Wicked Travels Fall 2015 | Page 23

Ferries Are In The Works

Several companies are seeking authorization to operate ferry service between Florida to Cuba. Most notable is United Caribbean Lines which is headed by top cruise professional, Bruce Nierenberg. Plans are in the works for European-style overnight ferry service from Miami and Tampa to Havana. The ships with cabins and hotel amenities will be able to accommodate 2,000 passengers. It’s expected that the ferries will depart Florida in late afternoon and arrive Havana the following morning. Passengers can head back the same day or plan a stay in Cuba (with proper visas and documentation of course). It is hoped that service will be begin in late fall 2015!

Private Yacht cruises from Key West to Cuba can be arranged by Academic Arrangements Abroad in New York. This educational tour company arranges for Florida-based luxury yachts by Paul Madden Associates Charter Yachts with escorted shore excursions while in Cuba. After cross to Cuba, the yacht will spend three nights in Havana with visits to Ernest Hemingway’s home, private musical performances and walking tours. Academic Arrangements Abroad has been hosted thousands of Americans visiting Cuba since 1999 and is now the first company to offer Americans the chance to explore Cuba by private yacht with departures already in operation.