Cuba

Cuba: Pearl of the Caribbean

Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, is a country that captivates travellers with its vibrant culture, impressive history and breathtaking nature. The island offers a unique blend of colonial heritage, revolutionary spirit and tropical flair. Havana, the vibrant capital, has colourful streets, vintage cars and stunning colonial architecture. Here you can feel the rhythm of the city around every corner, whether you are dancing salsa or sipping a mojito in one of the famous bars.

In addition to its cultural diversity, Cuba is also known for its stunning beaches and coastline. Beaches such as Varadero and Cayo Coco boast crystal clear waters and fine sand. They are ideal for sunbathing and water sports. Divers and snorkellers will find paradise in the Jardines de la Reina, while sailors will enjoy the calm and wide coastal waters.

Cuba is also rich in history, from the colonial era to the revolution and modern times. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Museum of the Revolution in Havana or the Castillo del Morro in Santiago de Cuba. With its fascinating mix of culture, nature and history, Cuba remains a dream destination for adventurers, cultural travellers and nature lovers.

Climate and Sailing Conditions in Cuba

Weather and Climate

Cuba has a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity. Average temperatures throughout the year range from 24°C to 30°C, making Cuba an ideal sailing destination. The island has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.

Dry season (November to April): This is the best time to visit for sailors and yacht charter clients. Temperatures are comfortably warm between 25°C and 28°C and humidity is relatively low. The trade winds blow constantly from the northeast, providing excellent sailing conditions. Rain is rare during this period and the sea is calm and inviting, ideal for sailing adventures along the Cuban coast.

Wet season (May to October): During this time, temperatures often rise above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity and frequent but short rains. Hurricane season is also between June and November, so sailors should exercise caution during this time. Winds can be unpredictable and the sea can be rough.

Sailing conditions

Sailing conditions in Cuba are usually ideal, especially during the dry season. The constant trade winds blow at 15 to 25 knots, making sailing along the north and south coasts pleasant and safe. The island groups of Cayo Largo, Cayo Coco and the coastal areas around Cienfuegos and Havana are particularly popular. Sheltered bays, calm waters and beautiful beaches make Cuba a perfect sailing destination.

During the rainy season, sailors should follow the weather forecast closely and be prepared for rapid changes in the weather, especially during the hurricane season. Cuba has many safe marinas and anchorages that provide a safe haven for sailors.

With its tropical climate, steady winds and calm waters during the dry season, Cuba is a sailor's paradise. Its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches and well equipped marinas make Cuba a dream destination for yacht charter clients and sailing adventures alike.

Travel tips for yacht charter clients: crossing to Cuba

Getting there: For yacht charter clients wishing to explore Cuba, the journey usually begins with a flight to the island. The main international airports in Cuba are José Martí International Airport in Havana, Juan Gualberto Gómez International Airport in Varadero and Antonio Maceo Airport in Santiago de Cuba. Havana and Varadero are the most popular places for sailors to arrive, as they have well-equipped marinas nearby.

Once you have arrived, there are a number of transport options to get you to the marina:

Taxi: Taxis are available at all airports and are a convenient way to get to the marinas. A taxi ride from José Martí Airport to Marina Hemingway in Havana takes approximately 30 minutes.
Car Hire: There are several car hire companies at the international airports, ideal for those who want the flexibility to explore the island and go straight to the marina.
Private transfers: Many yacht charter companies offer private transfers to the marinas on request, which is particularly convenient for larger groups

Yacht charter and marinas

The Hemingway Marina in Havana is the most famous and largest marina in Cuba. It offers modern facilities and a safe environment for international yachtsmen.
Marina Darsena Varadero is located in one of Cuba's most important resorts and is ideal for sailors wishing to explore the north coast and offshore islands.
For those on the south coast, Marina Marlin Cienfuegos is a good base to explore the calm waters and beautiful archipelago of the Jardines de la Reina.

Cuba offers yacht charter customers a wide range of opportunities to discover the country's culture and landscapes. With its modern marinas, good wind conditions and breathtaking coastline, Cuba is an ideal destination for sailing adventures.

Cuba's geographical location and coastline

Geographical location

Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, stretching approximately 1,250 kilometres from east to west. The island is strategically located between the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. It lies south of Florida, northwest of Jamaica and east of the Mexican peninsula of Yucatán. Cuba's offshore islands and islets form a vast archipelago of over 4,000 smaller islands and cays. This location makes Cuba an important hub for shipping and trade in the Caribbean.

Coastline

Cuba's coastline extends for approximately 5,746 kilometres and is extremely diverse and varied. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, Cuba's northern coast is characterised by numerous bays, coral reefs and unspoilt beaches. Some of the country's most famous resorts are located here, including Varadero, Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo, which attract visitors with their fine white sand and turquoise waters.

Cuba's southern coast borders the Caribbean Sea and offers a quieter, more secluded atmosphere. The south coast is particularly popular with sailors who want to visit the islands of the Jardines de la Reina or the historic cities of Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba. The waters here are renowned for their exceptional clarity and rich marine life, making them a paradise for divers and snorkellers.

The Cuban coast offers sailors numerous sheltered coves and anchorages ideal for exploration and overnight stays. Well-equipped marinas in capital cities such as Havana and Varadero, as well as hidden anchorages throughout the archipelago, make Cuba one of the most exciting sailing destinations in the Caribbean.

Cienfuegos and Central Cuba

The coastal city of Cienfuegos, also known as the 'Pearl of the South', is located on the southern coast and is renowned for its French-inspired architecture. The Marina Marlin Cienfuegos is a popular base for sailing trips to the Jardines de la Reina, one of Cuba's best diving and snorkelling spots.

Central Cuba is ideal for nature lovers and sailors who want to explore remote islands and a fascinating underwater world. Travellers can also explore the surrounding sugar cane plantations and the region's historic sites.

Havana and Western Cuba

The region around Cuba's capital, Havana, is the cultural and historical heart of the country. It combines colonial splendour with a vibrant, modern city life. Havana is known for its picturesque streets, colourful vintage cars and vibrant nightlife. Sailors often use Marina Hemingway as a base to explore the beautiful coastline. Western Cuba also offers the picturesque beaches of Playas del Este and Vinales National Park, famous for its tobacco fields and limestone cliffs. The region offers the perfect blend of adventure, nature and culture

Varadero and Northern Cuba

Varadero is Cuba's most famous beach resort on the north coast. With 20 kilometres of white sandy beaches and luxurious resorts, Varadero is a magnet for tourists and yachtsmen. Marina Darsena Varadero is an ideal base for sailing trips to the nearby islands of Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo, famous for their pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. The area is excellent for snorkelling and scuba diving, especially in the surrounding coral reefs, which offer an impressive underwater world.

Santiago de Cuba and Eastern Cuba

Santiago de Cuba, the second largest city in Cuba, is located in the east of the country and is known for its rich Afro-Cuban culture, music and revolutionary history.

The city offers access to the Santiago de Cuba Marina, from where yachtsmen can explore the rugged southern coast.

This region is less developed for tourism, but offers picturesque coves and historic sites such as Castillo del Morro. Eastern Cuba is ideal for adventurers who want to discover the island's authentic culture and unspoilt nature off the beaten track.

Cuba's History, Cuisine and Culture

History: Cuba has a rich and colourful history that extends far beyond its colonial past. Discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1492, the island was a Spanish colony for centuries. Many of the colonial cities, such as Havana, Trinidad and Santiago de Cuba, still bear witness to this time, with magnificent mansions, historic squares and fortresses such as the Castillo del Morro. Cuba also played a key role in the history of the New World, especially during the 1959 revolution when Fidel Castro and Che Guevara transformed the country into a socialist state. Revolutionary sites such as the Museo de la Revolución in Havana and Che Guevara's mausoleum in Santa Clara tell the story of this pivotal period.

Food and drink: Cuban cuisine is a blend of Spanish, African and Caribbean influences. Traditional dishes such as ropa vieja (slow-cooked beef), lechón asado (grilled pork) and moros y cristianos (black beans and rice) are an integral part of Cuban culinary culture. Seafood, fresh from the surrounding waters, also plays an important role. A visit to a paladar - a privately owned restaurant - is a must for any traveller who wants to experience authentic Cuban cuisine. Of course, the famous Cuban rum, the legendary mojito or the daiquiri are not to be missed.

Culture: Cuba is a melting pot of cultures, especially music and dance. The rhythms of salsa, son and rumba can be felt throughout the island. Havana is the cultural centre of the country, with lively music clubs such as the famous Casa de la Musica and dance halls where tourists and locals celebrate life together. Art is also deeply rooted in Cuban culture, from the colourful murals on the streets of Havana to the renowned galleries that showcase the work of artists such as Wifredo Lam and Roberto Fabelo. Cuba is a country where tradition and modernity blend in a fascinating way, making a trip here a unique experience.

Cuba is a land of contrasts and unforgettable experiences. With a rich history that spans from colonial times to the revolution and the modern present, the island offers cultural treasures to be discovered in every city and on every beach. The mix of colourful colonial cities like Havana and Trinidad, where time seems to have stood still, and the vibrant joie de vivre of the Cuban people make Cuba a unique destination.

For sailors, Cuba offers one of the most beautiful coastlines in the Caribbean, with crystal clear waters, secluded islands and well-equipped marinas, offering adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Whether it's the dreamy beaches of Varadero, the secluded coves of the north coast or the historic ports of Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, the cruising areas offer variety and nature at its best.

Cuban cuisine and local culture are deeply rooted in tradition, offering authentic culinary delights and unforgettable encounters with the island's music and dance. Whether dining in one of the many paladares or listening to the sounds of salsa in a lively club, Cuba enchants all the senses. Cuba remains a place that touches travellers deeply, not only through its natural beauty and cultural riches, but above all through the warm hospitality of its people.