Passengers onboard Ambassador Cruise Line’s Ambience were expecting a full day exploring Havana’s colorful streets and historic charm—but those plans changed quickly after a new travel warning forced the cruise line to rethink its itinerary.
As someone who follows cruise itinerary changes closely, this is another reminder that global travel conditions can shift even after a cruise has already begun.
Havana Removed From Caribbean Voyage at the Last Minute
The 70,285-gross-ton Ambience is currently sailing a 40-night “Jewels of the Caribbean Sea” cruise, which departed Tilbury, England, on January 30, 2026.
Havana, Cuba, was scheduled to be one of the highlights of the Caribbean portion of the journey, with a full-day stop planned for February 16.
However, Ambassador Cruise Line confirmed that the Havana visit has now been officially cancelled.
The decision came shortly after the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) updated its travel guidance, advising against all but essential travel to Cuba.
According to the cruise line, guest safety was the primary factor behind the change.
Why Cuba Was Suddenly Removed From the Itinerary
The updated UK advisory cited ongoing infrastructure problems across Cuba, including:
- Frequent and prolonged power outages.
- Limited access to medical services.
- Unreliable transportation systems.
- Communication and emergency response challenges.
These issues could create serious complications for cruise passengers visiting the port, especially if emergencies or logistical problems arise while ashore.
Power cuts in Havana have reportedly become common, sometimes lasting half a day or longer, which can impact everything from transportation to port operations.
Because of these risks, Ambassador Cruise Line decided it was safer to remove the Havana call entirely.
Two New Caribbean Ports Added Instead
Rather than simply replacing Havana with a sea day, the cruise line quickly arranged alternative destinations to keep the itinerary exciting.
Passengers will now visit:
- Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe — February 14, 2026
- Basseterre, St. Kitts — February 15, 2026
These replacements ensure guests still enjoy enriching Caribbean port experiences instead of missing out completely.
Rare Opportunity: Ship Meet-Up in Guadeloupe
One unexpected bonus for passengers will be a special fleet moment in Guadeloupe.
While visiting Pointe-à-Pitre, Ambience will cross paths with another Ambassador Cruise Line ship, Renaissance. Ship meet-ups like this don’t happen often and are always memorable for cruise fans.
Guests onboard may get to witness:
- Both ships docked at the same port.
- Unique photo opportunities.
- Special onboard excitement surrounding the fleet gathering.
For cruise enthusiasts, seeing sister ships side-by-side is always a rare and exciting experience.
Additional Sea Days Added to Adjust the Schedule
With Havana removed, the itinerary now includes extra time at sea before continuing with the rest of the Caribbean voyage.
The updated schedule now includes:
- Valentine’s Day port stop in Guadeloupe.
- Visit to St. Kitts the following day.
- Additional sea days before continuing to Grand Cayman.
- Remaining Caribbean ports unchanged.
The rest of the cruise will still visit popular destinations such as:
- Jamaica
- Barbados
- St. Lucia
- Martinique
- The Grenadines
So while Cuba is no longer part of the journey, guests still have plenty of exciting ports ahead.
Guests May Even Visit St. Kitts Twice
Interestingly, St. Kitts was already scheduled as one of the final ports later in the cruise.
Since the ship will now visit earlier in the voyage as well, passengers could potentially enjoy the island twice.
This gives guests a rare opportunity to:
- Explore different excursions.
- Visit new beaches.
- Or return to favorite spots they discovered during their first visit.
Few cruises offer repeat visits to the same destination, making this a unique twist.
Travel Advisories Continue to Impact Cruise Itineraries
Itinerary changes like this are becoming more common as cruise lines closely monitor global safety conditions.
Cruise companies regularly adjust routes due to:
- Weather conditions
- Political developments
- Safety advisories
- Infrastructure concerns
In nearly every case, cruise lines prioritize passenger safety—even if it means cancelling popular destinations.
Cruise Continues With New Caribbean Adventures Ahead
While missing Havana may be disappointing for some guests, Ambassador Cruise Line has ensured passengers still enjoy a full Caribbean experience.
With new destinations added, unique ship meet-ups planned, and plenty of beautiful islands ahead, the Ambience voyage remains an unforgettable Caribbean journey—just with a slightly different route than originally planned.
