, /PRNewswire/ -- Princess Cruises' stunning Sphere-Class ship, Sun Princess, has once again been recognized as the #1 Mega Cruise Ship in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Readers' Choice Awards. This marks the second consecutive year that Sun Princess has earned the top honor, underscoring her reputation for delivering unforgettable voyages with extraordinary style, innovation, and service. With over 1,500 balcony staterooms, suites are designed with comfort and style in mind, including the exclus ...

Core Insights - Princess Cruises has launched its newest Sphere-Class ship, Star Princess, which is embarking on its inaugural voyage from Barcelona, marking a significant addition to the fleet [1][2] Ship Features - Star Princess is a 177,800-ton vessel with a capacity for 4,300 guests, featuring 30 dining and bar venues, luxurious accommodations, and elevated entertainment options [2][5] - The ship includes over 1,500 balcony staterooms, providing guests with panoramic views and exclusive amenities [5][8] Inaugural Voyage Details - The inaugural 11-day Western Mediterranean voyage runs from October 4 to October 15, 2025, with stops in Marseille, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Cartagena, and Gibraltar before returning to Barcelona [6] - Following the Mediterranean voyage, Star Princess will sail a transatlantic route before debuting in Fort Lauderdale for its Caribbean season and official naming ceremony on November 6, 2025 [6] Entertainment Offerings - New entertainment highlights include the return of the acclaimed show "Spellbound," original theatrical productions "Meridian" and "Illuminate," and a vibrant array of deck parties and themed events [7][4] - The ship features a new Candlelight Concert Series in the glass-enclosed Dome, enhancing the onboard entertainment experience [7] Culinary Experience - Guests can choose from 30 dining venues, including an expanded O'Malley's Irish Pub and a specialty dining space by artist Romero Britto, offering a diverse culinary experience [12] - The Love Line Premium Liquor Collection features curated wines and spirits from renowned celebrities, enhancing the onboard beverage offerings [12] Wellness and Recreation - Star Princess offers wellness options such as a two-story Lotus Spa, a fitness center, and a new sports court for activities like pickleball and basketball [12]

Core Points - Camila and Matthew McConaughey have been named godparents of the new Star Princess, continuing a tradition of iconic figures in the cruise industry [1][2] - The Star Princess is described as the most innovative ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, featuring a range of luxurious amenities and experiences [4][5] Company Overview - Princess Cruises is recognized as a leading cruise brand, known for delivering dream vacations and offering elite service across various sought-after destinations [9] - The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc, which is publicly traded [9] Ship Details - The Star Princess has a capacity of 177,800 tons and can accommodate 4,300 guests, featuring 30 distinct dining and bar venues [4] - Unique offerings include The Sanctuary Collection, an adults-only pool deck, and a next-generation relaxation space called The Dome [4][5] - The ship will debut in the Mediterranean on October 4, 2025, and will subsequently operate Caribbean voyages starting November 7, 2025 [6] Brand Collaboration - The McConaugheys' Pantalones Organic Tequila will be featured in signature cocktails across the Princess fleet, including the popular 24K Gold Margarita [3]

Group 1: Shopify - Shopify has shown tremendous growth, with stock returns exceeding 400% since 2022, and continues to have significant expansion opportunities [4] - The majority of Shopify's revenue comes from merchant solutions, which grew 36% year over year in Q2 to over $2 billion [5] - The company is leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance its offerings, such as launching Catalog to integrate millions of products into AI-powered shopping apps [6] - Shopify's strong brand and competitive advantage stem from its innovative solutions that help merchants increase sales, creating a powerful incentive to attract more businesses [7] - Total spending by Shopify merchants in the U.S. is projected to be only 12% of the e-commerce market by 2025, indicating substantial growth potential [8] Group 2: RH (Restoration Hardware) - The Federal Reserve's recent interest rate cuts are expected to revitalize the housing market, which has been stagnant due to high rates [10] - RH reported an 8.4% increase in revenue to $899.2 million in its recent Q2 earnings, benefiting from its focus on the higher-end market [12] - The company's business model has significant leverage, and margins could expand with increased demand, trading at a P/E of less than 20 based on fiscal 2027 estimates [13] Group 3: Carnival - Carnival has experienced a strong recovery, with record metrics in revenue, operating income, and customer deposits, indicating sustained demand [14][15] - Customer deposits reached $8.5 billion, with 93% of 2025 occupancy already booked, and 2026 demand aligning with historical highs [16] - Despite a staggering debt of over $27 billion, lower interest rates are facilitating debt repayment, with Carnival refinancing $7 billion at better rates [18][19]

Core Points - The Star Princess, the second Sphere-Class ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, was officially delivered at Fincantieri Shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, marking the completion of its construction [1][2] - The ship will set sail for Barcelona ahead of its inaugural voyage, which is an 11-day Western Mediterranean cruise starting on October 4, 2025 [2][5] - Star Princess has a capacity of 4,300 guests and features 30 dining and bar venues, along with unique amenities such as The Sanctuary Collection, which offers an elevated private escape at sea [3][4] Company Overview - Princess Cruises is recognized as a leading cruise brand, known for delivering dream vacations to millions in sought-after destinations with a focus on elite service and personalization [7][8] - The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc, which is a major player in the cruise industry [8] Ship Features - Star Princess boasts over 1,500 balcony staterooms, providing guests with panoramic views [4] - Notable venues on the ship include The Dome, The Arena, The Piazza, and Spellbound by Magic Castle, enhancing the onboard experience [4] Future Voyages - After its Mediterranean debut, Star Princess will transition to Caribbean voyages from Ft. Lauderdale starting November 7, 2025, followed by an inaugural Alaska season [5]

Core Viewpoint - Carnival Corporation & plc (CCL) is expected to report third-quarter fiscal 2025 results on September 29, 2025, with earnings per share (EPS) estimated at $1.31, reflecting a 3.2% increase from the previous year [1][8]. Financial Performance - The consensus estimate for fiscal third-quarter revenues is $8.1 billion, indicating a 2% growth year-over-year [5]. - CCL has a strong earnings surprise history, having outperformed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in the last four quarters with an average surprise of 169.9% [5][10]. Earnings Estimates - The current EPS estimate for Q3 is $1.31, with a 60-day unchanged consensus [2]. - The expected passenger ticket revenues are projected to rise 0.2% year-over-year to $5.25 billion, while onboard and other revenues are anticipated to increase by 2.3% to $2.71 billion [12]. Market Dynamics - European demand, premium pricing, and the launch of Celebration Key are expected to positively influence Q3 results [10][13]. - The company has seen strong booking momentum and robust onboard spending, contributing to revenue growth [11]. Cost Considerations - Total operating expenses are expected to rise by 1.5% year-over-year to $5.8 billion, driven by increased cruise costs excluding fuel [15]. - Management has indicated a 7% year-over-year increase in cruise costs, influenced by start-up expenses for Celebration Key and higher advertising costs [15]. Stock Performance - CCL shares have increased by 20.5% over the past three months, outperforming the Zacks Leisure and Recreation Services industry growth of 11.2% [16]. - The stock is currently trading at a forward P/E multiple of 13.64X, below the industry average of 18.77X, indicating a potential investment opportunity [19]. Strategic Initiatives - Carnival's strong demand trends support raised 2025 yield guidance, with record customer deposits and high pricing [21]. - The launch of Celebration Key and fleet enhancements are expected to drive incremental revenue and improve guest experiences [22]. Investment Outlook - Carnival is well-positioned for the upcoming fiscal third-quarter earnings, supported by resilient demand and sustained strength in pricing and onboard revenue [23]. - The company's discounted valuation relative to peers and leadership in the global cruise industry present a compelling opportunity for long-term investors [25].

Core Insights - Princess Cruises is launching an evolved version of the "Spellbound by Magic Castle" experience aboard the new Star Princess, enhancing the immersive entertainment offering at sea [1][2][5] Group 1: Experience Overview - The new Spellbound by Magic Castle experience pays homage to the golden age of magic, particularly honoring Richard Valentine Pitchford, known as Cardini, a master of sleight-of-hand [2] - The venue will feature uniquely themed spaces such as a whimsical ticketing booth, the Inner Circle, Cardini Bar, a backstage area, and the Peacock Theater, all designed to create a magical atmosphere [3] Group 2: Culinary Offerings - An exclusive cocktail menu will be introduced at the Cardini Bar, featuring handcrafted drinks that align with the magical theme, including innovative options like The Inner Circle and Cardini [4] Group 3: Accessibility and Pricing - The Spellbound experience will be accessible to all guests aboard Star Princess, with multiple showtimes each night. Admission is priced at $45 per guest, which includes two signature cocktails and a magic show [5] - Unlike the original concept, there will be no dinner service prior to the show, encouraging guests to dine at least two hours before their reservation [6] Group 4: Ship Features - Star Princess, currently under construction, will accommodate 4,300 guests and feature 30 distinct dining and bar venues, along with luxurious accommodations [7] - The ship will include over 1,500 balcony staterooms, providing guests with panoramic views, and notable venues like The Dome and The Princess Arena [8] Group 5: Inaugural Season - Star Princess will debut with an inaugural season featuring sailings to various destinations including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska, with bookings currently available [9]

Core Insights - Carnival Corporation (CCL) is preparing for a competitive landscape with major competitors like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line expanding their fleets and offerings [1] - CCL is focusing on fleet strategy enhancements through targeted newbuilds and upgrades to strengthen its market position [1] Fleet Developments - In Q2 2025, CCL announced several vessel additions and refurbishments aimed at boosting demand and pricing, including the return of AIDAdiva after upgrades [2] - The AIDA brand will see two newbuilds delivered in fiscal years 2030 and 2032, enhancing its presence in Germany [2] - Carnival Cruise Line is set to introduce two new Excel-class ships, Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale, in 2027 and 2028, featuring a family-oriented water park [3] Competitive Positioning - Royal Caribbean increased its fleet capacity by 6% year-over-year in Q2 2025, with a net yield growth of 5.2% [5] - Norwegian Cruise Line is targeting a gross capacity expansion of approximately 29.7% by 2028, indicating a CAGR of about 4% from 2023 [6] Financial Performance - CCL shares have increased by 33.2% over the past three months, outperforming the industry growth of 8.9% [7] - CCL's forward price-to-earnings ratio stands at 13.96X, significantly lower than the industry average of 18.91X [10] - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for CCL's fiscal 2025 earnings suggests a year-over-year increase of 40.9%, with EPS estimates for fiscal 2025 rising in the past 30 days [12]

Core Insights - The Star Princess, the second Sphere-Class ship from Princess Cruises, is set to debut on October 4, 2025, after successful sea trials [1][2] - The ship is designed to reduce emissions and is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), marking a significant advancement in environmental sustainability for the cruise industry [2][5] - Star Princess will feature 30 dining and bar venues, advanced entertainment options, and luxurious accommodations, catering to 4,300 guests [5][6] Company Overview - Princess Cruises is recognized as a leading cruise brand, known for delivering exceptional vacation experiences across various global destinations [8] - The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc, which is publicly traded on NYSE and LSE [8] Technical Features - The vessel is equipped with two Azipod propulsion units for enhanced maneuverability and efficiency, along with four controllable pitch bow thrusters [3] - Star Princess has a gross tonnage of 177,800 tons and includes over 1,500 balcony staterooms for panoramic views [5][6] Inaugural Season - The inaugural season will include voyages to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Panama Canal, and Alaska, with bookings currently available [7]

Core Insights - Princess Cruises announced its most expansive Alaska cruise and cruisetour season for 2027, featuring nearly 60 years of expertise in the region [1][10] - The season will include a fleet of eight ships and stays at five signature wilderness lodges, emphasizing immersive travel experiences [1][10] - The 2027 Alaska season opens for sale on August 12, 2025 [1] Cruise Highlights - The season will feature 187 departures across 17 unique itineraries from five homeports: Seattle, Vancouver (B.C.), Anchorage (Whittier), San Francisco, and Los Angeles [2] - Star Princess, a next-generation Sphere Class ship, will return for her second season in Alaska, offering 7-day Inside Passage cruises roundtrip from Seattle [2][3] - The cruise will include four glacier-viewing experiences: Glacier Bay National Park, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord, and Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier [5] Unique Experiences - Princess Cruises aims to bring guests closer to the local culture, wildlife, and glaciers, enhancing the overall travel experience [3] - The company offers 28 cruisetour itineraries that combine cruises with land adventures, including access to Denali National Park [7][10] - Exclusive booking offers include up to 40% off and free sailing for the 3rd and 4th guests on select sailings [10] Fleet and Itineraries - The fleet includes Star Princess, Coral Princess, Crown Princess, Discovery Princess, Emerald Princess, Island Princess, Royal Princess, and Ruby Princess [5][9] - The company will provide scenic and charming port calls, including Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Haines, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, and Victoria, B.C. [5] - Extended adventures will be available with 9- and 10-day Inside Passage voyages [6] Company Background - Princess Cruises is recognized as the top cruise line in Alaska, having won the "Best Cruise Line in Alaska" award 21 times [10] - The company is part of Carnival Corporation & plc and is known for delivering dream vacations in sought-after destinations [8]