What Cruise Lines Go to Cuba?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning to visit Cuba, taking a cruise is one of the best ways to see the country. However, since the United States lifted its restrictions on travel to Cuba in 2016, only a few cruise lines have been given permission to operate in the country. In this article, we’ll take a look at which cruise lines go to Cuba and what you can expect from your trip.

What You Need to Know

Before we dive into the specific cruise lines that go to Cuba, there are a few things you should be aware of. Firstly, while US citizens are allowed to travel to Cuba for cultural exchange purposes, there are still some restrictions in place. You’ll need to have a visa and comply with certain rules while in the country.

Secondly, not all ports in Cuba are open for cruise ships. At the time of writing (2021), only Havana, Cienfuegos, and Santiago de Cuba accept cruise ships.

Cruise Lines That Go to Cuba

1. Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line was one of the first companies to offer cruises from the US to Cuba after travel restrictions were lifted. The company offers four-day round-trip cruises from Miami that stop in Havana.

2. Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean also offers four-day round-trip cruises from Miami that stop in Havana. In addition, they offer longer cruises that visit other ports in the Caribbean as well as Havana.

3. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line offers four-day round-trip cruises from Miami that stop in Havana as well as longer cruises that visit other ports in the Caribbean and Central America.

4. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offers longer cruises that visit Havana as well as other ports in the Caribbean and South America. They have a 14-day cruise that departs from Miami and includes stops in Cuba, Jamaica, Mexico, Colombia, and Panama.

What to Expect

No matter which cruise line you choose, you can expect to experience the vibrant culture and history of Cuba. Most cruises offer shore excursions that allow you to explore the city of Havana and its many landmarks such as the Malecón, the Plaza de la Revolución, and the Museum of the Revolution.

In addition to cultural experiences, you’ll also have plenty of opportunities to relax on the ship and enjoy onboard amenities such as restaurants, bars, pools, and entertainment.

In Conclusion

While there are only a few cruise lines that go to Cuba at present, they all offer unique experiences for travelers looking to explore this fascinating country. Whether you choose Norwegian Cruise Line for a quick getaway or MSC Cruises for a longer journey through multiple ports, you’re sure to come away with unforgettable memories of your time in Cuba.