The Canadian Embassy in Cuba has confirmed the sudden closure of the Cayo Largo airport and advised travellers to discuss departure options with their tour companies. The closure has disrupted travel to and from the small resort island and the embassy tweeted that, “Canadians should contact their tour agency for transport by sea to the mainland.”

The airport is expected to remain closed until Feb. 26. No official reason so far has been given.

Air Transat spokesperson Debbie Cabana said the closure was prompted after the airport’s runway was damaged, though it has not been revealed how the damage occurred.

Cabana said Air Transat is working with Cuban authorities to “put in place a plan to bring our clients home.”

“Our clients will be transferred to the city of Batabanó on board a ferry that can accommodate up to 300 passengers,” she said. “From Batabanó, a coach will take them to the Havana airport. A Transat representative will accompany them throughout the journey.”

Sunwing told Travel Industry Today, that following the unexpected closure of Cayo Largo airport, their destination team “has been working closely with the Cuban Ministry of Tourism to make the necessary arrangements so that our customers can return to Canada this coming Friday as planned.

“Cayo Largo is a remote destination in Cuba, normally accessible via air, and so it has been necessary to source a suitable boat charter. Customers will be transported by catamaran and onwards by bus to Varadero, where they will be accommodated in an all inclusive resort ahead of their return flight.”

In the meantime, Sunwing will be offering customers due to arrive in Cayo Largo on Friday alternate vacation options in Cuba.