Carnival Corp CEO Highlights Historic Highs in Cruise Industry at CruiseWorld Conference

Josh Weinstein, CEO of Carnival Corporation, shared an optimistic outlook for the cruise industry during his address at Northstar Travel Group’s CruiseWorld conference in Fort Lauderdale. He spoke about the remarkable recovery and growth the industry is experiencing, particularly highlighting Carnival Corp’s record-breaking passenger bookings revenue and earnings.

Weinstein described the previous year as a period of intense recovery, marked by occupancy gaps and the phasing out of COVID-19 protocols. However, the current scenario is a stark contrast, with the industry witnessing “incredibly robust demand and record bookings.” This surge in interest is attributed to a diverse global clientele of all ages, drawn to the unique experiences offered by vacationing at sea.

The CEO emphasized that this success is not limited to Carnival Corp but extends across the major players in the cruise industry, setting the stage for a remarkable 2024. He noted the resilience of the cruise industry, which has bounced back strongly after the unprecedented shutdown during the pandemic and the gradual return to full-scale operations.

Detailing the company’s impressive third-quarter results, Weinstein highlighted record-breaking metrics in various aspects, including revenue per diems, yields, total revenue, customer deposits, and future bookings. This success spans all of Carnival Corp’s nine brands and their operations in various global regions.

Furthermore, booking volumes for the third quarter continued at high levels, with advanced bookings for 2024 surpassing historical ranges and showing higher prices compared to 2023. Weinstein expressed confidence in the sustained consumer spending, which bodes well for the industry’s future.

Carnival Corp’s success is also credited to the significant contributions of travel advisors. Weinstein acknowledged their critical role in supporting and expanding the cruise industry, stating, “We can’t do what we do without [advisors].” He highlighted the strong momentum in the industry and the all-time high engagement of travel advisors with cruise offerings.

Weinstein’s insights at the CruiseWorld conference reflect a bright future for the cruise industry, with Carnival Corp leading the way in capitalizing on the growing consumer interest in cruise vacations. The company’s record performance and positive outlook signal a thriving era for cruising, propelled by innovation, robust demand, and the invaluable support of travel advisors.