© Esri — Maxar, Earthstar, GIS

Cuba

Dive Site: P383

024 mIntermediate Wreck
© Esri — Source: Esri, Maxar, Earthstar, GIS Community · Labels © Esri — HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS

Which liveaboards dive P383?

About P383

The P383 is a prominent shipwreck located off the coast of Varadero, Cuba's premier beach resort on the narrow Hicacos Peninsula. This wreck is significant as it is identified as a former Russian Destroyer and is considered one of the most exceptional dive sites in the Varadero region. The vessel lies upright and largely intact, measuring 97 meters in length. It rests at a maximum depth of 24 meters, making it accessible to a wide range of divers. While extensive penetration opportunities are limited primarily to the bridge area, the wreck's main appeal lies in the identifiable equipment still present on board. The area surrounding Varadero offers diverse underwater topography, including shallow reefs, numerous other shallow wrecks, and deeper, more challenging sites. The waters around Varadero are known for crystal-clear conditions, with excellent visibility contributing to the overall dive experience. While specific marine life for the P383 is not detailed, the region generally boasts healthy reefs and plentiful marine life in its labyrinths and tunnels. Water temperatures are consistently warm, averaging 26-28°C throughout the year, supporting a vibrant ecosystem. Diving at sites like the P383 typically involves two-tank morning excursions, departing after breakfast and returning for a late lunch. This schedule allows for ample dive time while accommodating other activities. Dive centers in Varadero are well-established, offering professional staff, quality equipment, and robust safety protocols.

Highlights

Russian Destroyer wreckIntact 97-meter vesselIdentifiable on-board equipmentUpright wreck positionClear Varadero waters

Best Season

The spring months, particularly when the average temperature reaches 28°C and water temperature is 26°C, offer excellent conditions for diving in Varadero. Visibility averages between 25 to 50 meters, making it an ideal period.

Dive site facts: P383

Depth
0–24 m
Current
Moderate
Entry
Liveaboard or dayboat
Level
Intermediate
Dive type
Wreck, Wreck
Region / port
Cuba
Coordinates
23.1678° N, 81.2583° W

Conditions & Currents

Information regarding current strength and direction specifically at the P383 site is not detailed in the provided sources. However, the Varadero region generally boasts clear waters with visibility ranging from 25 to 50 meters. Dive centers operate with professional staff and good boats, suggesting that dives are conducted under safe and manageable conditions. Entry and exit procedures are facilitated by these well-established operations, with divers typically picked up from their hotels and transported to the dive boats for morning excursions. The consistent high visibility and warm water temperatures (26-28°C) throughout the year indicate a generally comfortable diving environment, suitable for recreational divers to explore the wreck.

Why dive P383 from a liveaboard?

P383 is one of Cuba's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and puts you in the water for three to four guided dives per day, including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.

Below are the liveaboards that include P383 on their Cuba itineraries.

Liveaboards diving P383

These liveaboards may visit P383 on selected itineraries — the exact dive sites depend on departure, weather and conditions.

Jardines Avalon Fleet liveaboard at P383

Jardines Avalon Fleet

Cuba

20 guests35.05 m
$494/day

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Dive P383 from a liveaboard.

Three to four guided dives a day on P383 and the other signature sites in Cuba, sleeping right above the reef.