2026 Cuba
Our Cuba adventure takes us along the spectacular southern coast of the island, exploring the remote archipelago of the Canarreos and the famous Cayos of the Caribbean. Starting from the Cuban mainland near Cienfuegos and Trinidad, we set sail into turquoise waters and gradually make our way through a chain of tropical islands, coral reefs and pristine anchorages.
The first days take us offshore from the mainland towards the island world of the Cayos, with a longer passage of around 90 nautical miles leading us into the heart of the archipelago. From there the journey becomes a series of relaxed island hops between remote sand cays and shallow lagoons, typically sailing 10–30 nautical miles per day.
During the following days we explore several beautiful islands in the Cayo Largo region, famous for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear water and untouched nature. The route continues through different anchorages and small islands of the Canarreos archipelago, offering perfect Caribbean sailing conditions and stunning scenery.
One of the highlights of the trip is Cayo Largo, known for its endless beaches and turquoise water. From there we continue to smaller, more remote cayos where we anchor in protected lagoons surrounded by reefs and mangroves.
After exploring the islands for several days, we begin the journey back towards the Cuban mainland, finishing with another longer sailing leg before returning to the coast near Cienfuegos / Trinidad.
This itinerary combines offshore passages, relaxed day sailing and unforgettable tropical anchorages – a perfect mix of Caribbean cruising, nature and adventure.
Day-by-Day Route Overview
Day 1 – Cienfuegos / Trinidad area
To get used to the boat and the crew, we first sail east from Cienfuegos to explore Cayo Blanco de Casilda.
Day 2 – Further east
With Cayo Zaza de Fuera, a mangrove island with impressive fauna and flora, we reach the easternmost point of the cruise.
Day 3 – Trinidad
After visiting Trinidad, we make use of the stop at Marina Marlin to complete the clearing-out from the coast as a prerequisite for the long leg to Cayo Largo.
Day 4 – Cayo Largo
After about 18 hours of sailing, we reach Cayo Largo and spend the night at anchor near Playa Paraíso.
Day 5 – Cayo Largo Marina
After clearing in – and at the same time clearing out again – at the marina, we visit the turtle rescue center and spend a calm night at the dock.
Day 6 – Western Cayos
Island hopping begins as we move west through shallow turquoise waters between remote sand cayos. A relaxed sailing day between small coral islands and protected anchorages.
Day 7 – Exploring the Canarreos Archipelago
We continue through the island chain with short sailing legs and beautiful beaches. Navigation through shallow waters and reefs typical for the Cuban cayos.
Day 8 – Cayo Rosarito
Time to enjoy the spectacular beaches, crystal-clear water and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.
Day 9 – Western Cayos
Leaving Cayo Rosarito behind, we continue exploring smaller and more remote islands.
Day 10 – Tropical Island Hopping
Short passages between anchorages surrounded by reefs and mangroves are making us reach the Rangers on Cayo Campos, the most western point of our cruise.
Day 11 – Turning East
We begin our gradual route back through the Canarreos Islands. Careful navigation through lagoons and channels between the cayos.
Day 12 – Preparing for the Return Passage
Last anchorages in the island chain before leaving the cayos.
Day 13 – Offshore Passage Back to the Mainland
A final longer sail brings us back to the Cuban coast near Cienfuegos / Trinidad.
In total we have been cruising close to 420 NM