A rise in fuel prices will erase $0.03 of the earnings per share of Carnival Corporation & plc, the world’s largest cruise shipping group, in the first quarter to 28 February, the company said in a statement.

“First quarter constant currency net revenue yields are expected to be flat with the prior year. Net cruise costs excluding fuel per available lower berth day (ALBD) in constant currency for the first quarter of 2019 are expected to increase by approximately 2.0% compared to the prior year,” Carnival said.

“Changes in fuel prices (including realized fuel derivatives) and changes in currency exchange rates compared to prior year are expected to decrease earnings by $0.03 per share,” Carnival stated..

“Based on the above factors, the company expects adjusted earnings per share for the first quarter 2019 to be in the range of $0.40 to $0.44 versus 2018 adjusted earnings per share of $0.52,” Carnival pointed out.