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The Havana cruise terminal welcomed the MS Hamburg, a German ship operated by Hapag Lloyd Cruises, in an event that marks the beginning of the 2025 cruise season amid the crisis in Cuba.
The Hamburg was built in the 1990s under the name Columbus and has a capacity for 420 passengers. Its itinerary in the Caribbean island includes various ports.
Stops in different provinces of Cuba
The German cruise made stops in various cities across the country, allegedly to boost the economy and strengthen cultural ties between the visitors and the host communities. However, the actual interaction of tourists with the local people is nonexistent.
- Holguín: Tourists explored the beaches of Guardalavaca through excursions organized by Transtur and Cubatur.
- Cienfuegos: The travelers visited the Teatro Terry, the Palacio de Valle, and took a trip to the natural site El Nicho.
- Trinidad: They toured the colonial city, enjoyed a tasting of the traditional Canchánchara, and visited the Romantic Museum.
Tourism crisis in Cuba
Since 2019, tourism in Cuba has been facing a deep crisis that affects both international perception and the experiences of visitors.
In November, the departure of major tour operators, such as Proturs, highlighted the lack of competitiveness of the destination compared to other Caribbean locations, such as Cancun and Punta Cana, which offer better services at similar prices.
Additionally, issues such as power outages and the decline of hotel infrastructure have created a negative perception, particularly in key markets like Canada.
Despite this crisis, the year-end celebrations at the luxury hotels on the island reflected a stark contrast with the reality of most Cubans.
In these tourist destinations, lavish parties were held with plenty of food and drink, images that contrasted with the shortages and blackouts affecting millions of families in the country.
The hotels have tables full of seafood and meats, but many Cubans cannot afford basic foods like bread, coffee, meat, and milk.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cruise Tourism in Cuba and the Tourism Crisis on the Island
What does the arrival of the MS Hamburg cruise ship in Havana mean?
The arrival of the MS Hamburg cruise ship in Havana marks the beginning of the 2025 cruise season in Cuba. This event is celebrated by the Cuban government as an opportunity to revitalize the tourism sector, which has been in crisis since 2019. However, the actual interaction of tourists with the local community is nonexistent, and the impact on the local economy is questionable.
What is the current situation of tourism in Cuba?
Tourism in Cuba has been facing a deep crisis since 2019. Factors such as the exit of tour operators, infrastructure issues, power outages, and a poor international perception have negatively affected the sector. Moreover, Cuba competes with other Caribbean destinations that offer better services at similar prices, which has diminished its tourist appeal.
How does the cancellation of Cóndor flights to Cuba affect tourism?
The cancellation of Cóndor flights to Cuba, which will take effect in May 2025, eliminates the only direct air connection between Germany and Cuba. This could further decrease the arrival of German tourists, exacerbating the island’s tourism crisis. The decision also reflects operational and infrastructure issues that affect travelers' experience in Cuba.
What impact do infrastructure problems have on Cuban tourism?
The infrastructure problems in Cuba, such as power outages, the deterioration of hotel facilities, and a shortage of basic services, have created a negative perception among tourists. These issues directly impact the experience of visitors and have led to the departure of tour operators and airlines, decreasing Cuba's competitiveness as a tourist destination.
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