Trip Full
November 5-16, 2025*
Cuba
Gardens of the Queen
*dates may vary slightly due to final flight schedule
Welcome to Cuba! Our mysterious and alluring neighbor to the south has become one of our most requested destinations, and for good reason. We’re returning to Gardens of the Queen, a protected marine park south of the Cuban mainland that covers more than 840 square miles of pristine reefs, mangroves, and cays. Declared a marine reserve in 1996, this is one of the most vibrant and healthy reef systems in the world. You’ll spend your week aboard the Avalon III Liveaboard, exploring coral walls, reef channels, and mangrove nurseries teeming with life. The diving is world-class, the atmosphere relaxed, and the experience truly one of a kind.
Our Itinerary
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Night 1: Cienfuegos
Accommodation: Waterfront boutique B&Bs
Start your adventure in the elegant coastal city of Cienfuegos, known for its pastel-colored buildings, lively squares, and seafront charm.
✺ Private guided city walking tour of Parque José Martí
✺ Stroll the scenic Malecón promenade
✺ Private seafood lunch
✺ Exclusive concert by Cuba’s top-rated orchestra
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Nights 2-3: Trinidad
Accommodation: Meliá Trinidad 5-Star Hotel
Next, you’ll explore Trinidad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial homes, and local art studios.
✺ Visit the 16th-century Architecture Museum
✺ Explore Plaza Mayor and surrounding churches
✺ Private pottery studio tour and demonstration
✺ Enjoy local music and authentic Cuban dining
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Nights 4-10: Jardines de la Reina Liveaboard
Accommodation:Avalon III Liveaboard
Board the Avalon III for a 7-night liveaboard expedition in one of the Caribbean’s most vibrant underwater ecosystems, a protected marine park spanning 840 square miles.
✺ Up to 4 dives per day
✺ Shark dives with silky, lemon, hammerhead, nurse, and seasonal whale sharks
✺ Canyons, pinnacles, and coral walls teeming with sponges and black coral
✺ Snorkel the mangroves and spot crocodiles*
✺ Participate in Blue Sanctuary conservation program
✺Evenings on deck with Cuban cuisine and sunsets
*Activities subject to availability
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Night 11: Return and Departure
Travel back toward Cienfuegos, then onward to Havana for your departure home.
Trip Cost
Per Person, Double Occupancy
Standard Cabin: $6,440*
Balcony Suite: $7,040*
$2,500 non-refundable deposit due at time of registration
**All rates quoted by Scuba Center include a 3% discount for cash/check payments.
Inclusions
✓ 2 nights Cienfuegos boutique lodging
✓ 2 nights at Meliá Trinidad
✓ 7 nights aboard Avalon III Liveaboard
✓ Up to 4 dives daily plus Blue Sanctuary participation
✓ All meals and beverages (beer, wine, rum included)
✓ Cultural tours, concerts, and museum visits
✓ Airport transfers and port/conservation fees
Requirements
Scuba certification card required for each diver.
We recommend all divers purchase DAN membership
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We highly recommend all travelers purchase travel insurance.
A passport is required for travel.
Not Included
X Roundtrip airfare
X Nitrox ($130 per person, prepaid)
X Meals not listed on itinerary
X Equipment rental, gratuities, and personal expenses
X U.S. credit cards not accepted in Cuba, plan to bring cash
Some Anticipated Highlights from our Trip
