This year, we are partnering with the Intercultural Outreach Initiative to arrange the trip, an NGO with conservation sites in Cuba and the Galapagos. They have assembled a stellar itinerary using privately-owned hotels and restaurants, and private guides, to maximize the direct support of the Cuban people. (PLEASE NOTE: The trip meets all State department regulations for travel to Cuba under the humanitarian travel provision. IOI will provide detailed instructions on obtaining your visa.) 
The diving covers drifts, walls, swim-throughs, near shore, and night dive options. This is a great trip for beginners. The total price is $3,800 inclusive of diving (8-9 dives) & dive equipment rental, lodging, meals, local transportation, health insurance, and excursions. Airfare, visa fees, and personal expenses are not included.

We will meet with Dr. Julia Azanza Ricardo, Vice-dean of the Environment at the University of Havana's Institute of Technology and Applied Science and a leading sea turtle researcher on the island, and visit one of her sea turtle research sites on the Guanahacabibes Peninsula. Given the time of year, every previous group has had the chance to observe a sea turtle establish a nest, and hatchlings coming out of a nest. 

We stop over at a tobacco farm to learn about one of the main drivers of their economy before spending a week diving a protected peninsula. At Guanahacabibes National Park, Ranger Abel Sosa introduces us to the park's caves, birds, sea holes, giant land crabs, and more. We also meet with farmers, artisans, and local families.
Past travelers have come from government, conservation organizations, and academia, though they all traveled as individuals, and not representing their institutions. Last year, we even had an Emmy award-winning videographer join us. You'll never know who you'll meet.