Cuba
Cuba 2019
| Destinations
| Voyages
| Frequently Asked Questions
| Important Information
| US Citizen
| Non-US Citizens
Introducing Cuba 2019
SeaDream offers a truly exceptional itinerary, exploring this unique destination by luxurious mega-yacht. Voyages depart directly from Havana or Cienfuegos and call on a selection of the best ports & harbors on the island. The 112-guest mega-yacht, SeaDream II, provides the ideal vantage point to experience the Caribbean nation’s rich, cultural landscape.
Now Open for Booking
Curiosity Fulfilled
Cabo Cruz, Cuba
Also known as ‘Cape Cruz’, is a cape that forms the western edge of the Granma Province in southern Cuba. Recognized for its famous landmark, ‘Faro de Cabo Cruz’ or ‘Faro Vargas’, a nineteenth-century manned lighthouse. Originally founded as a Spanish port, between 1717 and 1718, the fort was seized by pirate Edward Kenway. Soon after, a harbormaster’s station was built along with two naval stations presented to Kenway by a Dutch trader.
Cayo Largo, Cuba
An intimate resort island in Cuba also known as Cayo Largo del Sur (“Long Cay”). Being the largest of 300 island in the Canarreos Archipelago, the cay runs close to 25 kilometers (16 miles) long and 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) wide. With a zero-permanent population, the island beaches of Playo Sirena and Playo Paraiso are kept in pristine beauty and offers the finest undeveloped beaches in the world ready for enjoyment. The possibilities are limitless here is Cayo Largo.
Cienfuegos, Cuba
La Perla del Sur, or “Pearl of the South, is a southern city originally populated by indigenous peoples, and later settled by French immigrants in the 1800’s. The port, very large by the standards of the times, was instrumental in multi-national trade, especially between South America and Jamaica. Sugar was a major export of the city. The city’s Urban Historic Center is a UNESCO World-Heritage Site, and serves as an example of urban planning accomplished during the 19th century by the Spanish. Other attractions include Castillo de Nuestra Senora (a castle/fort), historic cathedrals, botanical gardens, a cigar factory, and the University of Cienfuegos.
Havana, Cuba
The capital of the island nation and the most populated at over 2.1 million residents, Havana is the 4th most populous area in the Caribbean region. The walled capital was founded by Spain in the 16th century. The sinking of an American warship in 1898 signaled the beginning of the Spanish-American war. Havana experienced exponential growth in the 1930’s when the city became a major tourist destination, until 1959 when Fidel Castro came into power following the revolution. “Old Havana” became a UNESCO World Heritage site in the 1980’s.Visitors to Havana enjoy colorful displays of culture, architecture, music, and the arts.
Isla de Juventud, Cuba
Known as the “Isle of Youth” or “Isle of Treasure”, Isla De Juventud is the second largest island off Cuba’s shore. Very popular with divers and “treasure hunters”, this island is known for its beauty, history and pirate lore. Discover the idyllic and unspoiled Punta Frances Marine National Park; an excellent coral reef diving location. Beautiful black-sand beaches line the beckoning turquoise waters.
Maria la Gorda, Cuba
Maria la Gorda, a port only accommodating smaller vessels, is part of the Western Cuban province of Pinar del Rio; known as a scuba diver’s paradise. The port’s lush landscape is home to native birds and animals. The shimmering, aqua colored waters welcome experienced and beginner divers, as well as snorkelers. Authentic Cuban Mojitos and fresh seafood are served along the beachfront. Experiencing Cuba’s sunset should be at the top of your “to do” list.
Santiago de Cuba, Cuba
The second largest city in Cuba was founded in the 1500’s by Spanish conquistadors. Like many cities of the Caribbean, Santiago de Cuba was fought over by both France and England. The Cuban Revolution actually began in this city in 1953 when the Moncada barracks were attacked by Castro-backed rebels. The city is home to the citadel of San Pedro de la Roca, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Rum lovers take note; the Bacardi liquor brand was founded in Santiago de Cuba.
Trinidad, Cuba
Trinidad is a town in the jurisdiction of Sancti Spititus, central Cuba, in a preserved Spanish colonial settlement founded in 1514. Declared a World Heritage Site in 1988, Trinidad is the holder of Cuba’s oldest and most captivating ‘outdoor museum’. Charming cobblestone streets bustling with local townspeople, wild donkeys and the sights and sounds of a bygone era. Trinidad has of some of the best beaches in Cuba, with Playa Ancon offering hiking trails and scenic waterfalls.2019 Cuba Voyage Collection
The small, island nation, which remains inaccessible to many, is a land brimming with curiosities, hosting experiences of culture, history and personal enrichment. SeaDream’s Cuba voyages will navigate the island from Havana to Cienfuegos, with stops in some of the country’s most storied and least-traveled ports.
San Juan, Puerto Rico – Cienfuegos, Cuba
January 26, 2019 – February 4, 2019 | 7 Days
San Juan, Puerto Rico・Isla Catalina, Dominican Republic・Port Antonio, Jamaica・Ocho Rios, Jamaica・Santiago de Cuba・Cabo Cruz・Cienfuegos
Cienfuegos, Cuba – Havana, Cuba
February 4, 2019 – February 11, 2019 | 7 Days
Cienfuegos・Trinidad・Cayo Largo・Isla de Juventud・Maria la Gorda・Havana (overnight)
Havana, Cuba – Cienfuegos, Cuba
February 11, 2019 – February 18, 2019 | 7 Days
Havana・Maria la Gorda・Isla de Juventud・Cayo Largo・Trinidad・Cienfuegos (overnight)
Cienfuegos, Cuba – Havana, Cuba
February 18, 2019 – February 25, 2019 | 7 Days
Cienfuegos・Trinidad・Cayo Largo・Isla de Juventud・Maria la Gorda・Havana (overnight)
Havana, Cuba – Cienfuegos, Cuba
February 25, 2019- March 4, 2019 | 7 Days
Havana・Maria la Gorda・Isla de Juventud・Cayo Largo・Trinidad・Cienfuegos (overnight)
Cienfuegos, Cuba – Havana, Cuba
March 4, 2019 – March 11, 2019 | 5 Days
Cienfuegos・Trinidad・Cayo Largo・Isla de Juventud・Maria la Gorda・Havana (overnight)
Havana, Cuba – Cienfuegos, Cuba
March 11, 2019 – March 18, 2019 | 7 Days
Havana・Maria la Gorda・Isla de Juventud・Cayo Largo・Trinidad・Cienfuegos (overnight)
Cienfuegos, Cuba – Havana, Cuba
March 18, 2019 – March 25, 2019 | 7 Days
Cienfuegos・Trinidad・Cayo Largo・Isla de Juventud・Maria la Gorda・Havana (overnight)
Havana, Cuba – Cienfuegos, Cuba
March 25, 2019 – April 1, 2019 | 7 Days
Havana・Maria la Gorda・Isla de Juventud・Cayo Largo・Trinidad・Cienfuegos (overnight)
Cienfuegos, Cuba – Marigot, St. Martin
April 1, 2019 – April 10, 2019 | 9 Days
Cienfuegos・Santiago de Cuba・White Bay, Jost van Dyke・Leverick Bay, Virgin Gorda・Sandy Ground, Anguilla・Gustavia (overnight)・Marigot, St. Martin
For your travel convenience, SeaDream will make Havana to Cienfuegos, and Cienfuegos to Havana ground transfer options available for purchase starting Fall 2017.
Please contact your Travel Professional or Contact SeaDream for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I view details about the Cuba Voyage Collection?
A: To view all Cuba voyages and their itinerary maps, port information and related travel information, visit www.seadream.com/cuba
Q: When can I book my Cuba voyage ?
A: They are now open for booking.
Q: Where do I fly to?
A: These voyages will embark and disembark in two different ports; Havana and Cienfuegos. Guests may fly roundtrip Havana or may fly into/out of Cienfuegos. (It’s a matter of personal choice). Most will find roundtrip air to/from Havana the easier option.
We also have two 9-day voyages that begin in San Juan, Puerto Rico and end in Cienfuegos with a stop in Santiago de Cuba. One is in January 2019 and the other in January 2020.
Q: How do I get from Havana airport to Cienfuegos or the reverse?
A: SeaDream will offer transfer options via modern air-conditioned motor coach. The distance is approximately 250 KM (or 150 miles) and will take 3.5 to 4 hours of travel time. Costs and booking options are shown in the Yachting Land Adventures section of Havana and Cienfuegos.
If guests wish to purchase a Pre- or Post-hotel package, SeaDream can refer guests to Calypso Tours who can tailor-make all appropriate arrangements including transfers.
Q: How far is Cienfuegos from Havana airport?
A: Ground travel time is about 3.5 – 4 hours. The distance is approximately 250 KM (or 150 miles) and will take 3.5 to 4 hours of travel time which includes a 20 minute stop along the way. We strongly suggest that all guests embarking in Cienfuegos arrive one day before. Transportation will be provided to/from Havana’s Jose Marti International Airport for guests landing before 9.00AM or from Hotel Kempinski in Havana City Center at a designated time on the day of embarkation or disembarkation.
Please note the address for the Kempinski Hotel Is as follows:
Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Habana
Calle San Rafael (entre Monserrate y Zulueta)
La Habana Vieja, 10100
Havana, Cuba
Q: What time should I plan my flights to arrive and depart Cuba?
A: Due to ground transfer times, we strongly recommend the following flight guidelines:
- Havana Embarkation: Guests arriving in Havana on flights on the day of Embarkation should arrive into Havana no later than 12:00PM. Transfers can be arranged by SeaDream on an individual basis.
- Cienfuegos Embarkation: We recommend that all Guests arrive to Havana the day before. Guests arriving in Havana on flights on the day of Embarkation for Cienfuegos should arrive into Havana no later than 9AM if they have purchased SeaDream transfers from Havana to Cienfuegos. A bus will depart from the Jose Marti International Airport in Havana at 11AM for Cienfuegos.
Q: Is there a Pre- or Post-voyage hotel package available for guests to purchase?
A: SeaDream does not offer a hotel program in Cuba but we know many guests may be interested in doing so. Therefore, SeaDream can refer guests to the following tour operator who will coordinate with SeaDream all pre- or post-voyage hotel packages in Havana.
Calypso Tours
Spain
Telephone:0034952378005
Email Address: Calypso.Caribbean@mhbland.com
Please note that Calypso’s pre- and post-voyage hotel programs are compliant with the “People to People” travel requirements for US citizens.
Q: What time is Embarkation?
A: Consistent with most other SeaDream voyages, embarkation is between 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
Q: If the yacht is overnight in Havana on the last night of my voyage, can I disembark that night, instead of the next morning?
A: On voyages that conclude in Havana with the last voyage night as an overnight in Havana, guests may disembark yacht that night if needed. That request must be provided in writing to SeaDream, prior to boarding. Approval may also depend on operational consideration.
Q: What Yachting Land Adventures will be available in Cuba?
A: Travel to Cuba by citizens of the United States remains restricted. SeaDream’s Cuba program meets current requirements for exemption from this restriction, but only under specific conditions. In general, US citizens must participate in government-approved cultural, historical and people-to-people activities on a daily basis when in a Cuban port. These required Yachting Land Adventures (YLAs) are included complimentary to all guests onboard. Each of our Cuba YLAs are outlined in the Land Adventures section of each voyage in our website. We have published those Land Adventures that are complimentary and meet the specific requirements for US Citizens. Additional options are also outlined, however, US Guests must participate in the complimentary YLA before being allowed to participate in any optional program.
Q: How do US Guests ensure they are compliant with the US regulations on travel to Cuba?
A: Travel to Cuba by citizens of the US should click on this link to review SeaDream’s Travel Affidavit and complete and submit this affidavit to SeaDream Yacht Club. Each US guest should carry this form with them prior to boarding and save a copy for a period of up to five years after their voyage.
Q: Does Cuba require any other special travel documents when visiting Cuba?
A: Yes. All guests are required to carry a valid “Health Card” – i.e., a valid health insurance card when In Cuba.
Q: How much time do guests need at the airport?
A: Guests departing from Jose Marti airport in Havana during the afternoon and evening should be aware that they will have to wait a long time in Jose Martí airport does not have all the waiting area facilities and services as found in most European or American airports.
Information regarding travel on SeaDream within Cuba
US Citizens
Travel to Cuba by citizens of the United States remains restricted. SeaDream’s Cuba program meets current requirements for exemption from this restriction, but only under specific conditions. In general, US Citizens must participate in government approved cultural, historical, and people-to-people activities daily when in a Cuban port. This requirement will be built into our land adventures program, and a select land adventure will be offered on a complimentary basis for all guests in each Cuban port. As always, a valid passport is required for travel for all guests, and visas for some may be required. Other travel requirements may apply. Please view the FAQ section.
Concerning the new regulations arisen on 08 November 2017, individual people-to-people programs will no longer be authorized. Therefore, Individuals onboard a SeaDream Cuba voyage can now apply for their licenses under the category of “Support for the Cuban people”. All SeaDream programs have been designed to apply for both categories – “Educational Exchanges – group people-to-people through SeaDream or other organization” 515.565(b)) or “Support for the Cuban People”.