Cuba would be great cruise option, say Virgin's Branson and McAlpin

Virgin will begin sailing from PortMiami in early 2020, and so far the line has said only that it will offer a variety of Caribbean itineraries with a Sunday sail date.

'I love Cuba. I would love to see our ship go there,' Sir Richard Branson said in response to a question from a Miami reporter.

For his part, Miami-Dade County Mayor Carlos Gimenez said it's up to the cruise operators where they go.

As for other potential Virgin cruise destinations, McAlpin added there is 'big demand for the Mediterranean' as well as the Caribbean.

He said specifics about Virgin's cruises will be provided in the next year or so.