Caribbean: Curacao, Aruba & Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata (or officially known as San Felipe de Puerto Plata) is the ninth largest city in the Dominican Republic and the capital of the province of Puerto Plata. For spectacular city views, take a ride up the Pico Isabel de Torres mountain which stands over 2,600 feet high. History buff? Visit Fortaleza San Felipe, which was built in the 16th century and served as a prison under the dictatorship of Rafael Trujillo. Or head to the Amber Museum, a museum filled with a unique collection of valuable Dominican amber which is semiprecious tree sap that has hardened for millions of years capturing many fossils of plant and insect life.

Discovered by Christopher Columbus himself in 1493, this exotic, peaceful island is home to both towering mahogany trees and white-sand beaches. The region offers a challenging hike that extends 1,780 feet up Sage Mountain. A great spot for great birdwatching and breathtaking views of Tortola and neighboring islands.

Located on the eastern tip of the Dominican Republic near La Romana, Punta Cana truly is paradise. Perfectly clear turquoise waters, expansive beaches and awe-inspiring lagoons intertwine with an abundance of dining, shopping and cultural activities — offering something for everyone to enjoy. The town is uniquely situated so that it hugs both the Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean — you can take a dip in both bodies of water in one day! From snorkeling with sea turtles and surfing to exploring the pristine beaches of the uninhabited Isle Saona, Punta Cana is your sun-kissed tropical playground. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, excitement or a little of both, Feel Free to do it all or nothing at all with Norwegian.

Incredibly white sands and cobalt blue seas make the small island of Aruba a popular destination. In the bustling freeport town of Oranjestad, sherbet-colored Dutch colonial buildings, draped in bougainvillea, oleander and hibiscus are simply picturesque. Small, but informative museums relate the island's history.

Walk around this quaint harbor town and you'll think you've travelled back in time to Old Amsterdam. Admire the colorful Dutch architecture and take advantage of the excellent shopping. Relax on 17-century veranda with a drink made with the famous Curaçao liqueur.

The golden beaches, swaying palm trees and fragrant air are just a prelude to what surrounds this beautiful city. Within the nearby jungle-covered mountains are the magnificent Dunn's River Falls, the foliage of Fern Gully and the untouched beauty of the White River.

The largest of the Cayman Islands, Grand Cayman is famous for its Seven Mile Beach, the popular Stingray City and its excellent diving. Both nature and history are preserved underwater with a collection of easily viewed shipwrecks.

Tampa, nicknamed "The Big Guava", is so much more than merely home to Busch Gardens (one of the most popular theme parks in Florida). The Ybor City district is alive with history, shopping and fine dining. The Tampa Museum of Art and the Museum of Science and Industry are also must-sees. Looking for a cruise from Tampa? Check out our selection of Caribbean cruises.