Carnival Cruise Ship Carrying U.S. Passengers Arrives In Havana

A ship carrying roughly 700 passengers arrived in Cuba this morning, making it the first time in more than 50 years that American tourists traveled to the island by way of commercial cruise liner. The MV Adonia, part of Carnival Cruise Co.'s Fathom brand, left its homeport in Miami on Sunday afternoon and was greeted by a crowd of welcoming Cuban citizens the following morning as it dropped anchor in Havana.

Reporters on the ground witnessed Cuban bystanders gathering along the shores of Havana, waving interlocked Cuban and American flags as they welcomed the incoming travelers. According to one report, a selection of Cuban cigars and rum awaited the passengers for purchase upon arrival at the dock in Havana.

"We are so honored that Carnival Corporation and our Fathom brand can be part of such a meaningful milestone," said Arnold Donald, CEO of Carnival Corporation, in a press release earlier today. "Our arrival today in Havana is a special moment in history that contributes to a more positive future."

On its inaugural weeklong voyage, the MV Adonia will cruise the island that had once been highly restricted to American travelers. In addition to making stops in Havana, the ship will also dock in the cities of Cienfuegos and Santiago de Cuba.

Aboard the ship, passengers will be able to learn about Cuba's history, customs and culture, including Cuban food, films, music, dancing and lessons in conversational Spanish.