Cuba...I have questions.

[WindWanderer]

So, I'm thinking of crewing on a s/v that will be going to the Dry Tortugas, then Havana for a day, one other port there also for a day, then on to the Bahamas.
The boat is of British registry. The capt is from England. I am American.

I know that for him and his vessel there is no issue. But how about for me?
Is it a huge hassle? What do I need to know in advance?

I've heard something about asking for a tourist card, and having them not stamp my passport???

Thanks!

[gamayun]

You might want to contact the State Department for an official answer rather than a sailing forum. This is not advice, but I know friends who have visited Cuba on an "education" visa of some sort. Have also heard that you can get in alright from other countries (or a boat, I suppose), but just ask them not to stamp your passport.

[caradow]

Just go
The place is fantastic, the people are welcoming and they do not stamp your passport.
Best island in the Caribbean!

[belizesailor]

Originally Posted by WindWanderer

...

But how about for me?
Is it a huge hassle? What do I need to know in advance?
...

No hassle at all if you don't get caught! ;-) Big hassle and expense of you do.

Illegal unless officially permitted by State Dept.

Most awesome people in the Carib. Beautiful island.

[avb3]

From what others here have said in previous threads, don't land back in the US in the Keys, or even Miami if you can avoid it. Apparently they are much more vigilant there as opposed to say, the Tampa region.

Technically, the British yacht and her captain can be denied access to the US for 6 months after visiting Cuba.

That being said, plenty of Americans have been in Cuba taking the route you suggest. Just saying, be aware there may be complications.

[sww914]

Some facts- Cuba — Noonsite

[WindWanderer]

The s/v will NOT be returning to the US within 6 months.
I will be returning via air from somewhere in the Bahamas/Caribbean.

[barnaclejim]

Be careful with the Godless communists! Especially the cute and friendly ones. Just use cash and change money locally. Dont tell anyone else how amazing it is, especially Norte americanos! It will be Disneyland soon enough..... Practice your cockney accent if the USCG shows up. Dont inhale the local cigars too deeply, unless you are strong like bull. If Sarah Palin becomes president while you are there dont bother coming back. If she does there is a nice little B& B on the backside where you can be rehabilated. er a Fair winds

[denverd0n]

Technically speaking, it is illegal for you to go to Cuba without the permission of the State Department (which permission is only available in very specific circumstances). That said, if you are coming back from the Bahamas it is highly unlikely that you would get caught. People do it all the time and almost no one ever gets caught. Just be sure that you do NOT get your passport stamped in Cuba.

That said, you do have to be aware of the risk. The operative words above are "almost no one." Don't expect me to contribute to your defense fund if you happen to be the one-in-a-million who does get caught.

Good luck.