Norwegian Sky Arrives in Cuba From Miami

MIAMI, FL — The Norwegian Sky paid its first port of call to Havana on Tuesday as the cruise line inaugurated its weekly service between Miami and the Cuban capital. The new route follows the historic thaw in relations that culminated with the re-opening of embassies that had been shuttered for more than five decades. The Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line has scheduled sailings between the United States and its Communist neighbor through 2018.

“Today is a momentous day for Norwegian Cruise Line, our guests and our travel agent partners, as we open our doors to Cuba’s natural beauty, warm people and historical treasures,” asserted Cuban-born Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. “Sailing into the Havana Harbor today, we were welcomed by the Cuban people with open arms and excitement to share their incredible culture with our guests.” (Sign up for our free Daily Newsletters and Breaking News Alerts for the Miami Patch.)

Del Rio, whose family fled Cuba in 1961, was joined by other Norwegian executives including Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer for Norwegian Cruise Line. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is the parent company of Norwegian Cruise Line.

Like Miami Patch on Facebook

The all-inclusive Norwegian Sky will sail a total of 53 four-day voyages to Cuba, with 52 including an overnight stay in Havana.

"Norwegian Sky will bring guests to the very heart of Havana, offering guests the opportunity to visit historical sites such as Old Havana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; view incredible art and listen to the vibrant local music scene; and visit with Cuba’s warm and friendly residents through people-to-people exchanges," according to Norwegian.

The cruise line recently announced it was expanding the number of confirmed sailings between the U.S. and Cuba through 2018.

Norwegian offers 15 half-, and full-day shore excursions to Havana that include a visit to Old Havana, a farm-to-table dining experience, a visit to Soroa and an opportunity to experience Havana in an American classic car.

Norwegian Sky’s four-day cruises to Cuba went on sale April 20. For additional information on documentation requirements, frequently asked questions or to book a cruise to Cuba on Norwegian click here.

Photo of Norwegian Sky courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line