Virgin Voyages finalises contract to sail to Cuba

Virgin Voyages has officially finalised its contract to sail to Cuba. The cruise line’s excursion programme on the Caribbean island, Shore Things, will provide guests with a range of experiences. 

“Our sailors are eager to sail to Cuba and we are incredibly proud to celebrate our plans to visit Havana, which is without a doubt, one of the Caribbean’s most authentic and enriching destinations,” said Tom McAlpin, Virgin Voyages’ president and CEO. “This fantastic place offers the chance for our sailors to experience a vibrant city and artistic haven, where they can meet locals and discover the heritage and culture of this beautiful destination.”

 McAlpin joined Virgin Voyages’ vice president of Destination, Itinerary and Revenue Diana Block-Garcia and officials from La Habana Cruise Port for the celebration. The ceremony was part of another visit to Cuba to continue the development of the line’s shore excursion programme. 

“We are excited to take part in Virgin Voyages’ Shore Things programme and we look forward to welcoming Virgin Voyages’ first ship, Scarlet Lady, and its sailors to Havana,” said Jorge Mandiola, general manager of La Habana Cruise Port. “We wish Virgin Voyages smooth sailing as it readies its ship over the next year. Havana is awaiting your arrival.” 

Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady will set sail on four- and five-night ‘Havana After Dark’ itineraries beginning 1 April 2020. All sailings to Cuba from Miami feature an overnight stay in Havana, giving guests time to explore. While in port, sailors can visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Havana and experience the city’s culture through music, food, its residents and architecture.