What Cruise Lines Sail to Cuba Top Picks for 2024

Several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Carnival, are sailing to Cuba in 2024, offering immersive cultural experiences and scenic Havana stops. These top picks provide a mix of luxury, affordability, and shore excursions to historic sites, live music, and classic cars—perfect for first-time visitors. With itineraries ranging from 4 to 10 nights, travelers can explore beyond Havana to destinations like Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba.

Key Takeaways

• Royal Caribbean offers vibrant Havana sailings with cultural tours and beach days.
• Norwegian Cruise Line provides flexible itineraries, including overnight stays in Cuba.
• Celebrity Cruises focuses on upscale experiences with curated Cuban art and music.
• MSC Cruises features family-friendly Cuba trips with onboard Cuban-themed activities.
• Small-ship lines like Virgin Voyages deliver intimate, immersive Cuban adventures.
• Check visa rules early—Cuba travel requires specific documentation for entry.

Why Cruise to Cuba? A Journey Back in Time

Imagine docking in Havana, where vintage 1950s Chevys cruise along the Malecón, their chrome gleaming under the Caribbean sun. The rhythmic pulse of salsa music drifts through open windows, and the scent of fresh cigars and café con leche fills the air. Cuba, with its rich cultural tapestry, vibrant history, and unspoiled landscapes, has long been a dream destination for travelers. After years of limited access, the island nation is once again welcoming cruise passengers with open arms, offering an immersive experience that blends nostalgia, adventure, and authenticity.

Cruising to Cuba isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the journey. Unlike traditional travel, cruises provide a seamless, all-inclusive way to explore multiple Cuban ports, from the colonial charm of Cienfuegos to the sun-kissed beaches of Santiago de Cuba. With the U.S. government’s updated travel policies, American citizens can now visit Cuba under specific categories like “Support for the Cuban People,” making cruise lines a convenient and compliant way to experience this enigmatic island. In 2024, several major cruise lines are offering itineraries that showcase Cuba’s unique blend of history, music, and natural beauty, making now the perfect time to plan your voyage.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Cuba in 2024

1. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): The Pioneer of Cuban Cruising

Norwegian Cruise Line was one of the first major U.S. cruise operators to resume sailings to Cuba, and it remains a top choice for 2024. With its Norwegian Sun ship, NCL offers 4- to 7-night voyages from Miami, Key West, and Port Canaveral, stopping in Havana, Cienfuegos, and Santiago de Cuba. What sets NCL apart is its Freestyle Cruising concept, which gives passengers the freedom to explore at their own pace.

NCL’s Cuban itineraries are designed to meet U.S. travel regulations, with onboard activities and shore excursions focused on cultural exchange, such as:

• Interactive cigar-rolling demonstrations
• Salsa dancing classes with local instructors
• Guided tours of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Old Havana
• Visits to community art centers and music schools

Pro Tip: Book a Havana overnight stay to experience the city’s legendary nightlife. The “Buena Vista Social Club” evening show is a must-see, offering live performances in a restored colonial theater.

2. Royal Caribbean International: Luxury Meets Authenticity

Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas are leading the charge for luxury Cuban cruising in 2024. These 5- to 8-night itineraries depart from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, with stops in Havana, Cienfuegos, and sometimes even the pristine Cayo Coco. Royal Caribbean emphasizes authentic cultural immersion, with excursions led by local experts.

Highlights of Royal Caribbean’s Cuba program include:

• Private home visits with Cuban families (a “Support for the Cuban People” compliant activity)
• Classic car tours with knowledgeable local guides
• Beach days at Playa Ancón, with opportunities to snorkel or kayak
• Evening cultural events featuring live music and traditional dance

For families, the cruise line offers kid-friendly activities like Cuban history scavenger hunts and Spanish language games, making it a great option for multigenerational travel.

3. Carnival Cruise Line: Fun, Affordability, and Cuban Flair

Carnival’s Carnival Horizon and Carnival Vista bring the brand’s signature fun and affordability to Cuba. With 4- to 6-night sailings from Miami and Tampa, Carnival focuses on making Cuban culture accessible to first-time cruisers. The line’s “Cuba with a Carnival Twist” excursions include:

• Beach days at Santa María Key, with open bar and BBQ
• Havana walking tours with stops at Hemingway’s favorite haunts
• Salsa lessons and mojito-making classes
• Photography tours of colorful neighborhoods like Habana Vieja

Insider Tip: Carnival’s “Cuba Concierge” service helps passengers navigate U.S. travel requirements, ensuring a stress-free experience. The cruise line also partners with local NGOs to support community projects, aligning with “Support for the Cuban People” guidelines.

4. Oceania Cruises: Upscale, Intimate, and Deeply Cultural

For travelers seeking a more refined experience, Oceania Cruises’ Insignia offers 7- to 10-night Cuban itineraries from Miami. With a guest capacity of just 684, Oceania provides an intimate, personalized journey. The line’s Oceania@Cuba program focuses on:

• Small-group tours of historic sites like the Museum of the Revolution
• Private concerts with Cuban musicians
• Culinary experiences, including farm-to-table dining and rum tastings
• Overnight stays in Havana for deeper exploration

Oceania’s excursions often include visits to lesser-known gems like Trinidad, a perfectly preserved colonial town where cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings transport you to the 19th century. The cruise line’s partnership with the Cuban Ministry of Culture ensures that passengers engage in meaningful cultural exchanges.

5. Virgin Voyages: The New Kid on the Block

Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson’s adults-only cruise line, is making waves with its 2024 Cuban itineraries. The Scarlet Lady offers 7-night sailings from Miami to Havana and Santiago de Cuba, targeting younger, design-savvy travelers. Virgin’s “Cuba Uncovered” program includes:

• Street art tours with local graffiti artists
• Late-night club crawls in Havana’s hottest venues
• Yoga sessions on the Malecón at sunrise
• Pop-up performances by Cuban indie bands

Virgin’s approach is all about experiential travel, with an emphasis on spontaneity and local connections. The cruise line also donates a portion of proceeds to Cuban arts education programs.

What to Expect: Ports of Call and Excursions

Havana: The Heart of Cuba

As the capital and largest city, Havana is a highlight of any Cuban cruise. Key attractions include:

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja): A UNESCO site with cobblestone streets, Baroque churches, and lively plazas like Plaza Vieja.
• Malecón: The iconic seawall where locals gather to watch sunset, chat, and play music.
• Museum of the Revolution: Housed in a former presidential palace, it offers insights into Cuba’s revolutionary history.
• Hemingway’s Havana: Visit the author’s former home, Finca Vigía, and his favorite bars, La Bodeguita del Medio and El Floridita.

Excursion Tip: Book a private classic car tour to see Havana from the backseat of a 1950s Chevrolet Bel Air. Drivers often double as knowledgeable guides.

Cienfuegos: The Pearl of the South

Known for its French-inspired architecture and tranquil bay, Cienfuegos is a hidden gem. Must-see spots include:

• Paseo del Prado: A palm-lined boulevard with neoclassical buildings.
• Palacio de Valle: A Moorish-style palace with intricate tile work.
• Botanical Garden: Home to 2,000 plant species, including rare orchids.

Many cruise lines offer excursions to nearby El Nicho Waterfalls, where you can swim in turquoise pools surrounded by lush jungle.

Santiago de Cuba: The Soul of the Island

Cuba’s second-largest city is a cultural powerhouse, known for its Afro-Cuban traditions and revolutionary history. Highlights include:

• Casa de la Trova: A live music venue where you can dance to son cubano.
• Moncada Barracks: The site of the 1953 attack that sparked the Cuban Revolution.
• San Pedro de la Roca Castle: A 17th-century fortress with stunning views of the bay.

Pro Tip: If your cruise coincides with the Carnaval de Santiago (usually in July), you’ll witness one of Cuba’s most vibrant festivals, with parades, costumes, and nonstop music.

Other Ports: Trinidad, Cayo Coco, and Beyond

Some cruise lines extend their itineraries to include:

• Trinidad: A perfectly preserved colonial town with cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings. Don’t miss the Valley de los Ingenios, a UNESCO site.
• Cayo Coco: A pristine island with white-sand beaches and coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.
• Baracoa: Cuba’s oldest city, known for its chocolate and coconut dishes.

Navigating U.S. Travel Regulations

Understanding the “Support for the Cuban People” Category

U.S. citizens can legally visit Cuba under specific categories, with “Support for the Cuban People” being the most common for cruise travelers. To comply:

• Engage in meaningful interactions: Participate in activities that involve direct contact with locals, such as home visits, art workshops, or community projects.
• Support independent businesses: Spend money at privately owned restaurants (paladares), shops, and guesthouses (casas particulares).
• Keep records: Save receipts and itineraries to prove compliance in case of a random audit.

Cruise lines handle much of the paperwork, but passengers are responsible for:

• Obtaining a Cuban visa (often arranged by the cruise line).
• Purchasing Cuban health insurance (included in most cruise fares).
• Declaring their travel category to U.S. Customs upon return.

What Not to Do

To avoid legal issues:

• Don’t stay at state-owned hotels: These are prohibited under U.S. regulations. Instead, book a casa particular (private homestay) or use cruise line-approved lodging.
• Don’t use state-owned transportation: Opt for private taxis or excursions organized by your cruise line.
• Don’t buy Cuban cigars or rum: While tempting, these are subject to U.S. import restrictions. Purchase them as souvenirs (not for consumption) and declare them at customs.

Expert Advice: Download the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Cuba FAQs before your trip to stay updated on policy changes.

Onboard Experiences: What Makes a Cuban Cruise Unique

Cultural Programming

Cruise lines go beyond standard entertainment to create authentic Cuban experiences. Look for:

• Live music: From salsa bands to Afro-Cuban percussionists, ships often feature local musicians.
• Cuban cooking classes: Learn to make classics like ropa vieja and moros y cristianos.
• History lectures: Experts discuss Cuba’s complex past, from colonialism to the Cold War.
• Art workshops: Paint with Cuban artists or create traditional crafts.

Dining with a Cuban Twist

Many ships offer Cuban-themed dinners, featuring:

• Lechón asado: Slow-roasted pork with mojo sauce.
• Tostones: Fried plantain slices served with garlic dip.
• Daiquiris and mojitos: Crafted with Cuban rum.

Insider Tip: Oceania Cruises partners with Cuban chefs to host pop-up dinners in Havana, giving passengers a taste of haute Cuban cuisine.

Wellness and Relaxation

After a day of exploration, unwind with:

• Cuban-inspired spa treatments: Like sugarcane scrubs and coconut oil massages.
• Yoga and meditation: Held on deck with views of the Caribbean.
• Sunset rum tastings: A relaxing way to end the day.

Cruising to Cuba: 2024 Itineraries and Pricing Comparison

Below is a comparison of 2024 Cuban cruise offerings to help you choose the best fit:

Cruise Line	Ship	Itinerary	Duration	Starting Price	Unique Perks
Norwegian Cruise Line	Norwegian Sun	Miami → Havana → Cienfuegos → Santiago de Cuba → Miami	7 nights	$899	Overnight stays in Havana; salsa classes
Royal Caribbean	Adventure of the Seas	Fort Lauderdale → Havana → Cienfuegos → Key West → Fort Lauderdale	5 nights	$749	Private home visits; classic car tours
Carnival	Carnival Horizon	Miami → Havana → Cozumel → Miami	4 nights	$599	Beach days at Santa María Key; mojito-making
Oceania Cruises	Insignia	Miami → Havana → Trinidad → Santiago de Cuba → Miami	10 nights	$2,499	Small-group tours; culinary experiences
Virgin Voyages	Scarlet Lady	Miami → Havana → Santiago de Cuba → Miami	7 nights	$1,299	Adults-only; late-night club crawls

Budget Tip: Carnival and NCL offer the most affordable options, while Oceania and Virgin cater to upscale travelers. Royal Caribbean strikes a balance between price and luxury.

Conclusion: Why 2024 Is the Year to Cruise to Cuba

Cuba’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination, and cruising offers the perfect way to experience it. Whether you’re drawn to Havana’s vintage charm, Santiago’s vibrant music scene, or the pristine beaches of Cienfuegos, 2024’s cruise options cater to every interest and budget. From Norwegian’s overnight stays to Virgin’s adults-only vibe, each cruise line brings its own flavor to the journey.

As you plan your trip, remember that Cuba isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience. The island’s warmth, resilience, and creativity will leave a lasting impression. By choosing a cruise that prioritizes cultural immersion and compliance with U.S. regulations, you’ll not only enjoy a seamless vacation but also contribute positively to Cuba’s evolving story. So pack your bags, brush up on your salsa steps, and get ready to discover the magic of Cuba in 2024. The island is calling—will you answer?

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines sail to Cuba in 2024?

Top cruise lines sailing to Cuba in 2024 include Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and smaller luxury lines like Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas. These operators offer itineraries ranging from 4 to 14 nights, often departing from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Tampa.

Are there family-friendly cruise lines that visit Cuba?

Yes! Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are excellent family-friendly options with sailings to Cuba. Both offer kid-friendly activities, onboard entertainment, and excursions tailored to all ages, making them ideal for multi-generational travel.

What cruise lines sail to Cuba with cultural-focused itineraries?

Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas specialize in immersive, cultural-focused Cuba itineraries. These luxury lines include guided tours of Old Havana, interactions with local artists, and UNESCO World Heritage site visits under U.S. travel regulations.

Can I find last-minute cruises to Cuba in 2024?

Absolutely. Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival often release last-minute deals for Cuba sailings, especially during off-peak seasons like late summer. Check their websites or work with a travel agent to secure discounted fares.

Do any cruise lines sail to Cuba from New York or the Northeast?

As of 2024, most Cuba-bound cruises depart from Florida, but Royal Caribbean occasionally offers longer repositioning cruises from the Northeast that include Cuba stops. These are rare, so book early when available.

What’s the best cruise line for solo travelers heading to Cuba?

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a top choice for solo travelers, with dedicated single cabins and no single supplement fees on select Cuba sailings. Their Havana-focused excursions also make it easy to explore the island solo.