After yesterday's Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd (RCCL) earnings' report, Travel Agent asked several industry officials for trade perspective on the cruise company's "better than anticipated" financial performance.
Here is a bit of analysis from Dwain Wall, senior vice president and general manager, CruiseOne & Cruises Inc.
Wall has observed similar trends for his trade groups to those indicated by the recent positive earnings announcements [for major cruise lines]. "Bookings year-to-date in 2010 have been strong and are aligned with our original expectations," said Wall.
He noted that "Average Selling Price (ASP) is slightly below what we expected for the first quarter, but not significantly. Overall, pricing continues to drive calls and bookings, indicating there is no shortage of demand."
In addition, Wall said that "consumers are continuing to realize the value of cruise travel, especially...and for these reasons, we are optimistic about the remainder of the year."