All Star Avalon Fleet Liveaboard overview

By
Ashley Meara
Contributor at DIVEIN.com
Ashley is an underwater photographer, scientist, writer, and PADI MSDT Instructor. In 2022, she graduated with a degree in Marine Ecology from the University of San...
Rebecca Strauss
Editor at DIVEIN.com
Rebecca has been an avid traveler and scuba diver for many years. She began her editorial career by updating travel guides, which took her all over...

Where to book

Lying 60 miles off the southern Cuban coast, the Jardines de la Reina, or Gardens of the Queen, unfolds as an extensive archipelago, extending 124 miles (200 km) and showcasing numerous unspoiled beaches, islands, and reefs. This secluded locale stands out as a premier year-round diving destination in the Caribbean, offering encounters with reef, hammerhead, silky, lemon, and nurse sharks, as well as abundant macro critters.

The best way to visit this safeguarded national park is on a liveaboard. The Avalon fleet, comprising the Jardines Avalon II, Jardines Avalon III and Jardines Avalon IV, partners with All Star Liveaboards to offer guests unparalleled access to one of the most ecologically abundant dive areas in the Caribbean.

With more than 80 dive sites in Jardines de la Reina, divers will have plenty of beautiful reefs to explore. Eco adventures are an exciting addition to this cruise, offering the opportunity to snorkel with endangered crocodiles, feed furry native hutías and iguanas, go birdwatching, and assist with conservation efforts.

Let’s dive into our review of the All Star Avalon fleet.

About this review

To help you find a that will fit your needs, we’ve tested, researched, and reviewed the best ones available today.
We test both in the water, diving in various conditions - and in our lab - so we can give you accurate answers on quality, performance, and the overall value.

Read about our test of s

Things we like:

  • Eco-adventures offered throughout trip
  • Unique dive sites only accessible through Blue Sanctuary-approved All Star Avalon liveaboards
  • Diverse topography
  • Up to 22 dives, including two night dives
  • Warm and consistent water conditions year-round

Things we don't like:

  • Limited space in accommodation
  • Lack of updated gear
All Star Avalon Fleet
Where to book

Diving on the All Star Avalon liveaboard fleet

Scuba diving with the All Star Avalon fleet in Cuba through the Blue Sanctuary program offers an exclusive liveaboard experience. Limited to fewer than 3,000 divers annually, Jardines de la Reina is a pristine and exclusive year-round dive destination with ideal conditions, excellent visibility, and minimal current. Sea temperatures peak in August and cool off from December to April. Cuba is rarely affected by serious tropical storms despite higher rainfall from June to November.

Divers can enjoy up to 22 dives, including two night dives, in Cuba’s pristine waters, encountering diverse marine life. There are 30-foot power boats associated with every vessel to ferry divers to sites, in groups of about 10. The diving and marine conservation team, led by a marine biologist, underwater naturalists, and experienced dive guides, offers a carefully curated experience unique to All Star liveaboards. 

The Gardens of the Queen serve as a sanctuary for six shark species, including Caribbean reef, silky, nurse, lemon, great hammerhead, and blacktip, with seasonal whale shark appearances.

Highlights:

  • Two night dives included in trip
  • Year-round shark diving
  • Remote and exclusive dive sites

Onboard the All Star Avalon Fleet

Onboard the All Star Avalon fleet, consisting of the Jardines Avalon II, Jardines Avalon III, and Jardines Avalon IV, guests are guaranteed a luxurious liveaboard experience. All three vessels have identical amenities, differing only in size and maximum occupancy, ranging from 20 to 40 guests. 

Interior spaces offer well-designed areas for dive briefings, underwater camera setup, charging stations, and educational presentations.

The shaded dive decks all feature warm-water showers, and all cabins come standard with air conditioning and en suite bathrooms. Inside, there’s plenty of room at mealtime in the spacious dining room and bar area of each boat. Round that out with an upper sundeck featuring lounge chairs and a hot tub, and you’ve got a memorable week in the Jardines de la Reina.

Highlights:

  • Hot tubs with a perfect sunset view
  • Photo centers with charging stations
  • Large living areas for educational briefings or socialization

Dining onboard the All Star Avalon fleet

Your diving package includes three daily meals and daily snacks. Breakfasts are tailored to your preferences, and the culinary team prepares family-style lunches and dinners. Meals are a blend of Cuban and international flavors with local ingredients. The menu offers vegetarian options and a variety of fresh seafood, including lobster.

Snacks are always available throughout the day. Guests with dietary needs should make them clear at the time of booking. Note that severe allergies, gluten sensitivities, or vegan preferences may be a challenge due to sourcing constraints and food labeling complexities. Included beverages are coffee, soft drinks, bottled water, and select wines, beers, and rum cocktails.

Highlights:

  • Complimentary wine, beer, and select drinks
  • Local flavors of Cuba emphasized in menus

Things we like:

  • Eco-adventures offered throughout trip
  • Unique dive sites only accessible through Blue Sanctuary-approved All Star Avalon liveaboards
  • Diverse topography
  • Up to 22 dives, including two night dives
  • Warm and consistent water conditions year-round

Things we don't like:

  • Limited space in accommodation
  • Lack of updated gear
Key Facts
Year Built 2018
Price Range Mid-range
Trip Length 5-7 Nights
Internet No
Nitrox Yes ($)
Equipment Rental Yes ($)
Camera Station Yes
Air Conditioning Yes
Min. Logged Dives No minimum
All Star Avalon Fleet
Where to book
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