Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings now says it expects to earn
$1.18-$1.2 billion in 2019, up from the previous forecast.
The increased projection, made on May 9 as NCLH disclosed
its first-quarter financial results, applies to earnings adjusted for several
items such as noncash deferred compensation expenses, amortization of
intangible assets and redeployment costs for the Norwegian Joy.
The adjustments can be substantial.
For example, for the first quarter of 2019, NCLH had net
income of $118.2 million, up from $103.2 million the previous year. After
adjustment, the figures were $181.8 million and $137.8 million.
Revenue in the first quarter rose 8.5% to $1.4 billion.
NCLH CEO Frank Del Rio attributed the improved results to "strong
pricing growth, robust close-in bookings and higher onboard spend."
He said the strong first quarter "combined with a
strong Wave season that saw new bookings come in at the highest pricing ever at
each of our three brands" led to the higher forecast for all of 2019.