Heads Up, Americans: Cruises Could Sail Back to Cuba in 2021

Cruise lines could return to Cuba as early as next year with the change of administration in the U.S.

"Cuba was a very important part of our itineraries," said Tom McAlpin, president and CEO of Virgin Voyages, speaking at the International Cruise Summit in Madrid.

"We hope that, with the new administration, that will open up again. It was very good for our industry, and we look forward to being back in Cuba."

McAlpin stated that Cuba would be an ideal close-to-home destination for cruises based out of Florida.

"In the short run, before there is a vaccine that is going to be readily available, I think there will be a shift in demand for ports close to home," said McAlpin. "It puts a lot of pressure on places like the Bahamas when you're sailing out of Miami. It puts pressure on places like Key West. Key West just had a referendum vote on banning cruise lines; that is being challenged in the courts."

"Things change. As one port closes down, others open. We're optimistic about Cuba. I think that's a great opportunity for the entire industry."

Cruises to Cuba had resumed from the United States in 2016 after a 57-year absence -- but were halted by the Trump administration last year.