtered water, coffee and juice. 5 beverages per day (beer, wine, soda), 1 rum cocktail per day (additional available for purchase in cash)
• 3 dives/day (17 dives + 1 night dive). Includes Tanks and Weights.
  • Option to Upgrade to 4 dives a day and or Nitrox when booking
• Airfare/Transfers
  • Fly into Camaguey (CMW)@ $80 per person each way to and from Jucaro Port
• Port and Conservation Fees
  • Port Fee $260 per person
  • Conservation Fee $160 per person
• Other Amenities:
  • Laundry Service

  • Leisure Deck

  • Shaded diving deck

  • Daily housekeeping

  • Audio & video entertainment

  • TV in cabins

  • Air Conditioned saloon

  • Aircon Cabins

  • Sun Deck

  • Indoor Saloon

  • Non-Diver (Snorkeler) Friendly

  • Warm Water Showers

  • Outdoor Dining

  • Separate rinse for u/w camera

  • Custom built for diving

  • Hot Tub

  • European /American sockets (220 volts and 110 volts )

  • Payment Schedule:  Initial deposit at time of booking, Interim Payment on or before Dec 1 2026 and final balance due on or before 03-15-2027

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED:

• Airfare/Transfers
  • Flying into Havana (HAV)@ $200 per person each way to and from Jucaro Port
• Tips
  • Gratuity payments can ONLY be made in CASH in EURO or USD - No other payments or forms of payment (including credit cards) are accepted on board
• Mandatory Dive Accident Insurance 
  • There are NO REFUNDS on either deposits or the full amounts so PLEASE get trip Insurance after securing your spots.  Sorry there will be NO EXCEPTIONS.  
  • If not already secured it can be purchased via https://www.dan.org/partner/2434254/trip