United Americas Shipping Services (UASS) has called for the US Government to permit ferry service to Cuba to compete freely with air carriers in transporting US travellers to Cuba. At present no ferry service is authorised to Cuba, even though US law permits it.
"The recent announcement that eight new US airports – in addition to Miami – have been authorised to provide air service to Cuba highlights the preferential treatment given air over ocean passenger service," said UASS Chairman Daniel Berrebi. "There is a need and a desire for a ferry service to Cuba and it is fundamental to this country's values that people be allowed that choice and that the government does not favour one element of the transportation industry over another."
Nearly a year ago, UASS filed for a Treasury Department license to operate a ferry service from South Florida to Havana, but no decision has been made on the application.
Current rules authorise the use of both "vessels" and aircraft to provide carrier services to Cuba.
"All that is required for it to happen is a policy decision by the Obama administration in favour of ferry service," said Robert Muse, a Washington, DC lawyer who specialises in US laws relating to Cuba.
