Cuba tightens entry procedures for yachts

Created by webmaster. Last modified on 2002-08-19 00:50:54
Contributors: Gwenda Cornell
Topic: Cruising Information
Countries: Cuba

An increasing number of yachts are visiting Cuba and the entry procedures have been modified. Yachts may now only clear in at an international marina that is also a port of entry. This means that entry or departure formalities can no longer be performed at one of the officials ports of entry unless there is an officially approved marina there. All the international marinas in Cuba now have the relevant officials based in the marina which speeds up the clearance procedures. After clearance one can obtain a coastwise cruising permit to visit other ports and anchorages before reaching the next international marina. To leave Cuba it is required to return to an international marina (not just any official port of entry) to obtain exit clearance.