MIAMI, Florida (CNN) -- The first regularly scheduled U.S. freighter bound for
                  Cuba since 1961 left Jacksonville, Florida, for Havana early Thursday.

                  A spokesman for the Crowley Liner Service says the vessel was on its way but
                  would not specify the type of cargo it contained.

                  "We are carrying cargo that we are lawfully allowed to carry," said Crowley
                  spokesman Mark Miller.

                  The Trade Sanctions Reform Act of 2000 allows for the sale of certain food and
                  medicine to Cuba.

                  The boat is expected to arrive in Havana on Saturday and Crowley says it has
                  permission from the Cuban government to dock. "All of the paperwork is in
                  place for this cargo movement and for the cargo to be discharged in Havana. All
                  the requirements have been met," he said.

                  However, the Cuban government has categorically stated it will not purchase
                  American goods until all U.S. sanctions are lifted.

                  John Kavulich II, president of the New York-based U.S.-Cuba Trade and
                  Economic Council, Inc., says the Crowley shipping service is significant
                  because, in addition to being the first regularly scheduled cargo service in 40
                  years, it provides a cost- and time-effective means for companies to send
                  products to Cuba.

                  Crowley Liner Service is the first company to obtain a license to provide
                  scheduled carrier services to Cuba from the Office of Foreign Assests Control of
                  the Treasury Department. About half a dozen transportation companies have
                  applied.