Arnold Donald and Tara Russell

PHOTO COURTESY OF TWITTER.COM

MIAMI – Carnival Corporation has received permission from Cuban authorities to begin cruise line travel to Cuba starting on May 1, 2016. Having captured the coveted position of the world’s largest leisure travel company, Carnival, through its newest brand, Fathom will host 704-passengers on its maiden voyage to the island on the MV Adonia. “This is a historic opportunity, and we know there is pent-up demand amongst Americans who want to experience Cuba. Everyone who sails with us to Cuba will have a very special, rewarding and enriching experience with our Fathom brand,” said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation.

Fathom’s president, Tara Russell joined Carnival Corporation in June of 2015 to fill a newly created role designed to foster a cultural immersion even before travelers disembark to their port of call. “Our Carnival Corporation and Fathom brand teams have worked closely with Cuba throughout this process and we are thrilled to begin regular sailings to Cuba from Miami …,” said Russell.

The voyage to Cuba will include on- board programming designed as a precursor to the island experience with an orientation to Cuban history, customs and culture. Travelers may also chose to take Spanish lessons while in transit. “We are excited about Cuban approval and are ready to take travelers there through an extraordinary guest experience on the beautiful MV Adonia,” said Donald.

During each sailing, the MV Adonia will visit Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba, three ports of call for which Carnival Corporation has obtained berthing approval. “We are humbled and honored to offer a one-of-a-kind Cuban experience to our travelers,” said Russell.

IF YOU GO

WHAT: Carnival Corporation’s Fathom Miami to Cuba cruise
WHEN: Departs from PortMiami on Sundays at 4:30 p.m. and arrives at its first destination, Havana, the following morning (Monday) at 11 a.m. The MV Adonia returns to its homeport, PortMiami, at 7:30 a.m. Sunday.

CONTACT: Learn more at http://www.fathom.org/