Hi Everyone,
I hope you’re doing well. Rosie and I wanted to share a quick update following our meetings this week with our outfitters in Cuba. Everything is on track for the upcoming season, and we came away feeling very confident about the months ahead. We also want to pass that peace of mind along to you.
Here are the key points from our meetings:
1. Flight Contingencies Are Fully Prepared
In the unlikely event that commercial airlines reduce or pause flights to Cuba, charter flights have already been arranged as a backup. Guests would fly into Miami and then take a charter directly to Havana, Camagüey, or Santa Clara. The expected round-trip cost would be roughly $500 per person, similar to what we already pay major airlines. This system has successfully been used in previous years.
2. We Don’t Expect the Charter Option to Be Needed
At this time, we don’t anticipate any interruption to standard flights. Still, it’s reassuring to know that a proven, reliable backup plan is in place.
3. Flights and Visas Remain Stable
We do not anticipate flight cancellations to Cuba. Travel remains legal under current visa categories, and airlines continue to operate normally. In fact, demand for flights, particularly from Cuban American travelers visiting family is expected to remain strong, giving airlines continued incentive to maintain service.
4. Latest News with Canadian Airlines Canceling Flights
Comparing Canadian airlines canceling flights to the likelihood of American Airlines canceling flights isn’t accurate. Flights from Canada to Cuba require refueling, while American Airlines fly a much shorter distance and don’t need to refuel in Cuba before returning to the United States.
Additionally, Canadian flights typically carry about 95% Canadian tourists, whereas American flights are made up of more than 95% Cuban Americans traveling to visit and support their families. For that reason, there is little justification for canceling U.S. flights.
In most cases, cancellations occur simply because airlines can’t justify offering service when there aren’t enough passengers to support it.
5. Travel Ban
The likelihood of the United States government imposing any kind of travel ban that would prevent Americans from visiting Cuba is extremely unlikely and the number one misconception for traveling to Cuba as an American. In fact, the only country in the world that Americans are explicitly prohibited from traveling to under U.S. government orders is North Korea. Traveling to Cuba is fully legal for American anglers when done under a Humanitarian Visa, and this has been the case for a very long time.
6. Fuel and Logistics Are Secured Well in Advance
Our outfitter has already purchased and stored all gas and diesel required through June, including backup reserves for transportation and generators. This is part of a broader strategy to ensure reliability for our guests, just as they do with food and other essential supplies. Their preparation has been exceptional.
7. New, More Flexible Cancellation Policy
We’ve finalized an updated cancellation policy designed to give you maximum peace of mind.
- If travel to Cuba becomes impossible, you’ll receive a full credit valid for two years.
- If Cuba does not reopen within those two years, you’ll receive a full refund.
- You are not required to rebook within the two-year window; the only requirement is that Cuba be open for travel during that time to determine whether you reschedule or are refunded.
The Full Policy is available for all existing perspective customers traveling with CFFC in 2026 and 2027.
8. 2027 Booking Update
Negotiations between the United States and Cuba are progressing far beyond what most media outlets are currently reporting. We anticipate meaningful, positive changes in Cuba in the near future. Above all, the potential for improved conditions for the Cuban people is what matters most to anyone who has spent time there. Their resilience has been tested long enough, and change is overdue. It appears that a historic shift may be announced sooner rather than later.
Because of this, our outfitters have advised us to inform all current and prospective clients that, should U.S. leisure travel to Cuba become possible without the need for a visa, demand for fly-fishing trips is expected to surge. This would likely lead to significant price increases. In light of these potential changes, we strongly recommend planning your 2027 trips now. We will be offering incentives for early bookings ahead of any official price updates, which may otherwise place future trips out of reach for some anglers.
If you have any questions about your trip, a new inquiry, logistics, or anything else, please feel free to reach out. We want you to feel fully prepared and excited for your upcoming or potential adventure.
Matt Specher
Owner / Host
