Agreement marks the first time a cruise ship has been able to sail from US to Cuba in over 50 years
By
Rebecca Gibson |
Cuban authorities have granted Carnival Corporation & plc permission to begin operating US-Cuba cruises via its social impact travel brand, Fathom, from 1 May 2016.
Marking the first time that a cruise ship has been approved to sail from the US to Cuba in more than 50 years, the approval follows US Government authorisation, which was granted in July 2015. The agreements were signed on 21 March by Cuban authorities from Havanatur Celimar, various other agencies and Carnival Corporation.
“Our Carnival Corporation and Fathom brand teams have worked closely with Cuba throughout this process and we are thrilled to begin regular sailings to Cuba from Miami starting on 1 May 2016,” said Tara Russell, president of Fathom. “We have been told that we will be the first cruise line to sail from the US to Cuba with our historic inaugural sailing. We are humbled and honored to offer a one-of-a-kind Cuban experience to our travellers.”
Now, Fathom passengers will be able to board the 704-passenger Adonia in PortMiami on Sunday at 4:30pm and arrive in Havana, Cuba at 11am on Monday. During their seven-day cruise, travellers will participate in various artistic, educational and humanitarian activities that support cultural and economic development in Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba. Guests will also have free time to enjoy the various historic and cultural activities in each of the cities.
Meanwhile, onboard Adonia, guests will be able to participate in a range of activities, including an orientation of Cuba’s history, customs and culture; conversational Spanish lessons; and various other personal enrichment activities. Guests will also be able to watch geographically relevant films, enjoy Cuba-inspired menus and purchase specialist items. Adonia returns to its homeport, PortMiami, at 7:30 am on Sunday.
“We are excited about Cuban approval and are ready to take travellers there through an extraordinary guest experience on the beautiful Adonia,” said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation. “This is a historic opportunity, and we know there is pent-up demand amongst Americans who want to experience Cuba. We believe there is no better way to experience so much of Cuba in seven days. Everyone who sails with us with Fathom to Cuba will have a very special, rewarding and enriching experience with our Fathom brand.”