During the Q3 earnings call, Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation, unveiled impressive figures indicating that nearly 50% of the company’s cruise inventory for 2025 has been sold. This outstanding accomplishment is complemented by a promising start for 2026 bookings, which Weinstein claims is “unprecedented.” With every brand under the Carnival umbrella—including Carnival, Princess, Holland America Line, and Seabourn—showing improvements in pricing for 2025, the outlook for the cruise line giant appears exceptionally bright. As Weinstein noted, the ongoing booking momentum has allowed the company to extend its booking curve further out than in prior years. Being “about two-thirds booked” for the next 12 months, Carnival stands in a strong position, a noteworthy achievement in an industry often subject to unpredictability.
Carnival Corp.’s robust performance is evident in its customer deposits, reaching an all-time high of nearly $7 billion for Q3, driven by the strength of 2026 bookings. Revenue also soared to approximately $7.9 billion, marking an increase of $1 billion compared to last year’s record for the same quarter. This surge signifies more than just numbers; it reflects a resurgent consumer confidence in cruising post-pandemic. The company has not only capitalized on ticket sales but also on ancillary revenue from onboard purchases, which continue to see upward trends. Weinstein’s assessment of the third quarter as “phenomenal” underscores the exceptional quality of this performance, breaking various records and exceeding expectations across multiple dimensions.
Over the past two years, Carnival Corp. has effectively revitalized its financial standings, doubling revenue and shifting from a negative EBITDA scenario to achieving an all-time high of $6 billion in the current fiscal year. Such a dramatic turnaround emphasizes the effectiveness of the company’s strategic initiatives post-crisis. Notably, the Q3 net income reached $1.7 billion, reflecting a staggering increase of more than 60% from the previous year. This rise can largely be attributed to robust ticket pricing strategies coupled with unpredicted onboard spending, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the company’s financial health. Notably, the adjusted net income exceeded forecasts by $170 million, showcasing the company’s adeptness in navigating market changes.
In an encouraging trend, the number of first-time cruisers has increased by 17% compared to the same quarter last year. Weinstein attributes this growth to enhanced marketing initiatives aimed at shaping consumer demand since the onset of the pandemic. Carnival’s commitment to attracting new customers reflects the strategic marketing efforts that have been revamped over recent years. The company recognizes the importance of capturing a wider audience and is focused on driving clientele toward a memorable cruising experience.
As Carnival Corp. progresses into 2025 and beyond, it stands at a pivotal moment, characterized by robust financial health and an expanding customer base. The strategic decisions made during tumultuous times have paved the way for this impressive trajectory. The combination of strong bookings, high revenues, and increased first-time cruiser interest adds to the company’s promising future. With the cruise industry on a resurgence, Carnival Corporation is poised to remain a formidable player and an industry leader in the years to come.