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European market helps Norwegian Cruise Line brush off hurricanes impact

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings appears not to have been blown off course by hurricanes in the Caribbean this summer with the help of a strong performance in Europe.

The parent of Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises also reported improved bookings for 2018.

The company recently announced a partnership with disaster relief organisation All Hands Volunteers and set a goal to raise $2.5 million for hurricane relief on the Florida Keys and rebuilding schools on Caribbean islands affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria.

NCLH achieved adjusted net profits for the three months to September 30 of $427 million against $369.3 million in the same summer period last year as revenue increased 11.2% to $1.7 billion.

President and chief executive Frank del Rio said: “Strong operational performance across our core markets, bolstered by strength in European itineraries, where pricing has now exceeded the previous high watermark of 2015, drove third quarter revenue and yield growth well ahead of expectations, despite the disruptions caused by weather-related events during the quarter.

“Over the last several weeks we have seen consumer demand continue to accelerate for Caribbean sailings and booking volumes have now reached pre-hurricane levels.

“Our ships, crew and shore side personnel have been actively engaged in assisting impacted destinations by evacuating stranded families and delivering much-needed supplies.

“In addition, our company has committed to providing long-term financial aid to rebuild critical infrastructure through our hurricane relief programme.”

Chief financial officer Wendy Beck added: “Our booked position for full year 2018 remains well ahead in both load and price compared to prior year across all three of our brands, despite booking headwinds caused by weather-related disruptions in the Caribbean.”

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