National Cruize Line is considering the acquisition of a new ship that will cost $600,000,000. In this regard, the president of the company asked the CFO to analyze cash flows associated with operating the ship under two alternative itineraries: Itinerary 1, Caribbean Winter/Alaska Summer and Itinerary 2, Caribbean Winter/Eastern Canada Summer. The CFO estimated the following cash flows, which are expected to apply to each of the next 15 years:

Caribbean/Alaskan Caribbean/Eastern Canada

Net Revenue $120,000,000 $105,000,000

Less:

Direct Program Expenses (25,000,000). (24,000,000)

Indirect Program Expenses. (20,000,000). (20,000,000)

Nonoperating Expenses. (21,000,000) (21,000,000)

Add back depreciation. 115,000,000 115,000,000

Cash flow per year $169,000,000 $155,000,000

a. For each of the itineraries, calculate the present values of the cash flows using required rates of return of both 12 and 16 percent. Assume a 15 year horizon. Should the company purchase the ship with either or both required rates of return.

b. The president is uncertain whether a 12 percent or a 16 percent required return is appropriate. Explain why, in the present circumstance, spending a great deal of time determining the correct required return may not be neccessary.

c. Focusing on a 12 percent required rate of return, what would be the opportunity cost to the company of using the ship in a Caribbean/Eastern Canada itinerary rather than a Caribbean/Alaska itinerary?