The German sailing vessel Alexander von Humboldt II made a striking appearance in Havana Harbor, where its majestic three masts stood in stark contrast to the city's routine struggles with power outages and daily hardships.
This training ship, designed for educating young sailors in traditional maritime skills, emphasizes sail maneuvers, discipline, teamwork, and leadership, all combined with hands-on learning at sea.
During its Havana visit, many locals flocked to see and photograph the impressive ship, providing a striking juxtaposition to the ongoing national crisis.
The crew also engaged in a meeting with the German ambassador to Cuba, discussing their voyage, experiences on the island, and their impressions of Havana before setting sail on their continued journey.
On social media, the visit sparked enthusiastic remarks about the ship's beauty, while also raising questions about the symbolic meaning of its presence amid Cuba's current challenges.
The Legacy of Alexander von Humboldt
The ship's name is no coincidence. Alexander von Humboldt was a renowned German scientist and humanist who explored Cuba's natural environment, geography, and society in the early 19th century, offering invaluable insights about the island. He's often referred to as the "second discoverer of Cuba."
In homage to this historical figure, the German Embassy in Havana has launched the contest “If Alexander von Humboldt Returned Today, What Would He Say?” aimed at Cuban residents aged 16 and over.
The contest invites participants to create a one-minute Instagram reel offering a creative reflection on contemporary Cuba. The deadline for submissions is March 15, 2026.
Prizes include an 11-inch iPad (256 GB, 2025) for the first place winner, a Samsung Galaxy A17 5G (128 GB) for second place, and JBL Tune Buds 2 noise-canceling headphones for third place.
As the sailing ship named after him departs Havana, Humboldt's legacy re-emerges in discussions among today's Cubans.
Exploring the Impact of Alexander von Humboldt II's Visit
What is the significance of the Alexander von Humboldt II's visit to Havana?
The visit of the Alexander von Humboldt II to Havana offered a picturesque contrast to the daily struggles in Cuba, highlighting the ongoing cultural and historical connections between Germany and Cuba.
Who was Alexander von Humboldt and why is he significant to Cuba?
Alexander von Humboldt was a prominent German scientist and humanist who conducted extensive studies of Cuba in the 19th century. His work provided valuable insights into the island's natural and social landscapes, earning him the title "second discoverer of Cuba."