Varadero - Docking

Marina Dársena de Varadero

Now open to International Arrivals (see listing below). Docking prices are improving, yet facilities remain poor. The Internet is pretty much non-existent here.

As reported by Addison Chan of Cuba Land & Sea Facebook Page: For deep draft vessels heading for Marina Darsena Varadero take note that there is a bar that is building up in the channel. The controlling depth is still above 9 'and with a little creative navigation 10 feet can still be accommodated, but the 12' plus of a couple of years ago is no more. The bar is only about 50 'wide and is likely just sand, but caution is advised.

Marina Gaviota

Tucked just inside the extreme northeast end of the Hicacos Peninsula. Rather remote. To get to the farmer's markets or to meet Cubans who are not working in the resorts requires either a nhour-long bus ride followed by a 20-minute walk, or an expensive taxi ride.

Marina Gaviota is a modern facility with floating concrete docks (no posts in the way), electricity, water and good WiFi. There are restaurants around the marina and a well-stocked grocery store. Security at night is fine, but during the day tourists come onto the docks for the dive/fishing boats, so it can get busy.  The marina hotel Melia offers cruisers three buffet meals a day, unlimited drinks and alcohol until midnight as well as the use of pools, private beaches and other amenities.

Varadero is a holiday town with hotels, restaurants and banks. There are a couple of cash machines near the bus station.

Note: Marina Gaviota Varadero is on the OFAC list of banned marinas and American citizens are prohibited from spending money to stay there. See this report for more information.

Last updated:  February 2023