A portrait of Caribbean destinations: Cuba - Caribbean as it was 50 years ago

• How to find us: ****
• Level of difficulty: ***
• Versatility: **
• Infrastructure: *

Although Cuba is the largest island in the Caribbean, there is only one charter option in the country: crews can only set off on a cruise from Cienfuegos on the south coast. From the city of 200,000 inhabitants, they can sail either westwards to the Canarreos Islands or eastwards to an archipelago called Jardines de la Reina.

These "Gardens of the Queen" form a very natural, secluded area. The Canarreos Islands, which most crews opt for, offer at least a little tourist infrastructure. In general, however, charter holidaymakers are still rare in Cuba. As a result, you will only meet a few other yachts en route and there are almost no shopping facilities. Crews should therefore stock up well at the start.

Highlights

A two to three-day visit to Havana should definitely be planned before or after the cruise. During the cruise, Cayo Largo, which has some tourist infrastructure, or Cayo Cantiles with its national park, where monkeys live, are great stop-off points. Otherwise, snorkelling trips and enjoying the unspoilt nature are on the agenda.

Charter

From Cienfuegos; about three hours by car from Havana.

• The most important tips for your first Caribbean cruise

Journey

There are usually cheap direct flights to the capital of Cuba.

A brief portrait of other Caribbean destinations:

• The British Virgin Islands - the Caribbean bestseller
• Windward Islands - the island dream
• Leeward Islands - island hopping at its best
• Bahamas - endless sea of islands
• Belize - coral reefs and magic holes