Welcome to our dedicated page for Carnival PLC news (Ticker: CUK), a resource for investors and traders seeking the latest updates and insights on Carnival PLC stock.
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK) is a British-American cruise operator, recognized as the largest global cruise company. Headquartered in Miami, Florida, the company boasts a diverse portfolio of ten cruise line brands, including Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn in North America; P&O Cruises and Cunard Line in the United Kingdom; Aida in Germany; Costa Cruises in Southern Europe; and P&O Cruises in Australia. Carnival's fleet encompasses over 100 vessels, providing a range of memorable vacation experiences worldwide.
With 92 ships in service by the end of fiscal 2023, Carnival has demonstrated significant recovery and growth, especially after the pandemic. The company saw nearly 13 million guests in 2019, a figure they matched again in 2023. Among its notable achievements and current projects, Carnival continues to innovate in sustainable travel. Holland America Line, for example, began a long-term biofuel test on its flagship, Rotterdam, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
Recent news highlights the company's commitment to enriching guest experiences. Princess Cruises introduced an immersive 'Voyage to the Stars' experience in Alaska, while Holland America Line's Global Fresh Fish Program was featured on 'Top Chef'. Additionally, Seabourn's launch of its Zero @ Sea mixology program showcases unique non-alcoholic cocktails, responding to evolving guest preferences.
Carnival Corporation's future projects are also promising. The Princess Cruises fleet is set to expand its itineraries in Japan and Southeast Asia for the 2025-26 season, with Diamond Princess leading the way. Moreover, the Seabourn Odyssey will offer nostalgic final voyages through Alaska before transitioning out of the fleet.
Financially, Carnival Corporation continues to show resilience and growth, reflected in their latest fiscal reports and quarterly earnings. Investors and stakeholders can look forward to a conference call scheduled on June 25, 2024, to discuss second-quarter financial results. This proactive engagement underscores Carnival's dedication to transparency and shareholder value.
Holland America Line's Rotterdam debuted on Oct. 20, 2021, featuring an impressive art collection worth over $4.1 million. Curated by YSA Design and ArtLink, the collection comprises 2,645 pieces from diverse global artists, with a focus on themes of music and dance. Highlights include the 7.5-ton sculpture 'Harps' valued at $620,000. The ship also showcases historical works and cultural contributions from over 37 nationalities, marking a significant artistic transformation in cruising.
Holland America Line's Rotterdam has embarked on its inaugural 14-day voyage from Amsterdam to Fort Lauderdale. The ship, part of the Pinnacle Class, was delivered in July 2021 and can accommodate 2,668 guests. After the transatlantic journey, Rotterdam will operate Caribbean cruises from November to April, featuring itineraries from six to 11 days. Highlights include a stop at Half Moon Cay, a private Bahamian island. The ship boasts luxury amenities, dining by renowned chefs, and live music venues, reinforcing Holland America Line's reputation for premium cruising.
Carnival Corporation (NYSE: CCL, CUK) announced the pricing of a private offering of $2.0 billion in senior unsecured notes due 2029, with a coupon rate of 6.000%. The offering is set to close on November 2, 2021. Proceeds will be utilized for scheduled debt payments and general corporate purposes, including financing for property and vessel maintenance. The notes will be unsecured and guaranteed by Carnival plc and its subsidiaries. This offering targets qualified institutional buyers and is not registered in the U.S.
Princess Cruises has announced a special promotion offering 50% off select cruises for active first responders and medical professionals. This promotion is valid for cruises sailing from North America through February 2022. Interested individuals must verify their professional status via Sheer ID between October 18-31, 2021. The booking deadline for this discount is December 31, 2021. Additionally, participants can enter a sweepstakes for a chance to win a cruise valued at $2,500. This offer aims to honor the contributions of healthcare heroes during the pandemic.
Carnival Corporation & plc has successfully closed a $2.3 billion first-priority senior secured term loan facility. The funds will be utilized to redeem all outstanding 11.500% First-Priority Senior Secured Notes due 2023, resulting in annual interest savings of over $135 million and extended loan maturities until 2028. Loans will accrue interest at adjusted LIBOR plus a margin of 3.25%. This refinancing aims to improve financial positioning amid ongoing challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Princess Cruises has officially resumed service with its third U.S. ship, Emerald Princess, departing from Los Angeles on a 15-day Panama Canal cruise. The inaugural guests were welcomed aboard with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Emerald Princess is set to arrive in Ft. Lauderdale on October 30, 2021, followed by a series of 10-day cruises until December. The ship features MedallionClass technology, enhancing guest experiences through touch-free services. Vaccination protocols are in place, requiring guests to be fully vaccinated and provide a negative COVID-19 test.
Holland America Line announced that Her Royal Highness Princess Margriet of the Netherlands will be the godmother of the Rotterdam, marking the 13th ship named by a Dutch Royal. This continues the line's tradition with the royal family, dating back to 1929. The Rotterdam will be named in Rotterdam next year, with its maiden cruise departing on Oct. 20, 2021. The ship, delivered on July 30, 2021, will sail various itineraries from Fort Lauderdale and return to Europe for a summer season in Norway and the Baltic.
Princess Cruises announces the return of three additional ships to service from February to April 2022, enhancing its operations in the United States. Crown Princess, Island Princess, and Royal Princess will sail from Los Angeles, Seattle, Vancouver, and Ft. Lauderdale, joining eight ships already in operation, which represents 79% of their capacity. Enhanced health protocols will be in place, requiring vaccination for guests and crew. The MedallionClass technology offers touchless experiences onboard. Cancellations of select Crown Princess cruises will occur to accommodate the restarts.
Carnival Corporation has appointed John Padgett as the new president of Princess Cruises, effective immediately. Padgett, previously chief experience and innovation officer, will manage all operational functions of Princess Cruises, which operates a fleet of 14 ships. He will report to Jan Swartz, who has led the brand since 2013. Padgett is recognized for his role in developing the award-winning MedallionClass® experience, which enhances guest experiences through innovative technology. His leadership aims to drive further growth as the cruise line navigates a dynamic market.