Sailing routes in Cuba
Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean and not a charter for everyone: the base is in Cienfuegos on the south coast, and beyond it lie hundreds of uninhabited cays, reefs and the shallows of the Gulf of Batabanó, where you may not see another yacht all day. A week from Cienfuegos takes in Cayo Largo and colonial Trinidad; two weeks reach the Isla de la Juventud. You sail by day only and pick through the reefs in good light; every stop means border guards and a stamp in the despacho, and fuel, water and food are not available everywhere, so you stock up at the base. Since 2025 the island has been in a severe fuel crisis with power cuts, so check that the base is operating before you book. The season runs November to April; June to November is hurricane season.
Cuba
When is the best time to charter a yacht in Cuba?
Cuba's season runs November to April: dry, with the north-east trade wind and moderate heat. December to March are the best months. May is the shoulder month; June to November brings rain and the hurricane season, peaking in September and October, when charter companies run few boats and expect you to watch the forecast.
Which sailing route should I pick in Cuba?
Sailing routes in Cuba, planned day by day: “Cienfuegos — Cayo Largo”, 7 days, about 206 nautical miles; “Cienfuegos — Trinidad”, 7 days, about 136 nautical miles; “Cienfuegos — Isla de la Juventud”, 11 days, about 375 nautical miles. Each route page has the legs, miles and overnight stops.
Do I need a licence to charter a yacht?
For a bareboat charter (no skipper or crew provided), yes: a skipper's licence and, as a rule, a VHF radio certificate. Without a licence, we add a skipper, paid separately from the boat price.
What is the security deposit and how is it paid?
The security deposit is your insurance excess in case of damage, usually €1,000–8,000. It is taken at the base at check-in on a credit card issued outside Russia: charter companies don't accept Russian cards or debit cards. With a hired skipper the deposit terms may be different, and not every charter company accepts a cash deposit or deposit insurance: check with the manager.
