Cuba is renowned for its sandy beaches, but there’s more: unlimited opportunities for adventure and discovery lie just beyond the shore. From calm, shallow waters that are ideal conditions for a family swim to sunken shipwrecks on the ocean floor waiting for the true adventurer, the Caribbean Sea offers unforgettable experiences above and below the surface.
Whether a pro diver or a leisure-seeking wave rider, nothing matches the waters of Cuba, making it the perfect winter escapade for any vacation style. And travellers looking to experience top vacations in Cuba will find convenient weekly flights from multiple gateways across Canada when booking with Sunwing Vacations.
Cruising the coast on a catamaran
A catamaran cruise is both a unique and relaxing way to explore Cuba’s expansive coast. Located northwest of Cayo Largo – a secluded playground for those looking to unplug and connect with nature on the deepest level – lies Marina Marlin, the starting point for an exciting coastal expedition. Once on board, travellers will explore the surrounding cays with a quick stop at Cayo Iguana, a picture-perfect islet home to hundreds of iguanas. Voyagers will then be able to indulge in some of the best diving conditions in paradise, with two stops along the second largest coral reef in the world, where they can experience the vast and colourful marine life that inhabits the area. On the last leg of the tour, they’ll get to bathe on a sandbar out at sea and view starfish in their natural habitat before sailing back to where it all began.
Exploring the sea floor
For travellers looking to dive into the deep blue and immerse themselves in Cuba’s marine flora and fauna, Playa Ancón is a must see. Just 20 minutes from Trinidad with over 20 different dive sites to choose from, treasures of history and natural beauty are waiting to be unlocked beneath the surface. Nestled in the seabed are sunken galleons and boats, as Cuba was once a prime location for privateer warfare. This emerald-blue atmosphere also house black coral, sea sponges, coral gardens and an array of tropical fish which divers can experience up close and personal. These waters are made for every skill level, however novel divers will be well-equipped to discover more of this underwater world with the support of a well-trained instructor.
Cave diving in Matanzas
The wonders that live beneath the ocean’s surface are waiting to be explored with a cave diving excursion in Matanzas, just outside of Varadero. Cueva de Saturno, or Saturn Cave, is a vast underwater cenote that travellers can discover at their own speed, whether it be swimming, snorkelling or scuba diving, plus two galleries that descend 20 metres deep where little sea creatures like blind shrimp and tropical fish call home. For those who are more comfortable taking in the views from up above, the cave’s hanging stalagmites and stalactites are a sight to see, plus the cave’s clear, crystalline waters offer a striking view all the way to the bottom of the grotto.