Virgin Voyages to offer Cuba in inaugural season

The line’s decision to sail to Cuba was influenced by customer and travel partner research it conducted in the US and the UK, it revealed.

Both groups consistently ranked the Caribbean island as one of the most desired and interesting destinations to visit on a voyage.

Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson said: “Virgin Atlantic has been visiting Cuba for 13 years, and I cannot wait to see our iconic Scarlet Lady gleaming in the Havana Harbor.

“Havana is the perfect place for our sailors to go and experience a city that exudes an irresistible energy and passion.”

All sailings to Cuba from Miami feature an overnight stay, meaning passengers will have time to “really explore and experience the capital city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage”.

Shore experiences are in development and details will be made available later in 2019.

The Virgin Voyages destination announcement was made at the Havana International Fair.

“We have a long-standing relationship with Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Group and are pleased to announce this new partnership with Virgin Voyages,” said Manuel Marrero Cruz, Minister of Tourism for Cuba.

“The Cuban people look forward to welcoming Virgin Voyages’ first ship, its crew and passengers to our shores in 2020.”

Specific sailing dates for Virgin Voyages’ visits to Cuba will be released when the company opens up bookings for sale next year.

It comes after Virgin Voyages announced today it would be building a fourth ship.