Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH) reported a net loss of $1.94 per share in its second-quarter results on Friday as it prepares to launch its first U.S. cruise sail in over a year.

Despite suffering a net loss of $717.8 million, the American cruise line remains positive as it continues to see “incredible strength” in its booking trends.

The cruise operator said it plans to have 40% of its fleet capacity up and running by the end of the third quarter, and 75% by the end of the year. The company plans to resume at full capacity by April 1, 2022, CNBC reported.

“We are ready and eager to welcome guests back on board,” Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings President and CEO Frank Del Rio said in a press release. "Our team is working tirelessly to execute on our plan to return our full fleet to operation...to capitalize on this unparalleled pent-up demand.”

According to its quarterly report, the company had $1.4 billion in advance ticket sales, including about $800 million from future cruise credits.

Overall, the company reported revenue that decreased to $4.4 million compared to $16.9 million in 2020 as their voyages were suspended for the entire quarter due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Saturday, the Norwegian Encore will sail from Seattle to Alaska. The cruise marks the company's first U.S. sail in over 500 days.

The company's health protocols require all guests and crew to be fully vaccinated. They will also be required to complete COVID-19 testing prior to embarkation.

In its 2021 outlook, the company said it expects to report a net loss until it is able to resume regular voyages.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings was trading at $24.70 as of 12:54 p.m. EST Friday, up 2.15%.

Norwegian Gem
A Norwegian cruise ship is pictured here. Norwegian Cruise Line
RELATED STORIES
Coronavirus U.S.