The Colombian journalist and documentary filmmaker Guillermo Arturo Prieto La Rotta, better known as Pirry, shared an unforgettable experience in Cuban waters: diving among sharks in the Jardines de la Reina National Park, in southern Cuba, a marine sanctuary that took his breath away with its beauty and biodiversity.
In a video shared on his Instagram account, Pirry excitedly described his diving experience in this archipelago:
"Can you imagine getting into the water in a place where you fall and immediately find yourself surrounded by 10 sharks? My heart was racing (...) The first thing that came into view was a silky shark, and behind it were several more. I have a lot of respect and admiration for sharks; I don’t have the fear that most people do. However, for a moment, I felt chills run down my spine," the photographer confessed.
The recording, nearly three minutes long, recounts his first encounter with a silky shark and other specimens that surrounded him as soon as he entered the water. He is accustomed to contact with wildlife; perhaps that is why what impacted him the most was the state of the underwater ecosystem.
"This place is called Jardines de la Reina. It is a national park in Cuba. I encountered an ocean like one that can hardly be found in many parts of the world. Corals, goliath groupers, barracudas, reef fish, gorgonians… I nearly cried with emotion."
The influencer compared this Cuban sanctuary to world-class marine destinations like Malpelo (Colombia), Galápagos (Ecuador), or French Polynesia, and emphasized that he has only seen such a large and diverse number of sharks in these locations.
A lesson from living nature
Beyond the adventure, Pirry emphasized the environmental message behind his experience. "The place has been protected since 1996 and you can tell. The animals see you as just another creature, they don't flee. Taking care of the coral is not optional. If the coral dies, I don’t know what will happen to the rest of the ocean and to us."
With a critical and reflective tone, he lamented the impact of climate change on the world's reefs, while highlighting the importance of protecting ecosystems like Jardines de la Reina, where a vital balance is still preserved.
This new video complements a previous post where Pirry swam alongside a crocodile in the same area, an experience he also shared with his followers. He was seen in a selfie very close to the animal, in a scene he described as one of the most exciting moments of his life.
"I don't recommend it, but swimming with a crocodile was one of my most beautiful moments in nature," he confessed.
Pirry, a native of Tunja, Boyacá, is known for his documentaries, his expeditions to extreme locations, and his advocacy for animals. In addition to sharks and crocodiles, he has documented encounters with wildlife in various parts of the world.
His visit to Cuba seems to have left a significant impact on him. "Diving there was not just an adventure; it was a lesson on what nature can be when allowed to thrive," he concluded.
Places like Jardines de la Reina maintain a great natural wealth due to their protected status, but the structural limitations of Cuba also play a role. There aren't enough boats or infrastructure for mass tourism in the area. The government strictly controls this industry, and the benefits are often concentrated in the hands of the State.
Activities such as diving in marine parks are reserved for foreign tourists, while Cubans face multiple restrictions to enjoy these experiences. In this way, nature is preserved, but at the expense of excluding those who live on the island itself.
Frequently Asked Questions about Diving in Cuba and Pirry's Experience
Where did Pirry's diving experience take place in Cuba?
Pirry dived in the Jardines de la Reina National Park, in southern Cuba, a marine sanctuary known for its beauty and biodiversity.
What does Pirry highlight about the state of the ecosystem in Jardines de la Reina?
Pirry emphasizes that the underwater ecosystem of Jardines de la Reina is in excellent condition, comparing it to other world-class marine destinations. He highlights the importance of protection since 1996.
Why is it important to protect corals according to Pirry?
Taking care of corals is not optional, as their disappearance could have devastating consequences for the rest of the ocean and for humanity. Corals are essential for maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.
What is the situation of tourism in Jardines de la Reina, and how does it affect the Cuban people?
Tourism in Jardines de la Reina is controlled by the Cuban government and primarily reserved for foreign tourists. Cubans face restrictions in enjoying these experiences, which contributes to the area's conservation but excludes the local population.
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