Following its successful 2017 Cuban cruise program, Abercrombie & Kent has announced new dates for 2018.
The Cuba by Land & Sea: A People-to-People Cruise itinerary will combine a weeklong sailing aboard Le Ponant with shoreside hotels in Havana and Santiago de Cuba.
"This thoughtfully-curated itinerary - which sold out quickly in 2017 - combines the most popular elements of our people-to-people land program with colonial Trinidad and the pristine waters of Punta Francés, one of the best-preserved coral reefs in the Caribbean," explains Bob Simpson, Abercrombie & Kent Vice President of Expedition Cruising, in a press release.
"One of the most rewarding experiences for our guests is having our resident Cuban guides onboard to share their personal insights into the island's history, education, healthcare system and economy, as well as its political and social structure."
The extensive schedule includes two full days in Havana with accommodations at the new five-star Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski La Haban. Activities incorporate visiting Old Havana with a regional architect as well as other interactions with locals about the city's art, music and food. Guests will also have the chance to meet university students and staff members, plus chefs at privately-owned paladars for lunch.
Other points of interest include where former Cuban President Fidel Castro and national hero Jose Marti were laid to rest.
Once onboard Le Ponant, the three-masted sailing ship awaits with only 28 cabins, a marina and fleet of zodiacs for unique landings. Culinary options include a main dining room plus an al fresco restaurant. Guests are treated to a 1.3 to 1 guest-to-crew ratio for attentive service.
[READMORE]READ MORE: Abercrombie & Kent Schedules Cuban Land and Sea Cruises[/READMORE]
Showcased on the sailing portion is the chance for a snorkel and swim in Punta Frances Nature Reserve, which is only accessible by sea. A naturalist explains the waters' conservation while strolling along the pristine beach towards a Mangrove forest.
Cuba by Land and Sea: A People to People Cruise is an 11-day itinerary starting at $9,995 per person based on double occupancy.
Included in the fare are hotel and cruise accommodations, sightseeing, onboard seminars, shore tours, equipment and most beverages and gratuities. All ports have been approved by the Cuban Ministry of Tourism, and each charter is available to only 56 guests, who will benefit from Abercrombie & Kent expertise of operating people-to-people travel in Cuba since 2013.
Two departure dates are available sailing in different directions. The first goes from Santiago de Cuba to Havana on February 23-March 5, 2018; and the second goes from Havana to Santiago de Cuba on March 1-12, 2018.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
