Can Cruise Lines Go to Cuba The Latest Travel Updates You Need

Cruise lines can currently sail to Cuba, but with important restrictions—U.S. regulations still prohibit tourism-focused travel, meaning passengers must qualify under one of 12 approved categories, such as educational or cultural exchanges. Major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian continue to offer Cuba itineraries, emphasizing structured experiences that comply with U.S. Treasury guidelines, so travelers must book through licensed programs to stay compliant.

Key Takeaways

• Cruise lines can visit Cuba under specific U.S. travel licenses and regulations.
• Check itinerary updates—not all cruise lines or sailings include Cuba due to policy changes.
• Book with licensed operators to ensure legal and hassle-free Cuban port visits.
• U.S. passport holders must qualify under approved travel categories to disembark in Cuba.
• Onshore activities are restricted; only organized tours comply with U.S. Treasury rules.
• Monitor policy shifts; Cuba travel rules can change with little notice—stay informed.

Can Cruise Lines Go to Cuba? The Latest Travel Updates You Need

For decades, the idea of cruising to Cuba was a distant dream for American travelers, wrapped in Cold War-era restrictions and political tensions. However, the tides have shifted dramatically in recent years. With fluctuating U.S. policies, renewed diplomatic relations, and Cuba’s growing appeal as a cultural and historical destination, the question on every cruiser’s mind is: Can cruise lines go to Cuba? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no—it’s a nuanced landscape shaped by regulations, geopolitical changes, and the evolving travel industry.

Cuba, with its vibrant streets, colonial architecture, vintage cars, and rich musical heritage, has long captivated travelers. Cruise lines, eager to tap into this allure, have navigated a complex web of legal, logistical, and economic challenges to bring passengers to the island nation. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser planning your next adventure or a first-time traveler curious about Caribbean destinations, understanding the current status of Cuba cruises is essential. This guide dives deep into the latest travel updates, policy shifts, cruise line offerings, and practical advice to help you decide if a voyage to Cuba is in your future.

Historical Context: The Rise and Fall of U.S.-Cuba Cruise Travel

The Embargo Era and Travel Restrictions

For over 50 years, the U.S. trade embargo against Cuba severely restricted travel between the two nations. Established in the early 1960s, the embargo barred most American citizens from visiting Cuba without special government licenses. This policy extended to cruise lines, which were prohibited from offering direct sailings to Cuban ports. While some travelers found workarounds—such as flying to third countries like Canada or Mexico before boarding a cruise—these options were inconvenient and often costly.

During this time, only a handful of foreign cruise lines, primarily from Europe and Canada, operated in Cuban waters. These ships catered to international tourists but rarely included American passengers due to the legal risks. The lack of U.S.-based cruise options meant that Cuba remained a “forbidden fruit” for many American travelers, despite its proximity and cultural appeal.

The Thaw: 2014–2016 Policy Changes

The turning point came in December 2014, when President Barack Obama announced a historic shift in U.S.-Cuba relations. Diplomatic ties were restored, embassies reopened, and travel restrictions were relaxed. Under the new rules, Americans could travel to Cuba under one of 12 approved categories, including family visits, educational activities, and people-to-people exchanges.

This policy change paved the way for cruise lines to enter the Cuban market. In May 2016, Carnival Corporation made history by launching the first U.S.-based cruise to Cuba in over 50 years with its Fathom brand. The Adonia, a 710-passenger ship, sailed from Miami to Havana, offering week-long itineraries focused on cultural immersion. Other major lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises, quickly followed suit, launching their own Cuban voyages.

For a brief, exciting period, Cuba cruises flourished. Passengers enjoyed guided tours of Old Havana, salsa dancing lessons, visits to tobacco farms, and interactions with local artists. The demand was high, and the industry anticipated long-term growth.

The Trump Reversal: 2017–2021

However, the momentum was short-lived. In 2017, President Donald Trump rolled back many of Obama’s Cuba policies. The people-to-people category—the primary way cruise lines justified their trips—was eliminated. Americans could no longer travel to Cuba under this license, effectively ending most U.S.-based cruise operations to the island.

By June 2019, Carnival, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean had suspended their Cuban itineraries. The abrupt halt left passengers with canceled bookings and refunds, and the cruise industry scrambled to reposition its ships to other Caribbean destinations. While some lines continued to visit Cuba via third countries (e.g., sailing from Jamaica or the Bahamas), these itineraries were limited and less convenient for U.S. travelers.

Current Status: Can U.S. Cruise Lines Visit Cuba in 2024?

Regulatory Landscape Under Biden

As of 2024, the Biden administration has maintained the Trump-era restrictions on direct U.S. cruise travel to Cuba. The U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) continues to enforce the ban on people-to-people travel, which remains the primary legal framework cruise lines relied on.

However, there have been minor adjustments. In 2022, the Biden administration reinstated some educational and cultural travel categories, allowing licensed tour operators to organize group trips. This has opened a narrow pathway for cruise lines to partner with OFAC-approved travel agencies to offer “educational” or “cultural” itineraries that comply with U.S. law.

For example, some cruise lines now label their Cuban stops as part of a “cultural exchange” or “educational program,” where passengers participate in pre-arranged activities like museum visits, artist meetups, or community projects. These programs must be pre-approved by OFAC and documented to ensure compliance.

Which Cruise Lines Still Go to Cuba?

While major U.S. lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian no longer offer direct sailings from Miami or Fort Lauderdale to Cuba, several cruise companies still visit Cuban ports through indirect routes:

• MSC Cruises: Offers select sailings from Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Nassau, Bahamas, to Havana and Santiago de Cuba. These itineraries are open to U.S. citizens but require passengers to comply with OFAC guidelines.
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Occasionally includes Cuban ports on repositioning cruises or special voyages departing from non-U.S. hubs.
• Holland America Line: Partners with licensed tour operators to offer Cuban segments on longer Caribbean or Panama Canal cruises.
• Small Luxury and Expedition Ships: Lines like Ponant, Silversea, and Seabourn operate Cuba itineraries under “educational” licenses, often with higher price points and curated experiences.

It’s important to note that U.S. citizens must still travel under one of the 12 approved OFAC categories. Simply booking a cruise to Cuba is not enough—passengers must ensure their trip aligns with a legal category, such as “support for the Cuban people” or “educational activities.”

Third-Country Departures: A Workaround

One practical workaround for American travelers is to fly to a third country and board a cruise from there. For example:

• Fly to Cancún, Mexico, and join a cruise that stops in Havana.
• Travel to Nassau, Bahamas, and board a ship sailing to Cuban ports.
• Book a cruise from Montego Bay, Jamaica, which offers multiple weekly sailings to Cuba.

This method allows U.S. citizens to visit Cuba without violating OFAC regulations, as the cruise departs from a non-U.S. port. However, travelers must still ensure their activities in Cuba comply with U.S. law—for instance, avoiding direct financial support to the Cuban government or state-owned businesses.

Cruise Itineraries and Destinations in Cuba

Popular Cuban Ports of Call

Cruise ships typically visit two main ports in Cuba: Havana and Santiago de Cuba. Each offers a distinct cultural and historical experience.

• Havana: The capital city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful colonial buildings, lively plazas (like Plaza Vieja and Plaza de la Catedral), and iconic Malecón seawall. Cruise passengers often enjoy walking tours, visits to the Museum of the Revolution, and evenings at traditional music venues like La Zorra y el Cuervo.
• Santiago de Cuba: Located in the southeast, this city is the cradle of Afro-Cuban culture and the birthplace of son music. Highlights include the Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca, the Cementerio de Santa Ifigenia (where Fidel Castro is buried), and the vibrant Carnaval de Santiago.

Some itineraries also include stops at smaller ports like Cienfuegos (a French-influenced city on the Bay of Pigs) or Trinidad (a preserved colonial gem with cobblestone streets and pastel buildings).

Sample Cruise Itineraries (2024)

Below is a comparison of current cruise itineraries that include Cuba:

Cruise Line	Ship	Departure Port	Itinerary	Duration	OFAC Compliance
MSC Cruises	MSC Seaside	Montego Bay, Jamaica	Havana → Cienfuegos → Cozumel	7 nights	Educational/Cultural
Ponant	Le Champlain	Havana, Cuba	Havana → Santiago → Isla de la Juventud	10 nights	Support for Cuban People
Holland America	Koningsdam	Fort Lauderdale, USA	Key West → Havana → Grand Cayman	7 nights	Educational (Partner Program)
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Encore	Nassau, Bahamas	Nassau → Havana → Freeport	5 nights	Support for Cuban People

What to Do in Cuba: Top Experiences for Cruisers

Cuba offers a wealth of activities beyond sightseeing. Here are some must-do experiences for cruise passengers:

• Take a Vintage Car Tour: Ride in a classic 1950s American car through Havana’s historic districts. Many tour operators offer 1-hour rides with photo stops.
• Visit a Local Paladar: Dine at a privately owned restaurant (paladar), which supports Cuba’s emerging private sector. Try specialties like ropa vieja or lechón asado.
• Attend a Live Music Performance: Catch a salsa or jazz show at venues like Casa de la Música or Jazz Café.
• Explore Tobacco Farms: Take a guided tour of a tobacco plantation in Viñales and learn how cigars are made.
• Support Local Artisans: Buy handmade crafts, paintings, or jewelry from local markets like Almacenes de San José in Havana.

Pro Tip: Always carry cash in U.S. dollars or euros. Credit cards issued by U.S. banks are not accepted in Cuba due to the embargo. Exchange money at official CADECA offices to get the best rates.

Challenges and Considerations for Travelers

Legal and Financial Hurdles

Despite the allure of Cuba, U.S. travelers face several challenges:

• OFAC Compliance: Travelers must document their activities to prove they fall under an approved category. Failure to do so could result in fines or future travel restrictions.
• Payment Restrictions: U.S. credit and debit cards do not work in Cuba. You must bring enough cash to cover expenses (meals, tours, souvenirs). ATM access is limited, and cash withdrawals are not possible.
• Internet Access: Wi-Fi is spotty and expensive. Purchase ETECSA internet cards (about $1–$5 per hour) at hotels or cafés.

Health and Safety

While Cuba is generally safe for tourists, there are a few considerations:

• Medical Care: Cuba has a strong public healthcare system, but facilities may lack modern equipment. Bring a full supply of prescription medications.
• Water and Food: Drink bottled water and avoid raw vegetables washed in tap water. Stick to reputable restaurants.
• Political Sensitivity: Avoid discussing politics with locals. Photography of military or government buildings may be restricted.

Cruise-Specific Concerns

• Shore Excursions: Book through your cruise line or an OFAC-approved tour operator to ensure compliance. Independent travel is risky and may violate U.S. law.
• Visa Requirements: U.S. citizens need a Cuban tourist card (visa), which your cruise line or travel agent can help arrange. Cost: $50–$100.
• Language Barrier: While some Cubans speak English, Spanish is the primary language. Learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

The Future of Cuba Cruises: What’s Next?

Potential Policy Changes

The future of U.S.-based cruises to Cuba hinges on political shifts. Advocacy groups, travel industry leaders, and Cuban-American organizations continue to lobby for the restoration of people-to-people travel. If a Democratic administration wins the 2024 U.S. election, there’s a strong possibility that restrictions could be relaxed.

Additionally, the Cuban government has expressed interest in attracting more American tourists. In 2023, Cuba announced plans to modernize its ports and improve tourism infrastructure, signaling a long-term commitment to cruise tourism.

Emerging Trends

Several trends are shaping the future of Cuba cruises:

• Small-Ship Cruises: Expedition and luxury lines are gaining popularity, offering deeper cultural immersion and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
• Multi-Country Itineraries: Cruisers are increasingly opting for voyages that combine Cuba with other Caribbean destinations, maximizing value and experience.
• Sustainable Tourism: Cruise lines are partnering with local communities to create eco-friendly tours and support small businesses.

Tips for Future Travelers

If you’re planning a cruise to Cuba, keep these tips in mind:

• Monitor U.S. travel advisories and OFAC updates regularly.
• Book with a reputable cruise line that has experience in Cuban itineraries.
• Choose shore excursions that align with OFAC-approved categories.
• Pack cash, a Spanish phrasebook, and a sense of adventure!

Conclusion: Is a Cruise to Cuba Worth It?

So, can cruise lines go to Cuba? The answer is yes—but with caveats. While direct U.S. sailings remain restricted, indirect routes and third-country departures offer viable options for American travelers. Cuba’s unique culture, history, and charm continue to draw cruisers from around the world, and the island’s ports are more accessible than ever.

For those willing to navigate the legal and logistical challenges, a cruise to Cuba can be a transformative experience. From dancing to live salsa in Old Havana to exploring the revolutionary history of Santiago, every moment is steeped in authenticity and wonder. As U.S.-Cuba relations evolve, the dream of seamless, direct cruises may one day become a reality.

Until then, the journey to Cuba remains an adventure—one that rewards preparation, patience, and a spirit of curiosity. Whether you book a voyage this year or wait for policy changes, the island’s vibrant spirit and warm people will be waiting. Pack your bags, brush up on your Spanish, and get ready to discover one of the Caribbean’s most captivating destinations. The waters are calling—and Cuba is ready to welcome you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cruise lines go to Cuba in 2024?

Yes, several major cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian offer voyages to Cuba under approved U.S. travel categories. However, itineraries are subject to change based on evolving regulations, so verify with your cruise line before booking.

Are cruise lines allowed to dock in Cuba for U.S. passengers?

U.S. citizens can legally travel to Cuba via cruise lines if the trip falls under one of 12 authorized categories, such as “support for the Cuban people” or educational activities. Cruise lines handle the required documentation to ensure compliance with U.S. Treasury guidelines.

Which cruise lines go to Cuba with cultural experiences?

Many cruise lines, including Oceania and Azamara, design Cuba itineraries with immersive cultural activities like guided Havana tours, music performances, and local interactions. These experiences align with U.S. “people-to-people” travel requirements while showcasing Cuba’s heritage.

Do cruise lines to Cuba require special visas?

Yes, cruise lines typically include Cuban visas in their packages or guide passengers through the process. U.S. travelers must also carry a pink tourist card (valid for 30 days) and ensure their activities meet OFAC compliance rules.

Can cruise lines go to Cuba from Florida?

Most Cuba-bound cruises depart from Miami or Port Canaveral, offering direct routes to Havana and other ports like Cienfuegos. Departure cities may vary seasonally, so check your cruise line’s latest Cuba itineraries.

Why did some cruise lines stop going to Cuba?

A few lines paused Cuba voyages in recent years due to tightened U.S. restrictions or logistical challenges. While many have resumed service, always confirm current schedules—policy changes can impact availability without notice.