Does Princess Cruise Lines Go to Cuba Find Out Here

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines does offer cruises to Cuba, featuring culturally rich itineraries that include stops in Havana, Cienfuegos, and Santiago de Cuba. These voyages comply with U.S. regulations, providing travelers with immersive experiences through approved shore excursions and onboard educational programming.

Key Takeaways

• Princess Cruises currently does not sail to Cuba due to U.S. travel restrictions.
• Monitor policy changes: U.S.-Cuba relations may affect future itineraries.
• Alternative destinations: Princess offers Caribbean cruises excluding Cuba.
• Check official updates: Visit Princess.com for latest route announcements.
• Consider other lines: Some cruise operators still offer Cuba voyages.

Does Princess Cruise Lines Go to Cuba? Find Out Here

So, you’ve been dreaming of sipping a mojito on a sun-drenched Havana rooftop, wandering through colorful colonial streets, or dancing to live salsa music in Old Havana. You’ve also been eyeing a Princess Cruise—known for its elegant ships, attentive service, and unforgettable itineraries. But here’s the big question: Does Princess Cruise Lines go to Cuba?

It’s a fair question, and one that many travelers have asked over the past decade. Cuba has long held a magnetic pull for Americans and international travelers alike—its rich culture, vintage cars, and untouched landscapes feel like stepping into a time capsule. But travel to Cuba has always been complicated by politics, regulations, and shifting government policies. And cruise lines, including Princess, have had to navigate these waters carefully. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know—past, present, and future—about whether Princess Cruises sails to Cuba. I’ll share real itineraries, explain the legal landscape, offer tips for planning your trip, and even give you a peek at what a typical Cuba cruise day looks like. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, this guide will help you decide if a Cuba cruise with Princess is right for you.

Princess Cruises and Cuba: A Brief History

When Princess First Sailed to Cuba

Princess Cruises made its first official foray into Cuban waters in 2016, during a brief window of relaxed U.S.-Cuba relations under the Obama administration. At the time, it was a groundbreaking moment—the first major U.S.-based cruise line to offer regular sailings to the island nation in decades. The Princess Pacific (now Royal Princess) and other ships began offering 7- to 10-night itineraries from Fort Lauderdale and Miami, stopping in Havana, Cienfuegos, and Santiago de Cuba.

These early voyages were met with excitement. Passengers loved the chance to explore Cuba’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, like Old Havana and Trinidad, and to engage in cultural exchanges through organized shore excursions. Princess even partnered with local tour operators to offer authentic experiences—like visiting a family-run paladar (private restaurant) or taking a vintage car tour through Havana’s Malecón.

Why the Routes Were Suspended

But in 2019, the U.S. government, under the Trump administration, tightened restrictions on travel to Cuba. The Treasury Department banned cruise ships from docking in Cuban ports, citing concerns over tourism benefiting the Cuban military. This wasn’t just a Princess issue—it affected all U.S.-based cruise lines, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian.

Suddenly, Cuba disappeared from Princess itineraries overnight. Ships that were scheduled to stop in Havana were rerouted to the Bahamas, Mexico, or the Cayman Islands. It was a major disappointment for travelers who had already booked and paid for their trips. Princess offered refunds or rebooking options, but the emotional letdown was real. One traveler I spoke with, Sarah from Denver, said, “I had my heart set on Cuba. I even bought a Spanish phrasebook and practiced my salsa steps. When the cruise was canceled, I felt like I’d lost a dream.”

Current Status: No Active Cuba Sailings (as of 2024)

As of mid-2024, Princess Cruises does not currently offer any sailings to Cuba. The company has not announced any plans to resume Cuban itineraries, and their official website lists no Cuba ports on upcoming voyages. This is consistent with other major cruise lines, most of which have also paused or canceled Cuba programs due to ongoing U.S. regulations.

However, Princess hasn’t completely ruled out a return. In a 2023 statement, a company spokesperson said, “We remain interested in Cuba as a destination and are monitoring U.S. policy closely. When and if regulations allow, we will evaluate the feasibility of reintroducing Cuba itineraries.” So while the door isn’t open now, it’s not entirely closed.

Understanding the Legal Landscape: Why Cruises to Cuba Are Complicated

U.S. Travel Restrictions and the 12 Categories

The biggest hurdle to cruising to Cuba isn’t the distance or logistics—it’s the U.S. government’s travel restrictions. Under the U.S. embargo, American citizens cannot travel to Cuba for tourism. Instead, they must qualify under one of 12 approved categories of travel, such as:

• Family visits
• Official government business
• Journalistic activity
• Professional research
• Educational activities
• Religious activities
• Public performances, clinics, workshops, athletic competitions
• Support for the Cuban people
• Humanitarian projects
• Private foundation or research activities
• Exportation, importation, or transmission of information
• Authorized export transactions

For cruise passengers, the most relevant category is “support for the Cuban people.” This means you must engage in meaningful interactions with Cubans—not just sightseeing. Princess and other cruise lines previously structured their Cuba excursions around this category, offering tours that included visits to local artisans, community projects, and cultural centers.

How the “People-to-People” Rule Was Enforced

Before 2019, cruise lines had to prove that passengers were engaging in “people-to-people” activities. This meant:

• Every shore excursion had to include a cultural or educational component.
• Passengers couldn’t just wander around on their own (unless they had a separate visa).
• Cruise lines had to submit detailed itineraries to the U.S. Treasury Department for approval.

Princess took this seriously. For example, their Havana excursion included a guided walking tour with a local historian, a visit to a community art project, and a lunch at a paladar where guests could chat with the owner about daily life in Cuba. These experiences were more expensive than standard tours, but they ensured compliance with U.S. rules.

Current Policy: The “Ban” on Cruise Travel

In 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department issued OFAC (Office of Foreign Assets Control) guidance that specifically prohibited cruise ships from making port calls in Cuba. This wasn’t just about tourism—it was about preventing U.S. dollars from flowing to entities tied to the Cuban military, which controls many of the island’s ports and tourism infrastructure.

So even if a cruise line wanted to go to Cuba, it couldn’t legally dock. This is why, despite some diplomatic thawing in recent years (like the 2022 Biden administration’s easing of some travel rules), cruise ships still can’t go. The port access restriction remains in place.

Until this changes, Princess Cruises cannot legally sail to Cuba—no matter how much demand there is.

What a Princess Cuba Cruise Looked Like (Before 2019)

Sample Itinerary: 7-Day “Cuba & the Caribbean” Voyage

To give you a sense of what was possible, let’s look at a typical Princess Cuba cruise from 2018. The Regal Princess sailed a 7-day loop from Fort Lauderdale, stopping in:

• Day 1: Depart Fort Lauderdale
• Day 2: At sea
• Day 3: Havana, Cuba (overnight)
• Day 4: Havana, Cuba (depart in evening)
• Day 5: Cienfuegos, Cuba
• Day 6: At sea
• Day 7: Arrive Fort Lauderdale

The overnight in Havana was a major draw. Passengers could enjoy a full day and evening in the city, including dinner at a paladar, a visit to the Tropicana nightclub, or a sunset cruise along the Malecón. The ship docked at the Port of Havana, just a short walk from Old Havana’s cobblestone streets.

Top Shore Excursions Offered by Princess

Princess curated a range of excursions designed to meet the “support for the Cuban people” requirement. Some of the most popular included:

• Havana Highlights & Cultural Exchange: A guided walking tour of Old Havana, a visit to a local art school, and a meet-and-greet with Cuban artists.
• Vintage Car & Music Tour: Ride in a 1950s American classic car, stop at a live music venue, and learn about Cuba’s jazz scene.
• Cienfuegos Bay & Botanical Garden: Explore the “Pearl of the South,” visit the Palacio de Valle, and tour the lush botanical gardens.
• Santiago de Cuba & Revolution History: A deeper dive into Cuba’s revolutionary past, including visits to the Moncada Barracks and the Santa Ifigenia Cemetery.

Each excursion was led by licensed Cuban guides, and Princess emphasized small group sizes to foster genuine interactions.

Onboard Experience: Cuban-Inspired Themes

Even while at sea, Princess infused the cruise with Cuban flair. During Cuba sailings, you could find:

• Salsa dance classes in the atrium
• Live Latin bands in the Piazza
• Mojito and daiquiri mixology workshops
• Documentary screenings about Cuban history and music
• Cuban-themed dinners in specialty restaurants

One passenger, Mark from Chicago, said, “The whole ship felt like it was celebrating Cuba. Even the waiters were wearing guayaberas. It was immersive and fun.”

Alternatives: Where Princess Cruises Now Sails Instead of Cuba

Western Caribbean Itineraries

Since Cuba is off the table, Princess has expanded its Western Caribbean offerings. Popular ports now include:

• Cozumel, Mexico: Great for snorkeling, Mayan ruins, and beach clubs.
• Roatán, Honduras: A diver’s paradise with coral reefs and eco-tours.
• Belize City, Belize: Gateway to the Great Blue Hole and jungle adventures.
• Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands: Famous for Seven Mile Beach and stingray encounters.

These itineraries often run 7- to 10-nights from Fort Lauderdale or Galveston. While they don’t offer the same cultural depth as Cuba, they’re packed with natural beauty and adventure.

Bahamas & Florida Keys Getaways

For shorter trips (3- to 5-nights), Princess offers quick escapes to:

• Nassau, Bahamas: With its pink-sand beaches and colonial charm.
• Bimini, Bahamas: A quiet island with great fishing and diving.
• Key West, Florida: A quirky, laid-back stop with Hemingway history and sunset celebrations.

These are perfect for first-time cruisers or those with limited time. They also avoid the complexity of international regulations.

Future Possibilities: Could Cuba Return?

Here’s the hopeful part: Cuba could come back. The U.S. policy is not permanent—it’s tied to the current administration’s stance. If future regulations ease, cruise lines will likely rush to resume Cuban itineraries.

Princess has a history of adapting quickly. When the pandemic hit, they pivoted to “cruise to nowhere” and Alaska sailings. They could do the same with Cuba. In fact, in 2023, Princess quietly updated its website to include Cuba in a “future destinations” section—a small but telling sign.

Keep an eye on:

• U.S. Treasury Department announcements
• Changes to OFAC travel categories
• Princess Cruises’ official press releases and social media

And if you’re eager to go, consider signing up for Princess’s email alerts. They often notify customers first when new routes open.

How to Plan for a Future Cuba Cruise with Princess

Step 1: Understand the Legal Requirements

Even if Princess resumes Cuba sailings, you’ll still need to qualify under one of the 12 U.S. travel categories. For most leisure travelers, that means choosing “support for the Cuban people.” This requires:

• Participating in approved excursions (not independent travel)
• Engaging in cultural or educational activities
• Keeping records of your activities (in case of audit)

Princess will likely provide a form for you to sign, acknowledging you’re traveling under this category.

Step 2: Book the Right Excursions

When (or if) Cuba returns, book your shore excursions early. The best ones—like the vintage car tour or the Tropicana show—sell out fast. Princess will offer a range of options, from budget-friendly walking tours to premium experiences.

Pro tip: Look for excursions that include a “people-to-people” component. Avoid anything that feels too touristy or isolated.

Step 3: Prepare for the Onboard Experience

Cuba sailings will likely include themed events. Pack accordingly:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (Cuba is hot and humid)
• Salsa-friendly shoes (for dance classes)
• A Spanish phrasebook or app (helpful for interactions)
• A camera (the vintage cars and architecture are photo gold)

And don’t forget: Cuba has limited internet access. Download maps, translation tools, and entertainment before you go.

Step 4: Stay Informed and Flexible

Travel to Cuba is still unpredictable. Policies can change with little notice. Be prepared for:

• Itinerary changes or cancellations
• Last-minute port substitutions
• Delays due to customs or health screenings

That said, the reward—experiencing Cuba’s unique culture—is worth the uncertainty for many travelers.

Data Table: Princess Cruises Cuba History (2016–2024)

Year	Status	Ships Involved	Key Events
2016	Launched	Royal Princess, Pacific Princess	First U.S. cruise line to sail to Cuba in 50+ years
2017–2018	Active	Regal Princess, Coral Princess	Expanded to 3–4 Cuba itineraries per season
2019	Suspended	All ships	U.S. bans cruise travel to Cuba; routes canceled
2020–2023	On Hold	None	No sailings; policy unchanged
2024	Not Active	None	No announced plans; monitoring policy

Final Thoughts: Is a Princess Cruise to Cuba in Your Future?

So, does Princess Cruise Lines go to Cuba? Not right now—but that could change. The dream of a Cuba cruise with Princess is still alive, even if it’s on pause. The company has proven it can deliver unforgettable Cuban experiences, and there’s strong demand from travelers who want to explore this vibrant island nation.

The key takeaway? Stay informed, stay flexible, and stay hopeful. If you’re set on seeing Cuba by sea, keep Princess on your radar. They’ve done it before, and they could do it again. In the meantime, their Western Caribbean and Bahamas itineraries offer plenty of adventure and relaxation.

And who knows? Maybe by next year, you’ll be dancing in Old Havana, mojito in hand, with a Princess ship anchored in the harbor. The sea is patient, and so are dreams. Until then, keep planning, keep dreaming, and keep your suitcase packed—just in case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Princess Cruise Lines go to Cuba?

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines does offer cruises to Cuba, but itineraries may vary by season and year. Always check the official Princess Cruises website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date schedules.

What Cuban ports do Princess Cruise ships visit?

Princess Cruise ships typically dock at Havana, offering passengers a chance to explore the historic city and surrounding areas. Some itineraries may include additional stops depending on the cruise route and duration.

Are Princess Cruises to Cuba compliant with U.S. travel regulations?

Yes, Princess Cruise Lines operates under U.S. Treasury Department guidelines for travel to Cuba. The line arranges people-to-people cultural exchanges to meet legal requirements for American travelers.

How long are Princess Cruise Line’s Cuba itineraries?

Most Princess Cruise Lines Cuba voyages range from 7 to 14 days, often combining stops in other Caribbean destinations. Shorter cruises may focus on Havana, while longer ones include multiple Cuban and regional ports.

Can I book a shore excursion in Cuba with Princess Cruises?

Absolutely! Princess Cruise Lines offers a variety of shore excursions in Cuba, including guided tours of Old Havana, cultural experiences, and scenic day trips. These are designed to meet U.S. travel compliance standards.

When is the best time to book a Princess Cruise to Cuba?

The best time to book a Princess Cruise to Cuba is during the dry season (November to April), when weather conditions are ideal. Booking early also ensures better cabin selection and pricing for these popular sailings.