Varadero - General Info

Description:

Varadero lies about 70NM east of Havana on Cuba's north coast.

Take care when sailing close to Cayo Piedras. There are hidden concrete and steel blocks (surplus building material) close to the shore at the SW of the Guarda Fronteras base NE of Varadero.

There are two marinas in Varadero, Marina Darsena and Marina Gaviota on the extreme northeast end of the Hicacos Peninsula. Marina Gaviota is open to International visitors for clearing in, however, Marina Darsena can only be visited once you have cleared into the country.

The approach to La Gaviota is well marked with large metal buoys that are lit and radar reflector equipped. Navionics and Garmin charts are reported to be correct.  The difficult part is the entrance to Bahia Cardenas which is straight forward but best left for daylight as you need to avoid a shoal that extends eastward from Cayo Piedra del Norte.

Cruiser Highlights:

Nice, cheap marinas here with very professional and friendly staff.  Cruisers are able to use the Marina hotel Melia including pools, private beach and other amenities, three buffet meals a day and unlimited drinks and alcohol until midnight.

Position:  

23° 11'N, 81° 07'W (entrance)

Last updated:  January 2023