The one good feature that NCL Pride of America offered was after you boarded, you could take your carry-ons to their theater, and check them in like a coat check room. We were able to do the embarkation buffet with zero luggage. Then you could either pick them up before 3 p.m. or they would be delivered to your room.
When I returned home (in 2008) I wrote Disney a letter about this great feature, and they thanked me for the suggestion. Sure wish they would implement it though.