Norwegian Cruise Q4 Earnings & Revenues Top Estimates, Both Up Y/Y

Core Insights - Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) reported strong fourth-quarter 2024 results, with earnings and revenues exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate, showing year-over-year growth [1][3][4] Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings per share for Q4 were 26 cents, surpassing the consensus estimate of 11 cents, compared to an adjusted loss of 18 cents in the prior-year quarter [3] - Quarterly revenues reached $2.11 billion, beating the consensus mark of $2.09 billion, and increased from $1.99 billion in the prior-year quarter [3] - Passenger ticket revenues were $1.41 billion, up from $1.33 billion year-over-year, while onboard and other revenues rose to $700.6 million from $653.4 million [4] Cost Management - Total cruise operating expenses decreased by 1.1% year-over-year to $1.31 billion, attributed to lower commissions, transportation, and fuel costs, although partially offset by higher onboard costs and payroll expenses [5] - Gross cruise costs per Capacity Day were $285.92, up from $279.52 in the prior year, while adjusted net cruise costs (excluding fuel) per Capacity Day increased to $157.54 from $150.70 [6] 2024 Highlights - Total revenues for 2024 were $9.48 billion, an increase from $8.55 billion in 2023 [7] - Adjusted EBITDA for 2024 was $2.45 billion, compared to $1.86 billion in 2023, and adjusted earnings per share rose to $1.82 from 70 cents [7] Balance Sheet - As of December 31, 2024, cash and cash equivalents were $190.8 million, down from $402.4 million at the end of 2023, while long-term debt decreased to $11.78 billion from $12.31 billion [8] Booking and Demand - The company reported strong consumer demand across itineraries and brands, with occupancy during the quarter at 104.9% and advance ticket sales balance of $3.2 billion [10] - Bookings are expected to remain optimal into 2025 and 2026 [10] Guidance - For Q1 2025, NCLH anticipates occupancy of approximately 101.5% and adjusted EBITDA of about $435 million, with adjusted EPS predicted to be nearly 8 cents [11] - For the full year 2025, occupancy is expected to be around 103.4%, with adjusted EBITDA projected at nearly $2.72 billion and adjusted EPS at nearly $2.05 [12]