Royal Caribbean Cruises has confirmed speculation of the possible addition of a third mega Oasis class ship.
The company said it was engaged in negotiations for the possible construction of an Oasis-type new build that would be delivered in middle to late 2016.
“While the company has not entered into any agreement at this time, it hopes to do so before year’s end,” Royal Caribbean said alongside third quarter financial results.
“The new ship is expected to cost less on a per berth basis than either of the first two Oasis-class vessels.”
Chairman and chief executive Richard Fain said: “The Oasis of the Seas and Allure of the Seas have proven themselves to be exceptionally attractive ships by generating the highest guest satisfaction ratings in the fleet coupled with very compelling financial returns.
“Ordering another such ship for delivery in 2016, at a lower cost, with better energy efficiency, is very consistent with our balanced goals of prudent growth, return improvement and debt reduction.”
The disclosure came as Royal Caribbean reported better than expected summer quarter financial results, although profits were down on the same period last year.
Third quarter net profits came in at $367.8 million, down from $399 million a year earlier.
Late bookings for the period ending in September across most itineraries — including Europe — were stronger than anticipated, resulting in a net yield increase of 0.1%.
Net yields for the final quarter are expected to be approximately flat, excluding previously announced deployment initiatives and changes to the company’s international distribution system, according to Royal Caribbean. The company announced earlier this week that base commissions to UK agents would be cut to 10% from January 1, 2013 for its Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises brands.
Fain said: “The strong third quarter certainly validates our confidence in our business model.
“Strong close-in demand and our focus on costs drove substantially better results than expected. I am especially gratified that we are still seeing price increases in a year marked by so many external pressures.”