A destination with a difference; those who are seeking a place that brings something new to the table are sure to fall head over heels with the chaos and color of Cuba. Sitting just 90 miles south of Florida, this once untouchable island beautifully blends the Caribbean flair with lively Latino vibes. Cuba has retained its raw edge; grandiose facades crumble onto faded squares, American Cadillacs line up in pastel painted shades, and the rhythmic sound of music can always be heard filtering through a haze of thick blue cigar smoke.
Visiting Cuba on a mega-yacht allows you to do so much more than scraping the surface. Beyond the heady atmosphere of Havana you will find sleepy fishing villages, beaches so beautiful they will make your eyes pop, and dark and brooding mountains ripe with the heady scent of coffee. For those looking to take their shared yacht and explore the hidden corners of the world, here’s where to go in gorgeous Cuba.
Cigars and Cars in Havana
Happening Havana is the heart of the action in Cuba. Grand colonial streets blazing in color, bohemian inspired bars spilling music into the street, vintage rides in classic cars, and a late-night scene that oozes with a sultry atmosphere into the small hours.
Step ashore to take a tour of the fascinating Four Plazas. Wander the historical complex of La Habana Vieja before sitting down to lunch at Doña Eutimia. Admire the art deco scene along the famous El Prado, and sip rum-soaked cocktails at the Hotel Nacional de Cuban and this only a sneak peek into how you live it up in the capital.
Big Fish in Varadero
After the heat of Havana, a change of pace is waiting as you set sail down into the turquoise waters of Varadero. A silky 20km stretch fringing the Hicacos Peninsula, this area is a poster child illustrating the allure of Cuba’s beautiful beach scene.
The Marina Marlin Chapelin is the perfect spot to drop anchor before transferring to a fishing boat for a few hours testing your prowess against the giants of the sea. Back on dry land and an afternoon aperitif at the lavish five-star Xanadu Mansion settles you in good stead for an afternoon cruising in a 1950’s classic car. As the evening dwindles, those who don’t feel like returning to their yacht just yet can hit the strip for a spot of salsa dancing.
Magic in Matanzas
Leave your AvYacht at the dock back in Varadero and take a transfer to the town of Matanzas. Hailed as the Venice of Cuba, you will find a whirlwind of canals, rich culture, and sublime 19th-century architecture.
A historical tour of the city will showcase a brutal but also inspired history built on the foundations of folklore. Indulge in a Cuba Libre and private concert atop the Mirador which looks out across the city and mountains and stroll the endless bridges before returning to the comfort and splendor of your private yacht.
Wild Countryside in the Viñales Valley
It’s well worth leaving the blue tapestry of the ocean behind to discover the UNESCO wonder that is the Viñales Valley. The oldest region on the island could be mistaken from a scene straight out of Jurassic Park with lush landscape, coffee and tobacco farms, and rustic porches paying homage to creaking rocking chairs.
Take a tour of Viñales town, seemingly frozen in time with its charming homes and sleepy afternoon vibes. You can even take a cantering horse ride around the meadows and mountains to truly soak up the verdant bliss that makes the region so famous. Be sure to stop for lunch at El Cuajani – hailed as one of the finest farm-to-table paladares on the island.
Cuba is an idyllic yacht charter playground for travelers seeking something more than the tried and tested shores of Europe and the Bahamas. When you want a place vibrating with spirit, sass and sultry style – Cuba is sure to feed your soul.