The new Grand Turk Cruise Center in Turks and Caicos recently welcomed its first cruise ship. Holland America Line'sNoordam tied up to the new cruise pier on Feb. 25.

The complex can accommodate two jumbo cruise ships and also features an 800-foot beach, pool, shops, and an outpost of Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville restaurant. That's a welcome change from other cruise facilities in the region, which too often are off in some remote spot and make you hike or cab it to anything of interest!

Princess, Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Radisson Seven Seas all have plans to call at Grand Turk this year.