The group reported adjusted net income of $279 million in December, January and February, the first three months of its 2017 financial year; compared to $301 million in the same period in 2016. Revenue rose from $3.65 billion to $3.79 billion.

The company said strong demand for its Caribbean itineraries had helped mitigate movements in currency and an increase in fuel prices. During the quarter, Carnival’s fuel costs rose year on year by $110 million, reaching $297 million.

Carnival Corporation president and chief executive officer Arnold Donald said: “Our performance was driven by increased demand, particularly for our core Caribbean itineraries, leading to higher year-over-year ticket prices which enabled us to overcome the significant negative impact of both fuel and currency to exceed the high end of our guidance range."

Carnival said advance 2017 bookings were “well ahead of the prior year at considerably higher prices”.

Donald added: "Wave season, our peak booking period, was strong, leaving us well positioned with bookings at considerably higher prices and with less inventory remaining for sale in 2017 compared to the prior year, resulting in increased earnings guidance.

“We are clearly benefiting from our efforts to increase cruise consideration through guest experience innovations, creative marketing, and public relations programmes.”

Carnival currently has a fleet of 102 ships across its brands, which include Cunard, P&O Cruises, Seabourn and Holland America. The group will receive another 19 new vessels into its fleet by 2022.

Carnival this week announced the departure of UK chief executive David Noyes, who is to step down in July after six years to spend more time with his family.