Dive Site: Jaula II

About Jaula II

Jaula II is a notable dive site located within the Jardines del Rey archipelago, positioned between Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo on Cuba's northern coast. This area is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, characterized by extensive coral reefs and a vibrant array of fish species. Unlike some shallower neighboring sites, Jaula II caters specifically to advanced divers due to its considerable depths, which plunge well beyond typical recreational limits. The underwater topography at Jaula II supports a robust marine environment, with its deeper sections providing a habitat for larger pelagic and reef-dwelling species. The site is part of a larger coral reef system that features both soft corals, such as sponges and grand gorgonians, alongside an abundance of varied fish life. While the general reef structure in Jardines del Rey is divided into strips, Jaula II's profile allows for exploration into deeper zones. Divers at Jaula II can anticipate encountering impressive marine fauna, including various snapper and grouper species, as well as barracudas. More adventurous dives often reveal nurse sharks and graceful eagle rays navigating the deeper currents. The dive experience here is geared towards those with the training and comfort level required to safely explore depths averaging between 25 and 35 meters, promising a rich and engaging underwater adventure.

Dive site facts: Jaula II

Depth

25–35 m

Current

Mild to moderate (regionally)

Visibility

20–30 m (regionally)

Water temperature

25–30°C (seasonal)

Entry

Boat

Level

Advanced divers

Dive type

Coral reef, deep dive

Region / port

Jardines del Rey, Cuba

Coordinates

22.5600° N, 78.4400° W

Conditions & Currents

While specific current details for Jaula II are not provided, other sites in the wider Jardines del Rey region, such as Las Coloradas, experience mild currents that facilitate drift diving. Divers at Jaula II, particularly at its average depths of 25-35 meters, should be prepared for varying current conditions typical of deeper reef environments. Visibility in the region is generally good, often ranging from 20 to 30 meters, contributing to safe navigation and observation. Water temperatures in the wider Cuban waters can fluctuate seasonally, from 25°C in December to 30°C by July, influencing diver comfort and exposure suit requirements. Advanced divers should always maintain strong buoyancy control and monitor air consumption, especially when navigating potentially stronger currents at greater depths.

Marine life & sighting chances

Snappers

common

Groupers

common

Barracudas

common

Nurse Sharks

occasional

Eagle Rays

occasional

Soft Corals

common

Sponges

common

Grand Gorgonians

common

Dive profile & how the dive runs

Dives at Jaula II typically involve boat entry directly over the reef, with a gradual descent to explore the coral formations and deeper sections. The site's depths average between 25 and 35 meters, requiring divers to manage their gas and no-decompression limits carefully. Depending on prevailing currents, a drift diving technique may be employed, allowing divers to move along the reef while observing marine life. The dive plan focuses on exploring the deeper reef walls and structures where nurse sharks, eagle rays, snappers, groupers, and barracudas are often sighted. The ascent will be gradual, with a safety stop conducted in shallower, calmer waters, allowing for thorough off-gassing and observation of smaller reef inhabitants before surfacing for boat pick-up.

Underwater photography

Jaula II's significant depths and the presence of larger marine life like nurse sharks and eagle rays make it suitable for wide-angle photography. Consider a dome port and external strobes to capture the vastness of the reef and the impressive pelagic encounters. For macro enthusiasts, the diverse soft corals, sponges, and gorgonians in the shallower sections of the broader Jardines del Rey reef offer excellent subjects, though the primary draw of Jaula II is its deeper fauna. Ensure excellent buoyancy control to avoid disturbing fragile coral structures and to maintain optimal positioning for shots, especially in potential currents. Good low-light performance is beneficial for capturing details at deeper ranges.

Combine with nearby dive sites

• Jaula I

  Sister site, also for advanced divers, similar depths and marine life.

• Las Coloradas

  Shallower site, known for juvenile fish and mild drift diving.

• El Triton

  Shallower site at the edge of the archipelago, also good for juveniles.

• Caribe

  Deeper wreck site in the wider Varadero region, often visited by tarpons and morays.

• Neptuno Wreck

  Deeper wreck site in the wider Varadero region, alongside Caribe.

Getting there & logistics

Jaula II is located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, situated between Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo. Travelers typically access this region via Cayo Coco's international airport, offering stress-free arrival. Diving excursions to Jaula II are generally arranged through local dive shops, often associated with all-inclusive resorts on Cayo Coco or Cayo Guillermo. Liveaboard options also provide access to the dive sites within the Jardines del Rey. Day trips typically involve boat transfers from the nearest cayo. While specific permit fees for this site are not detailed, it is advisable to confirm any marine park or diving fees with your operator. Trip durations vary, from single day excursions to multi-day liveaboard itineraries that explore numerous sites in the archipelago.

Safety & environment

For diving at Jaula II, which averages 25-35 meters in depth, it is crucial for divers to be Advanced Open Water certified and have solid experience with deeper dives. No information is available regarding the nearest recompression chamber or specific emergency evacuation procedures for this remote region of Cuba; therefore, divers must carry comprehensive dive insurance that covers medical emergencies, including potential evacuation and recompression. Always adhere to dive computer limits, monitor air supply diligently, and practice excellent buoyancy control. Given the potential for currents in the region, a surface marker buoy (SMB) should be carried by each diver, and proper boat pick-up procedures must be thoroughly briefed. Never dive beyond your training or comfort level.

Who it suits — and who it doesn't

FAQ

Jaula II FAQ

Liveaboards diving Jaula II

These liveaboards may visit Jaula II on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Jardines Avalon Fleet

Cuba

20 guests35.05 m

$494/day