In a secret location in Varadero Bay lies a small cave under a ledge in the reef. I first found this cave back in 2005 and have observed many residents there from Whitetip Reef Sharks and Black Tip Sharks to very large Dusky Groupers and Green Sea Turtles all taking residence in the cave.

Perhaps the most impressive thing about this site is the regular appearance of Thresher Sharks. When the water is colder; in the months of January or February, this site is the best place to see these majestic and timid creatures. It takes a little patience (and my ‘shark calling’ secret!) to attract the Thresher Shark but when it comes around, it is truly a magnificent experience to behold!

These are the most timid of all shark species, give the shark some space and let it come to you in its own time. Typically it will either encircle the divers or drift slowly to and fro from the group, checking you and your buddies out! Have no fear; these sharks are inquisitive by nature in a similar way to an unfamiliar dog in a park. The encounter is always over too soon and leaves the divers wishing the shark would return!

Tip – flash photography, rattles and horns, tank bangers, flapping arms around wildly and pointing and squealing with excitement drives them away very quickly! When you see one, stay quite still and close to the bottom, DO NOT CHASE THE SHARK or it will flee and will not return for a long time…if at all!