Diving in Cuba

[Jack D.]

Hi everyone,Me and my girlfriend have just finished PADI referral course and are planning to complete the required 4 dives in Cuba. We've heard that although there aren't any diving schools in Cuba that issue PADI certificates, there are however individual PADI instructors with whom we can complete our dives. Does anyone know of any diving sights that could have such instructors as well as have good reliable diving equipment for hire. We were thinking of Cayo Levisa, Maria la Gorda, Playa Larga and Cayo Largo, but the info we get from the web is often contradictory and lacking in detail. We would be very grateful for any information regarding these places or any other recomendations.
Many thanks

 

[EdHornby]

Cuba is great - the reef is pristine but not a huge amount of fish like you'd get in the red sea although better than a lot of the rest of the Caribbean. I'd say that anywhere away from the big resorts on the south side are best, but other than that I'd say that there isn't much difference I'd guess

but if you go to cuba, stay for a few nights in Havana - it's brilliant !!!!!

 

[octopus]

Yes, there is diving centre in Maria la Gorda, in Marina Hemingway in Havana and in Cayo Levisa. I found it difficult to rent weight only, but I guess hiring full gear should not be a problem.
Now, I would not know about PADI stuff and quality of equipment.