Miami Boat Tours

Miami Boat to Cuba

Miami Boat to Cuba

Sailing from Miami to Cuba requires navigating a complex set of regulations and restrictions. To ensure a smooth and legal journey, boaters must comply with specific requirements set by the US Coast Guard, US Customs, and Cuban authorities. This comprehensive guide covers the essential details you need to know before embarking on your Miami to Cuba boat trip.

What are the Regulations and Restrictions for Sailing from Miami to Cuba?

Miami Boat to Cuba
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  1. US Coast Guard Permit: Obtaining a permit from the US Coast Guard is a crucial first step. You must submit the Application to Enter Cuban Territorial Seas (form CG-3300) with complete information, accompanied by an approved special license from the Department of Commerce.

  2. Customs Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary documents, including:

  3. US Coast Guard CG 3300 Approved Permit (2 copies)
  4. US Coast Guard Documentation Form (if your vessel is documented)
  5. State Registration (if applicable)
  6. US Customs Decal number and sticker
  7. Copy of your insurance policy with Cuban coverage
  8. Valid passports for all crew members
  9. Proof of payment for any official Cuban events or hotel stays
  10. Completed Cuban “Declaracion” (General Statement of Foreign Vessels)
  11. Certification of Travel to Cuba Under General License (executed)

  12. Cuban “Lista De Tripulantes” (Listing of crew members’ visa numbers, last names, first names, dates of birth, citizenship, sex, and passport numbers)

  13. Travel Restrictions: US citizens may travel to Cuba under the ‘Support for the Cuban People’ (SFCP) license. This license requires a full-time program of meaningful two-way engagements with the Cuban people.

What are the Customs Procedures for Sailing from Miami to Cuba?

Miami Boat to Cuba

  1. Clearing Customs in Miami: You cannot clear customs in Miami before sailing to Cuba. You must stop at a Cuban port of entry to clear customs.

  2. Recommended Marinas and Routes:

  3. Marina Hemingway: Located nine miles west of Havana, it is Cuba’s largest marina with a capacity of about 100 vessels. Nighttime entry is not advised. Vessels can hail the port captain on VHF channel 77 or over SSB 7462.
  4. Recommended Route: Sail from Miami to Key West, then head south to Havana, and finally enter Marina Hemingway.

What are the Costs and Schedules for Sailing from Miami to Cuba?

  1. Fuel Costs: Spare fuel can be obtained in Cuba for around $1.60 per liter.

  2. Docking Fees: Docking fees in Cuba range from 40 to 60 cents per foot per day for boats under 45 feet.

  3. Customs Fees: The cost of bringing a boat into Cuba is $55 CUC.

What are the Relevant Rules for Sailing from Miami to Cuba?

  1. Safety Issues: Be aware of safety concerns while sailing on the south side of Cuba due to larger boats.

  2. Inland Transportation: Inland transportation costs are high, so sailing to various destinations is a more cost-effective option.

Reference:

  1. District 7 Useful Information – Atlantic Area – Coast Guard: https://www.atlanticarea.uscg.mil/Our-Organization/District-7/Useful-Information/
  2. How to Legally Travel to Cuba from the U.S. on Your Yacht: http://cubajournal.co/how-to-legally-travel-to-cuba-from-the-u-s-on-your-yacht/
  3. Sailing to Cuba from America – Cuban Life: https://www.cuban-life.com/how-to-sail-from-america-to-cuba/

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