Best Time To Visit: December to May guarantee dry sunny weather, avoiding the wet season.

Key Cruising Areas: With a private charter you can get away from the busy cruising grounds. Explore the impressive cays of Jardines del Rey, head to the tranquil bays of Bahia de Cabanas or use this stop as a starting point for a Caribbean cruise.

Don’t Miss: Surprisingly unknown, Cuba has thousands of miles of coral reefs that are healthier than any others in the Caribbean. Teeming with fish, colourful corals, and large colonies of endangered species, a diving or snorkeling trip is a must. Anchor in Cayo Largo del Sur for calm waters and pristine reef.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: Havana has undergone a culinary revolution, becoming a mecca for foodies. Nazdarovie is a unique experience, serving delicious Soviet dishes with poignant décor and a beautiful balcony. For a special occasion book a table on the elegant and exclusive top floor of El Biky. Try the prawn cannelloni, best enjoyed to the tunes from the piano.

Best Local Dish: The cuisine is a mixture of Spanish and African flavours. For authentic Cuban dishes, try the iconic Bodeguita del Medio. Having hosted numerous artists, film stars, and singers, the creoles are renowned. Follow with a daiquiri at the equally legendary El Floridita.

Local Culture: Cuban culture is symbolised by complex mixtures and clashing influences. The result is an ambience of somehow charming discord. Visit the old quarter of Havana to see street musicians or world-class jazz in the Vedado neighborhood. The Jazz festival takes place in December, and during July Havana explodes into colour with the Carnaval period.

Best Beach: The north of Cuba is where the most stunning beaches are. On Varadero, white sands, striking turquoise waters, softly swaying palm trees and thatched umbrellas create the feel of an island paradise. A little more rugged with few amenities keeps this spot in the Hicacos Peninsula marvelously quiet.

IYC recommends: Visit the town of Baracoa. Until the 1960’s it was only accessible by boat, and still has a remote feel and wonderful character. The town is at the edge of imposing mountains and rainforests, set out to explore the trails of El Yunque nature reserve to discover waterfalls and tall cocoa trees.