New York - An end to the five-decade US trade embargo against Cuba will provide a major boost to the communist island's economy, but American cruise lines are also expected to benefit from the thaw.
The news that Washington and Havana are to resume diplomatic and trade ties sent shares climbing for three Florida-based cruise line operators.
American tourists, the world's most keen cruise customers, may now be able to land in Cuba and use their US credit cards.
Shares for cruise industry giant Carnival Corporation climbed 3.59% to $44.67.
Meanwhile, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings rose 1.65% to $44.48, while Royal Caribbean Cruises was up 3.99% to $79.82.