Ferries could run between Florida and Cuba as early as this September after the US government approved the relaunch of services, even though US citizens are still not allowed to visit the Caribbean island.
Two ferry companies say they have been given licences and one, Miami-based United Americas Shipping Services, hopes to start sailing to Cuba within the next four months.
It will be the first time there has been a sea-link between the US and Cuba in more than half a century.
Services between the two countries ceased in 1960 when the US imposed a trade embargo on the Communist Caribbean island, but diplomatic ties were resorted late last year, leading to the US to lift a ban on ferry services.
Florida-based Havana Ferry Partners said it also had a licence.
JetBlue has already announced charter flights between New York City and Cuba, although, at the moment, only US citizens who fit into certain categories are allowed to visit the island.
