Summary
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (RCL) reported higher second quarter 2007 earnings, with net income reaching $128.7 million, or $0.60 per share, an increase from $122.4 million, or $0.57 per share, in the prior year's second quarter. This performance was in line with the company's previously issued guidance. Total revenues also saw a significant boost, rising to $1.5 billion from $1.3 billion in the second quarter of 2006, indicating strengthening demand for their cruise offerings. The company maintained its full-year earnings guidance, albeit with adjustments for increased fuel prices. The revised full-year 2007 earnings per share are projected to be between $2.75 and $2.85. Despite higher fuel costs, which averaged $443 per metric ton in Q2 2007 compared to $412 per metric ton previously guided and $460 in Q2 2006, RCL demonstrated effective cost control, with Net Cruise Costs per APCD decreasing by 4.0% (excluding fuel, down 3.2%). This indicates that operational efficiencies are helping to mitigate the impact of rising energy expenses.
Key Highlights
- 1Reported Q2 2007 net income of $128.7 million ($0.60/share), up from $122.4 million ($0.57/share) in Q2 2006.
- 2Q2 2007 revenues increased to $1.5 billion, up from $1.3 billion in Q2 2006.
- 3Full-year 2007 earnings guidance remains largely unchanged, projected at $2.75 to $2.85 per share, adjusted for higher fuel prices.
- 4Net Cruise Costs per APCD decreased by 4.0% in Q2 2007 compared to the prior year, demonstrating effective cost management.
- 5Fuel prices averaged $443 per metric ton in Q2 2007, an 8% increase from prior guidance, impacting overall costs.
- 6Company is approximately 53% hedged for fuel for the second half of 2007.
- 7Liquidity remained strong at $1.4 billion as of June 30, 2007, comprised of cash and available credit.