Arinson watching the Heat

Carnival’s CEO & Chairman, Micki Arinson has been criticized for maintaining a low profile following the sinking of the Costa Concordia where over 30 passengers and crew are dead or missing.  Last Friday, he made what was believed to be his first public appearance following the sinking.   The 62-year-old billionaire sat court-side in Miami to watch the Miami Heat play basketball. Arinson owns the team along with roughly half of the global cruise line industry. Arinson’s team won the game. The Heat beat the New York Knicks 99-89.

In related news, the American Express offer, which arrived in the mail to certain card holders in Florida, offered a seven night cruise through France, Italy, and Spain on the Costa Concordia, for only $749 and encouraged cardholders to ‘immerse yourself in a truly European experience.’  American Express spokeswoman Christine Elliot said: ‘The mailing was already underway when the accident occurred. We apologize for any inconvenience to those who received it.