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Vaccines don't seem to be shot in the arm for cruising yet: William Blair

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Likely reflecting COVID-19 vaccine developments, William Blair's most recent weekly Consumer Pulse found increased optimism for activities and purchases in the coming months — but not for cruising.

'Interestingly, the vaccine news has not seemed to translate yet to the cruise space, with 76% indicating no intent to take a cruise in the next year (within the low-70% to low-80% bandwidth experienced in our survey since inception in April),' the brokerage reported in a note.

Survey high for those over 60 who don't plan to cruise

'Particularly worrisome is that older cohorts are now much less likely to take a cruise in the next year, with 85% of respondents over 60 indicating no plan to take a cruise (a survey high),' William Blair said.

Carnival's perspective

During Carnival Corp. & plc's business update today, President and CEO Arnold Donald said demand for cruises is robust however there's been 'no dramatic change' in bookings since vaccines were approved.

CFO David Bernstein added there hasn't been any significant change in overall demographics: 'We're seeing people in their 20s and 30s, as well as people in their 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s.' Discussions with two brands indicated 'quite a few people 70 and up' are booking some longer voyages in early 2022.

William Blair's Consumer Pulse — based on a sample of 500 Americans — measures consumer behavior while assessing demand and how the pandemic is impacting trends across the brokerage's coverage universe.