We joined the Cuba cruise on the Panorama on 24 January, fairly early in the day, giving us time to explore Cienfuegos before boarding. To our delight, we found an old friend on board Stefanos, who had been the hotel manager on our first cruise.
Meeting the Crew and Planning Adventures
We were also happy to meet Vilim, the Tour Director. His knowledge of Cuba and his attentive care made the journey even better. With his help, we arranged a taxi to Santa Clara, the site where the revolution triumphed in December. The next day, Panorama set sail at 3:00 a.m., and by the time we woke up, we were already at sea.
Discovering Trinidad
We arrived in Casilda around 9:00 a.m. and took a bus to Trinidad. There, we admired the city’s beautiful colonial architecture, especially around Plaza Mayor, and enjoyed an excellent lunch at Don Antonio’s. After a pleasant day of sightseeing, we continued to Cayo Largo following a slightly choppy passage.
Adventure at Cayo Largo
We disembarked around 10:00 a.m. to visit a turtle breeding ground, go snorkeling over coral reefs, and relax at Playa Sirena, where dolphins offered a delightful surprise. The next day, 28 January, we anchored off Maria la Gorda, famous for its diving center.
Challenges at Sea
A delicious barbecue lunch awaited us on the beach, but later the sea grew rough. Boarding the tenders became tricky. Only two experienced yacht sailors managed to get on safely, while the rest of us had to be evacuated via the ship’s Zephyr (zodiac) under Captain Evangelos’s command.
We were impressed by how calmly and efficiently everyone responded. Vilim showed great leadership, first taking control of the dive boat handlers, then requesting the Zephyr, and finally preparing a backup plan to drive us to Havana if needed. Thanks to Captain Evangelos’s seamanship, we all made it back safely and dry.
Into Havana
That night, Panorama sailed through heavy seas and strong headwinds. Captain Costas later gave us a fascinating tour of the bridge, reassuring us that he had faced far worse conditions. Once we passed the fortresses at the entrance to Havana Harbor, the sea calmed. We docked at Sierra Maestre Cruise Terminal, opposite Plaza de San Francisco, on 29 January.
A Memorable Farewell
That evening, the Captain’s Dinner was a joyful occasion. The next day, we explored Old Havana, just steps away from the terminal. In the evening, we enjoyed a final barbecue aboard, highlighted by a lively Greek dance performed by Stefanos and the chef.
When we disembarked for our hotel the next morning, we couldn’t help but feel grateful. The entire crew had looked after us wonderfully. Our Cuba cruise with Variety remains the best voyage we’ve ever taken.
