A five-night sailing will depart Miami on April 19 2017.
The ship will then reposition to Tampa, offering two itineraries with calls to Havana on April 30 for a seven-night sailing and May 20 for a five-night sailing. Both are now on sale.
Empress of the Seas will homeport in Tampa for the 2017 summer season – Royal Caribbean’s first-ever summer programme from the destination – offering a series of four- and five-night sailings, including port calls in Cuba.
Empress of the Seas will be the largest ship to sail to Cuba from the US.
Michael Bayley, president and chief executive of Royal Caribbean International, said: “Royal Caribbean is the world’s most exciting adventure company, and we’re thrilled to introduce culture-seeking travellers to Cuba.”
All cruises will be designed in accordance with current US to Cuba travel regulations.
While in Cuba, guests will be able to explore Old Havana and local experts will tell guests abut the history, culture and people of Cuba.
A range of onboard activities have been developed to “bring the spirit of the island to life” during the journey.
Two other Royal Caribbean ships, Rhapsody of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas, will offer Caribbean itineraries from the homeport during the winter season.
