How did Royal Caribbean's revenue perform in the third quarter of 2006 compared to the same period in 2005?

Total revenues for the third quarter of 2006 increased by approximately 9.0% to $1.6 billion, up from $1.5 billion in the third quarter of 2005. This growth was primarily driven by a 3.8% increase in Gross Yields and a 5.0% increase in capacity.

What was the impact of fuel costs on the company's profitability?

Fuel expenses were a significant factor, increasing by 21.4% on an APCD basis in Q3 2006 compared to Q3 2005. While the company has hedging strategies and fuel savings initiatives, the higher fuel costs contributed to a slight decrease in net income and diluted EPS year-over-year.

What are the company's major capital expenditure plans?

Royal Caribbean is investing heavily in its fleet, with six new ships on order from Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises, representing an aggregate cost of approximately $5.3 billion. The company anticipates overall capital expenditures of around $1.2 billion for 2006 and expects significant investments in the coming years to support fleet expansion.

What is the significance of the proposed acquisition of Pullmantur S.A.?

The acquisition of Pullmantur S.A., a Madrid-based cruise and tour operator, is a strategic move to expand RCL's presence in Europe and Latin America. The deal, valued at approximately €430 million ($559 million) plus debt refinancing, is expected to close in mid-November 2006 and will add five ships to its fleet.

RCL 10-Q Quarterly Report Q3 FY2006 — Revenue, Net Income, EPS

Summary

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) reported its third quarter 2006 financial results, showing robust revenue growth driven by increased passenger ticket sales and onboard spending. Total revenues for the quarter rose by 9.0% to $1.6 billion, attributed to a 3.8% increase in Gross Yields and a 5.0% rise in capacity. Despite higher operating expenses, particularly fuel costs which increased by 21.4% on a per APCD basis, the company managed to post a net income of $345.4 million, a slight decrease from $374.7 million in the prior year quarter, largely due to a one-time gain recorded in Q3 2005. Diluted EPS was $1.63, down from $1.64 in the same period last year. The company continues to invest heavily in fleet expansion, with six new ships on order totaling approximately $5.3 billion. This expansion is supported by a strong balance sheet, with Net Debt-to-Capital improving to 41.2%. RCL also announced its agreement to acquire Pullmantur S.A., a European and Latin American cruise operator, for approximately €430 million ($559 million), which is expected to close in mid-November 2006, further enhancing its global presence.

Key Highlights

1Total revenues increased by 9.0% to $1.6 billion for Q3 2006, driven by a 3.8% increase in Gross Yields and a 5.0% increase in capacity.
2Net income for Q3 2006 was $345.4 million, resulting in diluted EPS of $1.63, a slight decrease from $374.7 million ($1.64 diluted EPS) in Q3 2005, partly due to a one-time gain in the prior year.
3Fuel expenses increased significantly by 21.4% per APCD in Q3 2006 compared to Q3 2005, impacting profitability despite yield improvements.
4The company has a substantial fleet expansion plan with six new ships on order, representing an aggregate cost of approximately $5.3 billion.
5RCL announced an agreement to acquire Pullmantur S.A. for approximately €430 million ($559 million), expected to close in mid-November 2006.
6Net Debt-to-Capital improved to 41.2% as of September 30, 2006, down from 41.6% in the prior year.
7The company provided full-year 2006 EPS guidance in the range of $2.90 to $2.95.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2006

Summary

Key Highlights

Frequently Asked Questions