JetBlue's Caribbean destination focus helps set it apart, which is an important tactic in a moment when fare and amenity competition has grown increasingly tight.
These are all good questions to be asking, as is the question of how the financial benefits gained at cruising ports of call are or aren't funneled back into improving islands' infrastructures.
A series of major storms and stringent work schedules has made the Caribbean the ideal location for Americans looking for warm weekend getaways that are no more than a few hours' flight away.
A more integrated, holistic and sustainable approach to Caribbean tourism is needed -- beyond the historic sun and sand -- for long-lasting economic development.
Cruising may have had a tough year in the press, but disasters haven't hurt Florida's cruise industry as passengers are still flocking for cheap escapes from convenient ports to sunny locations.