Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean. Over 775 miles long, with a total area of 42827 square miles. Cuba neighbours Florida (Key West - Havana 90 miles), Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic. The population numbers in excess of 11 million, of which over 2m. live in Havana. Cuba is however, largely an agrarian society, whose staple products are sugar, citrus fruit and, of course, tobacco.

The climate is sub-tropical, with a mean annual temperature of 77F (25C). Humidity averages about 77% between November and May, rising up to 82% outside these periods. However, the climate seems to be rather more stable than in other Caribbean destinations.

Cubans are particularly friendly people, who are delighted to welcome people to their country and proud to show off it's many treasures, one of which is undoubtedly the quality of fishing . Those who have visited there make a point of commenting on the helpfulness found everywhere. Very often, one is approached by people who just wish to talk and practice their English. There is no animosity towards Europeans or Americans whatsoever - they are thrilled to see you.

Los Jardines de la Reina
(The Queen's Gardens)": a chain of 250 virgin coral island, unsettled without any hotel-building and without any street or village. Situated some 40 miles offshore, stretching for over 150 miles, and at times some 20 miles wide, the area was recently declared a Natural Park. Access is very restricted, and commercial fishing has been banned from all but the outermost extremes of the Park. Jucaro is the boarding point, a small village with old fashion houses and 2000 in habitants.

Aside from stunning variety of marine life, the above surface flora and fauna is fascinating. Bird varieties commonly seen include ospreys, pelicans, frigate birds, spoonbills, and many different sorts of heron and egret - to name a few. The only mammal is the 'cutilla' (a coypu -like creature that lives in the mangroves) while reptiles are represented by a large population of iguanas. The flora is mainly palm trees, differing forms of Caribbean pine trees, sea grapes and the ever present mangroves. However, like so much of the Caribbean, the real beauty is below the surface. Besides the extensive flats which teem with the fish we seek, there is a chain of coral reefs very close to the Southern shore of the archipelago, where undisturbed and undamaged coral abounds. After extensive research fishing in all the world, we believe it to be potentially the best light tackle fly fishing in Caribbean waters. Not only are bonefish and tarpon present in great numbers, but there is an astonishing variety of fishing, and not just for the fly fisherman.

Accommodation
While in Las Jardines de la Reina, accommodation is provided on a floating houseboat - La Tortuga : built 4 years ago, it provides 7 cabins, each with their own shower, toilet and air-conditioning facilities. Staffed by Cubans but run by two Italians skipper/manager, the boat also has good communication with the outside world, including a satellite telephone.

Halcon: 75 feet, 2 GM, 450 HP, 6 cabins, 3 bathrooms, fully A/C, unlimited range for exclusive fishing cruise

Food concentrates on local fish and shellfish, together with fruit, pasta and rice. Beverages available on board include mineral water, various soft drinks (Coca Cola etc.), beer, rum and wine. There are plenty of rod racks and facilities for cleaning tackle at the end of the day. Laundry is also available on a daily basis. Hard suit-cases always give problem in a small boat-cabin. On the Halcon are forbidden. Leave your good suitcases at home. Duffle or soft bag are the best, better if with a zipper from the two sides to provide easier access. Make sure that your name and address are clearly printed on all luggage

For information and reservations please contact:


Filippo Invernizzi c/o Press Tours & Avalon Dive Center
C.SO Peschiera, 249
Torino, Italy 10141

Cell: +39 335 8149111
Fax: (520) 222 1631

Please Tell Them Dive Guide Sent You!!!

Email For Availability And Reservations

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