Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has built as big or bigger ships than rivals two to four times its size, and with bells and whistles second to none. The most recent is its 4,000-passenger Getaway that set off from Miami in January.

Could a Cuban beach vacation be the next big thing for American travelers? Certainly, it appears more Americans will have the opportunity to visit the island nation as a result of the newly announced trade and political agreement between the U.S. and Cuba.

Amber Cove, an exciting new destination located in the heart of the Dominican Republic's breathtaking North Coast, known as the Amber Coast, just outside the historical town of Puerto Plata – will welcome its first cruise ship when the Carnival Victory arrives on October 6, 2015, for a day-long call.

The island of Tobago will be featured on a Carnival Cruise Lines itinerary for the first time, as part of an expanded list of lengthier cruises Carnival will offer in 2015-16.

The voyages are offered on the Carnival Dream, Carnival Glory and Carnival Sunshine which depart from Long Beach, California; Port Canaveral, Florida and San Juan, Puerto Rico to more than two dozen tropical destinations including St. Kitts.