At least one BOTL I know was offered 50% off the cruise with the substituted port, or a full refund to cancel. I'd love to get to Havana soon, but I'd take the 1/2 price cruise and hit Havana by another route.
There are different POV as to what we as the Consumer can do in these situations....I've learned through experience as to what can be mitigated....I'd probably take the full refund and use that money to do the best cruise to Havana I could find. This story kind of aggravates the situation to travel to Cuba....always plan a trip where if things go tits up...you're prepared...story of my life...should even change my Avatar and ID to reflect this.
1. Always pay for your trips with a good Credit Card that protects and insulated you for Trip Interruption or where change of plans occur.....this happened to me in Italy where our flight was late....I was injured during the flight with severe burns from a Flight Attendant that spilled a pot of HOT COFFEE all over me...3rd degree burns where I was taken to the hospital...missed connecting flights..had to stay overnight...food...etc. and costs went to the tune of around $10K but my insurance from the Card paid it all.
2. If there is a change in plans.....cruise, trains, lost baggage, etc. you can be reimbursed with a well written claim including photos....Always document everything.
3. Study and research cruises that stay in Havana for at least 2 days,.....one day is not near enough for what is there. A few cruise lines tour about 2 cities in Cuba where you really get full flavor of the island but ensure you know the rules...stay within the confines of Law and don't travel alone as you become a target from unsavory types .....even Govt folk there.
4. Know the Cigar Vendors....plan your trips with enough knowledge that who you buy from has a reputation where you aren't taking chances. Use Credit Cards where you are protected in any event....NEVER carry cash except in small denomination for sundries that you need.
5. Keep a copy of your PASSPORT since your original will be kept by the Cruise Line...tuck your copy in a place where you can use it in case there is an issue.