Cruise operators bookings slide in November

[JoeyandDavid]

An analyst on Monday said cruise lines are slashing prices broadly to fill their ships amid a drop in travel spending.

However, analyst Robert A. LeFleur maintained "Positive" ratings on Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Carnival Corp. saying a monthly survey of travel agents showed a 10.7 percent year-over-year drop in bookings during November, following a 10.5 percent decline in October; the survey, also found widespread price discounting.

LaFleur said 2009 will be "challenging" for cruise companies. He expects that cruise lines will be able to fill their ships, but only by cutting prices.

On a more positive note, LaFleur said he expects consumers to continue taking vacations and turn to cruising a cost-effective leisure travel option. He noted that cruise operators will also continue to benefit from the sharp drop in fuel prices. Royal Caribbean and Carnival are both based in Miami.

[TheSkipper]

Confirms what I have been seeing in all the "Email Special Deals."

[cruisingcats]

Maybe we might be able to go on another cruise before the end of the year if the prices are slashed enough. We will see what with the wedding.

[deb1220]

We may also be able to swing a cruise this year after all! Now if only the airlines would cut their prices.