Packing for Scuba Diving

Scuba Diving Water Conditions

Dive Gear Water temperatures on the north coast of Cuba where we will be diving can run a little cooler for Caribbean waters. Plan on 76-80F. A 3-5 mil suit is a good choice. Hoods are also helpful- if you get chilled easily underwater.

Dive Rental Gear

Most dive rental gear is well used and European brands like Cressi-sub. Rental prices are on par with what you’d expect to pay in other Caribbean spots. To be entirely sure of the condition of your gear, we highly recommend you bring your own or rent from your local dive center prior to departure. The rental gear can be pretty beat up in Cuba. If you’re planning to do a night dive, then bring your own torch/dive light.

Nitrox

Nitrox is not available at Cuban Dive Centers.

Save-a-dive kits

Bring a well stocked Save-a-Dive kit because spare parts are rarely available in Cuba, especially in the remote areas we dive. Silicone, mouthpieces for regulators, spare masks/straps, tools, any of these things are good to have and if you don’t need them they make great gifts to leave behind for the dive team.

You can also check with your local dive shop to get the best recommendations on what to put in your kit.

Airline Baggage Weight Restrictions

Be aware of airline baggage weight restrictions and surcharges. Weigh your bags ahead of time to avoid getting dinged with overweight fines at the airport. Each airline has their own baggage weight guidelines.

Safety Gear & First Aid Kits

Bring a safety sausage and a streamlined first aid kit — they’re great gifts to the dive instructors as well.

If you need aspirin, cold medicine, electrolites, immodium or dramamine — these are all good to bring with you. They won’t be available in Cuba.

C-Cards & Logbooks

Bring your C-Card (or a screen shot of your digital certification card). Dive centers don’t typically have access to the internet to look up proof of certification.

Bring your logbook — if you’re diving in a group you’ll likely be meeting with local Cuban marine biologists who will give you first hand insight into the marine environment and scientific value. These are one of a kind moments that are great to include in your logged dive descriptions of things you learned / saw.

Dive Packing Checklist

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An older person stands on a weathered balcony with two Cuban flags and one U.S. flag hanging over the railing. The building’s paint is peeling. | Cubaecology

Clearing Customs

An older person stands on a weathered balcony with two Cuban flags and one U.S. flag hanging over the railing. The building’s paint is peeling. | Cubaecology

Boarding Pass

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Customs Declaration Form

An older person stands on a weathered balcony with two Cuban flags and one U.S. flag hanging over the railing. The building’s paint is peeling. | Cubaecology

Visas and QR Codes

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Passports

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