Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has reported the highest quarterly revenue in its history despite Hurricane Dorian causing voyage cancellations and itineraries to be changed.
The company, which operates three cruise lines, reported a third quarter income of $450.6 million or earnings per share of $2.09 – compared to $470.4m or $2.11 the year before.
But total revenue increased 3% to $1.9 billion, thanks to strong demand in NCLH’s core markets, re-positioning Norwegian Joy to North America, and “robust” onboard spending, the company said.
NCLH – which operates three brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas and Oceania Cruises – was forced to stop calls to the Bahamas and its private island, Great Stirrup Cay, as Hurricane Dorian hit in September, and after the damage was caused.
As part of the relief effort, NCLH committed $2 million and encouraged passengers to support its relaunched Hope Starts Here campaign.
Frank Del Rio, NCLH’s president and chief executive officer, said: “The underlying fundamentals of our business remain as strong as ever, allowing us to post another solid quarter of financial results despite the impacts from Hurricane Dorian.
“The top line exceeded expectations and we recorded the highest quarterly revenue in our history.”
He added: “We are on track to deliver yet another record-breaking year in 2019, and the positive momentum for our global brands is carrying over into 2020, as demand, occupancy and pricing continue to outpace 2019 record levels, buoyed by the addition of Norwegian Encore and Seven Seas Splendor.”
Mark A. Kempa, executive vice president and chief financial officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said: “The combination of the continued robust demand environment and the building excitement for the launches of Norwegian Encore and Seven Seas Splendor are setting up 2020 to be another milestone year.”