Arison family plans to sell some Carnival shares

MIAMI — Cruise operator Carnival Corp. said Thursday that some Arison family members and related entities plan to sell up to 8.5 million common shares for tax planning, estate planning and diversification purposes.

Individuals involved in the proposed transaction include Chairman and CEO Micky Arison, who holds up to 5 million of the shares in the planned sale.

If all 8.5 million shares are sold, the stock would comprise up to about 1 percent of the combined voting rights of Carnival Corp. and Carnival PLC.

The Arison family and related entities would still hold about 220 million shares of the company and make up about 28 percent of the total combined voting rights if the sales goes through.

Carnival's brands include Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises and Cunard Line. There are 13 new ships set for delivery between September and June 2012.

Shares of Carnival closed at $30.47 on Wednesday.