NEW YORK
Ferries are set to begin operating between the southeasternmost U.S. state of Florida and Cuba for the first time in more than a half century, U.S. media reported on Tuesday.
The Miami Herald newspaper reported that Washington granted licences to at least five companies to begin offering the services.
Havana Ferry Partners LLC, confirmed it had received the approval from both the U.S. Treasury Department and the U.S. Commerce Department to operate a passenger and cargo ferry from four South Florida ports to the Cuban capital, Havana.
"This is a Historical event. Thanks to President Barrack Obama, to whom we are very grateful, for his leadership," the company posted on Facebook.
Ferry services between the two countries were halted when Washington imposed a trade embargo on the communist state in 1960 in response to the decision to nationalize all U.S. businesses on the island.
The resumption of services will follow the decision by the Cuban and American governments in December to begin to normalize relations.
Some of the companies said they could begin to offer the service within weeks, according to the Miami Herald.
Among the departure ports being considered are Key West Port Everglades, Miami and Tampa-area ports.
