Carnival PLC - CUK STOCK NEWS

Cunard has reported unprecedented demand for its Summer 2023 itineraries, achieving record bookings in the first two days of trading. The luxury brand has announced over 150 international voyages, with significant interest in its Princess and Queens Grills Suites. This surge is attributed to Cunard's global appeal and reflects a resurgence in luxury travel, as evidenced by two of its strongest booking periods in over a decade. The Summer 2023 program includes voyages to 120 unique ports across 35 countries, with various itineraries showcasing stunning destinations.

Princess Cruises announced the expansion of MedallionPay, a contactless payment option for guests, now available in ports including the Caribbean and Alaska. This service allows travelers to make purchases securely using their Princess Medallion device without cash or credit cards. For the inaugural year, guests will receive 7% back on shoreside purchases as onboard credit. The initiative enhances the guest experience by combining onboard and destination convenience, available with numerous retail partners. Merchants benefit from no setup fees and can start using MedallionPay quickly.

Holland America Line has extended its Military Appreciation Offer to include first responders and healthcare workers from both the U.S. and Canada, providing $100 Onboard Spending Money for select cruise bookings through May 2022. Reservations must be made by March 15, 2022. The offer applies to a variety of destinations, including Alaska, Europe, the Caribbean, and more. This initiative aims to honor those who serve selflessly in their communities, enhancing their cruise experience with additional benefits.

Carnival Corporation & plc has announced an extension of its Share Purchase Program until April 30, 2022, allowing the company to purchase up to $500 million in shares of Carnival plc. Originally set to conclude on January 31, 2022, this program intends to enhance shareholder value. The shares acquired will not carry voting rights while held by Carnival Corporation. This move is part of a broader equity offering registered under the Securities Act of 1933. Carnival continues to utilize BofA Securities as its agent for the offering.

The Discovery Princess, the newest cruise ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, was officially delivered at the Fincantieri Shipyard in Italy on January 31, 2022. This vessel expands the fleet to 15 MedallionClass ships, enhancing the cruise line's offerings with innovative features and luxurious amenities. It will operate voyages in the Mexican Riviera and California Coast starting March 27, 2022, before heading to Alaska cruises. The ship incorporates advanced technology for improved environmental compliance and guest experience.

Daon has partnered with Carnival Cruise Line to launch a pilot program using its digital health wallet, VeriFLY, on the Mardi Gras ship at Port Canaveral, Florida. This initiative allows guests to pre-upload vaccination and testing information, streamlining the health screening process and enhancing embarkation speed. Following the pilot's completion, Carnival plans to implement VeriFLY across its fleet to improve the guest experience. Daon emphasizes the importance of technology in providing seamless travel, with the app offering reminders for credential expirations.

Princess Cruises has appointed Chef Rudi Sodamin as its first head of culinary arts, effective immediately. He will continue his role as master chef for Holland America Line. This move aims to enhance the culinary experience on Princess ships, known for their strong culinary culture. Sodamin is an acclaimed chef with significant achievements, including launching Rudi's Sel de Mer restaurant and spearheading culinary initiatives across multiple cruise lines. His leadership is expected to elevate dining experiences and inspire culinary innovation within the company.