NCL is Cuba-bound in March

Norwegian Cruise Line has received approval from the government of the Republic of Cuba to operate cruises to the country beginning in March 2017.

All three of the company’s brands - Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises - will offer U.S. travellers the opportunity to visit the country on select sailings starting next year.

The company’s first cruise to Cuba will set sail from PortMiami on Oceania Cruises’ Marina on March 7, 2017 with select Caribbean itineraries featuring calls on Havana, including many multiple-day calls to allow guests to explore Havana and its environs. Seven Seas Mariner of the Regent Seven Seas Cruises fleet will call on Havana during two cruises in April 2017, while Norwegian Sky will also offer a selection of four-day voyages that will overnight in Havana in May 2017.

Guests sailing on all three brands will have a selection of shore excursions to choose from, all of which offer an authentic Cuban experience that explores the people, art, history and culture of the island, which are in compliance with OFAC regulations, NCL said.

Full itinerary details and on sale dates for voyages that call on Cuba will be available today for Oceania Cruises, later this month for Regent Seven Seas Cruises and on Dec. 20 for Norwegian Cruise Line.