Norwegian Cruise Line offers first regularly-scheduled cruise to Cuba from Port Canaveral

Norwegian Cruise Line is about to offer the first regularly-scheduled cruises to Cuba from Port Canaveral.

The Norwegian Sun will depart on Mondays, with a stop in Key West on Tuesdays. Passengers will get a full day and night in Havana, before returning.  The Sun is one of two Norwegian ships that offer cruises to Cuba.  The Norwegian Sky offers similar itineraries and departs from the Port of Miami.

"I think anytime you add a new destination, it brings new people to the mix, and we are excited that Norwegian is bringing us our first Cuban sailing," said Port Canaveral CEO John Murray.

Murray said interest in the inaugural cuban cruise was very high. The ship was filled to it's maximum capacity of 2,400 passengers, and he believes the Cuba cruise -- which runs until September -- will remain popular. 

"With the cruise lines, they deliver the cultural experience, and they can put that whole package together that's in full compliance with the U.S. laws," he added.

Dawn Taylor said she dropped off her parents, residents of Melbourne Beach, at the boarding gate monday morning. She said they've always wanted to go see Cuba, "to see Havana, to see all the culture, the architecture, the food."