The largest island in the Caribbean Sea, Cuba offers a range of varied underwater sites to visit, from coral walls and caves to historic wrecks. Even the sharks are friendly at Jardines de la Reina, while sunken aeroplanes and ships abound at Varadero. This guide lists more than 60 sites.

Decades of isolation from tourism and development have left Cuba’s coral reefs among the most pristine in the world, an “exceptionalism” that stands in stark contrast to the island nation’s poverty and political situation. Famed diver/photographer Robert “Snorkel Bob” Wintner showcases these magnificent reefs with his astounding underwater images, while also capturing terrestrial life in the cities and villages of the island nation. Reef Libre is not a travelogue, but asks the big questions after a lifetime of isolation—can Cuba’s reefs still thrive? Nearly 400 stills, a compelling narrative, and a DVD capture this delicate time in reef history. Reef Libre: The Movie is a mini-documentary which encompasses this pivotal moment—from the streets to the reefs. To watch the trailer for Reef Libre: The Movie, click here!

I learned to dive in the mid 70’s by reading a short book about diving. Then my brother told me to NOT hold my breath and swim. My first dive was a solo dive in a stone quarry in Indiana. The next few years I got formal training and worked through the ranks to instructor. I worked as a YMCA and PADI instructor in Florida for several years before going to the West coast to train instructors at PADI College. In the mid 80’s I was hired by Werner and Myra Kurn to work as the Director of Training at Ocean Enterprises in San Diego, and trained instructors at Ocean Enterprises in Guantanamo Bay Cuba. I worked as a PADI Instructor examiner for more than 20 years and have more than 5000 dives.

Cuba, lying on a long and exuberant virgin coral reef, is nowadays an undersea paradise for diving lovers. This archipelago, surrounded by colorful waters, is a joy for the visitor's eye. Fascination increases if you dive into its warm waters and see its underwater environment.