Fathom’s inaugural cruise to Cuba — which arrives in Havana Monday morning — is not the only big Cuba cruise news this week.
Lindblad Expeditions - National Geographic has announced the new Cuba by Land and Sea: Cultural Heritage and Natural Wonders, a 10-night people-to-people program that combines people-to-people visits with an exploration of Cuba’s natural history and pristine marine habitats. The first program departs December 7, 2016, with 16 consecutive departures through March 2017.
The itinerary beings with a three-night stay at the historic Hotel Nacional, a Havana landmark on the waterfront, before taking guests on a seven-night cruise that explores the country’s southern coast onboard the Panorama II, a 44-guest sail cruiser.
On both the land and cruise portions of the itinerary, activities will run the gamut from cultural exchanges spotlighting Cuba’s cuisine, music and dance to a chance to explore the island’s natural world in places like the Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen) Marine Park and the Zapata Swamp National Park. (The visit to the Gardens of the Queen is still pending permission from Cuban officials.)
Zegrahm Expeditions, meanwhile, has announced two new Cuba itineraries of its own for the coming year. In late 2016 into early 2017, the company will offer an 11-day overland itinerary, as well as a 17-day expedition cruise onboard a small ship.
Zegrahm’s overland adventure, The Heart of Cuba, departs October 13 and November 3, 2016, and February 9, 2017, exploring cultural and natural attractions ranging from the Buena Vista Social Club to the Zapata Wetlands. Cuba Under Sail departs March 29, 2017, aboard Le Ponant, a 56-guest sailing ship. Guests will nearly circumnavigate the island, beginning in Havana and cruising around the east side to Cienfuegos where they disembark and enjoy a two-night stay in Playa Larga.
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