Highlights
- Richard Branson’s Virgin Voyages launches adults-only cruise ship to Cuba
- Assembly of the Cuban Resistance unhappy over the announcement
- Claims that Cuban port facilities used by the cruise lines are confiscated property
- Design is based on the theme “The Modern Romance of Sailing”
- Cuba hopes that the cruise facility will benefit the Cuban economy and the people
Introduction
On November 14, the Virgin Voyages announced that the first destination for Richard Branson’s new cruise line will be Cuba.
Adults-only cruise ship
The 2770-passenger ‘Scarlet Lady’, touted to be an adults-only cruise ship, will make its maiden voyage from Miami to Cuba in 2020. The cruise line is eager to seek input from potential passengers on the new ship’s appearance and its itinerary.
Richard Branson said, “We used research from customers as well as travel partners in the US and UK to learn that Cuba is one of the places voyagers would most like to visit. Having got the chance to enjoy a fascinating trip to Cuba myself last year, I can certainly see why”.
Cuban groups express ire
However, not everyone is keen on celebrating the popularity of cruising to Cuba. The Assembly of the Cuban Resistance, which contends that some of the Cuban port facilities used by the cruise lines are confiscated property, has been urging people not to cruise to the island. It recently extended its “Don’t Aid” campaign, which began in Miami with billboards and radio and TV ads, to Tampa.
Ralph Pizano, coordinator of the Tampa chapter of the Assembly of the Cuban Resistance said, “These cruise lines are clearly ignoring legitimate US claims when dealing with a 60-year-old dictatorship that exploits laborers and does not allow independent labour unions. We must not become complicit by using their services”.
Details of Scarlet Lady
The concept for the Scarlet Lady’s design is “The Modern Romance of Sailing”, and it will feature ample lounge space and a test Kitchen restaurant but none of the water slides and other amenities that cater to cruise passengers with children.
Branson said, “I can’t to see our iconic Scarlet Lady gleaming in the Havana Harbour, which is the perfect place for Virgin cruisers to go and experience a city that exudes an irresistible energy and passion”.
Boost to tourism in Cuba
Collin Laverty, president of Cuba Educational Travel, which offers educational and other group trips to the island said, “Virgin Voyages will service a new demographic of travellers to Cuba, which will greatly benefit the Cuban economy and the Cuban people. The Virgin brand is a perfect match for the incredible music, art, and dance that Cuba offers. Cuba has become an increasingly popular destination for cruise ships homeported in the United States in recent years”.
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Source: Stuff
