Miami, July 3 (RHC) -– The Spanish company that operates ferries from Fort Lauderdale to the Bahamas is one step closer to adding service to Cuba, says an article by the Sun Sentinel.

According to the publication, Spain's Balearia received approval from the U.S. Commerce Department to operate ships between Florida and Cuba and is awaiting authorization from the U.S. Treasury Department "in the coming weeks."

The company would require, of course, approval from Cuba and according to attorneys familiar with U.S.-Cuba businesses, if Havana approves, the ferry service could begin as soon as this fall.

Balearia reportedly plans to operate two routes to Havana: a high-speed vessel from Key West and a ferry from Port Everglades.