5 Important Cuban Ports

One of the key contributors to Cuba’s GDP is tourism, which includes medical tourism. The country is home to numerous resorts and stunning beaches, with Varadero or Playa Azul being the most famous. Additionally, Cuba’s 3570 miles of coastline provide ample opportunities for maritime activities, making its ports an integral part of its economic infrastructure.

In this article, we will explore the five major ports in Cuba, which play a crucial role in facilitating trade and commerce. These ports serve as gateways for both imports and exports, connecting Cuba to the rest of the world.

Port of Havana

The Port of Havana, also known as La Habana or Habana, is the principal port of Cuba and has been a vital hub for over 500 years. Because it is on the northern side of the country, it is a great place for cargo to change hands between North and South America, as well as between Europe and the Americas. The port is split into three sections and is in a bay with good protection.

History

The history of the Port of Havana dates back to the 16th century when it served as a mooring site for vessels destined for Spain. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in the economic development of the region. In 1634, a royal decree recognized its significance by bestowing upon it the title of “Key to the New World and Rampart of the West Indies.”

Infrastructure

The Port of Havana boasts 14 berths, capable of accommodating all types of ships. It handles a range of exports, including sugar, molasses, liqueurs, minerals, and citrus fruits. Imports at the port include general cargo, machinery, fertilizers, and fuel oil. The port also has 19 mooring buoys, with four dedicated to naval vessels. It offers excellent repair and bunkering facilities, ensuring efficient operations.

Sierra Maestra Terminal

The Port of Havana also serves as a gateway for cruise ships, with the Sierra Maestra Terminal located in Atares Cove, close to Old Havana. This terminal has a 9.75-meter alongside depth and three berthing facilities. It provides easy access to the beautiful historic sites of the city, allowing tourists to explore the rich cultural heritage of Cuba.

Port of Santiago de Cuba

Situated on the southeastern coast of Cuba, the Port of Santiago de Cuba is the second-largest city in the country and serves as a vital seaport. It features a bay linked to the Caribbean Sea, making it an important hub for trade and commerce.

Historical Significance

Santiago de Cuba was established in 1515, making it the seventh village founded by Spanish conquistador Diego Velazquez de Cuellar. Though the settlement was destroyed by fire the following year, it was rebuilt and has since played a significant role in Cuba’s history.

Trade Operations

The Port of Santiago de Cuba has extensive berths and storage facilities, allowing for efficient handling of imports and exports. The principal exports from this port include copper, iron, sugar, and fruits, while key imports comprise general cargo, grain, machinery, and fuel. Each year, approximately 100 vessels arrive at the port, contributing to the region’s economic growth.

Port of Matanzas

The Port of Matanzas is situated at the mouth of the Yumuri and San Juan Rivers in Matanzas Bay, on the northern coast of Cuba. As an important part of the region’s export and import trade, this port makes it easier for items to move into and out of the country.

Cultural Significance

The city of Matanzas is often referred to as the “Athens of Cuba” due to its cultural institutions and the presence of many artists and scholars. It is home to various scenic places, monuments, plazas, and historic structures, such as the 17th-century San Severino Castle and San Carlos Cathedral. With its 17 bridges spanning the three rivers that flow through the city, Matanzas has earned the nickname “Venice of Cuba.” It is also considered the birthplace of Rumba, a popular Cuban music and dance genre.

Trade Operations

The Port of Matanzas primarily handles the export of sugar, molasses, and liqueurs, while imports include fertilizers, oil, and general cargo. Over 70 vessels visit the port annually, contributing to the economic growth of the region.

Port of Mariel

The Port of Mariel is located in the northwest of Cuba, approximately 40 kilometers west of Havana. It is one of the closest ports to the United States and serves as a crucial transshipment hub for maritime trade in the region.

Infrastructure and Capacity

The Port of Mariel has been developed to accommodate larger vessels, including Neo-Panamax ships. Its container terminal spans 54.9 hectares, with a container yard area of 27.7 hectares and reefer container stacking capacity for 2 blocks with 1140 plugs. The terminal features four Super-Post Panamax quay cranes, 12 Rubber Tired Gantry cranes, and two rail-mounted gantry cranes. Its current operational capacity allows for the handling of approximately 850,000 to 1 million containers per year.

Future Expansion

The Port of Mariel has plans for further expansion, with the aim of reaching a dock length of 2400 meters and an operational capacity of 3 million TEUs annually. This expansion will enhance its role as a critical trade gateway, connecting Cuba to the Gulf ports and ports on the East Coast of the United States.

Port of Manzanillo

Located in the Granma province on the Gulf of Guacanayabo, the Port of Manzanillo serves as an important hub for various industries, including agriculture and manufacturing.

Agricultural and Industrial Significance

The region surrounding the Port of Manzanillo is known for its cultivation of coffee, fruits, rice, sugarcane, and tobacco. The port facilitates the export of these agricultural products, contributing to the economic growth of the area. Additionally, the local industry includes fish canning, leather goods factories, cigar production, sawmills, and molasses plants. The presence of zinc and copper deposits further adds to the region’s economic significance.

Cargo Operations

The Port of Manzanillo serves as a transshipment center for timber, sugar, and tobacco. It also manages the importing of petroleum products through its CBM. The port’s anchorage area and efficient cargo operations ensure the smooth movement of goods, supporting regional development and trade.

The five main ports in Cuba—the Port of Havana, the Port of Santiago de Cuba, the Port of Matanzas, the Port of Mariel, and the Port of Manzanillo—are very important for trade and business in the area. These ports serve as gateways for imports and exports, connecting Cuba to the global market. With their strategic locations, extensive infrastructure, and efficient operations, these ports contribute significantly to the economic growth and development of Cuba.