Carnival Plc Stock Price, News & Analysis

Carnival Corporation (NYSE: CCL, CUK) has announced the resumption of guest cruise operations this summer for seven of its brands including AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Cunard. The phased approach involves 16 ships, nearly 20% of its fleet, operating with adjusted passenger capacity and enhanced health protocols. Key itineraries include UK coastal cruises and voyages around the Greek Islands. The company emphasizes compliance and safety as it seeks to meet strong pent-up demand for cruising, marking a significant recovery step for the cruise industry.

Carnival Cruise Line has named Miss Dominican Republic, Kimberly Jiménez, as the godmother of its innovative ship, Mardi Gras, during the MISS UNIVERSE broadcast. This ship is notable for being the first in the Americas powered by eco-friendly Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and for featuring an onboard roller coaster. Jiménez, a champion for at-risk youth and advocate for adoption, received the 'Spirit of Carnival' award, recognizing her commitment to diversity and empowerment. The Mardi Gras will set sail for the Caribbean and Bahamas, offering memorable experiences to its guests.

Carnival Cruise Line has announced further cancellations of sailings as it prepares for a potential restart in July 2021. Selected ships from Florida and Texas are expected to resume, including Carnival Vista and Carnival Breeze from Galveston, and Carnival Horizon from Miami. Cancellations affect all other ships until July 30, 2021, with options for full refunds or future cruise credits for affected guests. Discussions are ongoing with the CDC, and patience from guests is appreciated.

Holland America Line has received approval to restart cruising from Piraeus (Athens) in August 2021, with bookings opening on May 6. The initial voyages include a 14-day "Idyllic Greek Isles" and a seven-day "Adriatic Allure" itinerary. Enhanced health protocols will be in place, requiring guests to be vaccinated. The company will also cancel some prior European cruises to accommodate the new schedules. Cruise fares begin at $1,649 for cruise-only options, with additional offerings like flexible cancellations available until June 30, 2021.

Princess Cruises has launched Dine My Way, a new flexible dining option for guests, enhancing their onboard experience. This feature allows guests to make reservations at their preferred times and with chosen companions, optimizing dining capacities and reducing wait times. Guests can customize their dining preferences, including pace and seating location. The OceanNow service has also expanded, enabling on-demand menu ordering from anywhere on the ship. These innovations aim to improve guest convenience and experience, leveraging the technology of the OceanMedallion wearable device.

Seabourn has launched its 65-day Grand Pacific Voyage 2022, set to depart from Vancouver on September 30, 2022, and conclude in Sydney on December 5, 2022. The voyage covers 41 ports, 30 islands, and 12 countries, including stops in French Polynesia and new locations not visited in over five years. Guests can enjoy optional excursions, exclusive amenities, and a 6% discount for early bookings by May 31, 2021. This voyage highlights Seabourn's commitment to providing luxurious travel experiences with exceptional service and exclusive offerings.

Carnival Cruise Line, alongside Federal Maritime Commission, city officials, and local businesses, held a rally in Galveston, Texas, to advocate for the resumption of cruising in the U.S. The event underscored the cruise industry's significant economic impact, generating $1.6 billion in annual expenditures and 27,000 jobs statewide. Carnival, operating three year-round ships, emphasizes the need for equal treatment as other travel sectors. The rally featured vaccinations for crew members and highlighted the importance of returning to cruising for the local economy.

Seabourn has announced plans to restart guest sailings with a second ship from Bridgetown, Barbados, starting July 18, 2021. The ultra-luxury cruise line will operate 7-day cruises to Southern Caribbean destinations, promoting unique experiences like 'Caviar in the Surf' and a dedicated Marina Day. Health protocols will be enforced for guests, including being fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The brand aims to enhance tourism in Barbados and the Caribbean, aligning with local health guidelines. Additional voyages are available from Greece starting July 3, 2021.