Brian J Rice News

Royal Caribbean Cruises contracts for a third Quantum-class cruise ship to be constructed in the Meyer Werft shipyard. The delivery is for mid-2016 and the price and terms of the new ship are similar to the price and terms of the first two Quantum-class ships, subject to financing conditions. "We are excited to construct these tremendous ships to meet guests' demand for an exceptional cruise experience," said Bernard Meyer, managing partner Meyer Werft. Including this contract and existing ship orders…

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) announced earnings for the third quarter of 2009 and provided guidance for the fourth quarter and full year. •    Third quarter 2009 net income was $230.4 million, or $1.07 per share, compared to net income of $411.9 million, or $1.92 per share in 2008. •    The results were better than the company's most recent guidance of $0.95 to $1.00 per share, driven primarily by the strength of close-in bookings. •    Net Yields for the third quarter decreased 16.5% versus 2008, somewhat better than the company's previous guidance of down approximately 18%. •    Net Cruise Costs per APCD ("NCC") for the third quarter decreased 10.0% versus 2008. NCC, excluding bunker for the third quarter declined 3.8% versus 2008.