Royal Caribbean is offering travellers more opportunities than ever to explore the vibrant island destination of Cuba, with new sailings to Havana on Empress of the Seas.

The cruise company’s newly refreshed ship will sail 58 cruises of four- and five-night itineraries from January 2018 through to March 2019; more than half offering overnight stays in the culturally vibrant city.

Empress’ Western Caribbean and Havana sailings are now open for bookings.

“Since arriving in Cuba for the first-time last month, we’ve seen the excitement of our guests when sailing into Havana and the passion they have for the city at sail away – its people, its architecture, its food, its music.

“This is the enthusiasm we strive to bring to adventure-seekers who holiday with us,” said Michael Bayley, president, Royal Caribbean International. 

“The positive reaction to our Cuba sailings is very encouraging, and we are thrilled to expand on the number of sailings for our 2018-2019 itineraries.”

Empress of the Seas will return to Tampa for the 2018 summer season, offering a series of four- and five-night cruises, calling on Key West, Florida and Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico, as well as Havana, Cuba on most sailings.

The ship will reposition to Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida for the winter 2018-2019 season, continuing short Caribbean adventures to the Caribbean destinations.