(June 6, 2019) – After enjoying a few years of legal cruising to Cuba from the US, it is now no longer possible for US cruisers to arrive at the Island on their own keel. The US Government yesterday introduced a new law banning the “People to People” category, including cruise ships, private boats and private planes.

Published 5 years ago

The law was published in the Federal Register yesterday (June 5, 2019).

Federal Register: Restricting the Temporary Sojourn of Aircraft and Vessels to Cuba

Specifically, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) have ruled;
“Additionally, this rule amends the licensing policy for exports and re-exports to Cuba of aircraft and vessels on temporary sojourn to establish a general policy of denial absent a foreign policy or national security interest as determined by the U.S. Government. Consequently, private and corporate aircraft, cruise ships, sailboats, fishing boats, and other similar aircraft and vessels generally will be prohibited from going to Cuba. “

U.S. national security adviser John Bolton, said on Twitter “The Administration has advanced the President’s Cuba policy by ending ‘veiled tourism’ to Cuba and imposing restrictions on vessels. We will continue to take actions to restrict the Cuban regime’s access to U.S. dollars.”

Find out more at:

Cuba, Land and Sea Facebook Page (for cruisers visiting Cuba)

Coast Guard News

USA Today.com