Does A Cruise To Cuba Require An Excursion?

Cuban cruises offer two options for exploring the island: booking an excursion or opting for independent exploration. Both have their advantages and considerations, so it’s important to weigh them before making a decision. The Cuban government is not enforcing any restrictions on US tourists, and all they need to enter Cuba is their passport, tourist card, and proof of health insurance. Passports are required for most cruises from the U.S., but Carnival Paradise is cruising four-night Cuba-only itineraries and five-night Cuba and Key West or Cozumel itineraries from Tampa, while Carnival Sensation is sailing five-night cruises from Miami.

Fathom cruisers will begin embarking to Cuba in May 2016 on itineraries that sail round-trip from Miami to three ports of call in full compliance with people-to-people U.S. regulations. Americans are welcome, but need to arrange their own visas. Shore excursions are included in the fare on some luxury cruises and river cruises, but they are never compulsory. Many experienced cruisers prefer to take independent tours or DIY, depending on the port.

While U.S. residents are free to travel to Cuba, they need to do so under regulations established by the Cuban government. The full list of visa categories can be found here. By having a tour booked, you are good to go once you arrived in Havana. The other option to consider is doing a self-guided tour in Havana, which is a very easy place to negotiate, particularly where the ships come in.

What is the best currency to bring to Cuba?

Cubans prefer Euros (EUR) and US Dollars (USD) as they are widely accepted by locals and can be used to pay directly to businesses or exchange for CUP. British Pounds (GBP) has the highest official exchange rate but may not be as in demand by local businesses. These currencies can be exchanged at the CADECA and most banks, with a surcharge of 2 for most currencies and 8 for USD. USD was prohibited in Cuba in 2021 but was changed in mid-2023, allowing locals to exchange USD for CUP and other foreign currencies and deposit USD cash into their bank accounts.

What are the new rules for visiting Cuba?

Cuba’s entry requirements for travelers to the country have been updated to include the D’Viajeros Online Form, a 5-step digital form that includes Traveller General Information, Health Questionnaire, and Immigration and Customs information. The form is mandatory for all passengers traveling to Cuba starting January 23, 2023. Tourist cards can be purchased at the airport, and testing is not required. Vaccination is not required, and proof of vaccination is not required.

Visitors must have health insurance with coverage in Cuba. Health screening may be required upon arrival, and a PCR-RT test will be performed if symptoms are present. Travelers are not allowed to use USD in Cuba, and must carry currencies such as Euros or Canadian Dollars (CAD) for purchases. Cuba is also required to issue Consular Visas for tourism from 21 countries, including Haiti, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Philippines, Ghana, Guinea, Iraq, Iran, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sierra Leone, Syria, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Yemen, and Uzbekistan.

Are cruise ship excursions worth the money?

Shore excursions are a great way to make the most of your time in port, but a mix of guided tours and independent exploration can be the most value. Choose the best option based on your budget and interests, and consider both ship-sponsored and independent tour and activity options. If you want to stay on board while your ship is docked in a port that doesn’t interest you, that’s okay. There are several guides to choosing a cruise line, including the 5 most desirable cabin locations, the 8 worst cabin locations, the ultimate guide to packing, the most popular cruise lines, 21 tips and tricks, top ways cruisers waste money, and the ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin.

Is it cheaper to buy excursions on the ship?

Ship-sponsored tours are often more expensive than those offered directly through the operator, as the cruise line serves as the middleman and inflates fees to take a cut before paying the tour company. Independent tours take smaller groups, allowing for more personalized experiences. When booking a private tour, you may be one of fewer than 20 people, compared to the smaller group sizes of third-party tours. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the best option for your travel needs.

Do you need a tour guide for Cuba?

Cuba travel must be hosted by a US-based tour company and escorted, allowing travelers to engage in meaningful exchanges with Cuban people. The island offers a variety of activities, including dance, music, rum, cigars, museums, and Cubans. While lounging on sunny beaches and sipping mojitos is banned, almost anything is permitted. US tour operators arrange trips featuring the best of Cuba, including dance, music, rum, cigars, museums, and effusive Cubans.

Cuba has become a MAGA-free zone, but the US Constitution prevents Trump from making Cuba visits illegal. Despite Trump’s efforts to curtail Cuba visits, they remain a welcoming destination for travelers.

What do you need when Travelling to Cuba?

Cuba requires a valid passport with an expiry date at least 6 months after arrival and 3 months after departure. It is essential to check with your travel provider and renew if needed. If you don’t have a valid travel document or use a lost or stolen passport, entry will be denied. Tourists visiting Cuba must obtain a tourist card, which can be applied through the Cuban Embassy in the UK or through a travel agent or tour operator.

Can I do my own excursions on a cruise?

Passengers on cruise ships are permitted to disembark at their own discretion. However, those who prefer the guidance of a tour guide or the convenience of easy transportation may choose to participate in a shore excursion.

What is required for Canadians to enter Cuba?

Canadian tourists traveling to Cuba require a tourist card, which allows them to stay in Cuba for up to 90 days. This card is typically included in holiday packages from tour operators or airlines. If traveling alone or transiting through another country, the card must be obtained from a Cuban government office in Canada or purchased at some airports in Canada and the United States. Canadian tourists can stay in Cuba for up to 6 months, but must obtain an extension if they plan to stay longer than the 90-day limit.

Can you get off a cruise ship without an excursion?

Carnival does not require passengers to book shore excursions to leave the ship, as public transportation is available at each port. Instead, passengers can visit local libraries, bookstores, or websites to determine their desired destinations. Carnival does not offer alternatives from its established shore excursion program, but all excursions sold through Carnival are coordinated with reputable tour operators and include popular sites.

Booking excursions through Carnival guarantees the ship’s presence in port until all guests return, while independent excursions may not be recognized. Additionally, some ports may have visa requirements that may prevent passengers from venturing off on their own.

Do you need to buy excursions on a cruise?

Most ports of call don’t require a shore excursion to explore, as you can walk into town or catch a cab. However, in some destinations, a shore excursion or independently operated guided tour is highly recommended, especially in areas where navigation is difficult or tourism infrastructure is not yet fully developed. Join over 700, 000 readers for breaking news, in-depth guides, and exclusive deals from TPG’s experts.

How do tourists get around in Cuba?

Tourist buses, known as Víazul buses, are air-conditioned and modern charter buses that travel between major destinations like Havana, Santiago, Trinidad, Veradero, Viñales, Baracoa, Cienfuegos, and Camagüey. Tourist taxis, known as turistaxis, are found in town squares and outside hotels and are typically modern, leased from the state. Private taxis, licensed in 2009, offer similar services but are privately owned vehicles, ranging from Mercedes-Benz to Lada. It is important to agree on a fare before leaving.