Havana, here we come :-)

Many of our fellow cruisers were up on deck with us before dawn, so not to miss arriving in Cuba.

First glimpse of Havana

We had to wait longer as planned for the harbor pilot, but we were 'warned' multiple times the day before, that life on Cuba has its own pace and we have to be patient ;-)





Hotel Nacional de Cuba, it is the building in the front with the two towers. A beautiful hotel we visited on our city tour later that day. This hotel opened in 1930 when Cuba was a prime travel destination for Americans and since then has seen a lot of historic events, such as the battle of the Hotel Nacional, Mobster summits, and visits from monarchs and famous artists.

 Fortress of San Salvador de la Punta
It is now a museum about its history.

 The rising sun's light gives a magical glow to the buildings of Old Havana.

There is already another cruise ship docked. As of now, there is room for only two ships at a time. Additional terminals are there but will have to be renovated.

Castilla de la Real Fuerza
It was built to defend against pirates and is considered to be the oldest stone fort in the Americas.
It now is a maritime museum.

 Eye candy right by the cruise port, a beautiful old building.

The statue El Cristo de La Habana is located on the other side of the bay on the hill.

Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabana, the third largest fortress in the Americas.

It is now part of a historical park with several museums.

Looking back out towards the ocean, Castillo De Los Tres Reyes Del Morro, with the Faro Castillo del Morro lighthouse, is guarding the entrance to Havana Bay.

Entering Cuba in the cruise terminal was uneventful and smooth.

This early morning promises a beautiful day in Havana!