By George Jenkins

You can be among the first passengers to sail from the United States to Cuba.

Carnival Corporation announced on March 21 it had signed an agreement with the Cuban government allowing its Fathom cruise line to provide service to port destinations in Cuba beginning May 1, 2016. Carnival received authorization from the U.S. government in July, 2015. This will be the first time in about 50 years that passengers can sail from the United States to Cuba.

“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 starting on May 1, 2016,” said Tara Russell, president of Carnival Corporation’s new Fathom brand. “We have been told that we will be the first cruise line to sail from the U.S. to Cuba with our historic inaugural sailing.”

Departing from Miami, the 704-passenger MV Adonia cruise ship will sail to three ports in Cuba: Havana, Cienfuegos, and Santiago de Cuba. To celebrate this historic event, the itinerary will include a Cuban experience with onboard seminars about Cuba’s history, customs, and culture plus conversational Spanish lessons, Cuban music, films, and Cuban menu options.

What distinguishes Fathom from other cruise lines is that it offers “impact Travel.” The cruise line has partnered with local organizations in Cuba so that during shore excursions passengers can contribute with meaningful activities, such as planting trees, building water filters, and teaching reading to grade-school students.

The MV Adonia will make 7-day sailings departing Miami on Sundays at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The ship will arrive at its first destination, Havana, the following morning (Monday). The Fathom cruise line will also provide service to ports in the Dominican Republic.

Prices for 7-day sailings to Cuba start at $1,800.00 per person, excluding Cuban visas, taxes, fees, and port expenses. The prices include all meals on the ship, onboard experiences and on-the ground activities. Prices will vary by season. To book a sailing, a $600.00 per person deposit is required for all cabin categories . Final payment is due 90 days prior to departure.

Carnival Corporation owns several cruise lines, including Carnival, Costa, Cunard, Holland America, Princess, and its new Fathom cruise line.  If you are looking for a job, the Fathom cruise line is hiring! See the site’s Careers section for job descriptions and how to apply.

Contact Atlantic Travel today to learn more and book your next cruise vacation… hopefully to Cuba!