Royal Caribbean International's Empress of the Seas arrived
in Havana on Sunday, the first time a ship from its fleet has docked in Cuba.
The 1,602-passenger ship sailed from Miami on a five-day
voyage.
Guests participated in curated excursions throughout Havana,
including rides in 1950s classic American cars to the city's most famous
locales, including the old quarter and the Havana Club Museum.
"We're thrilled to be a part of Cuba's future,"
said Michael Bayley, Royal's president and CEO.
After returning to Miami, Empress of the Seas will
reposition to Tampa for the summer season -- the cruise line's first summer
program from the destination -- offering four, five and six-night sailings,
including day and overnight visits to Havana, along with stops in Key West and
Belize City as well as Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico.