Obama Administration Lifts the Restrictions on Cuban Cigars and Rum Overseas

   October 17, 2016 ,   Cruise Industry

Many cruise ship passengers who enjoy duty-free shopping will be pleased to hear that Obama Administration lifted the restrictions on buying Cuban cigars and rum overseas.

The Administration noted that Cuban cigars and rum bought abroad will no longer be banned, but such items will be subject to the same customs limits as alcohol and tobacco products from other countries.

The Administration also changed the limits on bringing cigars and alcohol back from Cuba. Previously, US travelers – including cruisers – to Cuba were restricted to USD 100 in alcohol and tobacco, and USD 400 in goods overall. it's still illegal to bring Cuban cigars and alcohol in for commercial use.

The executive order also got rid of a number of non-travel restrictions aimed at increasing relations between USA and Cuba.

Americans are still restricted from taking leisure travel to Cuba under the embargo, which will take congressional action to lift. Cruise lines have started offering Americans itineraries to Cuba through people to people visas; Fathom is the only cruise line sailing directly to the island from Miami, while Vantage, Celestyal and International Expeditions are running cruises for Americans within Cuba. Other cruise lines are selling Cuba trips, but none have actually received permission to dock from the Cuban authorities.