A little more comes for the ferry operators and cruise lines while sailing between U.S. and Cuba. They do not have to file for approval each time they operate on the broader latitude.
However there is not much for the tourist oriented cruises now. Though several cruise lines are announcing plans to start expanded cruises to Cuba and companies like Fathom brand, Haimark Line, Pearl Seas Cruises and Cuba Cruise by Celestyal Cruises have included their interest.
These operators have been given the authority with conditions under the Trade Sanction Reform and Export Enhancement Act. Travelers have to travel in one of the 12 sanctions of “purposeful travel”. The cruise lines will be focused on doing business in Cuba which will become easier now.
Bruce Nierenberg, president of United Caribbean Lines said that the Cuban government is still very slow in giving a final nod in authorization and it is difficult to run a typical Caribbean cruise with Havana as a port. Also the Cuban side is very security conscious.
Most Cubans travel to the U.S. to visit their friends and relatives. The number of Cubans that travel to and from the US is so limited that the Cruise industry is still waiting for more in-bound tourists from Cuba.