Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings reported stronger-than-expected third-quarter earnings, driven by a surge in close-in bookings and higher onboard spending. Revenue remained steady at $2.9 billion, while net income rose to $491.5 million, up from $419.3 million the previous year.
Adjusted EBITDA reached $937 million, surpassing the guidance of $874 million. Adjusted earnings per share also exceeded expectations, coming in at $1.12 compared to the forecasted 90 cents. CFO Mark Kempa attributed the strong performance to pent-up travel demand, as consumers who deferred vacations earlier in the summer booked closer to departure dates.
Looking ahead, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has raised its full-year guidance for net income, net yield, net cruise costs, and EBITDA. Bookings for the first half of 2027 lag behind 2026, but the company anticipates an improvement in the second half due to marketing and revenue-management initiatives.
CEO John Chidsey expressed confidence in a return to positive net yield growth for both the second half of the year and full-year 2027. He highlighted 2027 as a significant step in restoring the company’s performance. Norwegian Cruise Line is also focusing on tech upgrades, enhancing its reservation system, and improving the websites and apps of its cruise lines.
In January, the company will launch a new branding campaign centered on cruising without compromise. Chidsey emphasized the importance of communicating this differentiated positioning to attract consumers who may not have considered cruising as a vacation option.
The company’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, saw the opening of a waterpark this quarter, with financial results meeting expectations. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced a leadership change, appointing Meghan Montana, currently chief strategy officer, as the new CFO effective January. Montana, who joined the company in January, previously held a senior finance role at American Airlines.