The Gardens of the Queen: An Underwater Sanctuary to Explore in Cuba

The Cuban archipelago, without a doubt, is a dream destination. Named in honor of Isabella of Spain upon their discovery by Christopher Columbus, long a private reserve of Fidel Castro, and ranked among the 10 most exceptional sites by Commander Cousteau, the Gardens of the Queen are today the largest marine park in the Caribbean. […]

The Cuban archipelago, without a doubt, is a dream destination. Named in honor of Isabella of Spain upon their discovery by Christopher Columbus, long a private reserve of Fidel Castro, and ranked among the 10 most exceptional sites by Commander Cousteau, the Gardens of the Queen are today the largest marine park in the Caribbean. Dive with us to explore this sanctuary created in 1996, consisting of about 250 islands and islets, between dizzying drop-offs and mangrove forests, where you will encounter goliath groupers, silky sharks, and fascinating crocodiles!

Panoramic of the Gardens of the Queen
Panoramic view of the deserted islets covered with mangrove of the Gardens of the Queen. © Dominique Barray

An Accessible Aquatic Paradise

As far as the eye can see, islands and islets bask in turquoise water with temperatures exceeding 25 degrees almost all year round. A dream setting and shallow dives, with no strong currents, make the 2000 km² of the archipelago easily accessible to divers of all levels. About thirty sites are listed, ranging from shallow reefs to drop-offs frequented by large pelagics, passing through the mangroves. The diversity and abundance of wildlife make it one of the most important sites in the Caribbean.

Garden (4) (1)
The coral reefs are covered with sponges and gorgonians, and visibility is excellent. © Nicolas Barraqué


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