Record first quarter for Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean Cruises has reported record first quarter results and increased its outlook for the full year.

The company’s net income was $218.7 million, up from $214.7 million at this time in 2017.

“This year is proving to be another strong year with all our brands firing on all cylinders,” said Richard Fain, chairman and chief executive.

“The market continues to support our growth as our people keep focused on delivering our targets and goals. The strength of this market plus our new ships in 2018 – Symphony of the Seas (see p31), Azamara Pursuit, Mein Schiff 1 and Celebrity Edge – position us nicely for 2019 as well.”

Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean has announced that radio and TV celebrity Mark Wright will hosting this year’s Royal Caribbean Trade Awards recognising the hard work of agent partners across the UK & Ireland, on board the first sailing of the new-look Independence of the Seas.

“I can’t wait to get on board Independence of the Seas to see what the agents make of her multi-million pound makeover,” said Wright. “I’ve seen a few cosmetic makeovers in my time, but from what I’ve heard the new features on Independence have to be seen to be believed.”

Following the awards ceremony – which will be co-hosted by Royal Caribbean associate vice president and managing director UK & Ireland Ben Bouldin – Mark Wright will perform a DJ set in Studio B, the onboard club.

Bouldin said “Independence of the Seas will have extraordinary features on board when she returns to the UK, so we wanted to ensure the awards are just as extraordinary. It’s important for us to celebrate the invaluable role agents play within our business and show them just how much we appreciate their hard work. We can’t wait to get Mark and our agents on board.”

For details of the Club Royal loyalty scheme and to take part in the #GetMeOnIndy competition, visit myclubroyal.co.uk.