- Carnival plc (NYSE:CUK +0.7%) signs a memo of agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri S.p.A. to build four new cruise ships. The contracts should be finalized in 2016.
- Two will be deployed in China through Costa Asia, one will go to P&O Cruises Australia and one to Princess Cruises. The ships for Costa Asia and P&O will trim out at 135,500 tons and carry 4,200 passengers. The Princess vessel, trimming at 143,700 tons, will carry 3,560 passengers. Specific features and amenities will be revealed in the coming months.
- The Costa Asia ships will feature its "Italy's finest" experience which will immerse passengers in Italy's unique style, hospitality, entertainment and culinary excellence.
- The P&O vessel is its fifth. A sixth, Pacific Explorer, will be introduced in 2017. Australia is one of the top performing cruise markets in the world with an annual passenger growth rate of 20% over the past 10 years.
- The Princess ship will feature a central atrium hub with multiple dining, entertainment and retail venues, an outdoor cinema and 80% of staterooms with balconies.
- Deliveries are projected to be in 2019 and 2020.