Caribbean and Bahamas

Carnival Setting Sail For Cuba: Here's A Closer Look At The Ship

The MV Adonia will sail to the Dominican Republic beginning in April 2016 and Cuba beginning in May 2016. | Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

By Islands Staff July 7, 2015

Carnival sailing Adonia to Cuba — The MV Adonia features public rooms with wood-style panelling and an atrium with a grand staircase and traditional artworks. | Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cuba cruise — The library onboard MV Adonia features a fireplace, painted ceiling and an extensive collection of books. | Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Adonia dining room — The Pacific Restaurant is the ship's main dining area. But other cafes and specialty restaurants are also available to guests. | Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Adonia outside cabin — Outside cabins include two lower beds that covert to a queen-size bed with wardrobe and drawer space. Also included: a bathroom with shower, writing desk, TV and tea and coffee making facilities plus a hairdryer. | Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Adonia suite Carnival Cuba — Suites on the Adonia include a whirlpool bath, shower, sofa, chairs and table, with a mini stereo and a TV plus radio and telephone. Suites also offer butler service. | Courtesy of Carnival Cruises

Carnival Cruises has announced plans to begin sailing to Cuba beginning in May 2016. The cruise line's move was granted approval this week by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the U.S. Department of Commerce.

But Carnival won't be sailing its "Fun Ships" to Cuba. Instead, they'll be sailing a new brand called "Fathom" for these trips. Seven-day voyages from Miami will be onboard the MV Adonia, a 710-passenger ship, much smaller than Carnival's usual size. Trips begin in April 2016 to the new Dominican Republic port of Amber Cove with Cuba service to begin in May.

Because travel restrictions between Cuba and the United States are still somewhat strict, the Adonia won't offer Broadway shows or a casino to passengers. Rather the emphasis will be on Spanish classes, Cuba history workshops and other cultural activities.

Related: 6 Surprises in Cuba Right Now

Prices for the Dominican Republic itinerary start at $1,540 per person, with fares varying by season. Prices for the 7-day trips to Cuba start at $2,990 per person.

"We are excited about receiving U.S. approval as the very important first step to ultimately take travelers to Cuba under the existing 12 criteria for authorized travel. We look forward to working with the Cuban authorities for their approval to help make the social, cultural and humanitarian exchanges between U.S. citizens and the people of Cuba a reality," said Arnold Donald, President and CEO of Carnival Corporation. "We know there is strong demand from travelers who want to immerse themselves in Cuban culture, so this is a historic opportunity for us to enable more people to experience Cuban society."