Setting Sail to Cuba: Analyzing the Recent Introduction of Cruise Lines and the Impact on American Tourist Freedoms

Authors

Alessandria San Roman

Document Type

Comment

Abstract

After President Obama’s announcement in early 2015 of increased relations with the Cuban government despite the existing Cuban embargo under the Helms–Burton Act and the Cuban Democracy Act, Carnival Cruise line made history in July of 2015 when it became the first United States cruise line to receive approval from both the United States Department of Treasury and the United States Department of Commerce to offer cruises to Cuba. Since its introduction, there has been wide increase in Cuba’s tourism industry. However, Cuban regulations still regulate where and how cruise lines can travel. The increased relations are still in their infancy, leaving uncertainty regarding United States travel to the island and how much liability is imposed on businesses should their passengers violate Cuban laws. As it stands, U.S. passengers and businesses do not fully understand the legal ramifications of possible violations with Cuban law. For this reason, American cruise lines should take preemptive measures such as providing clear instructions prior and during embarkation to better equip Americans citizens abroad.

Recommended Citation

Alessandria San Roman, Setting Sail to Cuba: Analyzing the Recent Introduction of Cruise Lines and the Impact on American Tourist Freedoms, 26 U. MIA Bus. L. Rev. 143 (2018)
Available at: https://repository.law.miami.edu/umblr/vol26/iss3/8