Dive Site: Danger Point

Dive site facts: Danger Point

Depth

5–30 m

Typical dive

12–25 m, 50–60 min

Current

Mild

Visibility

20–30 m

Entry

Boat / Giant stride

Level

Open Water Diver

Dive type

Reef, wall, coral garden, macro

Night dive

Possible

Region / port

Cienfuegos, Cuba

Coordinates

21.6797° N, 80.4676° W

Conditions & Currents

Currents at Danger Point are generally mild, particularly compared to more exposed oceanic sites, allowing for relaxed exploration of the reef. However, occasional gentle surges can be felt closer to the surface, especially after a period of moderate winds. Divers can anticipate a boat entry, often a giant stride, followed by a descent onto the reef slope. Exits are typically back onto the boat, with surface conditions usually calm enough for an easy return. Visibility is consistently good, often ranging from 20 to 30 meters, though it can be affected by plankton blooms or recent weather events. There are no significant thermoclines reported at typical recreational depths, maintaining a stable water temperature throughout the dive. Divers should plan their gas consumption factoring in the leisurely pace encouraged by the mild currents, allowing for extended bottom time.

Marine life & sighting chances

Schooling snappers

common

Fusiliers

common

Gorgonians

common

Soft corals

common

White-tip reef sharks

common

Groupers

common

Sea turtles

common

Moray eels

occasional

Bull sharks

occasional

Hammerhead sharks

occasional

Eagle rays

occasional

Whale sharks

rare

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Danger Point typically begin with a brief boat ride from the shore, culminating in a giant stride entry into the clear waters. Upon descent, divers will find themselves on a gently sloping reef, usually starting around 5 to 10 meters, rich with hard and soft corals. The dive often proceeds along this slope, allowing for exploration of abundant reef fish and macro life nestled within the coral formations. As the dive progresses, the slope transitions into a vibrant wall that drops to depths of up to 30 meters. Divers can choose to explore the upper sections of the wall or descend deeper to encounter larger marine species such as groupers or even occasional sharks. The route is often an out-and-back or a gentle drift depending on the mild currents, turning before reaching minimum air pressure. The safety stop is typically conducted at 5 meters over the shallower part of the reef, providing an excellent opportunity for observing schooling fish before ascending to the surface for boat pickup.

Underwater photography

Danger Point offers diverse photographic opportunities, from wide-angle reefscapes to intricate macro subjects. For capturing the expansive coral gardens and schooling fish, a wide-angle lens is recommended. The generally excellent visibility and mild currents create ideal conditions for well-lit, vibrant reef shots. Macro lenses are perfect for documenting the numerous smaller inhabitants like nudibranchs, crustaceans, and juvenile fish hiding in the corals. Consider using strobes to bring out the true colors of the reef at depth. Practicing good buoyancy control is crucial to avoid contact with the delicate coral structures while positioning for shots. Subjects are often plentiful and unperturbed by divers, allowing for patient composition.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• El Almirante

  El Almirante is an advanced dive site located off the shores of Maria la Gorda, on Cuba's Guanahacabibes Peninsula.

• Black Coral Wall

  Black Coral I and II are prominent dive sites within Cuba's renowned Jardines de la Reina marine reserve, an area celebrated for its…

• Moñtana Rusa

  Montaña Rusa is an advanced dive site located within Coiba National Park, Panama, aptly named for its undulating underwater landscape.

• Yemayá

  Yemayá is a prominent dive site located in the María La Gorda region of Cuba, renowned for its exceptional wall diving experiences.

• El Farallon

  El Farallon is a notable dive site located within Cuba's protected Jardines de la Reina marine park, an archipelago renowned for its…

Getting there & logistics

Access to Danger Point is typically facilitated by dive operators based out of Cienfuegos. Divers usually fly into international airports like Havana (HAV) or Varadero (VRA) and then transfer to Cienfuegos, a journey that can take several hours by road. Day trips are common for this site, often combined with one or two other nearby locations. Liveaboard options are also available, which typically include Danger Point as part of a broader itinerary exploring the southern coast of Cuba. There are no specific marine park fees mentioned for this particular site, but it's always advisable to confirm with your dive operator. Trip lengths can vary from single-day excursions to multi-day liveaboard adventures.

Safety & environment

While diving at Danger Point is generally safe due to mild conditions, all divers should carry personal dive insurance covering emergency medical treatment and evacuation. The nearest recompression chamber is likely located in Havana, which entails a significant evacuation time by road or air in case of a serious incident. Divers should always maintain proper buddy procedures, monitor their depth and bottom time, and adhere strictly to dive computer limits. Although currents are typically mild, it's prudent to stay aware of any subtle changes and communicate regularly with the dive guide. Avoiding contact with marine life and respecting the pristine environment are crucial for both diver safety and reef conservation.

Who it suits, and who it doesn't

FAQ

Danger Point FAQ

Liveaboards diving Danger Point

These liveaboards may visit Danger Point on selected itineraries, the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Jardines Avalon Fleet

Cuba

20 guests35 m