'Momentous day' for Norwegian Cruise Line in Havana

The Cuban-born Frank Del Rio, president and ceo, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, called it a 'momentous day' for the company, its guests and travel agent partners 'as we open our doors to Cuba’s natural beauty, warm people and historical treasures.'

At a ribbon-cutting and plaque exchange with Cuban officials in Terminal Sierra Maestra, Del Rio addressed the group in fluent Spanish. A large ship model of Norwegian Sky is now on display inside the cruise facility.

Norwegian's Cuba sailings offer travelers the opportunity to 'engage in true cultural immersion with the freedom and flexibility to explore this destination on their own timetable and as they choose,' said Andy Stuart, president and ceo, Norwegian.

Both Del Rio and Stuart are aboard Norwegian Sky, along with their wives, NCLH investors, travel partners and media.

Over two days in Havana, passengers are taking part in a selection of 14 half- and full-day excursions that comply with US regulations for people-to-people experiences, or exploring independently. The tours provide opportunities such as a farm-to-table dining experience, insights into contemporary art and visits to Ernest Hemingway's country estate, El Vigía, and the hotel room in Havana where he wrote 'For Whom the Bell Tolls.'

Exploring Havana in classic American cars and hearing live music, as a Cruise Planners contingent led by co-owner and chief operating officer Vicky Garcia, other top travel partners, media and passengers did Tuesday night, are among the many other possibilities.

This inaugural call begins Norwegian Sky’s weekly (four-night) round-trip cruises from PortMiami to Cuba. The ship will sail a total of 53 voyages to Havana, all but one of them including an overnight stay. The itinerary includes Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian’s private island in the Bahamas, which is completing a major expansion and upgrade.

Also in Havana on Tuesday were Fathom's Adonia, which berthed on the south side of Terminal Sierra Maestra, and Celestyal Cruises' Crystal, anchored in the harbor.

Add Seatrade Cruise News to your Google News feed.