Location is all for this hotel. Couple of minutes walk from markets either side and all the sites in old Havana.

Food is typical Cuban and service is good.

Our room was at the front with an amazing balcony and views over the harbour. All very clean although the lifts were not always walking.

I can only say that my 4 night stay here was very good although having read some of the reviews I was rather anxious prior to my arrival.My experience was very different to that of some of the negative reviewers.My room was on the top floor and I didn't experience any of the noise mentioned but this is a city and the hotel is by the port so if you book there you should realise it might not be quiet.As for the staff they were lovely and helpful and willing to engage in conversation but I always find if you smile and are pleasant to people first the response is usually positve.Breakfast I found very civilised served to you at your table rather than a scrum at a help yourself buffet and the hot pancakes were delicious.Just remember this is Cuba, things are difficult so chill and relax and go with the flow.

After experiencing a 2.5 hour transfer to Varadero from Havana airport, a journey we wouldn't want to do too many times, we decided to have an overnight stay in Havana before flying home the next day. This was part of Virgin holidays package. After a walking tour of the city + lunch, we were taken to the hotel. Check-in was smooth and simple and we were given room 304. This was at the back of the hotel, so no traffic noise, large and cool from the air-con. The beds were comfortable, bathroom clean, although the edge of the bath was a bit rusty, shower good with plenty of hot water. A welcome cocktail followed and we had free time before dinner. It was close to the main areas of Havana and just around the corner from the Havana Club Rum Museum.
Dinner was typically Cuban where you only get one set of cutlery, but an old fashioned butter knife! We are not fussy eaters, but the food was ok although rather bland. Breakfast had plenty of choices, but the strangest meal was chicken, served with spaghetti and tomato sauce + cucumber and carrots!
We were allowed to keep our bags in our room until we checked out at 3pm which was very handy, allowng us to tidy up before we left for the airport.
You must have a Mojito from the bar! Made to perfection!
there is also a large roof terrace where you can enjoy a drink or photo opportunities.
Overall, we were pleased with our stay here and would recommend it to friends.

We spent 8 days in Cuba on a maritime research project and felt very comfortable and safe at the Armadores de Santander. The staff was most hospitable and worked hard to make our stay enjoyable. In spite of the difficulties faced by the Cuban people due to circumstances beyond their control, they exude an air of resigned acceptance of their plight. Hopefully, their situation will improve and more Americans will be given the opportunity to see this country (and its people) in a more positive light!