10-KPeriod: FY2014

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2014

Filed February 23, 2015For Securities:RCL

Summary

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) reported strong financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2014, with net income increasing to $764.1 million ($3.43 per diluted share) from $473.7 million ($2.14 per diluted share) in 2013. This growth was driven by a 1.4% increase in total revenues to $8.1 billion, a 2.4% increase in capacity, and double-digit yield improvements in Europe and China, which helped offset challenges in the Caribbean market. The company's "Double-Double" program, aiming for double-digit Return on Invested Capital and doubled Adjusted Earnings per Share by 2017, is on track, with Adjusted Earnings per Share rising approximately 40% year-over-year to $3.39. The company is strategically investing in its fleet, taking delivery of the new "Quantum of the Seas" and planning for several more newbuilds across its brands, including two "Project Edge" ships for Celebrity Cruises. International markets, particularly Asia, are showing significant growth potential, with Asia/Pacific region growth at approximately 16.4% annually from 2010-2014. RCL is also focusing on cost efficiency and managing operating expenditures, with Net Cruise Costs excluding fuel decreasing by 0.6% on a Constant Currency basis. The company maintains a strong liquidity position and is working towards returning its credit ratings to investment grade.

Financial Highlights

50 data points
Beta

Revenue

$8.07B

34.3% Gross Margin

Net Income

$764.15M

9.5% Net Margin

EPS (Diluted)

$3.43

Total Assets

$20.71B

Cash & Equivalents

$189.24M

Free Cash Flow

-$67.64M

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$8.07B
Cost of Revenue$5.31B
Gross Profit$2.77B
SG&A Expenses$1.05B
Operating Expenses$7.13B
Operating Income$941.86M
Interest Expense$258.30M
Net Income$764.15M
EPS (Basic)$3.45
EPS (Diluted)$3.43
Shares Outstanding (Basic)221.66M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)223.04M

Key Highlights

  • 1Reported Net Income of $764.1 million for 2014, a significant increase from $473.7 million in 2013.
  • 2Achieved a 40% year-over-year increase in Adjusted Earnings per Share (EPS) to $3.39 in 2014, indicating progress on the "Double-Double" program.
  • 3Total revenues grew by 1.4% to $8.1 billion in 2014, supported by a 2.4% increase in capacity and yield improvements in key markets.
  • 4Successfully launched the "Quantum of the Seas" and has a robust pipeline of new ships planned across its brands, enhancing fleet modernization.
  • 5Demonstrated strong growth in international markets, particularly in Asia, and continued focus on expanding global market penetration.
  • 6Managed costs effectively, with Net Cruise Costs excluding fuel decreasing by 0.6% on a Constant Currency basis.
  • 7Maintained a strong liquidity position with $1.0 billion in liquidity (cash and credit facilities) as of December 31, 2014.

Frequently Asked Questions

Royal Caribbean's primary strategy for growth and profitability involves three key objectives: growing revenue yields through product innovation and enhanced onboard offerings, maintaining cost consciousness through efficiency initiatives, and pursuing moderate capacity growth with state-of-the-art ships. The company also focuses on strengthening its global brands, expanding market awareness, and leveraging technology.

The company is actively modernizing its fleet through the delivery of new, energy-efficient ships like "Quantum of the Seas" and has several more newbuilds on order for its various brands, including the "Project Edge" series for Celebrity Cruises. They also continuously evaluate opportunities to upgrade existing vessels and, at times, divest older tonnage to optimize fleet performance.

North America remains the largest source of cruise guests, but Europe is also a significant market. Royal Caribbean sees substantial future growth potential in the Asia/Pacific region, which has shown a high compound annual growth rate. The company is actively expanding its presence and tailoring offerings to cater to these growing international markets.

Royal Caribbean addresses these risks through diversification across multiple brands and global markets, maintaining a strong focus on cost efficiency, and investing in product innovation to enhance guest value. The company also actively manages financial risks through hedging strategies for fuel and currency fluctuations. They are committed to safety and environmental stewardship to protect their reputation, and the "Double-Double" program aims to build financial resilience.