Ease or possibility of returning to ship during long stop? Specifically Havana

[FoodLvvvr]

I have only been on one cruise, so I don't have much experience. I am going to Havana next week and our ship is docked all day until 6 am the next morning. I would like to go out in the morning to do some sightseeing, but return to the ship for a break before my evening tour. I know the port is close to town and we don't tender, but I can't figure out how challenging security and customs will be. Do you think it's reasonable to expect I can come and go twice? I believe the tourist visa is good for 30 days, so that shouldn't be an issue. I am going to ask someone on the ship, but was curious if anyone here may know so I can think about my plans. Thanks!

[montekat]

Unless Cuba has different rules, you should be able to come and go as many times as you want. Often we return to the ship for lunch and then go back out. Security is a breeze, just show your boarding pass and ID, then put purchases through the x-ray scanner when you are back on board.

[FoodLvvvr]

Unless Cuba has different rules, you should be able to come and go as many times as you want. Often we return to the ship for lunch and then go back out. Security is a breeze, just show your boarding pass and ID, then put purchases through the x-ray scanner when you are back on board.

 

That is good news - thank you! On my other cruise, we never really had a need to come and go.

[lisiamc]

We were in Havana in April, and got on and off the ship at least a couple of times in one day. The Cuban officials do check your passport and visa, and scan your handbags/backpacks/etc. each time, but it normally only takes a short time to go through. They were very polite and friendly to us.

[EatonDoolittle]

Unless Cuba has different rules, you should be able to come and go as many times as you want. Often we return to the ship for lunch and then go back out. Security is a breeze, just show your boarding pass and ID, then put purchases through the x-ray scanner when you are back on board.

 

Cuba does have different rules - yes, you can come and go as often as you please, but you need to clear customs / immigration each time, both as you leave the ship, and as you return to the ship. It takes just a few more minutes, unless there is a backup.

 

They will take your Visa the first time, take your photo, and stamp your passport. Each subsequent time, you need to present your passport.

 

Your plan will work, as you will be docked right in Old Havana.

I am surprised that you don't want to have lunch on shore, there are many great places right near the terminal.

 

See the Cuba board for much more info. Under Port of Call, Caribbean.

[LHT28]

If you are only stopping in Havana the Tourist card will be taken on your last return to the ship

It is valid for the time you are in port