BEIJING, Aug. 16 (Xinhuanet) -- The first U.S. private vessel set sail to Cuba last week, marking the first such legal voyages in five decades. Nitza Soledad Perez tells you how the restored bilateral ties have potentially opened the doors for a tourism boom in Cuba.
After having to wait an extra day for a U.S. Coast Guard permit, Still Water - a three million dollar U.S. yacht - set sail for the long forbidden communist island. It was the first U.S. private vessel in five decades to cross those 90 miles between the U.S. and Cuba, legally.
Aboard the 78-foot luxury yacht-twelve American passengers and three crew members. Some were excited to explore what had, until recently, been off limits. Others were looking for new bU.S.iness ventures.
"The plan is to facilitate another way, for individuals, groups, to go to Cuba, and see Cuba from the water, and stay onboard and we aspire to have cruising permits, for boats so they can traverse around Cuba," said Paul Madden, CEO of Paul Madden Associates.
Paul Madden is the first yacht broker to receive permission from the Obama administration to operate charters to Cuba.
In the past, skippers without this permit could be fined, have their boats confiscated and even face jail time.
Times have changed.
"So what are we showing the Cubans, the best side of Americans. We are bringing people down who are interested, involved and want to interact with people. I took Jay Z and Beyonce to Cuba. I've taken a lot of interesting people to Cuba and it's great becaU.S.e when you take them there you expose them to a different way of life," said Jim Friedlandler, president academic arrangements.
Taking a boat is a more comfortable option for wealthy travelers. Cuban hotel accommodations are limited. A vessel like this one offers satellite communications and a personal chef. Specially-arranged cultural activities on the island can start at around 50 thoU.S.and dollars a week.
Prior to 1959, Cuba was a top tourist destination for Americans who criss-crossed the Florida strait in high style.
"It's time for a new form of engagement between the United States and Cuba and I hope this trip is a small part of history in making that happen," he said.
(Source: CNTV.cn)
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