The Neptuno-Tritón Hotel, situated in the Miramar district of Havana, has unveiled a new pool membership for August. This offer allows unlimited access to the pool for a flat fee of $30 per person, with an immediate issuance of a membership card.
This initiative, rolled out by the state-operated Gran Caribe group, was announced on their official Facebook page under the name "Our Pool Membership Project". The package is described as a "one-time payment for the entire month of August," ensuring "unrestricted entry to our pool throughout the month."
The announcement sparked a flurry of critical reactions from Cuban followers on the hotel's social media profile.
Many users highlighted that the regular pool entry already costs $3 per person without any included services, making the membership worthwhile only if one visits at least ten times.
Complaints also targeted the condition of the facilities and the quality of service. "The worst pool I've ever visited," commented Reinier Domingues.
Manuel Fajardo demanded, "Why don't you provide complete information? It's always the same, are we supposed to guess? Such poor service!"
Yoly Cabrera expressed her frustration more bluntly: "Oh my God. So much promotion for this service. It's not easy. Private homes are preferable."
Other comments questioned the venue's atmosphere and the food offerings. Yeni La Chiqui encapsulated the general skepticism: "Oh well, it's not like anyone's going every day, just pool access."
The hotel also responded to a user who mentioned a previous price in Cuban pesos, clarifying that "that price no longer exists" and that the rates "have been updated."
The Neptuno-Tritón has a documented history of decline. In 2024, Cuban YouTuber Marlon Hernández highlighted the neglected state of the complex in a widely viewed video, and since 2016, reports noted that the Tritón tower had to close due to the lack of hot water.
This offer is part of a growing trend among state-run Havana hotels to charge foreign currency or equivalent prices for pool access.
Last month, the Hotel Nacional hosted a pool party with an entry fee of 19,000 Cuban pesos plus a 6,000 minimum spend during the World Cup; the Tryp Habana Libre Hotel promoted a full-day pass for $30 in June.
FAQs on the Neptuno-Tritón Pool Membership
What does the Neptuno-Tritón pool membership include?
The membership offers unlimited access to the pool for the entire month of August for a one-time payment of $30 per person.
Why is there criticism about the Neptuno-Tritón's pool membership?
Criticism stems from the condition of the facilities, the quality of service, and the high price compared to the standard entry fee, which only justifies the membership if visited frequently.
How have other Havana hotels approached pool access?
Other Havana hotels have also started charging in foreign currency or equivalent prices, with events like pool parties and full-day passes priced significantly high.