Credit: Fathom
Credit: Fathom

Back in June, Carnival Corporation’s new cruise line Fathom announced plans sail to Cuba in May 2016. Locations in Cuba will include Havana, Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba for a seven-day cruise (see map below). If you’ve read our article on the new brand, you know that this cruise line is pretty unique. It’s different than others because it focuses on social impact travel–cultural immersion, educational and humanitarian activities. Fathom says the ultimate goal is “to help facilitate and sustain programs that meet the needs of the local communities” to the places it sails.

Credit: Fathom

In May 2016, travelers will be able to experience the culture of Cuba, including art and film on the 704-passenger ship, Adonia, setting sail from Miami.

Passengers will first experience an orientation program that will explain details on the history of Cuba and its customs. Then sea days and port days incorporate Cuba culture and various immersion activities. You’ll also get to meet other like-minded individuals on the ship and during activities.

A sample itinerary on the ground may include:

Credit: Fathom
Credit: Fathom
  • 9-10 am: Depart from the ship and meet travelers for an overview of activities for the day
  • 10 am-12 pm: Visit a local elementary school to help with the morning lesson
  • 12:30-1:30 pm.: Lunch with the teachers and administrators to discuss the challenges and opportunities of the educational system
  • 1:30-4:30 pm: UNESCO World Heritage Site visit to understand Cuba’s history and architecture
  • 5-9 pm: Dinner at a local restaurant or local home offshore

 

A sample itinerary at sea may include:

  • 6-9 am: Yoga, morning meditation, healthy breakfast or a coffee overlooking the water
  • 9-11 am: Break-out sessions focused on cultural awareness
  • 12-1 pm: Lunch with Cuban-inspired meal options
  • 1-2 pm: Spa time at the onboard spa
  • 2-3 pm: Cuba On-Board Film Festival, which gives you a glimpse into the cinematic history of Cuba
  • 3-6 pm: Interactive Fathom panel discussions and workshops
  • 7-8:30 pm: Cuban dinner at Ocean Grill
  • 8:30-9:30 pm: Keynote event where you will learn about Fathom’s vision and cumulative impact from other trips, along with Cuban entertainment

 

For more details, take a look at a full sample journey in this graphic below.

Credit: Fathom
Credit: Fathom

The beautiful mid-sized ship Adonia is small enough that you’ll get to know the people you’re traveling with for more of a human connection as you travel through Cuba. But the ship is also big enough to provide the likes of a pool, a gym, games, and a full-sized library.


This is a sponsored post. All opinions expressed are my own. 

As you probably know, approvals are still needed to travel to Cuba. Carnival Corporation received the license in early July 2015. For more information on the specific regulations to Cuba, click hereFor more on Fathom or to book a cruise, call 1-855-9FATHOM or visit fathom.org.

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