Cuba - Restrictions

U.S Yachts

Under current US law  private American flagged vessels cannot legally enter Cuba unless they have an export permit issued issued by the US Dept of Commerce and a Permission to Enter the Territorial Waters of Cuba (CG3300) issued by the USCG. These permits are extremely difficult to obtain. See further information here.

Jardines de la Reina

This archipelago off the southern coast of Cuba is a national park and is not open to foreign yachts.

Fishing

Cruising boats are not allowed to fish in Cuban waters. Scuba diving can only be done through the Tourist Office with an official instructor. Spearfishing is prohibited and no marine life, flora, fauna or any other object may be taken from the sea.

Other Restrictions

• No archaeological objects should be removed, defaced or exported.
• Cuban citizens are prohibited from visiting foreign flagged yachts and in some marinas even foreign crews are not allowed to go on board other yachts.
• Transient vessels are only permitted to stay at "International Marinas". In general, the various cayos are exempt from this ruling.

Last updated:  February 2023