About This Trip
Trip Highlights
- Explore one of the largest marine parks in the Caribbean, home to the most pristine coral reefs in the entire Caribbean Sea.
- Since being protected in 1996, fish populations have increased by 30% and shark populations are 10% larger than outside of the park.
- Enjoy guidance by internationally-recognized Cuban marine biologists on this educational program.
- This trip is open to U.S. citizens under special visa conditions.
Sixty miles off the southeastern coast of Cuba, Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen) National Park encompasses a chain of 250 virgin coral and mangrove islands. It is Cuba’s first marine park and the largest no-take marine reserve in the Caribbean.
Read an article by our travel director, Wayne Sentman, about his experience in Jardines de la Reina.
Due to its intact connectivity between seagrass beds, mangroves, and coral reefs, as well as the remoteness of the area and its long history of protection, Gardens of the Queen represents a “baseline” for a nearly pristine Caribbean marine ecosystem; an ecosystem that is home to healthy populations of Caribbean reef sharks and Goliath groupers, important grazers like rainbow parrotfish and long-spine sea urchins, and recovering endangered species such as elkhorn coral and hawksbill sea turtles.
Our scheduled expeditions will take take place aboard the 160-foot Jardines Avalon III, a luxurious liveaboard dedicated to exploring Cuban waters. Private group charters are also available aboard the M/V Oceans for Youth, a liveaboard designed for sustainable exploration and research.
"This was the most amazing snorkeling trip! So many species in such abundance. Our guides Tamara and Fabian were so knowledgeable, friendly and flexible. No matter what the conditions they and the dive masters were able to find great spots to view and interact with the marine life. Onboard was comfortable and the staff were kind and helpful." - Pat M.
Notes on Trip Costs
Trip prices do not include airfare, but do include the mandatory port fee ($240) and conservation fee ($150). Limited single cabins are available for an additional $1,500. 4 master suite cabins are available for an additional $700-$745/person (double occupancy only, not available as singles). 4- day Havana extension starting at $1,750/person. Request a detailed itinerary for complete pricing details. Click here for our full expedition terms and conditions.
Conservation Impact
Established in 1969, Oceanic Society stands as the oldest nonprofit organization in America committed to ocean conservation. We are trailblazers in the realm of "eco travel," crafting expeditions that not only align with our charitable mission but also actively support marine research and conservation efforts globally. Moreover, with every booking made, we take pride in sponsoring the removal of 200 lbs. of plastic waste from the ocean. Dive deeper into our innovative travel approach here.
Dates & Prices
Itinerary
Day 1: Camaguey - Jucaro, embark
Welcome and pick-up at Camaguey Airport (flights are expected to resume by the end of 2022). Transfer to Jucaro (about 2 hours) for boarding . Once on board we will have a welcome orientation and dinner.
Days 2-7: Gardens of the Queen / Jardines de la Reina
Arrive in Gardens of the Queen and begin marine eco-explorations with Cuban biologists and resource management experts to include daily snorkeling and island excursions. Habitats to explore include:
- Pristine marine lagoons and expansive seagrass meadows
- Mangrove forests and channels
- Patch and reef crests with rare, endangered corals
- Deserted cays and sea turtle nesting beaches (in season)
Enjoy nightly natural history talks or marine ecology seminars by your Oceanic Society naturalist and Cuban marine scientists throughout our adventure.
Day 8: Disembark - Camaguey - fly home
Disembark at 8:00 AM and transfer to Camaguey airport (about 2 hours). Fly home.
Ship
Jardines Avalon III
The 160 foot Jardines Avalon III is a luxury motor yacht with 15 staterooms, including 4 suites with balcony. All cabins have private bathrooms and 2 beds (double or twin), air-conditioned with individual thermostats. The ship has a maximum capacity of…
Naturalist(s)
Your expedition will be led by one or more of the following expert naturalist guides:
Trip Extensions
Pre-trip extensions to explore beautiful Havana and the nearby eco community of Las Terrazas are available. You'll enjoy a fascinating guided tour of Havana, walking the streets of Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visiting other important Havana landmarks. We'll also visit a bustling local jazz club in the evening, and spend a day visiting the unique eco-community and nature reserve of nearby Las Terrazas. Sample itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival and welcome dinner in Havana
- Day 2: Full day Havana city tour; Evening visit to a jazz club
- Day 3: Day trip to Las Terrazas community and nature reserve
- Day 4: Private bus transfer from Havana to Jucaro to join your expedition.
Please request a detailed itinerary for additional information. Pricing starting at $1,750/person
