Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company achieved record revenues, yields, operating income, EBITDA, and customer deposits, with net income reaching an all-time high of $2 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by nearly 10% [9][22] - Operating income and EBITDA reached the highest levels in nearly 20 years, despite a 2.5% lower capacity compared to the previous year [9][11] - Yields increased by 4.6% on a same-ship basis, exceeding guidance due to strong close-in demand and onboard spending [10][22] - The company reported a return on invested capital (ROIC) of 13%, the first time in nearly 20 years that returns have reached the teens [11][19] - Net debt to EBITDA ratio improved to 3.6 times, approaching investment-grade metrics [11][28] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Customer deposits reached a record $7.1 billion, up over $300 million year-over-year, driven by higher ticket pricing and increased sales of pre-cruise onboard revenue items [24] - Cruise costs without fuel per available lower berth day (ALBD) increased by 5.5% compared to the prior year, but were better than guidance due to cost-saving initiatives [23][28] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Booking trends have improved, with nearly half of 2026 already booked at higher prices, indicating strong demand [12][26] - The company expects 2.8 million guests to visit Celebration Key next year, with high utilization rates anticipated [15][17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is focused on increasing same-ship yields and closing the value gap with land-based alternatives, with plans to return capital to shareholders as leverage improves [12][29] - The successful launch of Celebration Key is expected to enhance guest experiences and drive future bookings [14][27] - The company is investing in its brands and operational improvements to enhance profitability and returns, with a disciplined approach to capital deployment [19][20] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the continued strength of booking trends and operational execution, despite potential headwinds from new loyalty programs and dry dock expenses [26][60] - The company anticipates a capacity increase of only 0.8% in 2026, which is expected to support pricing power and yield improvements [26][60] Other Important Information - The company has been actively refinancing to reduce interest expenses and strengthen its capital structure, with over $11 billion of debt refinanced at favorable rates [28][30] - The company is targeting a net debt to EBITDA ratio of under three times, with plans to return capital to shareholders once this target is achieved [29][30] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on forward booking prices - Management clarified that both North America and Europe are at historic record high pricing levels, with no significant changes from the previous quarter [35][36] Question: Impact of Celebration Key on forward bookings - Management indicated that Celebration Key is positively impacting ticket prices for itineraries that include the destination, meeting expectations [37][38] Question: Observations on consumer behavior - Management noted that they have not observed significant behavioral shifts among consumers, with strong booking trends continuing [46][48] Question: 2026 outlook and booking strategy - Management expressed confidence in the 2026 outlook, with a strong booking curve and no capacity growth expected [60][61] Question: Capital return strategy - Management indicated that discussions on capital return will occur once leverage metrics improve, with a focus on reinstating dividends [76][77]
Carnival (CCL) - 2025 Q3 - Earnings Call Transcript