Craig Marshall, CFO & Dugald Wells, President & CEO, Cuba Cruise
The cool table set up at Gusto 101
Melissa Medeiros, Bannikin Travel & Tourism
Last time your clients said they wanted to go to Cuba, what did you suggest? Was it a beachfront all-inclusive? Probably – that is, after all, the way most Canadians see this big island. And, why not? There’s definitely something to be said for escaping the cold winter by lounging on a beach with a fancy cocktail and no bills to worry about.
But, how much of Cuba do you actually get to see and experience on a resort holiday? That was the question a small group of us pondered recently over yummy wine and food at downtown Toronto restaurant, Gusto 101. We were there to celebrate the launch of the 2nd season with Cuba Cruise – “the very best way to circumnavigate Cuba.”
Our hosts, Cuba Cruise’s charming President & CEO, Dugald Wells and CFO Craig Marshall, were joined by Melissa Medeiros of Bannikin Travel & Tourism. They kept the event light and interesting – and made sure we were well fed: cheesy, crunchy risotto balls in marinara sauce; thin-crust sausage and spicy pepper pizza; a crazy kale salad that made us forget that kale is healthy; a creamy mushroom pasta… the food and wine just kept coming. And everything was delicious.
As we munched, we learned that although it would be great for almost anyone, Cuba Cruise is a particularly good option for repeat Cuba travellers, or experienced cruisers – people who would like to see what Cuba is like beyond the confines of a resort.
By all accounts, the real Cuba is fascinating – the friendly, highly-educated people, rolling landscapes, UNESCO Heritage sites, stunning beaches – and of course, the lack of commercialization. All of these things make Cuba unique, and all are easy to appreciate with Cuba Cruise – the ship is small enough to get into the old style ports, and the maximum occupancy low enough that the passengers don’t overwhelm the small towns.
Cuba Cruise also has top-notch (imported!) food, a variety of themed departures and tour operator partners including: Transat Holidays (also offering a YYZ-HAV charter to meet the ship), Hola Sun; Exclusive Tours; Sun-Tours.ca; GLP Expeditions and AliTours.
Rates start at CAD 830 for the cruise only, including port fees, or $1442 including air, cruise, taxes and fees. There are a number of special offers for select departures - and agent pricing is available, please ask at 1-855-364-4999.
