Cuban Delights

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Highlights

Discover Cuba which stands out in many ways from the remaining Caribbean Islands. The island is hugely varied ranging from the mountain peaks of the legendary Sierra Maestra to unspoilt beaches, a moving history, splendid buildings and dramatic monuments. But perhaps most of all it is the friendliness of the Cuban people which will leave a lasting impression on you.
Have the opportunity to explore the city of Santiago de Cuba, which because of its French influence, reminds us a little of the laid back atmosphere of New Orleans.
Discover two historical, but very different cities both on the UNESCO list for world cultural heritage sites. Cienfuegos also known as the pearl of the south has one of the largest concentrations of neo classical buildings in the Caribbean. Just 80 kilometres away from Cienfuegos we will discover Trinidad with its cobblestone streets and pastel coloured houses where music sounds around every corner.
Have the opportunity to discover the third largest coral reef on our planet as well as the pristine reefs of Punta Frances on Isla de Juventud.

Highlights

Discover Cuba which stands out in many ways from the remaining Caribbean Islands. The island is hugely varied ranging from the mountain peaks of the legendary Sierra Maestra to unspoilt beaches, a moving history, splendid buildings and dramatic monuments. But perhaps most of all it is the friendliness of the Cuban people which will leave a lasting impression on you.
Have the opportunity to explore the city of Santiago de Cuba, which because of its French influence, reminds us a little of the laid back atmosphere of New Orleans.
Discover two historical, but very different cities both on the UNESCO list for world cultural heritage sites. Cienfuegos also known as the pearl of the south has one of the largest concentrations of neo classical buildings in the Caribbean. Just 80 kilometres away from Cienfuegos we will discover Trinidad with its cobblestone streets and pastel coloured houses where music sounds around every corner.
Have the opportunity to discover the third largest coral reef on our planet as well as the pristine reefs of Punta Frances on Isla de Juventud.
Capacity: 103, Types: ExpeditionSmall Ship Cruise
Feture image for Cuban Delights

Cuba pulsates to a rhythm of a bygone age. A kaleidoscope of colour in the Caribbean Sea, the island is a visual feast for the traveller. Despite a famously controversial political system and a humbled economy, the culture, architecture and landscape of the country remain as rich as ever. It is fascinating to be transported back to the 1930s but equally captivating is the natural beauty of the region. Glorious landscapes, powder white beaches against a turquoise sea, delightful people and a lifestyle that is more 1930s than that of today. Very few cars travel the roads through the soft and gentle countryside, horse drawn carriages or pedal power are the order of the day. Our comprehensive journey around this fascinating island offers a chance to step back in time and enjoy the beauty of the landscape, the historic cities and take a rest from 21st century capitalism.

Ship to Shore: Please note that although this cruise is not classified as an expedition cruise, the vessel will be at anchor and Zodiacs used to transport passengers ashore in all ports with the exception of Havana, Cienfuegos, Casilda for Trinidad, Santiago de Cuba, Port Antonio and Kingston where we will be alongside.

Discover Cuba which stands out in many ways from the remaining Caribbean Islands. The island is hugely varied ranging from the mountain peaks of the legendary Sierra Maestra to unspoilt beaches, a moving history, splendid buildings and dramatic monuments. But perhaps most of all it is the friendliness of the Cuban people which will leave a lasting impression on you.
Have the opportunity to explore the city of Santiago de Cuba, which because of its French influence, reminds us a little of the laid back atmosphere of New Orleans.
Discover two historical, but very different cities both on the UNESCO list for world cultural heritage sites. Cienfuegos also known as the pearl of the south has one of the largest concentrations of neo classical buildings in the Caribbean. Just 80 kilometres away from Cienfuegos we will discover Trinidad with its cobblestone streets and pastel coloured houses where music sounds around every corner.
Have the opportunity to discover the third largest coral reef on our planet as well as the pristine reefs of Punta Frances on Isla de Juventud.

There are no future departures for this trip at this stage.

show reverse itinerary
Day 1 - Havana, Cuba.
On your arrival in Havana, make your way to the MS Serenissima. Moor overnight.
Day 2 - Havana.
On our first morning in the Cuban capital we will discover Habana Vieja (Old Havana) which was once enclosed within fortified walls. We will explore its twisting, cobbled streets that lead to beautifully restored Baroque churches, castles and palaces and visit the 16th century Plaza de Armas, the oldest plaza in the city and its original administrative centre. In the afternoon we will explore Hemingways Cuba on a walking tour. Visit the legendary writers finca in San Francisco de Paula and the Ernest Hemingway Museum. Later, call into Cojimar Village, the inspiration for The Old Man and the Sea. This evening we hope to be entertained after dinner by local musicians onboard as we remain moored overnight.
Day 3 - Havana.
Today we offer a choice of excursions. For those who wish to explore Havana further we will enjoy a morning in new Havana driving along the Malecon, Havanas seafront to Vedado. See the Plaza de la Revolucion and the headquarters of President Fidel Castro and his Council of Ministers. In the afternoon we will embrace one of the traditional industries of Cuba with a visit to a cigar factory learning about the traditional techniques still in practice today. Alternatively enjoy a full day tour to the Vinales Valley in the Pinar del Rio Province. It is here that some of the best tobacco is grown, harvested and processed. We will learn about the production techniques, see the traditional Cuban country lifestyle and enjoy lunch before our scenic drive back to the ship.
Day 4 - Maria La Gorda.
Enjoy a relaxing morning at sea as we cruise around the west coast of Cuba and the resort of Maria La Gorda. We will use our Zodiacs to land and then offer the chance to snorkel amongst the varieties of fish, sponges and molluscs. Alternatively join a nature walk amongst the coconut trees as we search for West Indian woodpecker, cormorants and royal terns or simply relax on the white sand beaches.
Day 5 - Isla de Juventud.
Located some fifty miles from Cubas south coast, this attractive island is famous for its beaches, coral reefs and densely forested hills. We have the morning to enjoy its natural beauty as we moor off Punta Frances and use the Zodiacs to tender ashore. Choose to swim in the clear waters or alternatively join a nature walk through the fan palm trees where if we are lucky we will see the endemic Cuban trogon and Cuban emerald hummingbird. Enjoy an afternoon at sea as we sail north and return to mainland Cuba.
Day 6 - Cienfuegos.
Cienfuegos is a laid back maritime city with a lazy, tropical atmosphere. In colonial times it was known as the Pearl of the South, a name earned from its lovely location on a picturesque Caribbean bay. Explore the town including a visit to the botanical gardens which are spread over 90 hectares and include 2000 species of plants. We will also see the Parque Marti with its 19th century architecture including the Therry theatre and enjoy the views and a cocktail on the terrace of the Palacio del Valle. The afternoon is free to explore this charming city further at leisure.
Day 7 - Trinidad.
The compact colonial centre of Trinidad is one of the most sublime in Latin America. The cobbled streets, terracotta rooftops and pastel coloured houses are a delight. We will spend the morning here exploring the town and visit either the Romantic Museum or the City Museum and also hope to visit a bar for local rum speciality. After a local lunch we will head to the Valley of the Sugar Mills. These three valleys were the centre of the Cuban sugar industry in the 19th century and contained around 70 sugar mills in their peak.
Day 8 - At sea.
We continue cruising along the south coast of Cuba and will pass near the Jardins de la Reina archipelago. The area was named by Christopher Columbus to honour the Queen of Spain and at 75 miles long contains the third longest barrier reef in the world. Enjoy a day of lectures or find a spot on deck and watch the world go by.
Day 9 - Santiago de Cuba.
During breakfast we arrive at our final Cuban port of Santiago de Cuba. A morning tour commences with a panoramic drive through the city including stops at the Moncada Garrison, which still bears bullet holes from Fidel Castros attempted coup in 1953 and also take in the imposing Plaza de la Revolucion and the 16th century Casa de Diego Valazquez considered the oldest house in Cuba. We will also drive out of the city through lush tropical scenery to the Castillo del Morro which guards the entrance to the harbour, affording magnificent views. This afternoon is free to explore further independently or maybe join us as we visit one of the local rum factories learning about the production and enjoying a sample.
Day 10 - Port Antonio, Jamaica.
Arrive this morning on the north coast of Jamaica and the small bustling port of Port Antonio renowned as the worlds banana capital and once home to Errol Flynn who described it as a paradise unspoiled by human hands. Enjoy a choice of excursions this morning. Join a rafting trip on the Rio Grande as skilled rafts men will impart their local knowledge about the native flora and fauna and the history and people of the area as Isla de la Juventud Trinidad Royal Tern we take in the wonderful natural surroundings. Alternatively enjoy a scenic drive to Reach Falls situated in the lush Montane Forest. We will have time to enjoy the falls and walk in the surrounding forest home to many species of fern as well as a variety of birds. Enjoy a swim in the emerald pool at the foot of the falls before returning to the MS Serenissima for lunch. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Port Antonio, relax on a local beach or if weather permits we may enjoy a Zodiac cruise in the bay.
Day 11 - Kingston
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your independent flight onwards.
Serenissima
Vessel Type: Small Ship Length: 87.5 metres Passenger Capacity: 103 Built / refurbished: 1960 / 2019 The handsome 103-passenger MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the No…

Serenissima

Capacity 103
Built/refurbished 1960/2019
Length 87.5 metres

Vessel Type: Small Ship

Length: 87.5 metres

Passenger Capacity: 103

Built / refurbished: 1960 / 2019

The handsome 103-passenger MS Serenissima began her career as the Harald Jarl, cruising the Norwegian coastline and fjords. With her small size she can navigate into small, remote ports inaccessible to the big cruise ships and appears an impressive sight when moored. With her fleet of Zodiacs she is capable of both destination and expedition cruising.

The cabins are attractively designed for comfort and convenience. The MS Serenissima features a range of accommodations to suit your preferences, from the luxurious Serenissima Suites to comfortable staterooms. There are 10 categories of staterooms and suites arranged over 5 decks, as well as an accessible cabin on Deck 4.  With the exception of the inside cabins, all staterooms are outside facing, with either portholes or windows. 

Indulge in exquisite cuisine at the Venice Restaurant. You will enjoy a buffet-style breakfast and lunch, featuring a variety of sweet and savoury options. Dinner will be a delightful three-course meal, served to you. With a focus on great fl avours and fresh ingredients,  dining here is a highlight of your journey. The dining room features great views from all tables. 

Located at the back of the ship, the Andrea Lounge offers a cosy and elegant space to unwind. Enjoy a quiet moment with a book, socialise with fellow travellers, or simply take in the stunning views through the large windows. The lounge also features a bar, where you can enjoy a refreshing drink as you relax. 

Situated at the front of the ship, the Harald Jarl Lounge has comfortable seating and a warm ambiance, creating a welcoming atmosphere perfect for relaxation and conversation. Its inviting setting makes it an ideal spot to gather and unwind before dinner. 

Explore the ship’s decks, where you can enjoy panoramic views, soak up the sun, or take a leisurely stroll. The outdoor areas feature an expansive observation deck, providing guests panoramic 360-degree views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, visitors can descend to the front deck (Deck 5), which includes an an open-air bar and a compact fitness room.

Cabin layout for Serenissima
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