UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
(Mark One)
xANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 20162019
or
oTRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from                                    to                                   
Commission file number: 1-11884
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Republic of Liberia
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
98-0081645
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, Florida 33132
(Address of principal executive offices) (zip code)
(305) 539-6000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $.01 per shareRCLNew York Stock Exchange

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes x    No o
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o    No x
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x    No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes x    No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. Yes x    No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company, (Seeor an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large“large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer"” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company,” and "smaller reporting company"“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Act.
Large accelerated filer x
Accelerated filer o
Non-accelerated filer o
(Do not check if a
smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company o
Emerging growth company

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes o    No x
The aggregate market value of the registrant's common stock at June 30, 20162019 (based upon the closing sale price of the common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on June 30, 2016)28, 2019) held by those persons deemed by the registrant to be non-affiliates was approximately $12.1$22.0 billion. Shares of the registrant's common stock held by each executive officer and director and by each entity or person that, to the registrant's knowledge, owned 10% or more of the registrant's outstanding common stock as of June 30, 20162019 have been excluded from this number in that these persons may be deemed affiliates of the registrant. This determination of possible affiliate status is not necessarily a conclusive determination for other purposes.
There were 214,803,837209,000,016 shares of common stock outstanding as of February 9, 2017.21, 2020.
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Portions of the registrant's Definitive Proxy Statement relating to its 20172020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference in Part III, Items 10-14 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K as indicated herein.




Table of Contents
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Table of Contents
PART I
As used in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the terms “Royal Caribbean,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” and “us” refer to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and, depending on the context, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.’s consolidated subsidiaries and/or affiliates. The terms “Royal Caribbean International,” “Celebrity Cruises,” “Azamara” and “Azamara Club“Silversea Cruises” refer to our wholly-ownedwholly- or majority-owned global cruise brands. Throughout this report,Annual Report on Form 10-K, we also refer to regional brands in which we hold an ownership interest, including “TUI Cruises,” “Pullmantur” and “SkySea Cruises”.“Pullmantur.” However, because these regional brands are unconsolidated investments, our operating results and other disclosures herein do not include these brands unless otherwise specified. In accordance with cruise vacation industry practice, the term “berths” is determined based on double occupancy per cabin even though many cabins can accommodate three or more passengers.

This Annual Report on Form 10-K also includes trademarks, trade names and service marks of other companies. Use or display by us of other parties’ trademarks, trade names or service marks is not intended to and does not imply a relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship of us by, these other parties other than as described herein.


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Item 1. Business.

General

We are the world’sworld's second largest cruise company. We owncontrol and operate threefour global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises (our(collectively, our "Global Brands"). We also own a 50% joint venture interest in the German brand TUI Cruises and a 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur and a minority interest in the Chinese brand SkySea Cruises (collectively, our "Partner Brands"). Together, our Global Brands and our Partner Brands operate a combined total of 4961 ships in the cruise vacation industry with an aggregate capacity of approximately 123,270141,570 berths as of December 31, 2016.

2019.
Our ships operate on a selection of worldwide itineraries that call on approximately 535more than 1,000 destinations on all seven continents. In addition to our headquarters in Miami, Florida, we have offices and a network of international representatives around the world, which primarily focus on sales and market development.

We compete principally by establishingoperating valued brands that offer exceptional service provided by our crew and on the basis of innovation and quality of ships, variety of itineraries, choice of destinations and price. We believe that our commitment to build state-of-the-art ships and to invest in the maintenance and upgrade of our fleet to, among other things, incorporate many of our latest signature innovations, allows us to continue to attract new and loyal repeat guests.

We believe cruising continues to be a popular vacation choice due to its inherent value, extensive itineraries and variety of shipboard and shoreside activities. In addition, we believe our brands are well-positioned globally and possess the ability to attract a wide range of guests by appealing to multiple customer bases allowing our global sourcing to be well diversified.

Royal Caribbean was founded in 1968 as a partnership. Its corporate structure has evolved over the years and, the current parent corporation, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., was incorporated on July 23, 1985 in the Republic of Liberia under the Business Corporation Act of Liberia.

Our Global Brands

Our Global Brands include Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara, and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises.

We believe our Global Brands possess the versatility to enter multiple cruise market segments within the cruise vacation industry. Although each of our Global Brands has its own marketing style, as well as ships and crews of various sizes, the nature of the products sold and services delivered by our Global Brands share a common base (i.e., the sale and provision of cruise vacations). Our Global Brands also have similar itineraries as well as similar cost and revenue components. In addition, our brandsGlobal Brands source passengers from similar markets around the world and operate

in similar economic environments with a significant degree of commercial overlap. As a result, we strategically manage our brandsGlobal Brands as a single business with the ultimate objective of maximizing long-term shareholder value.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International is positioned at the upper end ofto compete in both the contemporary segmentand premium segments of the cruise vacation industry, generally characterized by cruises that are seven nights or shorter and feature a casual ambiance as well as a variety of activities and entertainment venues.industry. The brand appeals to families with children of all ages, as well as both older and younger couples.couples, providing cruises that generally feature a casual ambiance, as well as a variety of activities and entertainment venues. We believe that the quality of the Royal Caribbean International brand also enablesallows it to attract guests from the premium segment allowing Royal Caribbean International to achieve market coverage that is among the broadest of any of the major cruise brands in the cruise vacation industry. Royal Caribbean International’s strategy is to attract an array of vacationing guests by providing a wide variety of itineraries to destinations worldwide, including Alaska, Asia, Australia, Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, the Panama Canal and New Zealand, with cruise lengths that rangeranging from two to 2419 nights. Royal Caribbean International offers multiple innovative options for onboard dining, entertainment and other onboard activities. Because of the brand’s ability to deliver extensive and innovative product offerings at an excellent value to consumers, we believe Royal Caribbean International is well positioned to attract new consumers to cruising and to continue to bring loyal repeat guests back for their next vacation.


We currently operate 25
2

Royal Caribbean International operates 26 ships with an aggregate capacity of approximately 78,15087,150 berths, under our Royal Caribbean International brand. This count includes our twoincluding the brand's newest ships, the 5,450 berth Harmonyship, Spectrum of the Seasand the 4,100 berth Ovationof the Seas, which entered our fleetservice in May and April 2019. Additionally, as of 2016, respectively.

WeDecember 31, 2019, we have foursix ships on order with an aggregate capacity of approximately 19,20032,400 berths. These ships includeconsist of our fourth and fifth Quantum-class ship, which is scheduled to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2020, our fifth and sixth Oasis-class ships, which are scheduled to enter service in the second quarter of 20192021 and the fourth quarter of 2020,2023, respectively, and the fourth and fifth Oasis-class ships, which are scheduled to enter service in the first quarter of 2018 and second quarter of 2021, respectively. Additionally, we signed a memorandum of understanding to build two newthree ships of a new generation, of ships, known as "Project Icon,"our Icon-class, which are expected to enter service in the second quarters of 2022, 2024 and 2024,2025, respectively.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is positioned within the premium segment of the cruise vacation industry. Celebrity Cruises’ strategy is to target affluent consumers by delivering a "Modern Luxury"destination-rich, modern luxury experience that includes a destination-rich experience,on upscale ships that offer, among other things, luxurious accommodations, a high staff-to-guest ratio, fine dining, personalizedrefined design-forward spaces, high-standard service and extensive spa facilities.fine dining. Celebrity Cruises offers a varietyrange of itineraries to popular destinations, including Alaska, Asia, Australia, Bermuda, Canada, the Caribbean, Europe, the Galapagos Islands, Hawaii, India, New Zealand, the Panama Canal and South America, with cruise lengths that rangeranging from two to 1819 nights.

We currently operate 12Celebrity Cruises operates 14 ships with an aggregate capacity of approximately 23,17026,220 berths, under our including the brand's newest ship designed for the Galapagos Islands, Celebrity Cruises brand.Flora, which entered service in the second quarter of 2019. Additionally, as of December 31, 2019, we have fourthree ships of a new generation, known as "Project Edge," on order with an aggregate capacity of approximately 11,600 berths9,400 berths. These ships consist of three Edge-class ships, which are expected to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2018, the firstsecond quarter of 2020 and the fourth quarters of 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara Club Cruises is designed to serve the up-market segment of the North American, United Kingdom and Australian markets. The up-market segment incorporates elements of the premium segment and the luxury segment, which is generally characterized by smaller ships, high standards of accommodation and service higher prices and exotic itineraries. Azamara Club Cruises’Azamara's strategy is to deliver distinctive destinationexperiences through unique itineraries with more overnights and longer stays as well as comprehensive tours allowing guests to experience the destination in more depth. These destination experiences include over 1,700 pre and post-voyage land programs. Azamara Club Cruises offers a variety of itineraries to popular destinations, including Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Northern and Western Europe, the Mediterranean, Central and NorthSouth America and the less-with cruise lengths ranging from three to 26 nights.

traveled islands of the Caribbean. We currently operate twoAzamara operates three ships with an aggregate capacity of approximately 1,4002,100 berths.
Silversea Cruises
On July 31, 2018, we acquired a 66.7% equity stake in Silversea Cruise Holding Ltd. ("Silversea Cruises"), an ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line. Silversea Cruises, formed in the early 1990's, is positioned as a luxury cruise line with smaller ships, high standards of accommodations, fine dining, personalized service and exotic itineraries. Silversea Cruises delivers distinctive destination experiences by visiting unique and remote destinations, including the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica and the Arctic.
Silversea Cruises operates eight ships, with an aggregate capacity of approximately 2,450 berths under our Azamara Club Cruises brand, offering cruise itineraries that rangegenerally ranging from threesix to 2125 nights.

As of December 31, 2019, Silversea Cruises has five ships on order with an aggregate capacity of approximately 2,400 berths. Two ships are scheduled to enter service in the third quarter of 2020, another in the third quarter of 2021, with the remaining two ships scheduled to enter service in the first quarters of 2022 and 2023.
Our Partner Brands

Our Global Brands are complemented by our 50% joint venture interest in TUI Cruises, which is specifically tailored for the German market and our 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur, which is primarily focused on the Spanish and Latin American cruise market in Spain and a minority interest in SkySea Cruises specifically tailored for the Chinese market.markets. We account for our investments in our Partner Brands under the equity method of accounting and, accordingly, the operating results of these Partner Brands are not included in our consolidated results of operations. Refer to Note 1. General and Note 6. 8. Other Assets to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further details.

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TUI Cruises

TUI Cruises is a joint venture owned 50% by us and 50% by TUI AG, a German tourism and shipping company, which is designed to serve the contemporary and premium segments of the German cruise market by offering a product tailored for German guests. All onboard activities, services, shore excursions and menu offerings are designed to suit the preferences of this target market.

TUI Cruises operates fiveseven ships, with an aggregate capacity of approximately 11,300 berths. In addition,17,600 berths as of December 31, 2019, including the brand's newest ship, Mein Schiff 2, which entered service in January 2019. Additionally, TUI Cruises currently has three newbuild ships on order whichwith an aggregate capacity of approximately 11,100 berths, that are scheduled for deliveryto enter service in the second quartersquarter of 2017 and 20182023, the third quarter of 2024 and the first quarter of 2019,2026, respectively. On February 7, 2020, TUI Cruises plansentered into an agreement to offset this additional capacity through the planned transfer of the their firstacquire Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, a luxury and expedition brand for German-speaking guests, from TUI AG. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises operates two ships, Mein Schiff 1 luxury liners and Mein Schiff 2,three smaller expedition ships. The transaction is subject to Thomsonregulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
Pullmantur
The Pullmantur brand is a joint venture owned 49% by us and 51% by Cruises Investment Holdings S.A., an affiliate of TUI AG, in 2018 and 2019, respectively.

Pullmantur

Prior to August 2016, Pullmantur Holdings S.L. ("Pullmantur Holdings"), the parent company of the Pullmantur brand (formerly known as Royal Caribbean Holdings de España S.L. or "RCHE"), was wholly owned by us. Effective July 31, 2016, we sold 51% of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings. We retain a 49% interest in Pullmantur Holdings as well as full ownership of the four vessels currently operated by the Pullmantur brand under bareboat charter arrangements. Refer to Note 1. General to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on the sale transaction.

Springwater Capital LLC. Pullmantur operates in the contemporary segment of the Spanish and Latin American cruise marketmarkets and is designed to attract Spanish-speaking families and couples and includes a Spanish-speaking crew, as well as tailored food and entertainment options. The three ships operated by Pullmantur currently operates four ships withhave an aggregate capacity of approximately 7,4506,050 berths. Zenith was sold to a third party in January 2020. To offset the decrease in capacity to the Pullmantur Holdings also previously operated the small French regional brand, CDF Croisières de France.

SkySea Cruises

We have a strategic partnership with Ctrip.com International Ltd. ("Ctrip"), a Chinese travel service provider, to operate the cruise brand known as SkySea Cruises. We and Ctrip each own 35% of the venture, with the remaining equity held by the venture's management and a private equity fund. SkySea Cruises commenced operations duringcommencing in the second quarter of 2015 and operates one ship, SkySeaGolden Era, which it purchased from us in 2014. SkySea Cruises offers a custom-tailored product for Chinese cruise guests. All onboard activities, services, shore excursions and menu offerings are designed2021, we expect to suitcharter Grandeur of the preferences of this target market.

Seas to Pullmantur.
Industry

Cruising is considered a well-established vacation sector in the North American, European and EuropeanAustralian markets and a developing but promising sector in several other emerging markets. Industry data indicates that market penetration

rates are still low and that a significant portion of cruise guests carried are first-time cruisers. We believe this presents an opportunity for long-term growth and a potential for increased profitability.

The following table details industry market penetration rates for North America, Europe and Asia/Pacific computed based on the number of annual cruise guests as a percentage of the total population:

Year
North America(1)(2)
Europe(1)(3)
Asia/Pacific(1)(4)
20153.36%  1.25%  0.08%  
20163.43%  1.23%  0.11%  
20173.56%  1.28%  0.15%  
20183.87%  1.38%  0.16%  
20193.89%  1.41%  0.20%  

(1)Source: Our estimates are based on a combination of data obtained from publicly available sources including the International Monetary Fund, United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Cruise Lines International Association ("CLIA") and G.P. Wild. In addition, our estimates incorporate our own analysis utilizing the same publicly available cruise industry data as a base.
(2)Our estimates include the United States and Canada.
Year 
North America(1)(2)
 
Europe(1)(3)
 
Asia/Pacific(1)(4)
2012 3.33% 1.21% 0.04%
2013 3.32% 1.24% 0.05%
2014 3.46% 1.23% 0.06%
2015 3.36% 1.25% 0.08%
2016 3.49% 1.24% 0.09%
(3)Our estimates include European countries relevant to the industry (most notably: the Nordics, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom).
(1)Source: Our estimates are based on a combination of data obtained from publicly available sources including the International Monetary Fund, United Nations, Department of Economic and Social Affairs, Cruise Lines International Association ("CLIA") and G.P. Wild.
(2)Our estimates include the United States and Canada.
(3)Our estimates include European countries relevant to the industry (e.g., Nordics, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom).
(4)Our estimates include the Southeast Asia (e.g., Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines), East Asia (e.g., China and Japan), South Asia (e.g. India and Pakistan) and Oceanian (e.g., Australia and Fiji Islands) regions.

(4)Our estimates include Southeast Asia (most notably: Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines), East Asia (most notably: China and Japan), South Asia (most notably: India) and Oceania (most notably: Australia and New Zealand) regions.
We estimate that the global cruise fleet was served by a weighted average of approximately 503,000579,000 berths onduring 2019 with approximately 298354 ships at the end of 2016. There are2019. As of December 31, 2019, there were approximately 60
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67 ships with an estimated 173,000159,000 berths that are expected to be placed in service in the global cruise market between 2017 and 2021,through 2024, although it is also possible that additional ships could be ordered or taken out of service during these periods. We estimate that the global cruise industry carried 24.0approximately 30.0 million cruise guests in 20162019 compared to 23.0approximately 28.5 million cruise guests carried in 20152018 and 22.0approximately 26.7 million cruise guests carried in 2014.

2017.
The following table details the growth in global weighted average berths and the global, North American, European and Asia/Pacific cruise guests over the past five years (in thousands, except berth data):
Year 
Weighted-Average
Supply of
Berths
Marketed
Globally
(1)
 
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Total Berths(2)
 
Global
Cruise
Guests
(1)
 
North American Cruise Guests(1)(3)
 
European Cruise Guests(1)(4)
 
Asia/Pacific Cruise Guests(1)(5)
Year
Weighted-Average
Supply of
Berths
Marketed
Globally(1)
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Total Berths(2)
Global
Cruise
Guests(1)
North American Cruise Guests(1)(3)
European Cruise Guests(1)(4)
Asia/Pacific Cruise Guests(1)(5)
2012 425,000 98,650 20,813 11,641 6,225 1,474
2013 432,000 98,750 21,343 11,710 6,430 2,045
2014 448,000 105,750 22,039 12,269 6,387 2,382
2015 469,000 112,700 23,000 12,004 6,587 3,1292015469,000  112,700  23,000  12,004  6,587  3,129  
2016 493,000 123,270 24,000 12,581 6,542 3,6362016493,000  123,270  24,000  12,274  6,512  4,466  
20172017515,000  124,070  26,700  12,865  6,779  5,415  
20182018546,000  135,520  28,500  14,062  7,343  5,685  
20192019579,000  141,570  30,000  14,246  7,554  7,317  

(1)Source: Our estimates of the number of global cruise guests and the weighted-average supply of berths marketed globally are based on a combination of data that we obtain from various publicly available cruise industry trade information sources. We use data obtained from Seatrade Insider, Cruise Industry News and company press releases to estimate weighted-average supply of berths and CLIA and G.P. Wild to estimate cruise guest information. In addition, our estimates incorporate our own statistical analysis utilizing the same publicly available cruise industry data as a base.
(2)Total berths include our berths related to our Global Brands and Partner Brands.
(3)Our estimates include the United States and Canada.
(4)Our estimates include European countries relevant to the industry (e.g., Nordics, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom).
(5)Our estimates include the Southeast Asia (e.g., Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines), East Asia (e.g., China and Japan), South Asia (e.g., India and Pakistan) and Oceanian (e.g., Australia and Fiji Islands) regions.

(1)Source: Our estimates of the number of global cruise guests and the weighted-average supply of berths marketed globally are based on a combination of data that we obtain from various publicly available cruise industry trade information sources. We use data obtained from Seatrade Insider, Cruise Industry News and company press releases to estimate weighted-average supply of berths and CLIA and G.P. Wild to estimate cruise guest information. In addition, our estimates incorporate our own analysis utilizing the same publicly available cruise industry data as a base.
(2)Total berths include our berths related to our Global Brands and Partner Brands.
(3)Our estimates include the United States and Canada.
(4)Our estimates include European countries relevant to the industry (most notably: the Nordics, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom).
(5)Our estimates include Southeast Asia (most notably: Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines), East Asia (most notably: China and Japan), South Asia (most notably: India) and Oceania (most notably: Australia and New Zealand) regions.
North America

The majority of industryIndustry cruise guests are primarily sourced from North America, which represented approximately 52%47% of global cruise guests in 2016.2019. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 2% 4%from 20122015 to 2016.

2019.
Europe

Industry cruise guests sourced from Europe represented approximately 27%25% of global cruise guests in 2016.2019. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 1% 3%from 20122015 to 2016.

2019.
Asia/Pacific

Industry cruise guests sourced from the Asia/Pacific region represented approximately 15%24% of global cruise guests in 2016.2019. The compound annual growth rate in cruise guests sourced from this market was approximately 25%24% from 20122015 to 2016.2019. The Asia/Pacific region is experiencingrecent coronavirus outbreak and the highest growth rateresulting measures taken by China and other countries to move aggressively to contain the disease, including travel restrictions, have resulted in the cancellation of several of our cruises in Southeast Asia and modification of several itineraries in the major regions, although it will continueregion. In addition, we have imposed several measures to represent a relatively small sector comparedprotect our guests and crew, including denying boarding to North America.those that have traveled from, to or through mainland China or Hong Kong. See Outlook for further discussion.


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Competition

We compete with a number of cruise lines. Our principal competitors are Carnival Corporation & plc, which owns, among others, Aida Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Seabourn; Disney Cruise Line; MSC Cruises; and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, which owns Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Cruise lines also compete with

other vacation alternatives such as land-based resort hotels, internet-basedInternet-based alternative lodging sites and sightseeing destinations for consumers’ leisure time. DemandInterest for such activities is influenced by political and general economic conditions. Companies within the vacation market are dependent on consumer discretionary spending.

Operating Strategies

Our strategic emphasis on People, Profits and Planet has led us to focus on the following principal operating strategies are to:strategies:

protectProtect the health, safety and security of our guests and employees, and
protect the environment in which our vessels and organization operate,

strengthen and supportinvest in our human capitalworkforce in order to better serve our global guest base and grow our business, and promote gender equality, diversity and inclusion,

further strengthen our consumer engagement in order to enhance our revenues,

increase the awareness and market penetration of our brands globally,

focus on cost efficiency, manage our operating expenditures and ensure adequate cash and liquidity, with the overall goal of maximizing our return on invested capital and long-term shareholder value,

strategically invest in our fleet through the upgrade and maintenance of existing ships and the transfer of key innovations, across each brand, while prudently expanding our fleet with new state-of-the-art cruise ships,

capitalize on the portability and flexibility of our ships by deploying them into those markets and itineraries that provide opportunities to optimize returns, while continuing our focus on existing key markets,

provide extraordinary destination experiences and state-of-the-art port facilities to our guests,
further enhance ourcontinue to integrate digital technological capabilities, data analytics and artificial intelligence into our operations to service customer preferences and expectations in an innovative manner, while supporting our strategic focus on profitability,create efficiencies and enhance employee satisfaction, and

maintain strong relationships with travel agencies, which continue to be the principal industry distribution channel, while enhancing our consumer outreach programs.

Safety environment and health policies

We are committed to protecting the health, safety environment and healthsecurity of our guests, employees and others working on our behalf. We are also committed to protecting the marine environment and communities in which we operate. Our efforts in these areas are guided by a Maritime Advisory Board of experts, overseen by the Safety, Environment and Health Committee of our Board of Directors and managed by our dedicated Safety, Security, Environment, Medical and Public Health Department which is responsible for all of our maritime safety, global security, environmental stewardship and medical/public health activities.activities; overseen by the Safety, Environment and Health Committee of our board of directors and informed by a Maritime Advisory Board of experts.

Protect the environment
We are focused on the environmental health of the marine environment and communities in which we operate. This includes reducing our carbon footprint through the energy and carbon efficiencies included in the design of our new capacity, our ongoing energy management program on our existing fleet and the development of new technologies.
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Our long-term partnership with the World Wildlife Fund focuses on greenhouse gas reduction strategies, sustainable food supplies, sustainable destinations and guest education on ocean conservation issues, including climate change, which supports onboard conservation efforts such as our reduced use of plastics and increased sourcing of sustainable seafood. We are also committed to water quality and management projects onboard and in the communities in which we operate.
We believe in transparent reporting on our safety, environmentenvironmental and health performancesustainability stewardship, as well as our corporate responsibilitygovernance efforts, and annually publish a Sustainability Report in accordance with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative.Report. This report, which is accessible on our corporate website, highlights our progress with regards to those environmental and social aspects of our business that we believe are most significant to our organization and stakeholders. In addition to providing an overview, the report complies with the guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative to ensure the report is as complete and accurate as possible. Our corporate website also provides information about our environmental performance goals and our voluntary reporting of onboard security incidents.sustainability initiatives. The foregoing information contained on our website is not a part of any of these reports and is not incorporated by reference herein or in any other report or document we file with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Human capital

Investing in our workforce and promoting gender equality, diversity and inclusion
We believe that our employees, both shipboard and shoreside, are a critical success factor for our business. We strive to identify, hire, develop, motivate and retain the best employees, who provide our guests with extraordinary vacations. Attracting, engaging,Our ability to attract, engage, and retainingretain key employees has been and will remain critical to our success.

We focus on providing our employees with a competitive compensation structure, and development opportunities, and other personal and professional growth opportunities in order to strengthen and support our human capital. We also select, develop and have strategies to retain high performing leaders to advance the enterprise now and in the future. To that end, we pay special attention to identifying high performing potential leaders and developing deep bench strength so these leaders can assume leadership roles throughout the organization.
We strive to maintain a work environment that reinforces collaboration, motivation and innovation, and believe that maintaining oura strong employee-focused culture is beneficial to the growth and expansion of our business.

We support the equal representation of women in all levels. We foster diversity and inclusion among our broad employee base.
Consumer engagement

We place a strong focus on identifying the needs of our guests and creating product features and innovations that our customers value. We are focused on targeting high-value guests by better understanding consumer data and insights to create communication strategies that resonate with our target audiences.

We target customers across all touch points and identify underlying needs for which guests are willing to pay a premium. We rely on various programs and technologies during the cruise-planning, cruising and after-cruise periods aimed at increasing ticket prices, onboard revenues and occupancy. We have and continue to strategically invest in onboard projects on our ships that we believe drive marketability, profitability and improve the guest experience.

Global awareness and market penetration

We increase brand awareness and market penetration of our cruise brands in various ways, including the use of communication strategies and marketing campaigns designed to emphasize the qualities of each brand and to broaden the awareness of the brand, especially among target groups. Our marketing strategies include the use of travel agencies, traditional media, mobile and digital media as well as social media, influencers and influencers, brand websites and travel agencies.websites. Our brands engage past and potential guests by collaborating with travel partners and through call centers, international offices and international representatives. In addition, our Global Brands target repeat guests with exclusive benefits offered through their respective loyalty programs.

We sell and market our Global Brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises, to guests outside of the United States and Canada through our offices in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Norway, Italy, Spain, Singapore, China, Australia, New Zealandcombined efforts of internationally focused internal resources and Mexico. We believe that having a local presence in these markets provides us with the ability to react more quickly to local market conditions and better understand our consumer base in each market. We further extend our geographic reach with a network of 61approximately 80 independent international representatives located throughout the world covering 113more than 183 countries. Historically, our focus has been to primarily source guests
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for our Global Brands from North America. We continue to expand our focus on selling and marketing our cruise brands to guests in countries outside of North America by tailoring itineraries and onboard product offerings to the cultural characteristics and preferences of our international guests. In addition, we explore opportunities that may arise to acquire or develop brands tailored to specific markets.

Passenger ticket revenues generated by sales originating in countries outside of the United States were approximately 45%38% of total passenger ticket revenues in 20162019, 39% in 2018 and 45% and 47%41% in 2015 and 2014, respectively.2017. International guests have grown from approximately 2.22.5 million in 20122015 to approximately 2.72.6 million in 2016.2019. Refer to Item 1A. Risk Factors -“ - “Conducting business globally may result in increased costs and other risks” for a discussion of the risks associated with our international operations.

Cost efficiency, operating expenditures and adequate cash and liquidity

We continuehave adopted a number of strategies to control our commitment to identifyoperating costs and implement cost containment initiatives. In 2016, we implemented initiatives, such as the closing of one of our international offices and personnel reorganization in our corporate offices, aimed at improving operating efficiencies and economies of scale. We will continue to focus on and evaluate cost containment initiativesdo so in 2017.

We also continue our2020. For example, we have adopted numerous initiatives to reduce energy consumption and, by extension, fuel costs. These include the design of more energy-efficient ships as well as the implementation of more efficient hardware, including improvements in operations and voyage planning as well as improvements to the propulsion, machinery, HVAC and lighting systems. The overall impact of these efforts has resulted in an approximate 25%35% improvement in energy efficiency from 2005 through 20152019 and we believe that our energy consumption per guest is currently the lowest in the cruise industry.

In order to sustain our competitive advantage, we will continue to seek to lead with innovative technologies and commit to achieve our short and long-term sustainability goals.
We are focused on maintaining a strong liquidity position, reducing ourinvestment grade credit metrics and a balanced debt and improving our credit metrics. In addition, we continue to pursue our objective of returning our credit ratings to investment grade.maturity profile. We believe these strategies enhance our ability to achieve our overall goal of maximizing our return on invested capital and long-term shareholder value.

Fleet upgrade, maintenance and expansion

We place a strong focus on innovation, which we seek to achieve by introducing new concepts on our new ships and continuously making improvements to our fleet.fleet through modernization projects. Several of these innovations have become signature elements of our brands, such asbrands. For the Royal Caribbean International brand, we introduced the “Royal Promenade” (a boulevard with shopping, dining and entertainment venues) and interior balconies on the Oasis class ships and a two-level family suite on Symphony of the Seas. For the Celebrity Cruises brand, we enhanced many of the brand's design features through the introduction of the Solstice class ships. More recently, with the introduction of Celebrity Edge, we introduced the "Magic Carpet" (a cantilevered, floating platform that reaches a height of 13 stories above sea level and can serve as a dining venue, full bar and platform for live music) and newly designed staterooms with an "Infinite Veranda" where, with the touch of a button, the veranda becomes part of the entire living space.
In 2018, the Royal Caribbean International brand and enhanced design features found on our Solstice-class ships for the Celebrity Cruises brand.

Ourbrands announced the "Royal Amplified" and "Celebrity Revolution" modernization programs to upgrade and maintenancevessels across their fleet. As part of these modernization programs, enable uswe incorporate certain innovations included in our newer ships to incorporate manysome of the ships in the remaining fleet. The process of integrating some of our latest signature innovations throughout the brand fleet and allowinto our older vessels allows us to benefit from economiescreate a greater level of scale by leveraging our suppliers. Ensuring consistency of product across our fleet provides us withfleet.
As part of the flexibilitynewbuild and modernization programs, we also seek to redeploybring innovations in the areas of safety, reliability and energy efficiency to our ships among our brand portfolio.

fleet.
We are committed to building state-of-the-art ships at a moderate growth rate and we believe our success in this area provides us with a competitive advantage. Our newnewer vessels traditionally generate higher revenue yield premiums and are more efficient to operate than existingolder vessels.

Our Global Brands currently have nine ships expected to be delivered between 2018 and the endAs of 2022. These consist of two Quantum-class ships, which are scheduled to enter service in the second quarter ofDecember 31, 2019, and fourth quarter of 2020, respectively, two Oasis-class ships, which are scheduled to enter service in the first quarter of 2018 and second quarter of 2021, respectively, four ships of a new generation for Celebrity Cruises, which are scheduled to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2018, the first quarter of 2020 and the fourth quarters of 2021 and 2022, respectively, and the first of two ships of a new generation for Royal Caribbean International, which is scheduled to enter service in the second quarter of 2022. The addition of these ships, net of Legend of the Seas departing the fleet in 2017, is expected to increase passenger capacity of our Global Brands by approximately 34,000 berths byand Partner Brands have 17 ships on order. Refer to the end of 2022, which represents an estimated compound annual growth rate of 4.4% from 2016 to December 31, 2022. Additionally, TUI Cruises,Operations section below for further information on our 50% joint venture, currently has agreements for the construction of three new ships. These ships are scheduled to enter service in the second quarters of 2017 and 2018 and the first quarter of 2019, respectively, with an expected total capacity of 8,200 berths.

on order.
In addition, we regularly evaluate opportunities to order new ships, purchase existing ships or sell ships in our current fleet.fleet while ensuring that we remain focused on the returns we generate on invested capital and maintaining a high level of discipline on capital spending and operating leverage. In the current environment of high industry
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demand, we recently have placed new ship orders earlier than we have historically done as well as more aggressively sought to sell older capacity.

Markets and itineraries


In an effort to penetrate untapped markets, diversify our consumer base and respond to changing economic and geopolitical market conditions, we continue to seek opportunities to optimally deploy ships to new and stronger markets and itineraries throughout the world. The portability of our ships allows us to readily deploy our ships to meet demand within our existing cruise markets. We make deployment decisions generally 1218 to 1828 months in advance, with the goal of optimizing the overall profitability of our portfolio. Additionally, the infrastructure investments we have made to create a flexible global sourcing model hashave made our brands relevant in a number of markets around the world, which allows us to be opportunistic and source the highest yielding guests for our itineraries.

Our ships offer a wide selection of itineraries that call on approximately 535more than 1,000 destinations in 105126 countries, spanning all seven continents. We are focused on obtaining the best possible long-term shareholder returns by operating in established markets while growing our presence in developing markets. New capacity allows us to expand into new markets and itineraries. Our brands have expanded their mix of itineraries while strengthening our ability to further penetrate the Asian and Australian markets. The acquisition of Silversea Cruises added more than 500 new destinations allowing us to expand and enhance our selection of exotic itineraries.
Destination experiences and port facilities
Additionally, in order to capitalize onprovide unique destination experiences to our guests, we are investing in our private land destinations. For instance, in 2018, we announced Perfect Day Island Collection, an initiative to develop a series of private island destinations around the summer seasonworld. The first island in the Southern Hemispherecollection, Perfect Day at CocoCay, opened in Spring 2019 and mitigate the impactincludes a wide range of the winter weatherattractions, such as a water park, zip line and wave and freshwater pool. The second island in the Northern Hemisphere, our brands have focused on deploymentcollection, Perfect Day at Lelepa, is scheduled to open in 2022 and will offer its own unique experience. In 2019, we also announced the Caribbean, Asialaunch of a Royal Beach Club initiative to bring the unique features and Australia during that period.

cultures of each destination to life. The first will be Royal Beach Club in Antigua, launching 2021.
In an effort to secure desirable berthing facilities for our ships, and to provide new or enhanced cruise destinations for our guests, we actively assist or invest in the development or enhancement of certain port facilities and infrastructure, including mixed-use commercial properties, located in strategic ports of call. For instance, a new homeport cruise terminal of approximately 170,000 square feet was completed at PortMiami in Miami, Florida in 2018 and we are building a new homeport cruise terminal in Galveston, Texas of approximately 140,000 square feet to be completed in 2021.
Generally, we collaborate with local, private or governmental entities by providing management and/or financial assistance and often enter into long-term port usage arrangements. Our participation in these efforts is generally accomplished via investments with the relevant government authority and/or various other strategic partnerships established to develop and/or operate the port facilities, by providing direct development and management expertise or in certain limited circumstances, by providing direct or indirect financial support. In exchange for our involvement, we generally secure preferential berthing rights for our ships.

Technological capabilities

The need to develop and use innovative technology is increasingly important. Technology is a pervasive part of virtually every business process we use to support our strategic focus and provide a quality experience to our customers before, during and after their cruise.
In the last fewpast years, we introduced RFID WOW bands on somehave continued to integrate digital capabilities into our operations and have increased our focus in bringing in data analytics and artificial intelligence into our processes. For example, we have continued the deployment of our shipsinnovative guest journey solutions across our fleet from online check-in to make manyport embarkation to onboard processes easier and more comfortable for our guests. Moreover,cruise experience.At the same time, we are investing in shipboard operational technology to facilitate casino play, hotel maintenance, as well as the useoptimization of marine maintenance. In concert with our various websitesdestination focus, our island technology solutions are now enabling our guests to remain connected with WiFi access, order food and social media platforms continue to increase alongbeverage as well as take advantage of all the island based activities with the use of technologysame ease as onboard our ships by bothships.
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Investments in our guestscore platforms, as well as the trade and crew, we continually need to upgrade our systems, infrastructuredirect distribution channels, are delivering the benefit of more modernized solutions with scalability and technologies to facilitate this growth. For instance, in 2016, we continued to advance our onboard technology in areasfaster self-service response times while also deploying new features such as internet connectivity at sea, guest check-inflight packages and dining. Additionally, we have introduced and continue to improve our mobile-friendly websites for our travel partners and direct customers and to invest in mobile apps that enhance the guest experience onboard our ships. additional promotional offer capabilities.
Cyber security and data privacy are a continuedan ongoing focus, and we have made and will continue to make significant investments to protect our customer data, intellectual property and global operations.

Additionally, as we expand into new markets, we must ensure that we have the proper technology in place to support the market. For instance, our capabilities need to adapt to each of our markets' languages and regulations. As we expand our business, this has been an increased focus for us.

Travel agency support and direct business

consumer outreach
Travel agencies continue to be the primary source of ticket sales for our ships. We believe in the value of this distribution channel and invest heavily in maintaining strong relationships with our travel partners. To accomplish this goal, we seek to ensure that our commission rates and incentive structures remain competitive with the marketplace. We continuously work with travel agencies to sell upgrades and add-ons such as air and pre-cruise purchases to improve the retention and profitability of the channel. We provide brand dedicated sales representatives who serve as advisorsconsultants to our travel partners. We also provide trained customer service representatives, call centers and online training tools.


To supportIn addition, we continue to operate our sales initiatives, we have established a Consumer Outreach department, which allowsprovides consumers 24-hour access to our vacation planners, group vacation planners and customer service agents in our call centers. In addition, we maintain and invest in our websites, including mobile applications and mobile websites, which allowwebsites. We enable our guests to directly plan,communicate and book and customize their cruise,with us through various channels such as well as encouragephone, web, chat, text message, and/or email.
We also have a robust Onboard Cruise Sales department to help guests to book their next cruise vacations while onboard our ships.

Guest Services

We offer to handle virtually all travel aspects related to guest reservations and transportation, including arranging guest pre- and post-hotel stay arrangements and air transportation.

Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises offer rewardsrecognition and status upgrades to their guests through their loyalty programs, Crown & Anchor Society, Captain’s Club, and Le Club Voyage and Venetian Society, respectively, to encourage repeat business. Crown & Anchor Society has approximately 10.416 million members worldwide. Captain’s Club, and Le Club Voyage and Venetian Society have 3.4approximately 4.8 million members combined worldwide. Members earnare recognized through increasing membership status by accumulating cruise points or credits, depending on the brand, which may be redeemed on future sailings. Members are awarded points or credits in proportion to the number of cruise days and stateroom category. The loyalty programs provide certain tiers of membership benefits which can be redeemed byentitle guests after accumulatingto upgraded experiences and recognition relative to the status achieved once the guests have accumulated the number of cruise points or credits specified for each tier. In addition, upon achieving a certain level of cruise points or credits, members benefit from reciprocal membership benefits across all of our loyalty programs. Examples of the rewardsbenefits available under our loyalty programs include, but are not limited to, priority ship embarkation, priority waitlist for shore excursions, complimentary laundry service, complimentary internet,Internet, booklets with onboard discount offers, upgraded bathroom amenities, private seating on the pool deck, ship tours and, in the case of our most loyal guests who have achieved the highest levels of cruise points or credits, complimentary cruise days. We regularly work to enhance each of our loyalty programs by adding new features and amenities in order to reward our repeat guests.

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Operations

Cruise Ships and Itineraries

As of December 31, 2016,2019, our Global Brands and Partner Brands collectively operated 4961 ships with a selection of worldwide itineraries ranging from two to 24 nights that call on approximately 535more than 1,000 destinations.


The following table presents summary information concerning the ships we willexpect to operate in 20172020 under our Global Brands and Partner Brands and their geographic areas of operation based on current 20172020 itineraries (subject to change).

ShipYear Ship
Built
Year Ship
Entered/Will Enter Service(1)
Approximate
Berths
Primary Areas of Operation
Royal Caribbean International
Odyssey of the Seas202020204,200  Eastern/Western Caribbean
Spectrum of the Seas201920194,250  Eastern Asia
Symphony of the Seas201820185,500  Eastern/Western Caribbean
Harmony of the Seas201620165,450  Eastern/Western Caribbean
Ovation of the Seas201620164,100  Australia, Alaska
Anthem of the Seas201520154,100  Southern Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe
Quantum of the Seas201420144,150  Eastern Asia
Allure of the Seas201020105,450  Eastern/Western Caribbean, Europe
Oasis of the Seas200920095,650  Eastern/Western Caribbean, Bahamas
Independence of the Seas200820083,850  Western Caribbean, Bahamas
Liberty of the Seas200720073,750  Western Caribbean
Freedom of the Seas200620063,750  Southern Caribbean
Jewel of the Seas200420042,150  Western Caribbean, Europe, Middle East
Mariner of the Seas200320033,300  Bahamas
Serenade of the Seas200320032,100  Southern Caribbean, Alaska, Australia
Navigator of the Seas200220023,350  Bahamas
Brilliance of the Seas200220022,100  Western Caribbean, Europe, Canada
Adventure of the Seas200120013,300  Eastern/Western Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada
Radiance of the Seas200120012,100  Australia, Alaska
Explorer of the Seas200020003,250  Europe, Western/Southern Caribbean
Voyager of the Seas199919993,400  Eastern Asia, Australia
Vision of the Seas199819982,000  Southern Caribbean, Europe, Canada
Enchantment of the Seas199719972,250  Southern/Western Caribbean, Bahamas
Rhapsody of the Seas199719972,000  Western Caribbean, Europe
Grandeur of the Seas(2)
199619961,950  Bahamas, Southern Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada
Majesty of the Seas199219922,350  Western Caribbean, Bahamas
Empress of the Seas199020161,550  Eastern/Western Caribbean, Canada, Bermuda
Celebrity Cruises     
Celebrity Apex202020202,900  Europe, Eastern/Western Caribbean
Celebrity Flora20192019100  Galapagos Islands
Celebrity Edge201820182,900  Eastern/Western Caribbean, Europe
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Ship Year Ship
Built
 
Year Ship
Entered Service
(1)
 Approximate
Berths
 Primary Areas of Operation
Royal Caribbean International        
Harmony of the Seas 2016 2016 5,450 Eastern/Western Caribbean
Ovation of the Seas 2016 2016 4,100 Eastern Asia, Australia/New Zealand
Anthem of the Seas 2015 2015 4,150 Bermuda, Canada, Eastern/Western/Southern Caribbean
Quantum of the Seas 2014 2014 4,150 Eastern Asia
Allure of the Seas 2010 2010 5,450 Eastern/Western Caribbean
Oasis of the Seas 2009 2009 5,450 Eastern/Western Caribbean
Independence of the Seas 2008 2008 3,600 Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Western Caribbean
Liberty of the Seas 2007 2007 3,750 Western Caribbean
Freedom of the Seas 2006 2006 3,750 Eastern/Western Caribbean, Mediterranean
Jewel of the Seas 2004 2004 2,150 Mediterranean, Southern Caribbean
Mariner of the Seas 2003 2003 3,100 Eastern Asia and Southeastern Asia
Serenade of the Seas 2003 2003 2,100 Southern Caribbean, Northern Europe, Canada
Navigator of the Seas 2002 2002 3,250 Northern Europe, Southern/Western Caribbean, Mediterranean
Brilliance of the Seas 2002 2002 2,100 Mediterranean, Western Caribbean
Adventure of the Seas 2001 2001 3,100 Southern Caribbean
Radiance of the Seas 2001 2001 2,100 Alaska, Australia/New Zealand
Explorer of the Seas 2000 2000 3,250 Alaska, Australia/New Zealand
Voyager of the Seas 1999 1999 3,250 Eastern Asia, Australia/New Zealand
Vision of the Seas 1998 1998 2,000 Northern Europe, Canada, Western Caribbean
Enchantment of the Seas 1997 1997 2,250 Bahamas
Rhapsody of the Seas 1997 1997 2,000 Mediterranean, Western Caribbean
Grandeur of the Seas 1996 1996 1,950 Southern/Eastern/Western Caribbean, Bermuda, Bahamas
Legend of the Seas(2)
 1995 1995 1,800 Australia/New Zealand
Majesty of the Seas 1992 1992 2,350 Bahamas
Empress of the Seas 1990 2016 1,550 Western Caribbean
Celebrity Cruises        
Celebrity Reflection 2012 2012 3,000 Mediterranean, Eastern/Western Caribbean
Celebrity Silhouette 2011 2011 2,850 Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Eastern/Western Caribbean
Celebrity Eclipse 2010 2010 2,850 Northern Europe, Southern Caribbean
Celebrity Equinox 2009 2009 2,850 Eastern/Western/Southern Caribbean
Celebrity Solstice 2008 2008 2,850 Alaska, Australia/New Zealand
Celebrity Xploration 2007 2016 20 Galapagos Islands
Celebrity Constellation 2002 2002 2,150 Mediterranean, Middle East, Southeast Asia
Celebrity Summit 2001 2001 2,150 Eastern/Western/Southern Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada
ShipYear Ship
Built
Year Ship
Entered/Will Enter Service(1)
Approximate
Berths
Primary Areas of Operation
Celebrity Reflection201220123,000  Southern Caribbean, Europe
Celebrity Silhouette201120112,850  Southern Caribbean, Europe
Celebrity Eclipse201020102,850  South America, Alaska
Celebrity Equinox200920092,850  Eastern/Western Caribbean
Celebrity Solstice200820082,850  Australia, Alaska
Celebrity Xploration2007201620  Galapagos Islands
Celebrity Constellation200220022,150  Middle East, India, Europe, Caribbean
Celebrity Summit200120012,200  Southern Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada
Celebrity Infinity200120012,150  Western Caribbean, Bahamas, Europe
Celebrity Xpedition2001200450  Galapagos Islands
Celebrity Millennium200020002,200  Eastern Asia, Alaska
Celebrity Xperience1982201650  Galapagos Islands
Azamara
Azamara Pursuit20012018700  South America, Europe
Azamara Quest20002007700  Australia, Asia, Alaska
Azamara Journey20002007700  Europe
Silversea Cruises(3)
Silver Origin20202020100  Galapagos Islands
Silver Moon20202020550  Europe, Caribbean
Silver Muse20172017550  Australia, Asia, Alaska
Silver Spirit20092009500  Southern Caribbean, Europe, Asia
Silver Whisper20012001350  Southern Caribbean, Europe
Silver Shadow20002000350  Asia, Europe, Southern Caribbean
Silver Wind19951995250  Southern Caribbean, Europe, Canada
Silver Cloud19941994250  South America, Europe
Silver Galapagos19902013100  Galapagos Islands
Silver Explorer19892008100  South America, Europe
Pullmantur(4)
Monarch199120132,350  Southern Caribbean
Horizon199020101,400  Middle East, Europe
Sovereign198820082,300  South America, Europe
TUI Cruises
Mein Schiff 2(5)
201920192,900  Europe, Southern Caribbean
Mein Schiff 1201820182,850  Europe, Canada, Western Caribbean
Mein Schiff 6201720172,500  Western Caribbean, Europe, Asia
Mein Schiff 5201620162,500  Southern Caribbean, Europe, Middle East
Mein Schiff 4201520152,500  Middle East, Europe
Mein Schiff 3201420142,500  Asia, Europe
Mein Schiff Herz199720111,850  Europe
Total149,320  

(1)The year a ship entered service refers to the year in which the ship commenced or is expected to commence cruise revenue operations for the brand.

(2)Commencing in the second quarter of 2021, Grandeur of the Seas is planned to no longer operate under the Royal Caribbean International brand and we expect to lease the ship to Pullmantur.
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Ship Year Ship
Built
 
Year Ship
Entered Service
(1)
 Approximate
Berths
 Primary Areas of Operation
Celebrity Infinity 2001 2001 2,150 South America, Alaska
Celebrity Xpedition 2001 2004 100 Galapagos Islands
Celebrity Millennium 2000 2000 2,150 Alaska, Southeastern Asia, Eastern Asia
Celebrity Xperience 1982 2016 50 Galapagos Islands
Azamara Club Cruises        
Azamara Quest 2000 2007 700 Mediterranean, Eastern/Western/Southern Caribbean, Latin America
  Azamara Journey 2000 2007 700 Southeastern Asia, Eastern Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Mediterranean, Northern Europe
Pullmantur        
Zenith 1992 2014 1,400 Mediterranean, Southern Caribbean
Monarch 1991 2013 2,350 Southern Caribbean, Northern Europe
Horizon 1990 2010 1,400 Northern Europe, Mediterranean
Sovereign 1988 2008 2,300 Mediterranean, Brazil
TUI Cruises        
Mein Schiff 6 2017 2017 2,500 Northern Europe, North America, Central America
Mein Schiff 5 2016 2016 2,500 Southern Caribbean, Mediterranean, Dubai
Mein Schiff 4 2015 2015 2,500 Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Southern Caribbean
Mein Schiff 3 2014 2014 2,500 Northern Europe, Southern Caribbean
Mein Schiff 2 1997 2011 1,900 Dubai, Mediterranean
Mein Schiff 1 1996 2009 1,900 Southeastern Asia, Northern Europe, Mediterranean
SkySea Cruises        
SkySea Golden Era 1995 2015 1,800 Southeastern Asia
Total 125,770  

(1)The year a ship entered service refers to the year in which the ship commenced cruise revenue operations for the brand.
(2)
In June 2016, we entered into an agreement to sell Legend of the Seas to Thomson Cruises, an affiliate of TUI AG, our joint venture partner, which is scheduled to be completed in March 2017.

(3)During 2019, the lease for Discover was terminated.

(4)In January 2020, we sold Zenith to a third party.
Our(5)TUI Cruises' newbuild entered service as Mein Schiff 2 in February 2019 and the existing Mein Schiff 2 was renamed Mein Schiff Herz.
As of December 31, 2019, our Global Brands and our Partner Brands have eleven17 ships on order. TwoThree ships on order are being built in Germany by Meyer Werft GmbH, threefour are being built in Finland by Meyer Turku shipyard, and sixfive are being built in France by Chantiers de l’Atlantique (formerly known as STX France. TheFrance), four are being built in Italy by Fincantieri and one is being built in the Netherlands by De Hoop Lobith. As of December 31, 2019, the expected dates that the ships on order will enter service, subject to change in the event of construction delays, and their approximate berths are as follows:
ShipShipyard
Expected to Enter
Enter Service
Approximate
Berths
Royal Caribbean International—International —
Quantum-class:Oasis-class:
UnnamedWonder of the SeasChantiers de l’Atlantique2nd Quarter 201920214,1505,700 
UnnamedChantiers de l’Atlantique4th Quarter 20235,700 
Quantum-class:
Odyssey of the SeasMeyer Werft4th Quarter 20204,1504,200 
Oasis-class:Icon-class:
Unnamed1stMeyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 201820225,4505,600 
UnnamedMeyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 202120245,4505,600 
UnnamedMeyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 20255,600 
Celebrity Cruises — Project Edge
Celebrity EdgeEdge-class:4th Quarter 20182,900
Celebrity BeyondApex1stChantiers de l’Atlantique2nd Quarter 20202,900
UnnamedCelebrity BeyondChantiers de l’Atlantique4th Quarter 20212,9003,250 
UnnamedChantiers de l’Atlantique4th Quarter 20222,9003,250 
Silversea Cruises (1)
Silver OriginDe Hoop3rd Quarter 2020100 
Muse-class:
Silver MoonFincantieri3rd Quarter 2020550 
Silver DawnFincantieri3rd Quarter 2021550 
Evolution-class:
UnnamedMeyer Werft1st Quarter 2022600 
UnnamedMeyer Werft1st Quarter 2023600 
TUI Cruises (50% joint venture) (1)
Mein Schiff 67Meyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 201720232,5002,900 
Unnamed
2ndFincantieri3rd Quarter 201820242,8504,100 
UnnamedFincantieri1st Quarter 201920262,8504,100 
Total Berths39,000
55,300 


(1)
TUI Cruises plans to offset this additional capacity through the planned transfer of the their first two ships, Mein Schiff 1 and Mein Schiff 2, to Thomson Cruises in 2018 and 2019, respectively.

(1)The revenue impact from Silversea Cruises' new ships will be recognized on a three month reporting lag from the "Expected to Enter Service" dates above. Refer to Note 1. General to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
In October 2016,addition, as of December 31, 2019, we signed a memorandum of understandinghave an agreement in place with Meyer TurkuChantiers de l’Atlantique to build two ships of a new generation of shipsan additional Edge-class ship for Royal Caribbean International, known as "Project Icon," which are expected to enter servicedelivery in the second quarters4th quarter of 2022 and 2024, respectively. While the designwhich is still being finalized, each ship will likely accommodate approximately 5,000 guests. These orders are contingent upon completion of conditions precedent including documentation and financing.


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Seasonality

Our revenues are seasonal based on the demand for cruises. Demand is strongest for cruises during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer months and holidays. In order to mitigate the impact of the winter weather in the Northern Hemisphere and to capitalize on the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere, our brands have focused on deployment in the Caribbean, Asia and Australia during that period.

Passengers and Capacity

Selected statistical information is shown in the following table (see Financial Presentation- Description of Certain Line Items and Selected Operational and Financial Metrics under Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, for definitions):



Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,

2016 (1)
 2015 2014 2013 2012
2019 (1)
2018 (2)
2017
2016 (3)
2015
Passengers Carried5,754,747
 5,401,899
 5,149,952
 4,884,763
 4,852,079
Passengers Carried6,553,865  6,084,201  5,768,496  5,754,747  5,401,899  
Passenger Cruise Days40,250,557
 38,523,060
 36,710,966
 35,561,772
 35,197,783
Passenger Cruise Days44,803,953  41,853,052  40,033,527  40,250,557  38,523,060  
Available Passenger Cruise Days (APCD)37,844,644
 36,646,639
 34,773,915
 33,974,852
 33,705,584
Available Passenger Cruise Days (APCD)41,432,451  38,425,304  36,930,939  37,844,644  36,646,639  
Occupancy106.4% 105.1% 105.6% 104.7% 104.4%Occupancy108.1%  108.9%  108.4%  106.4%  105.1%  


(1)As a result of the three-month reporting lag, we included Silversea Cruises' results of operations from October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019 for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019. Refer to Note 1. General and Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statementsand Supplementary Data for more information on the three-month reporting lag and the Silversea Cruises acquisition.
(2)(1) DoesWe acquired Silversea Cruises on July 31, 2018 and report their results on a three-month reporting lag. As a result, these amounts include only August and September 2018 amounts for Silversea Cruises. Refer to Note 1. General and Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for more information on the three-month reporting lag and the Silversea Cruises acquisition.
(3)These amounts do not include November and December 2015 amounts related tofor Pullmantur as the elimination of thenet Pullmantur reporting lag since the impact isresult for those months was included within Other (expense) income expensein ourconsolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016.2016, as a result of the elimination of the Pullmantur two-month reporting lag, and did not affect Gross Yields, Net Yields, Gross Cruise Costs, Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel. Additionally, effective August 2016, following the sale of our 51% interest in Pullmantur Holdings, we no longer include Pullmantur Holdings in these amounts.


Cruise Pricing

Our cruise ticket prices include accommodations and a wide variety of activities and amenities, including meals and entertainment. Prices vary depending on many factors including the destination, cruise length, stateroom category selected and the time of year the cruise takes place. Although we grant credit terms in select markets mainly outside of the United States, our payment terms generally require an upfront deposit to confirm a reservation, with the balance due prior to the sailing. Our cruises are generally available for sale at least one year in advance and often as much asmore than two years in advance of sailing. During the selling period of a cruise, we continually monitor and adjust our cruise ticket prices for available guest staterooms based on demand, with the objective of maximizing net yields. In early 2015, in an effort to preserve the integrity of our cruise pricing, we implemented a new policy against introducing incremental discounting on our ticket prices in certain markets within 30 days of the sailing date. Through 2016, we continue to follow this policy.

As we grow our business globally, our sale arrangements with travel agents may vary. For instance, although our direct business is growing at a rapid pace, sale arrangements in the mainland Chinese market are primarily composed ofthrough travel agent charter and group sales with full payment due close-in to sailing, and to a lesser extent,are proportionately higher in the China market than in our other markets which are primarily through retail agency and direct sales.

We have developed and implemented enhancements to our reservations system that provide us and our travel partners with additional capabilities. The enhancements also allow uscapabilities, making it easier to better understand and react to the current demand and pricing environment and implement a variety of promotions.

Wedo business with us. For example, we offer air transportation to our guests through our air transportation program available in major cities around the world. Generally, air tickets are sold to guests at prices close to cost which vary by gateway and destination.

Passenger ticket revenues accounted for approximately 72%, 73% and 73% of total revenues in 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 2014, respectively.2017.



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Onboard Activities and Other Revenues

Our cruise brands offer modern fleets with a wide array of onboard services, amenities and activities which vary by brand and ship. While many onboard activities are included in the base price of a cruise, we realize additional revenues from, among other things, gaming, the sale of alcoholic and other beverages, internetInternet and other telecommunication services, gift shop items, shore excursions, photography, spa/salon and fitness services, art auctions, catalogue gifts for guestsretail shops and a wide variety of specialty restaurants and dining options. Many of these services are available for pre-booking on the internet prior to embarkation. These activities are provided either directly by us or by independent concessionaires from which we receive a percentage of their revenues.

In conjunction with our cruise vacations, we offer pre- and post-cruise hotel packages to our Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises guests. We also offer cruise vacation protection coverage to guests in a number of markets, which provides guests with coverage for trip cancellation, medical protection and

baggage protection. Onboard and other revenues accounted for approximately 28%, 27% and 27% of total revenues in 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 2014, respectively.

2017.
Segment Reporting

We control and operate three wholly-ownedfour cruise brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara, and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises. In addition, we have a 50% investment in a joint venture with TUI AG which operates the German brand TUI Cruises and a 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur and have a minority interest in the Chinese brand SkySea Cruises.Pullmantur. We believe our brands possess the versatility to enter multiple cruise market segments within the cruise vacation industry. Although each of our brands has its own marketing style as well as ships and crews of various sizes, the nature of the products sold and services delivered by our brands share a common base (i.e., the sale and provision of cruise vacations). Our brands also have similar itineraries as well as similar cost and revenue components. In addition, our brands source passengers from similar markets around the world and operate in similar economic environments with a significant degree of commercial overlap. As a result, our brands have been aggregated as a single reportable segment based on the similarity of their economic characteristics, types of consumers, regulatory environment, maintenance requirements, supporting systems and processes as well as products and services provided. Our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer has been identified as the chief operating decision-maker and all significant operating decisions including the allocation of resources are based upon the analyses of the Company as one segment. (For financial information, see Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.)

Employees

As of December 31, 2016,2019, our Global Brands employed over 66,000approximately 85,400 employees, including 60,00077,000 shipboard employees as well as 6,0008,200 full-time and 100 part-time employees in our shoreside operations. As of December 31, 2016,2019, approximately 85%89% of our shipboard employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements.

Insurance

We maintain insurance on the hull and machinery of our ships, with insured values generally equal to the net book value of each ship. This coverage is maintained with financially soundreputable insurance underwriters from the British, Scandinavian, French, United States and other reputable international insurance markets.

We maintain protectionare members of four Protection and indemnity liability insurance,Indemnity ("P&I") clubs, which provides coverage for liabilities,are part of a worldwide group of 13 P&I clubs, known as the International Group of P&I Clubs (the “IG”). Liabilities, costs and expenses for illness and injury to crew, guest injury, pollution and other third-party claims that arise out of, or are the result of,in connection with our cruise operations. Our vesselsactivities are insured through eithercovered by our P&I clubs, subject to the United Kingdom Mutual Steam Ship Assurance Association (Bermuda) Limited,clubs’ rules and the Steamship Mutual Underwriting Association or Gard AS. Our protection and indemnity liability insurancelimits of coverage determined by the IG. P&I coverage provided by the clubs is done on a mutual basis and we are subject to additional premium calls in amounts based on claim recordsthe event of all membersa catastrophic loss incurred by any member of the mutual protection and indemnity association.13 P&I clubs, whereby the reinsurance limits purchased by the IG are exhausted. We are also subject to additional premium calls based on investment and underwriting shortfalls experienced by the insurer.

our own individual insurers.
We maintain war risk insurance which coversfor legal liability to crew, guests and other third parties as well as for loss or damage due to our vessels arising from acts of war, including invasion, insurrection, terrorism, rebellion, piracy and hijacking, on each ship, through
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hijacking. Our primary war risk coverage is provided by a Norwegian war risk insurance organization. This coverage includes coverage for physical damage to the ship which is not covered under the hull policies as a result of war exclusion clauses in such hull policies. We also maintain protectionassociation and indemnityour excess war risk coverage for risks that would be excludedinsurance is provided by the rules of the indemnity insurance organizations, subject to certain limitations.our four P&I clubs. Consistent with most marine war risk policies, under the terms of our war risk insurance coverage is subject to cancellation in the event of a change in risk, underwriters can giverisk. In the event of a war between major powers, our primary policies terminate after thirty days’ notice and our excess policies terminate immediately. Our excess policies are also subject to cancellation after a notice period of seven days'days in the event of other changes in risk. These notice periods allow for premiums to us that the policy will be canceled and reinstated at higher premium rates.
renegotiated based on changes in risk.
Insurance coverage for other exposures, such as shoreside property and casualty, exposures, shipboard inventory,passenger off-vessel, liability, directors and officers and other risksnetwork security and privacy, are maintained with various global insurance underwriters in the United States and the United Kingdom.


companies.
We do not carry business interruption insurance for our ships based on our evaluation of the risks involved and protective measures already in place, as compared to the cost of insurance.

All insurance coverage is subject to certain limitations, exclusions and deductible levels. In addition, in certain circumstances, we either self-insure or co-insure a portion of these risks. Premiums charged by insurance carriers, including carriers in the maritime insurance industry, increase or decrease from time to time and tend to be cyclical in nature. These cycles are impacted both by our own loss experience and by losses incurred in direct and reinsurance markets. We historically have been able to obtain insurance coverage in amounts and at premiums we have deemed to be commercially acceptable. No assurance can be given that affordable and secure insurance markets will be available to us in the future, particularly for war risk insurance.

Trademarks

We own a number of registered trademarks related to the Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises cruise brands. The registered trademarks include the name “Royal Caribbean International” and its crown and anchor logo, the name “Celebrity Cruises” and its “X” logo, the name “Azamara Club“Azamara” and its "open world" and "star logo", the name “Silversea Cruises” and its globe with an “A” logo, and the names of various cruise ships, as well as loyalty program namesship venues and other marketing programs. We believe our largest brands' trademarks are widely recognized throughout the world and have considerable value. The duration of trademark registrations varies from country to country. However, trademarks are generally valid and may be renewed indefinitely as long as they are in use and/or their registrations are properly maintained.

Regulation

Our ships are regulated by various international, national, state and local laws, regulations and treaties in force in the jurisdictions in which they operate. In addition, our ships are registered in the Bahamas, Malta or in the case of our ships operating in the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Each ship is subject to regulations issued by its country of registry, including regulations issued pursuant to international treaties governing the safety of our ships, guests and crew as well as environmental protection. Each country of registry conducts periodic inspections to verify compliance with these regulations as discussed more fully below. Ships operating out of ports of call around the world are also subject to inspection by the maritime authorities of that country for compliance with international treaties and local regulations. Additionally, ships operating out of the United States ports are subject to inspection by the United States Coast Guard for compliance with international treaties and by the United States Public Health Service for sanitary and health conditions. Our ships are also subject to similar inspections pursuant to the laws and regulations of various other countries our ships visit.

We believe that we are in material compliance with all the regulations applicable to our ships and that we have all licenses necessary to conduct our business. Health, safety, security, environmental and financial responsibility issues are, and we believe will continue to be, an area of focus by the relevant government authorities in the United States and internationally. From time to time, various regulatory and legislative changes may be proposed that could impact our operations and subject us to increasing compliance costs in the future.

Safety and Security Regulations

Our ships are required to comply with international safety standards defined in the International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea (“SOLAS”), which, among other things, establishes requirements for ship design, structural features, materials, construction, lifesaving equipment and safe management and operation of ships to ensure guest and crew safety. The SOLAS standards are revised from time to time and changes are incorporated into the most recent modifications were phased in through 2010.
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operation of our ships. Compliance with these modified standards didhave not havehistorically had a material effect on our operating costs. SOLAS incorporates the International Safety Management Code (“ISM Code”), which provides an international standard for the safe management and operation of ships and for pollution prevention. The ISM Code is mandatory for all vessels, including passenger vessel operators.

All of our operations and ships are regularly audited by various national authorities, and we are required to maintain the requiredrelevant certificates of compliance with the ISM Code.

Our ships are subject to various security requirements, including the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (“ISPS Code”), which is part of SOLAS, and the U.S. Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (“MTSA”), which applies to ships that operate in U.S. ports. In order to satisfy these security requirements, we implement security measures, conduct vessel security assessments, and develop security plans. The security plans for all of our ships have been submitted to and approved by the respective countriesRecognized Security Organization on behalf of registry for our shipsthe ships' flag state and are in compliance with the ISPS Code and the MTSA.

The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010, which applies to passenger vessels which embark or include port stops within the United States, requires the implementation of certain safety design features as well as the establishment of practices for the reporting of and dealing with allegations of crime. The cruise industry supported this legislation and we believe that our internal standards are generally as strict or stricter than the law requires. A fewSome provisions of the lawact call for regulations which have not yet been finalized; however, based on proposed regulations issued by the U.S. Coast Guard in January 2015, wefinalized. We do not expect anythe pending regulations will have a material costs dueimpact to implementing these regulations.

our operations.
Environmental Regulations

We are subject to various international and national laws and regulations relating to environmental protection. Under such laws and regulations, we are generally prohibited from discharging materials other than food waste into the waterways. We have made, and will continue to make, capital and other expenditures to comply with environmental laws and regulations. From time to time, environmental and other regulators consider more stringent regulations, which may affect our operations and increase our compliance costs. We believe that the impact of ships on the global environment will continue to be an area of focus by the relevant authorities throughout the world and, accordingly, may subject us to increasing compliance costs in the future, including the items described below.
Our ships are subject to the International Maritime Organization’s (‘‘IMO’’) regulations under the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (the ‘‘MARPOL Regulations’’) and the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships Ballast Water and Sediments (Ballast Water Management Convention), in addition to other regional and national regulations such as EU Directives and the US Vessel General Permit, which includes requirements designed to minimize pollution by oil, sewage, garbage, air emissions and the transfer of non-native/non-indigenous species. We have obtained the relevant international compliance certificates relating to oil, sewage, and air pollution prevention and ballast water for all of our ships and have begun to obtain the compliance certificates pertaining to ballast water as they become applicable to our ships.
The MARPOL Regulations imposeimposed reduced global limitations on the sulfur content of fuel usedemissions emitted by ships operating worldwide to 3.5%. The MARPOL Regulations also establish special Emission Control Areas (‘‘ECAs’’) with stringent limitations on sulfur emissions in these areas. As0.5% as of February 2016, there are four established ECAs that restrict sulfur emissions: the Baltic Sea, the North Sea/English Channel, certain waters surrounding the North American coast, and the waters surrounding Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (the “Caribbean ECA”).

Since January 1, 2015, ships operating in these sulfur ECAs2020, which was reduced from 3.5%. We do not expect that this increased limitation will have been requireda material impact to reduce their fuel sulfur content from 1.0% to 0.1%. This reduction has not had a significant impact on our results of operations to date largely due to a number of mitigating steps we have taken over the last several years, including equipping all of our new ships delivered during or after 2014 with advanced emissions purification ("AEP") systems covering all engines and actively developing and testinginstalling AEP systems on the majority of our existingremaining fleet.

The MARPOL Regulations also establish special Emission Control Areas (‘‘ECAs’’) with additional stringent limitations on sulfur emissions in these areas. There are four established ECAs that restrict sulfur emissions: the Baltic Sea, the North Sea/English Channel, certain waters surrounding the North American coast, and the waters surrounding Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands (the “Caribbean ECA”). Ships operating in these sulfur ECAs have been required to reduce their emissions sulfur content to 0.1%. This reduction has not had a significant impact on our results of operations to date due to the mitigating steps described above.
We continue to implement our AEP system strategy for both for our ships on order and for our existing fleet. As our new ships are delivered and additional existing ships are retrofitted with AEP systems, they will provide us with additional operational and deployment flexibility. We currently have in place exemptions for 19
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In addition, we believe that the learning from our existing endeavors as well as our further efforts with regards to this technology will allow us to complete an effective AEP system retrofit strategy for our fleet. As a result, we believe the cost of complying with the 2015 ECA sulfur emission requirement will not be significant to our results of operations.

By January 1, 2020, the MARPOL regulations will require the worldwide limitations on sulfur content of fuel to be reduced from 3.5% to 0.5%. As this regulation is implemented worldwide and if we have not been able to successfully execute our mitigation strategies, including our AEP system retrofit strategy, our fuel costs could increase significantly.

AllAdditionally, all new ships that began construction after January 1, 2016 will be required to meet more stringent nitrogen oxide emission limits when operating within the North American and U.S. Caribbean Sea ECA.ECA that began construction after January 1, 2016 are required to meet more stringent nitrogen oxide emission limits. We have beencomply with these rules for those relevant ships in the processservice. As an added measure, all of evaluating a number of technological alternatives over the last several years to address these new requirements and believe that we will be ableour ships under construction are being built to comply with these limits withoutrules. The rules have not had and are not expected to have a significant impact to our operations or fuel costs.

Effective July 1, 2015, the European Commission adopted legislation that will requirerequires cruise ship operators with ships visiting ports in the European Union to monitor and report on the ship’s annual carbon dioxide emissions starting in 2018. Additionally, in 2019, the IMO's monitoring and reporting system (IMO data and collection system), which is applicable to all ship itineraries, entered into force. While we do not expect compliance with this regulation tothese regulations did not materially impact our costs or results of operations, the adopting legislation presents the new monitoringlegislations contemplate further obligations and reporting requirements as the first step of a staged approachrestrictions which could ultimately result in additional costs or charges associated with carbon dioxide emissions.

Effective September 8, 2017, theThe IMO Ballast Water Management Convention, will requirewhich came in effect in 2017, requires ships that carry and discharge ballast water to meet specific discharge standards by installing Ballast Water Treatment Systems within the next five years. Weby 2023. Compliance with this regulation has not had a material effect on our results of operations and we do not expect the continuing compliance with this regulation to have a material effect on our results of operations.

Refer to Item 1A. Risk Factors - "Environmental, labor, health and safety, financial responsibility and other maritime regulations could affect operations and increase costs" for further discussion of the risks associated with the regulations discussed above.
Consumer Financial Responsibility Regulations

We are required to obtain certificates from the United States Federal Maritime Commission relating to our ability to satisfy liability in cases of non-performance of obligations to guests, as well as casualty and personal injury. As a condition to obtaining the required certificates, we generally arrange through our insurers for the provision of surety for our ship-operating companies. The required surety amount is currently $30.0$32.0 million per operator and is subject to additional consumer price index based adjustments.
We are also required by the United Kingdom, Norway, Finland and the Baltics to establish our financial responsibility for any liability resulting from the non-performance of our obligations to guests from these jurisdictions. In the United Kingdom we are currently required by the Association of British Travel Agents to provide performance bonds totaling approximately £27.4£82 million. In addition, in 2016Additionally, we were required by the Civil Aviation Authority to provide performance bonds totaling approximately £10.1£8 million. The Norwegian Travel Guarantee Fund requires us to maintain performance bonds in varying amounts during the course of the year to cover our financial responsibility in Norway, Finland and the Baltics. These amounts ranged from NOK 332 million to NOK 3357 million during 2016.2019.
Certain other jurisdictions also require that we establish financial responsibility to our guests resulting from the non-performance of our obligations; however, the related amounts do not have a material effect on our costs.
Regulations Regarding Protection of Disabled Persons

In June 2013, the U.S. Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board proposed guidelines for the construction and alteration of passenger vessels to ensure that the vessels are readily accessible to and usable by passengers with disabilities. Once finalized, these guidelines will be used by the U.S. Department of Transportation and U.S. Department of Justice to implement mandatory and enforceable standards for passenger vessels covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. While we believe our vessels have been designed and outfitted to meet the needs of our guests with disabilities, we cannot at this time accurately predict whether we will be required to make material modifications or incur significant additional expenses given the preliminary status of the proposed guidelines.

Taxation of the Company

The following is a summary of our principal taxes, exemptions and special regimes. In addition to or instead of income taxation, virtually all jurisdictions where our ships call impose some tax or fee, or both, based on guest headcount, tonnage or some other measure. We also collect and remit value added tax (VAT) or sales tax in many jurisdictions where we operate.
Our consolidated operations are primarily foreign corporations engaged in the owning and operating of passenger cruise ships in international transportation.
U.S. Income Taxation

The following is a discussion of the application of the U.S. federal and state income tax laws to us and is based on the current provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, Treasury Department regulations, administrative rulings, court decisions and the relevant state tax laws, regulations, rulings and court decisions of the states where we have business operations. All of the foregoing is subject to change, and any such change could affect the accuracy of this discussion.
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Application of Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code

We, and Celebrity Cruises, Inc. and Silversea Cruises Ltd. are engaged in a trade or business in the United States, and many of our ship-owning subsidiaries, depending upon the itineraries of their ships, receive income from sources within the United States. Additionally, our United Kingdom tonnage tax company is a ship-operating company classified as a disregarded entity for U.S. federal income tax purposes that may earn U.S. source income. Under Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code, certain foreign corporations may exclude from gross income (and effectively from branch profits tax as such earnings do not give rise to effectively connected earnings and profits) U.S. source income derived from or incidental to the international operation of a ship or ships, including income from the leasing of such ships.
A foreign corporation will qualify for the benefits of Section 883 if, in relevant part: (1) the foreign country in which the foreign corporation is organized grants an equivalent exemption to corporations organized in the United States; and (2) the stock of the corporation (or the direct or indirect corporate parent thereof) is “primarily and regularly traded on an established securities market” in the United States. In the opinion of our U.S. tax counsel, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, based on the representations and assumptions set forth in that opinion, we, Celebrity Cruises Inc., Silversea Cruises Ltd. and ourrelevant ship-owning subsidiaries with U.S. source shipping income qualify for the benefits of Section 883 because we and each of those subsidiaries are incorporated in Liberia or Bahamas, which is aare qualifying country,countries, and our common stock is primarily and regularly traded on an established securities market in the United States (i.e., we are a "publicly traded" corporation). If, in the future, (1) Liberia or Bahamas no longer qualifiesqualify as an equivalent exemption jurisdiction,jurisdictions, and we do not reincorporate in a jurisdiction that does qualify for the exemption, or (2) we fail to qualify as a publicly traded corporation, we and all of our ship-owning or operating subsidiaries that rely on Section 883 to exclude qualifying income from gross income would be subject to U.S. federal income tax on their U.S. source shipping income and income from activities incidental thereto.
We believe that most of our income and the income of our ship-owning subsidiaries, including our U.K. tonnage tax company which is considered a division for U.S. tax purposes, is derived from or incidental to the international operation of a ship or ships and, therefore, is exempt from taxation under Section 883.
Regulations under Section 883 list activities that are not considered by the Internal Revenue Service to be incidental to the international operation of ships including the sale of air and land transportation, shore excursions and pre- and post-cruise tours. Our income from these activities that is earned from sources within the United States will be subject to U.S. taxation.
Taxation in the Absence of an Exemption Under Section 883

If we, the operator of our vessels, Celebrity Cruises Inc., Silversea Cruises Ltd., or our ship-owning subsidiaries were to fail to meet

the requirements of Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code, or if the provision was repealed, then, as explained below, such companies would be subject to U.S. income taxation on a portion of their income derived from or incidental to the international operation of our ships.
Because we, and Celebrity Cruises Inc. and Silversea Cruises Ltd. conduct a trade or business in the United States, we, and Celebrity Cruises Inc. and Silversea Cruises Ltd. would be taxable at regular corporate rates on our separate company taxable income (i.e., without regard to the income of our ship-owning subsidiaries) on income which is effectively connected with our U.S. trade or business (generally only income from U.S. sources). In addition, if any of our earnings and profits effectively connected with our U.S. trade or business were withdrawn, or were deemed to have been withdrawn, from our U.S. trade or business, those withdrawn amounts would be subject to a “branch profits” tax at the rate of 30%. We, and Celebrity Cruises Inc. and Silversea Cruises Ltd. would also be potentially subject to tax on portions of certain interest paid by us at rates of up to 30%.
If Section 883 were not available to our ship-owning subsidiaries, each such subsidiary would be subject to a special 4% tax on its U.S. source gross transportation income, if any, each year because it does not have a fixed place of business in the United States and its income is derived from the leasing of a ship.
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Other United States Taxation
We, and Celebrity Cruises Inc. and Silversea Cruises Ltd. earn U.S. source income from activities not considered incidental to international shipping. The tax on such income is not material to our results of operation for all years presented.

State Taxation

We, Celebrity Cruises Inc., Silversea Cruises Ltd. and certain of our subsidiaries are subject to various U.S. state income taxes which are generally imposed on each state’s portion of the U.S. source income subject to federal income taxes. Additionally, the state of Alaska subjects an allocated portion of the total income of companies doing business in Alaska and certain other affiliated companies to Alaska corporate state income taxes and also imposes a 33% tax on adjusted gross income from onboard gambling activities conducted in Alaska waters. This did not have a material impact to our results of operations for all years presented.
2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
On December 22, 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law. Among other things, the new legislation reduced the federal corporate income tax rate to 21% from 35%, resulting in an immaterial benefit in 2017 related to the reduction of our U.S. deferred tax liability. Although there are a number of provisions which apply to us, there was no material impact to our overall tax expense as a result of the legislation.  
Maltese and Spanish Income Taxation

Effective July 31, 2016, we sold 51% of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings.Holdings S.L. ("Pullmantur Holdings"), the parent company of the Pullmantur brand. We account for our retained investment under the equity method of accounting. There was no tax impact to us as a result of this sale transaction. The surviving Pullmantur companygroup continues to be subject to the tax laws of Spain and Malta.Malta, among others.
Under the sale agreement, we remain responsible for pre-sale tax matters with respect to years that are still open under the statute of limitations.
United Kingdom Income Taxation

We operate fourteenDuring the year ended December 31, 2019, we operated 16 ships under companies which have elected to be subject to the United Kingdom tonnage tax regime (“U.K. tonnage tax”).
Companies subject to U.K. tonnage tax pay a corporate tax on a notional profit determined with reference to the net tonnage of qualifying vessels. The requirements for a company to qualify for the U.K. tonnage tax regime include being subject to U.K. corporate income tax, operating qualifying ships, which are strategically and commercially managed in the United Kingdom, and fulfilling a seafarer training requirement.
Failure to meet any of these requirements could cause us to lose the benefit of the tonnage tax regime which could have a material effect on our results of operations.
Relevant shipping profits include income from the operation of qualifying ships and from shipping related activities. Our U.K. income from non-shipping activities which do not qualify under the U.K. tonnage tax regime and

which are not considered significant, remain subject to regular U.K. corporate income tax.
Brazilian Income Taxation
Previously, Pullmantur and our U.K. tonnage tax company chartered certain ships to Brazilian subsidiary companies for operations in Brazil. Both Pullmantur and Royal Caribbean International ceased charters to Brazil in January 2016 and March 2016, respectively. While Brazilian charters took place, the Brazilian subsidiaries' earnings were subject to Brazilian taxation which was not considered significant. The charter payments made to the U.K. tonnage tax company and to Pullmantur were exempt from Brazilian income tax under Brazilian domestic law. Additionally, remittances of revenue from sales of certain cruises in the Brazilian market are subject to taxation.
Chinese Taxation
Our U.K. tonnage tax company operates ships in international transportation in China. The income earned from this operation is exempt from taxation in China under the U.K./China double tax treaty and other circulars addressing indirect taxes. Changes to or failure to qualify for the treaty or circular could cause us to lose the benefits provided which would have a material impact on our results of operations. Our Chinese income from non-shipping activities or from shipping activities not qualifying for treaty or circular protection and which are considered insignificant, remain subject to Chinese taxation.
Other Taxation
We and certain of our subsidiaries are subject to value-added and other indirect taxes most of which are reclaimable, zero-rated or exempt. Changes in the application or interpretation

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Website Access to Reports

We make available, free of charge, access to our Annual Reports, all quarterly and current reports and all amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission through our website at www.rclinvestor.comwww.rclcorporate.com. The information contained on our website is not a part of any of these reports and is not incorporated by reference herein.

Information About our Executive Officers of the Company
As of February 23, 2017,25, 2020, our executive officers are:
NameAgePosition
Richard D. Fain6972 Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director
Adam M. GoldsteinJason T. Liberty5744 Executive Vice President, and Chief OperatingFinancial Officer
Michael W. Bayley5861 President and Chief Executive Officer, Royal Caribbean International
Lisa Lutoff-Perlo5962 President and Chief Executive Officer, Celebrity Cruises
Lawrence Pimentel6568 President and Chief Executive Officer, Azamara Club Cruises
Jason T. Liberty41Chief Financial Officer
Harri U. Kulovaara6467 Executive Vice President, Maritime
Bradley H. Stein6164 Senior Vice President, General Counsel, Chief Compliance Officer
Henry L. Pujol4952 Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer

Richard D. Fain has served as a director since 19791981 and as our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer since 1988. Mr. Fain is a recognized industry leader, having participated in shipping for almostover 40 years and having held a number of prominent industry positions, such as Chairman of the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the largest cruise industry trade association. He currently serves as Chairman ofon the University of Miami Board of Trustees as well as on the National Board of the Posse Foundation. He is also former chairman of the University of Miami Board of Trustees, Miami Business Forum, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the United Way of Miami-Dade.
Adam M. GoldsteinJason T. Liberty has been employed by the Company since 2005 and has served as Executive Vice President and Chief OperatingFinancial Officer since April 2014.February 2017. From May 2013 to February 2017, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Since February 2017, Mr. Liberty has overseen the Company’s Treasury, Accounting, Corporate, Strategic and Revenue Planning, Corporate Development, Deployment, Internal Audit and Investor Relations functions. Since May 2018, in addition to the above functions, he has also overseen the Company’s Information Technology, Supply Chain, Risk Management, Legal and Port Operations functions. Prior to his role as Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Liberty served as Senior Vice President, Strategy and Finance from September 2012 through May 2013, overseeing the Company’s Corporate and Strategic Planning, Treasury, Investor Relations and Deployment functions. Prior to this, heMr. Liberty served, from 2010 through 2012, as Vice President of Corporate and Revenue Planning and, from 2008 to 2010, as Vice President of Corporate and Strategic Planning. Before joining Royal Caribbean, International since February 2005 and as its President and Chief Executive Officer since September 2007. Mr. Goldstein has been employed with Royal Caribbean since 1988 inLiberty was a varietySenior Manager at the international public accounting firm of positions, including Executive Vice President, Brand OperationsKPMG LLP. Mr. Liberty currently serves on the Board of Royal Caribbean International, Senior Vice President, Total Guest Satisfaction and Senior Vice President, Marketing. Mr. Goldstein served as National ChairDirectors of the United States Travel Association (formerly, Travel Industry Association of America) in 2001 and as Chairman of CLIA in 2015 and 2016.  Mr. Goldstein began a two-year term as Chairman of the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) in January 2017.WNS Holdings.
Michael W. Bayley has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Royal Caribbean International since December 2014. Prior to this, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Celebrity Cruises since August 2012. Mr. Bayley has been employed by Royal Caribbean for over 30 years, having started as an Assistant Purser onboard one of the Company’s ships. He has served in a number of roles including as Executive Vice President, Operations from February 2012 until August 2012. Other positions Mr. Bayley has held include Executive Vice President, International from May 2010 until February 2012; Senior Vice President, International from December 2007 to May 2010; Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations for Royal Caribbean International; and Chairman and Managing Director of Island Cruises.
Lisa Lutoff-Perlo has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Celebrity Cruises since December 2014. Prior to this, she served as2014 and has been with the company since 1985. She also leads the Company’s Global Marine Organization. Ms. Lutoff-Perlo was the Executive Vice President, Operations forof Royal Caribbean International from September 2012 to December 2014, where she was responsible for all2014; Senior Vice President, Hotel Operations of Royal Caribbean International's hotel, marineCelebrity Cruises from 2007 to 2012; and port operations.Vice President, Onboard
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Revenue of Celebrity Cruises from 2005 to 2007. Ms. Lutoff-Perlo has been employedheld various senior positions in sales and marketing with the Company since 1985 in a variety of positions within both Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International.  She started at Royal Caribbean International as District Sales Manager for New England and from August 20081985 to August 2012 she was responsible for Celebrity Cruises’ hotel operation.2005. Ms. Lutoff-Perlo also serves on the Board of Directors of AutoNation.
Lawrence Pimentel has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Azamara Club Cruises since July 2009. From 2001 until January 2009, Mr. Pimentel was President, Chief Executive Officer, Director and co-owner of SeaDream Yacht Club, a privately held luxury cruise line located in Miami, Florida with two yacht-style ships that sailed primarily in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. From April 1991 to February 2001, Mr. Pimentel was President

and Chief Executive Officer of Carnival Corp.’s Seabourn Cruise Line and from May 1998 to February 2001, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of Carnival Corp.’s Cunard Line.
Jason T. Liberty has been employed by the Company since 2005 and has served as Chief Financial Officer since May 2013. Mr. Liberty previously served as Senior Vice President, Strategy and Finance from September 2012 through May 2013, overseeing the Company’s Corporate and Strategic Planning, Treasury, Investor Relations and Deployment functions. Prior to this, Mr. Liberty served, from 2010 through 2012, as Vice President of Corporate and Revenue Planning and, from 2008 to 2010, as Vice President of Corporate and Strategic Planning. Before joining Royal Caribbean, Mr. Liberty was a Senior Manager at the international public accounting firm of KPMG LLP.
Harri U. Kulovaara has served as Executive Vice President, Maritime since January 2005. Mr. Kulovaara is responsible for fleet design and newbuild operations. Mr. Kulovaara also chairs our Maritime Safety Advisory Board. Mr. Kulovaara has been employed with Royal Caribbean since 1995 in a variety of positions, including Senior Vice President, Marine Operations, and Senior Vice President, Quality Assurance. Mr. Kulovaara is a naval architect and engineer.
Bradley H. Stein has served as General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of the Company since 2006. He has also served as Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Company since February 2009 and February 2011, respectively. Mr. Stein has been with Royal Caribbean since 1992. Before joining Royal Caribbean, Mr. Stein worked in private practice in New York and Miami.
Henry L. Pujol has served as Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer of the Company since May 2013. Mr. Pujol originally joined Royal Caribbean in 2004 as Assistant Controller and was promoted to Corporate Controller in May 2007. Before joining Royal Caribbean, Mr. Pujol was a Senior Manager at the international public accounting firm of KPMG LLP.

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Item 1A. Risk Factors
The risk factors set forth below and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are important factors that could cause actual results to differ from expected or historical results. It is not possible to predict or identify all such risks. There may be additional risks that we consider not to be material, or which are not known, and any of these risks could have the effects set forth below.The ordering of the risk factors set forth below is not intended to reflect any Company indication of priority or likelihood. See Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for a cautionary note regarding forward-looking statements.
Adverse worldwide economic or other conditions could reduce the demand for cruises and passenger spending, adversely impacting our operating results, cash flows and financial condition including potentially impairing the value of our ships and other assets.
The demand for cruises is affected by international, national and local economic conditions. Weak or uncertain economic conditions impact consumer confidence and pose a risk as vacationers may postpone or reduce discretionary spending. This, in turn, may result in cruise booking slowdowns, decreased cruise prices and lower onboard revenues. Given the global nature of our business, we are exposed to many different economies and our business could be hurt by challenging conditions in any of our markets. Any significant deterioration of global,international, national or local economic conditions, including those resulting from geopolitical events and/or international disputes, could result in a prolonged period of booking slowdowns, depressed cruise prices andand/or reduced onboard revenues.
Fears of terrorist attacks, war, and other hostilities could have a negative impact on our results of operations.
Events such as terrorist attacks, war (or war-like conditions), conflicts (domestic or cross-border), civil unrest and other hostilities, including an escalation in the frequency or severity of incidents, and the resulting political instability, travel restrictions and advisories, and concerns over safety and security aspects of traveling or the fear of any of the foregoing have had, and could have in the future, a significant adverse impact on demand and pricing in the travel and vacation industry. For example, the series of terrorism incidents throughout Europe in early 2016 negatively impacted demand for European cruises in 2016, particularly as it relates to demand for these cruises from North American guests. In view of our global operations, we are susceptible to a wide range of adverse events. These events could also result in additional security measures taken by local authorities which may potentially impact access to ports and/or destinations.
Our operating costs could increase due to market forces and economic or geo-political factors beyond our control.
Our operating costs, including fuel, food, payroll and benefits, airfare, taxes, insurance and security costs, are all subject to increases due to market forces and economic or politicalgeo-political conditions or other factors beyond our control. Increases in these operating costs could adversely affect our profitability.
Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, fuel prices and interest rates could affect our financial results.
We are exposed to market risk attributable to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, fuel prices and interest rates. Significant changes in any of the foregoing could have a material impact on our financial results, net of the impact of our hedging activities and natural offsets. Our operating results have been and will continue to be impacted, often significantly, by changes in each of these factors. The value of our earnings in foreign currencies is adversely impacted by a strong United States dollar. In addition, any significant increase in fuel prices could materially and adversely affect our business as fuel prices not only impact our fuel costs, but also some of our other expenses, such as crew travel, freight and commodity prices. Mandatory fuel restrictions, such as the International Maritime Organization's 2020 Low Sulphur Regulation ("IMO 2020"), may also create uncertainty related to the price and availability of certain fuel types potentially impacting operating costs and the value of our related hedging instruments. Also, whilea significant increase in interest rates have been near historic lows for several years, prevailing rates startedcould materially impact the cost of our floating rate debt. Furthermore, regulatory changes, such as the announcement of the United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority to increase atphase out LIBOR by the end of 20152021, may adversely affect our portfolio of floating-rate debt and are expectedinterest rate derivatives. If LIBOR ceases to continueexist, we may need to riserenegotiate any credit agreements or interest rate derivatives agreements extending beyond 2021 that utilize LIBOR as a factor in 2017,determining the interest rate or hedge rate, which given our level of variable rate indebtedness, wouldcould adversely impact our operating results. cost of debt.
See “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and “Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” for more information.

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Conducting business globally may result in increased costs and other risks.

We operate our business globally. Operating internationally exposes us to a number of risks, including increased exposure to a wider range of regional and local economic conditions, volatile local political conditions, potential changes in duties and taxes, including changing and/or uncertain interpretations of existing tax laws and regulations, required compliance with additional laws and policies affecting cruising, vacation or maritime businesses or governing the operations of foreign-based companies, currency fluctuations, interest rate movements, difficulties in operating under local business environments, port quality and availability in certain regions, U.S. and global anti-bribery laws or regulations, imposition of trade barriers and restrictions on repatriation of earnings.
Our future growth strategies increasingly depend on the growth and sustained profitability of certain international markets, such as China. Some factors that will be critical to our success in developing these markets may be different than those affecting our more-established North American and European markets. In the Chinese market, in particular, our future success depends on our ability to continue to raise awareness of our products, evolve the available distribution channels and adapt our offerings to best suit the Chinese consumer. China’s economy differs from the economies of other developed countries in many respects and, as the legal and regulatory system in China continues to evolve, there may be greater uncertainty as to the interpretation and enforcement of applicable laws and regulations.
Operating globally also exposes us to numerous and sometimes conflicting legal, regulatory and tax requirements. In many parts of the world, including countries in which we operate, practices in the local business communities might not conform to international business standards. We must adhere to policies designed to promote legal and regulatory compliance as well as applicable laws and regulations. However, we might not be successful in ensuring that our employees, agents, representatives and other third parties with whom we associate throughout the world properly adhere to them. Failure by us, our employees or any of these third parties to adhere to our policies or applicable laws or regulations could result in penalties, sanctions, damage to our reputation and related costs which in turn could negatively affect our results of operations and cash flows.
We have operations in and source passengers from the United Kingdom and other member countries of the European Union. On June 23, 2016, voters inJanuary 31, 2020, the United Kingdom approved an advisory referendum to withdrawwithdrew from the European Union. The proposedUnion and immediately entered an 11-month transition period. Uncertainty during the transition period could lead to adverse effects on the economy of the United Kingdom, including the value of the British Pound, and the other economies in which we operate, making it more difficult to source passengers from these regions. Additionally, if the withdrawal has resulted in increased volatility in the global financial markets and, in particular, in global currency exchange rates. The proposed withdrawalis not executed effectively, it could potentially adversely affect tax, legal and regulatory regimes to which our business in the region is subject. The withdrawal could also, among other potential outcomes, disrupt the free movement of goods, services and people between the United Kingdom and the European Union. Further, uncertainty around these issues could lead to adverse effects on the economy of the United Kingdom and the other economies in which we operate, making it more difficult to source passengers from these regions. These risks may be exacerbatedUnion, if voters of other countries within the European Union similarly elect to exit the European Union in future referendums.not executed effectively.
As a global operator, our business may be also impacted by changes in U.S. policy or priorities in areas such as trade, immigration and/or environmental or labor regulations, among others. Depending on the nature and scope of theseany such changes, they could impact our domestic and international business operations. While still unclear, theseAny such changes, and any international response to them, could potentially introduce new barriers to passenger or crew travel and/or cross border transactions.

transactions, impact our guest experience and/or increase our operating costs.
If we are unable to address these risks adequately, our financial position and results of operations could be adversely affected, including potentially impairing the value of our ships and other assets.
Changes in U.S. foreign travel policy may affect our results of operations.
Changes in U.S. foreign policy could result in the imposition of travel restrictions or travel bans on U.S. persons to certain countries or result in the imposition of U.S. rules, regulations or legislation that could expose us to penalties or claims of monetary damages. The timing and scope of these changes are unpredictable, and they could cause us to cancel scheduled sailings, possibly on short notice, or could result in possible litigation against us. This, in turn, could decrease our revenue, increase our operating costs and otherwise impair our profitability. For instance, in June 2019, the U.S. government announced that cruise ships would no longer be allowed to travel between the U.S. and Cuba. This required us to change our high yielding Cuba sailings on short notice, which impacted our earnings. Moreover, in May 2019, the U.S. government activated Title III of the Cuban Liberty and Solidarity (Libertad) Act of 1996, popularly known as the Helms-Burton Act. This allowed certain individuals
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whose property was confiscated by the Cuban government to sue in U.S. courts anyone who "traffics" in the property in question. The activation of Title III has resulted in litigation against us and others in the tourism industry.
Price increases for commercial airline service for our guests or major changes or reduction in commercial airline service and/or availability could adversely impact the demand for cruises and undermine our ability to provide reasonably priced vacation packages to our guests.
Many of our guests depend on scheduled commercial airline services to transport them to or from the ports where our cruises embark or disembark. Increases in the price of airfare would increase the overall price of the cruise vacation to our guests, which may adversely impact demand for our cruises. In addition, changes in the availability of commercial airline services could adversely affect our guests’ ability to obtain airfare,air travel, as well as our ability to flytransfer our guests to or from our cruise ships, which could adversely affect our results of operations.

Incidents or adverse publicity concerning ouron ships, at port facilities, land destinations and/or passengers oraffecting the cruise vacation industry in general, unusual weather conditions and other natural disasters or disruptionsthe associated negative media coverage and publicity, could affect our reputation as well asand impact our sales and results of operations.
The ownership and/or operation of cruise ships, airplanes, private destinations, port facilities and shore excursions involves the risk of accidents, illnesses, mechanical failures, environmental incidents and other incidents which may bring into question safety, health, security and vacation satisfaction which couldand can negatively impact our sales, operations and reputation. Incidents involving cruise ships, and, in particular the safety, health and security of guests and crew and the media coverage thereof have impacted and could in the future impact demand for our cruises and pricing in the industry. Our reputation and our business could also be damaged by negative publicity regarding the cruise industry in general, including publicity regarding the spread of contagious disease, over-tourism in key ports and destinations and the potentially adverse environmental impacts of cruising. The considerable expansion in the use of social media and digital marketingmedia over recent years has compounded the potential scope and reach of any negative publicity. If any such incident or news cycle occurs during a time of high seasonal demand, the effect could disproportionately impact our results of operations for the year. In addition, incidents involving cruise ships may result in additional costs to our business, increasing government or other regulatory oversight and, in the case of incidents involving our ships,certain cases, potential litigation.
Our cruise ships and port facilities may also be adversely impacted by unusualSignificant weather, patterns climate events and/or natural disasters could adversely impact our business and results from operations.
Natural disasters (e.g. earthquakes), weather and/or disruptions, such as hurricanes.climate events (including hurricanes and typhoons) could impact our source markets and operations resulting in travel restrictions, guest cancellations, an inability to source our crew or our provisions and supplies from certain places. We are often forced to alter itineraries and occasionally to cancel a cruise or a series of cruises or to redeploy our ships due to these or other factors,types of events, which could have an adverse effect on our sales, operating costs and profitability.profitability in the current and future periods. Increases in the frequency, severity or duration of severe weatherthese types of events including those related to climate change, could exacerbate thetheir impact and cause further disruption to our operations. In addition, theseoperations or make certain destinations less desirable or unavailable impacting our revenues and any other events which impact the travel industry more generally may negatively impact our ability to deliver guests or crew to our cruises and/or interrupt our ability to obtain services and goods from key vendors in our supply chain.profitability further. Any of the foregoing could have an adverse impact on our results of operations and on industry performance.
Disease outbreaks and an increase in concern about the risk of illness could adversely impact our business and results from operations.
Disease outbreaks and increased concern related to illness when travelling to, from, and on our ships could cause a drop in demand for cruises, guest cancellations, travel restrictions, an unavailability of ports and/or destinations, cruise cancellations, ship redeployments and an inability to source our crew, provisions or supplies from certain places. The recent coronavirus outbreak is currently having these impacts on our operations and, given its fluid and developing nature, has made it extremely difficult for us to forecast the impact it could have on our future operations. For instance, the resulting measures taken by China and other countries to contain the disease, including travel restrictions, have resulted in the cancellation or itinerary modification of an increasing number of our cruises in Southeast Asia. In addition, our imposition of measures to protect our guests and crew, including denying boarding to those that have traveled from, to or through mainland China or Hong Kong, has caused us to cancel cruise bookings or restrict certain guests from booking our cruises. All of these issues are having and are likely to continue to have a material impact on our bookings, operations and our overall financial performance.
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An increase in capacity worldwide or excess capacity in a particular market could adversely impact our cruise sales and/or pricing.
Although our ships can be redeployed, cruise sales and/or pricing may be impacted by the introduction of new ships into the marketplace, reductions in cruise capacity, overall market growth and deployment decisions of ourselves and our competitors. AAs of December 31, 2019, a total of 6067 new ships with approximately 173,000159,000 berths are on order for delivery through 20212024 in the cruise industry. The further net growth in capacity from these new ships and future orders, without an increase in the cruise industry’s demand and/or share of the vacation market, could depress cruise prices and impede our ability to achieve yield improvement.

In addition, to the extent that we or our competitors deploy ships to a particular itineraryitinerary/region and the resulting capacity in that region exceeds the demand, we may lower pricing and profitability may be lower than anticipated. This risk may be amplifiedexists in emerging cruise markets, such as China, where we expect continuing increasescapacity has grown rapidly over the past few years and in mature markets where excess capacity over a relatively short time horizon.is typically redeployed. Any of the foregoing could have an adverse impact on our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition, including potentially impairing the value of our ships and other assets.

Unavailability of ports of call may adversely affect our results of operations.
We believe that port destinations are a major reason why guests choose to go on a particular cruise or on a cruise vacation. The availability of ports and destinations is affected by a number of factors, including industry demand and competition for key ports and destinations, existing capacity constraints, constraints related to the size of certain ships, security, environmental and health concerns, adverse weather conditions and natural disasters, financial limitations on port development, exclusivity arrangements that ports may have with our competitors, geopolitical developments and local governmental regulations and local community concerns about port development and other adverse impacts on their communities from additional tourists.regulations. In addition, fuel costs may adversely impact the destinations on certain of our itineraries. Any
Increased demand and competition for key ports of call or destinations, limitations on the availability or feasibility of ouruse of specific ports of call and/or constraints on the availability of shore excursions and other service providers at such ports or destinations could adversely affect our results of operations.

Growing anti-tourism sentiments and environmental concerns related to cruising could adversely impact our operations.
Certain ports and destinations are facing a surge of both cruise and non-cruise tourism which, in certain cases, has fueled anti-tourism sentiments and related countermeasures to limit the volume of tourists allowed in these destinations. In certain destinations, countermeasures to limit the volume of tourists are being contemplated and/or put into effect, including proposed limits on cruise ships and cruise passengers. For example, effective 2020, the local government of Dubrovnik, Croatia will cap the number of cruise ships that can dock each day to two and the number of corresponding passengers. Similar existing and potential restrictions in ports and destinations such as Venice and Barcelona could limit the itinerary and destination options we can offer our passengers going forward. Some environmental groups have also generated negative publicity about the environmental impact of the cruise vacation industry and are advocating for more stringent regulation of ship emissions at berth and at sea. These anti-tourism sentiments and growing environmental scrutiny of the cruise industry and any related countermeasures could adversely impact our operations and financial results and subject us to increasing compliance costs.
Our reliance on shipyards, and their subcontractors and our suppliers to implement our newbuild and ship upgrade programs and to repair and maintain our ships exposes us to risks which, if realized, could adversely impact our business.
We rely on shipyards, and their subcontractors and our suppliers to effectively construct our new ships and to repair, maintain and upgrade our existing ships on a timely basis and in a cost effective manner.
There are a limited number of shipyards with the capability and capacity to build, repair, maintain and/or upgrade our new ships and, accordingly, increasedships.
Increased demand for available new construction slots and/or continued consolidation in the cruise shipyard industry (including completion of Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri's bid for STX France) could impact our ability toto: (1) construct new ships, when and as planned, (2) cause us to continue to commit to new ship orders earlier than we have historically done so and/or (3) result in stronger bargaining power on the part of the shipyards and the export credit agencies providing financing for the project. Current market conditions characterized by limited shipyard capacity, high demand for shipyard and sub-contractor resources and the growing application of advanced technologies to newbuilds (e.g. LNG) could cause delays in ship deliveries and
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scheduled drydocks across the industry. Our inability to timely and cost-effectively procure new capacity and the potential delay in ship deliveries and/or scheduled drydocks or modernizations could have a significant negative impact on our future business plans and results of operations.
Building, repairing, maintaining and/or upgrading a ship is also sophisticated work that involves significant risks, and shipyardsrisks. In addition, the prices of labor and/or various commodities that are used in the construction of ships can be subject to volatile price changes, including the impact of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Shipyards, their subcontractors and/or our suppliers may encounter financial, technical or design problems when doing these jobs.  If materialized, these problems could impact the timely delivery or costs of new ships or the ability of shipyards to repair and upgrade our fleet in accordance with our needs or expectations.  In addition, delays, mechanical faultsand/or mechanical faultsunforeseen incidents, such as the collapse of the drydock structure at the Grand Bahama Shipyard involving Oasis of the Seas, may result in cancellation of cruises or, in more severe situations, new ship orders, or necessitate unscheduled drydocks and repairs of ships. These events and any related adverse publicity could result in lost revenue, increased operating expenses, or both, and thus adversely affect our results of operations.
We may lose business to competitors throughout the vacation market.
We operate in the vacation market and cruising is one of many alternatives for people choosing a vacation. We therefore risk losing business not only to other cruise lines, but also to other vacation operators, which provide other leisure options, including hotels, resorts, internet-based alternative lodging sites and package holidays and tours.
We face significant competition from other cruise lines on the basis of cruise pricing, travel agent preference and also in terms of the nature of ships, services and servicesdestinations that we offer to guests. Our principal competitors within the cruise vacation industry include Carnival Corporation & plc, which owns, among others, Aida Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Costa Cruises, Cunard Line, Holland America Line, P&O Cruises, Princess Cruises and Princess Cruises;Seabourn; Disney Cruise Line; MSC Cruises; and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, which owns Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Our revenues are sensitive to the actions of other cruise lines in many areas including pricing, scheduling, capacity and promotions, which can have a substantial adverse impact not only on our revenues, but on overall industry revenues.
In the event that we do not effectively market or differentiate our cruise brands from our competitors or otherwise compete effectively with other vacation alternatives and new or existing cruise companies, our results of operations and financial position could be adversely affected.
We may not be able to obtain sufficient financing or capital for our needs or may not be able to do so on terms that are acceptable or consistent with our expectations.
To fund our capital expenditures (including new ship orders), operations and scheduled debt payments, we have historically relied on a combination of cash flows provided by operations, drawdowns under available credit facilities, the incurrence of additional indebtedness and the sale of equity or debt securities in private or public securities markets. Any circumstance or event which leads to a decrease in consumer cruise spending, such as worsening global economic conditions or significant incidents impacting the cruise industry, could negatively affect our operating cash flows. See “-Adverse worldwide economic geopolitical or other conditions…” and “-Incidents or adverse publicity concerning our ships and/or passengers or the cruise vacation industry …” industry…” for more information.
Although we believe we can access sufficient liquidity to fund our operations, investments and obligations as expected, there can be no assurances to that effect. Our ability to access additional funding as and when needed, our

ability to timely refinance and/or replace our outstanding debt securities and credit facilities on acceptable terms and our cost of funding will depend upon numerous factors including, but not limited to, the vibrancy of the financial markets, our financial performance, the performance of our industry in general and the size, scope and timing of our financial needs. In addition, even where financing commitments have been secured, significant disruptions in the capital and credit markets could cause our banking and other counterparties to breach their contractual obligations to us. This could include failures of banks or other financial service companies to fund required borrowings under our loan agreements or to pay us amounts that may become due or return collateral that is refundable under our derivative contracts for hedging of fuel prices, interest rates and foreign currencies or other agreements. If any of the foregoing occurs it may have a negative impact on our cash flows, including our ability to meet our obligations, our results of operations and our financial condition.
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Our liquidity could be adversely impacted if we are unable to satisfy the covenants required by our credit facilities or if we are required to post a significant amount of collateral under our interest rate hedging contracts.facilities.
Our debt agreements contain covenants, including covenants restricting our and their ability to take certain actions and financial covenants. In addition, our ability to make borrowings under our available credit facilities is subject to the absence of material adverse changes in our business. Our ability to maintain our credit facilities may also be impacted by changes in our ownership base. More specifically, we may be required to prepay our shipbank financing facilities if any person acquires ownership of more than 50% of our common stock or, subject to certain exceptions, during any 24-month period, a majority of the Boardour board of directors is no longer comprised of individuals who were members of the Boardour board of directors on the first day of such period.  Our public debt securities also contain change of control provisions that would be triggered by a third-party acquisition of greater than 50% of our common stock coupled with a ratings downgrade.
Our failureFailure to comply with the terms of ourthese debt facilities could result in an event of default. Generally, if an event of default under any debt agreement occurs, then pursuant to cross default acceleration clauses, our outstanding debt and derivative contract payables could become due and/or terminated. In addition, in such events, our credit card processors could hold back payments to create a reserve. We cannot provide assurances that we would have sufficient liquidity to repay, or the ability to refinance the debt if such amounts were accelerated upon an event of default.
If we are unable to appropriately balance our cost management and capital allocation strategies with our goal of satisfying guest expectations, it may adversely impact our business success.
Our goals call for us to provide high quality products and deliver high quality services. There can be no assurance that we can successfully balance these goals with our cost management and capital allocation strategies. Our business also requires us to make capital allocation decisions across a broad scope of investment options with varying return profiles and time horizons for value realization. These include significant capital investment decisions such as ordering new ships, and/or upgrading our ships,existing fleet, enhancing our technology and/or data capabilities, and expanding our portfolio of land-based assets, based on expected market preferences, competition and projected demand. There can be no assurance that our strategies will be successful, which could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations. Investments in older tonnage, in particular, run the risk of not meeting expected returns and diluting related asset values.
Our attempts to expand our business into new markets and new ventures may not be successful.
We opportunistically seek to grow our business through, among other things, expansion into new destinationdestinations or source markets and establishment of new ventures complementary to our current offerings. These attempts to expand our business increase the complexity of our business, require significant levels of investment and can strain our management, personnel, operations and systems. There can be no assurance that these business expansion efforts will develop as anticipated or that we will succeed, and if we do not, we may be unable to recover our investment, which could adversely impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Risks associated with our development and operation of key land-based destination projects may adversely impact our business or results of operations.
We have invested, and will continue to invest, either directly or indirectly through joint ventures and partnerships, in a growing portfolio of key land-based projects including port and terminal facilities, private destinations and multi-brand destination projects. These investments can increase our exposure to certain key risks depending on the scope, location, and the ownership and management structure of these projects. These risks include susceptibility to weather events, exposure to local political/regulatory developments and policies, logistical challenges and human resource and labor risks.
Our reliance on travel agencies to sell and market our cruises exposes us to certain risks which, if realized, could adversely impact our business.
We rely on travel agencies to generate the majority of bookings for our ships. Accordingly, we must ensure that our commission rates and incentive structures remain competitive. If we fail to offer competitive compensation packages or fail to maintain our relationships, these agencies may be incentivized to sell cruises offered by our competitors to our detriment, which could adversely impact our operating results. Our reliance on third-party sellers is particularly pronounced in certain markets,

such as China, where we have a large number of travel agent charter and group sales and less retail agency and direct booking.markets. In addition, the travel agent industry is sensitive to economic
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conditions that impact discretionary income.income of consumers. Significant disruptions, especially disruptions impacting those agencies that sell a high volume of our business, or contractions in the industry could reduce the number of travel agencies available for us to market and sell our cruises, which could have an adverse impact on our financial condition and results of operations.
Disruptions in our shoreside or shipboard operations or our information systems may adversely affect our results of operations.
Our principal executive office and principal shoreside operations are located in Florida, and we have shoreside offices throughout the world. Actual or threatened natural disasters (e.g., hurricanes/typhoons, earthquakes, tornadoes, fires or floods) or similar events in these locations may have a material impact on our business continuity, reputation and results of operations. In addition, substantial or repeated information systemssystem failures, computer viruses or cyber-attackscyber attacks impacting our shoreside or shipboard operations could adversely impact our business. We do not generally carry business interruption insurance for our shoreside or shipboard operations or our information systems. As such, any losses or damages incurred by us could have an adverse impact on our results of operations.
The loss of key personnel, our inability to recruit or retain qualified personnel, or disruptions among our shipboard personnel due to strained employee relations could adversely affect our results of operations.
Our success depends, in large part, on the skills and contributions of key executives and other employees, and on our ability to recruit, develop and retain high quality personnel as well as having adequate succession plans. As demand for qualified personnel in key markets. Wethe industry grows, we must continue to sufficientlyeffectively recruit, retain, train, motivate and motivateretain our employees, both shoreside and on our ships, in order to effectively compete in our industry, maintain our current business and support our projected global growth both shoreside and on our ships. Furthermore, asgrowth.
As of December 31, 2016, 85%2019, 89% of our shipboard employees were covered by collective bargaining agreements. A dispute under our collective bargaining agreements could result in a work stoppage of those employees covered by the agreements. We may not be able to satisfactorily renegotiate these collective bargaining agreements when they expire. In addition, existing collective bargaining agreements may not prevent a strike or work stoppage on our ships. We may also be subject to or affected by work stoppages unrelated to our business or collective bargaining agreements. Any such work stoppages or potential work stoppages could have a material adverse effect on our financial results, as could a loss of key employees, our inability to recruit or retain qualified personnel or disruptions among our personnel.
Business activities that involve our co-investmentco-investments with third parties may subject us to additional risks.
Partnerships, joint ventures and other business structures involving our co-investmentco-investments with third parties generally include some form of shared control over the operations of the business and create additional risks, including the possibility that other investors in such ventures could become bankrupt or otherwise lack the financial resources to meet their obligations, or could have or develop business interests, policies or objectives that are inconsistent with ours. With the sale of 51% of our interest in Pullmantur in July 2016, we continue to expand the breadth of our co-investment activities, which also include TUI Cruises, SkySea Cruises, Grand Bahama Shipyard and minority ownership investments in various port development and other projects. In addition to financial risks, our co-investment activities may also present managerial and operational risks and expose us to reputational or legal concerns. These or other issues related to our co-investmentco-investments with third parties could adversely impact our operations.
Past or pending business acquisitions or potential acquisitions that we may decide to pursue in the future carry inherent risks which could adversely impact our financial performance and condition.
The Company, from time to time, has engaged in acquisitions (e.g., our Silversea Cruises acquisition) and may pursue acquisitions in the future, which are subject to, among other factors, the Company’s ability to identify attractive business opportunities and to negotiate favorable terms for such opportunities. Accordingly, the Company cannot make any assurances that potential acquisitions will be completed timely or at all, or that if completed, we would realize the anticipated benefits of such acquisition. Acquisitions also carry inherent risks such as, among others: (1) the potential delay or failure of our efforts to successfully integrate business processes and realizing expected synergies; (2) difficulty in aligning procedures, controls and/or policies; and (3) future unknown liabilities and costs that may be associated with an acquisition. In addition, acquisitions may also adversely impact our liquidity and/or debt levels, and the recognized value of goodwill and other intangible assets can be negatively
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affected by unforeseen events and/or circumstances, which may result in an impairment charge. Any of the foregoing events could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.
We rely on supply chain vendors and third-party service providers who are integral to the operations of our businesses. These vendors and service providers may be unable or unwilling to deliver on their commitments or may act in ways that could harm our business.
We rely on supply chain vendors to deliver key products to the operations of our businesses around the world. Any event impacting a vendor’s ability to deliver goods of the requiredexpected quality at the location and time needed could negatively impact our ability to deliver our cruise experience. Events impacting our supply chain could be caused by factors beyond the control of our suppliers or us, including inclement weather, natural disasters, increased demand, problems in production or distribution and/or disruptions in third partythird-party logistics or transportation systems.systems, such as those caused by the recent coronavirus. Interruptions to our supply chain could increase costs and could limit the availability of products critical to our operations.

In order to achieve cost and operational efficiencies, we outsource to third-party vendors certain services that are integral to the operations of our global businesses, such as our onboard concessionaires, certain of our call center operations and operation of a large part of our information technology systems. We are subject to the risk that certain decisions are subject to the control of our third-party service providers and that these decisions may adversely affect our activities. A failure to adequately monitor a third-party service provider’s compliance with a service level agreement or regulatory or legal requirements could result in significant economic and reputational harm to us. There is also a risk the confidentiality, privacy and/or security of data held by third parties or communicated over third-party networks or platforms could become compromised.
A failureIf we are unable to keep pace with developments in technology or technological obsolescence, could impair our operations or competitive position.position could become impaired.
Our business continues to demand the use of sophisticated technology and systems. These technologies and systems require significant investment and must be proven, refined, updated, upgraded and/or replaced with more advanced systems in order to continue to meet our customers’ demands and expectations. If we are unable to do so in a timely manner or within reasonable cost parameters or if we are unable to appropriately and timely train our employees to operate any of these new systems, our business could suffer. We also may not achieve the benefits that we anticipate from any new technology or system, and a failure to do sowhich could result in higher than anticipated costs or could impair our operating results.
We may beare exposed to cyber security attacks and data breaches, including the risks and costs associated with cyber security, including protecting theour systems and maintaining integrity and security of our guests’, employees’business information, as well as personal data of our guests, employees and business partners’ personal information.partners.
We are subject to cyber security attacks. These cyber attacks can vary in scope and intent from attacks with the objective of compromising our systems, networks and communications for economic gain to attacks with the objective of disrupting, disabling or otherwise compromising our maritime and/or shoreside operations. The attacks can encompass a wide range of methods and intent, including phishing attacks, illegitimate requests for payment, theft of intellectual property, theft of confidential or non-public information, installation of malware, installation of ransomware and theft of personal or business information. The breadth and scope of these attacks, as well as the techniques and sophistication used to conduct these attacks, have grown over time.
A successful cyber security attack may target us directly, or it may be the result of a third party's inadequate care. In either scenario, the Company may suffer damage to its systems and data that could interrupt our operations, adversely impact our reputation and brand and expose us to increased risks of governmental investigation, litigation, fines and other liability, any of which could adversely affect our business. Furthermore, responding to such an attack and mitigating the risk of future attacks could result in additional operating and capital costs in systems technology, personnel, monitoring and other investments.
In addition, we are also subject to various risks associated with the collection, handling, storage and transmission of sensitive information, including risks related to compliance with applicable laws and other contractual obligations, as well as the risk that our systems collecting such information could be compromised.information. In the course of doing business, we collect large volumes of internalemployee, customer and customerother third-party data, including personally identifiable information and individual credit data, for various business purposes. We are subject to federal, state and international laws (including the European Union
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General Data Protection Regulation), as well as industry standards, relating to the collection, use, retention, security and transfer of personally identifiable information.information and individual credit data. In many cases, these laws apply not only to third-party transactions, but also to transfers of information between the Company and its subsidiaries, and among the Company, its subsidiaries and other parties with which the Company has commercial relations. Several jurisdictions have passed laws in this area, and other jurisdictions are considering imposing additional restrictions. These laws continue to develop and may be inconsistent from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Complying with emerging and changing international requirements has caused, and may cause us to incur substantial costs or require us to change our business practices. If we fail to comply with the various applicable data collection and privacy laws, we could be exposed to fines, penalties, restrictions, litigation or other expenses, and our business could be adversely impacted.
In addition, even ifWhile we are fully compliantcontinue to evolve our cyber security practices in line with legal standardsour business' reliance on technology and contractual requirements,the changing external threat landscape, and we still mayinvest time, effort and financial resources to secure our systems, networks and communications, our security measures cannot provide absolute assurance that we will be successful in preventing or responding to all cyber security attacks. There can be no assurance that any breach or incident will not be able to prevent security breaches involving sensitive data. have a material impact on our operations and financial results.
Any breach, theft, loss, or fraudulent use of guest, employee, third-party or company data, could adversely impact our reputation and brand and our ability to retain or attract new customers, and expose us to risks of data loss, business disruption, governmental investigation, litigation and other liability, any of which could adversely affect our business. Significant capital investments and other expenditures could be required to remedy the problem and prevent future breaches, including costs associated with additional security technologies, personnel, experts and credit monitoring services for those whose data has been breached. Further, if we or our vendors experience significant data security breaches or fail to detect and appropriately respond to significant data security breaches, we could be exposed to government enforcement actions and private litigation. Additionally, the techniques and sophistication used to conduct cyber-attacks and breaches of information technology systems, as well as the sources and targets of these attacks, change frequently and are often not recognized until such attacks are launched or have been in place for a period of time. Our security measures cannot provide assurance that we will be successful in preventing or identifying such breaches.
The potential unavailability of insurance coverage, or an inability to obtain insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates or our failure to have coverage in sufficient amounts to cover our incurred losses may adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.

We seek to maintain appropriate insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates. We normally insure based on the cost of an asset rather than replacement value and we also elect to self-insure, co-insure, or use deductibles in certain circumstances for certain risks such as loss of use of a ship or a cyber-securitycyber security breach. The limits of insurance coverage we purchase are based on the availability of the coverage, evaluation of our risk profile and cost of coverage. Accordingly, we are not protected against all risks and we cannot be certain that our coverage will be adequate for liabilities actually incurred which could result in an unexpected decrease in our revenue and results of operations in the event of an incident.
Our protectionWe are members of four Protection and indemnity (“Indemnity ("P&I”&I") liability insuranceclubs, which are part of a worldwide group of 13 P&I clubs, known as the International Group of P&I Clubs (the “IG”). P&I coverage provided by the clubs is placed on a mutual basis and we are subject to additional premium calls in amounts based on claim recordsthe event of all membersa catastrophic loss incurred by any member of the 13 P&I Club.clubs, whereby the reinsurance limits purchased by the IG are exhausted. We are also subject to additional premium assessments including, but not limited to,calls based on investment orand underwriting shortfalls experienced by the P&I Club.our own individual insurers.
We cannot be certain that insurance and reinsurance coverage will be available to us and at commercially reasonable rates in the future.future or at all or, if available, that it will be sufficient to cover potential claims. Additionally, if we or other insureds sustain significant losses, the result may be higher insurance premiums, cancellation of coverage, or the inability to obtain coverage. Such events could adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations.
Environmental, labor, health and safety, financial responsibility and other maritime regulations could affect operations and increase operating costs.
The United States and various state and foreign government or regulatory agencies have enacted or may enactenvironmental regulations or policies, such as requiring the use of low sulfur fuels (e.g. IMO 2020), that could increase our direct cost to operate in certain markets, increase our cost for fuel, limit the supply of compliant fuel, cause us to incur significant expenses to purchase and/or develop new equipment and adversely impact the cruise
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vacation industry. While we have taken and expect to continue to take a number of actions to mitigate the potential impact of certain of these regulations, there can be no assurances that these efforts will be successful or completed on a timely basis.
There is increasing global regulatory focus on climate change, and greenhouse gas (GHG) and other emissions. These regulatory efforts, both internationally and in the United States are still developing, and we cannot yet determine what the final regulatory programs or their impact will be in any jurisdiction where we do business. However, such climate change-related regulatory activity in the future may adversely affect our business and financial results by requiring us to reduce our emissions, purchase allowances or otherwise pay for our emissions. Such activity may also impact us by increasing our operating costs, including fuel costs.
Some environmental groups have also lobbied for more stringent regulation of cruise ships and have generated negative publicity about the cruise vacation industry and its environmental impact. See Item 1. Business-Regulation-Environmental Regulations.
In addition, we are subject to various international, national, state and local laws, regulations and treaties that govern, among other things, discharge from our ships, safety standards applicable to our ships, treatment of disabled persons, health and sanitary standards applicable to our guests, security standards on board our ships and at the ship/port interface areas, and financial responsibilities to our guests. These issues are, and we believe will continue to be, an area of focus by the relevant authorities throughout the world. This could result in the enactment of more stringent regulation of cruise ships that could subject us to increasing compliance costs in the future.
A change in our tax status under the United States Internal Revenue Code, or other jurisdictions, may have adverse effects on our income.
We and a number of our subsidiaries are foreign corporations that derive income from a U.S. trade or business and/or from sources within the United States. In connection with the year end audit, each year,Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, our U.S. tax counsel, has delivereddelivers to us an opinion, based on certain representations and assumptions set forth in it, to the effect that this income, to the extent derived from or incidental to the international operation of a ship or ships, is excluded from gross income for U.S. federal income tax purposes pursuant to Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code. We believe that most of our income (including that of our subsidiaries) is derived from or incidental to the international operation of a ship or ships.

Our ability to rely on Section 883 could be challenged or could change in the future. Provisions of the Internal Revenue Code, including Section 883, are subject to legislative change at any time. Moreover, changes could occur in the future with respect to the identity, residence or holdings of our direct or indirect shareholders, trading volume or trading frequency of our shares, or relevant foreign tax laws of Liberia or Bahamas, such that itthey no longer qualifiesqualify as an equivalent exemption jurisdiction,jurisdictions, that could affect our eligibility for the Section 883 exemption. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will continue to be exempt from U.S. income tax on U.S. source shipping income in the future. If we were not entitled to the benefit of Section 883, we and our subsidiaries would be subject to U.S. taxation on a portion of the income derived from or incidental to the international operation of our ships, which would reduce our net income.
Additionally, portions of our business are operated by companies that are within tonnage tax regimes of the United Kingdom and Malta.tonnage tax regime. Further, some of our operations are conducted in jurisdictions where we rely on tax treaties to provide exemption from taxation. To the extent the United Kingdom tonnage tax laws of these countries change or we do not continue to meet the applicable qualification requirements or if tax treaties are changed or revoked, we may be required to pay higher income tax in these jurisdictions, adversely impacting our results of operations.
As budgetary constraints continue to adversely impact the jurisdictions in which we operate, increases in income tax regulations, tax audits or tax reform affecting our operations may be imposed.
Litigation, enforcement actions, fines or penalties could adversely impact our financial condition or results of operations and/or damage our reputation.
Our business is subject to various United States and international laws and regulations that could lead to enforcement actions, fines, civil or criminal penalties or the assertion of litigation claims and damages. In addition, improper conduct by our employees, agents or joint venture partners could damage our reputation and/or lead to litigation or legal proceedings that could result in civil or criminal penalties, including substantial monetary fines. In certain circumstances it may not be economical to defend against such matters and/or aour legal strategy may not ultimately result in us prevailing in a matter. Such events could lead to an adverse impact on our financial condition or results of operations.
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We are not a United States corporation and our shareholders may be subject to the uncertainties of a foreign legal system in protecting their interests.
Our corporate affairs are governed by our Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws and by the Business Corporation Act of Liberia. The provisions of the Business Corporation Act of Liberia resemble provisions of the corporation laws of a number of states in the United States. However, while most states have a fairly well developed body of case law interpreting their respective corporate statutes, there are very few judicial cases in Liberia interpreting the Business Corporation Act of Liberia. As such, the rights and fiduciary responsibilities of directors under Liberian law are not as clearly established as the rights and fiduciary responsibilities of directors under statutes or judicial precedent in certain United States jurisdictions. For example, the right of shareholders to bring a derivative action in Liberian courts may be more limited than in United States jurisdictions. There may also be practical difficulties for shareholders attempting to bring suit in Liberia and Liberian courts may or may not recognize and enforce foreign judgments. Thus, our public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests with respect to actions by management, directors or controlling shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a United States jurisdiction.
Provisions of our Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws and Liberian law could inhibit others from acquiring us, prevent a change of control, and may prevent efforts by our shareholders to change our management.
Certain provisions of our Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws and Liberian law may inhibit third parties from effectuating a change of control of the Company without Board approval from our board of directors which could result in the entrenchment of current management. These include provisions in our Articles of Incorporation that prevent third parties, other than A. Wilhelmsen AS. and Cruise Associates, from acquiring beneficial ownership of more than 4.9% of our outstanding shares without the consent of our Boardboard of Directors.directors.


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Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments

None.

Item 2. Properties

Information about our cruise ships, including their size and primary areas of operation, may be found within the Operating Strategies - Fleet upgrade, maintenance and expansion section and the Operations - Cruise Ships and Itineraries sections inItem 1. Business. Information regarding our cruise ships under construction, estimated expenditures and financing may be found within the Future Capital Commitments and Funding Needs and Sources sections of Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Our principal executive office and principal shoreside operations are located in leased office buildings at the Port of Miami, Florida. We also lease a number of other offices in the USU.S. and throughout Europe, Asia, Mexico, South America and Australia to administer our brand operations globally.
We believe that our facilities are adequate for our current needs and that we are capable of obtaining additional facilities as necessary.

We also operate two private destinations which we utilize as ports-of-call on certain of our itineraries: (i) an island we own in the Bahamas which we call CocoCay; and (ii) Labadee, a secluded peninsula we lease on the north coast of Haiti.
Item 3.    Legal Proceedings
In April 2015, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation issued Notices of Violation toOn August 27, 2019, two lawsuits were filed against Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises seeking monetary penaltiesLtd. in the U.S. District Court for alleged violationsthe Southern District of Florida under Title III of the Alaska Marine Visible Emission Standards that occurred overCuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act, also known as the previous five years on certain of our vessels.  In February 2017, we settled all claims pursuant to a Compliance OrderHelms-Burton Act. The complaint filed by Consent in which we agreed to payHavana Docks Corporation alleges it holds an amount and perform certain remedial actions which,  individually andinterest in the aggregate, are immaterialHavana Cruise Port Terminal and the complaint filed by Javier Garcia-Bengochea alleges that he holds an interest in the Port of Santiago, Cuba, both of which were expropriated by the Cuban Government. The complaints further allege that Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. trafficked in those properties by embarking and disembarking passengers at these facilities. The plaintiffs seek all available statutory remedies, including the value of the expropriated property, plus interest, treble damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. filed its answer to each complaint on October 4, 2019. We believe we have meritorious defenses to the claims, and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves against them. We believe that it is unlikely that the outcome of these matters will have a material adverse impact to our financial condition, or results of operations andor cash flows.

However, the outcome of litigation is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties, and there can be no assurances that the final outcome of this case will not be material.
We are routinely involved in other claims typical within the cruise vacationtravel and tourism industry. The majority of these claims are covered by insurance. WeAlthough the outcome of any litigation is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties, we believe it is unlikely that the outcome of such claims, net of expected insurance recoveries, will not have a material adverse impact on our financial condition, or results of operations and cash flows.
Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures
None.

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PART II
Item 5.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Market Information
Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the symbol "RCL." The table below sets forth the high and low sales prices of our common stock as reported by the NYSE for the two most recent years by quarter:

NYSE
Common Stock

High Low
2016   
Fourth Quarter$86.84 $67.53
Third Quarter$75.72 $65.10
Second Quarter$84.56 $64.95
First Quarter$99.81 $64.21
2015   
Fourth Quarter$103.40 $87.08
Third Quarter$97.60 $77.74
Second Quarter$83.32 $65.91
First Quarter$85.56 $72.79
In 2015, we applied for and received approval to delist from the Oslo Stock Exchange ("OSE"). Our last day of trading on the OSE was March 8, 2016.
Holders
As of February 9, 201721, 2020, there were 1,8741,318 record holders of our common stock. Since certain of our shares are held by brokers and other institutions on behalf of shareholders, the foregoing number is not representative of the number of beneficial owners.
Dividends
In 2015, we declared cash dividends on our common stock of $0.30 per share during the first and second quarters of 2015. We increased the dividend amount to $0.375 per share for the dividends declared in the third and fourth quarters of 2015 and the first and second quarters of 2016. The dividend amount was increased to $0.48 per share for the dividends declared in the third and fourth quarters of 2016.
Holders of our common stock have an equal right to share in our profits in the form of dividends when and if declared by our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors out of funds legally available. Holders of our common stock have no rights to any sinking fund.
There are no exchange control restrictions on remittances of dividends on our common stock since (1) we are and intend to maintain our status as a nonresident Liberian entity under the Liberia Revenue Code of 2000 as Amended and the regulations thereunder, and (2) our ship-owning subsidiaries are not now engaged, and are not in the future expected to engage, in any business in Liberia, including voyages exclusively within the territorial waters of the Republic of Liberia. Under current Liberian law, no Liberian taxes or withholding will be imposed on payments to holders of our securities other than to a holder that is a resident Liberian entity or a resident individual or an individual or entity subject to taxation in Liberia as a result of having a permanent establishment within the meaning of the Liberia Revenue Code of 2000 as Amended in Liberia.
The declaration of dividends shall at all times be subject to the final determination of our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors that a dividend is prudent at that time in consideration of the needs of the business. Refer toNote 12. Shareholders' Equity to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data for further information on dividends declared.

Share Repurchases
The following table presents the total number of shares of our common stock that we repurchased during the quarter ended December 31, 2019:
PeriodTotal number of shares purchasedAverage price paid per shareTotal number of shares purchased as part of publicly announced plans or programsApproximate dollar value of shares that may yet be purchased under the plans or programs
October 1, 2019 - October 31, 2019—  —  —  $700,000,000  
November 1, 2019 - November 30, 2019859,701  $115.83  859,701  $600,417,000  
December 1, 2019 - December 31, 2019—  —  —  $600,417,000  
Total859,701  859,701  

As of December 31, 2019, we have approximately $600.0 million that remains available for future common stock repurchase transactions under a 24-month common stock repurchase program for up to $1.0 billion authorized by our board of directors on May 9, 2018. Refer toNote 12. Shareholders' Equity to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data for further information.
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Performance Graph
The following graph compares the total return, assuming reinvestment of dividends, on an investment in the Company, based on performance of the Company's common stock, with the total return of the Standard & Poor's 500 Composite Stock Index ("S&P 500") and the Dow Jones United States Travel and Leisure Index for a five year period by measuring the changes in common stock prices from December 31, 20112014 to December 31, 2016.2019.

rcl-20191231_g1.jpg
12/11 12/12 12/13 12/14 12/15 12/1612/1412/1512/1612/1712/1812/19
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
100.00 139.36 198.03 350.40 437.09 362.38
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
100.00  124.74  103.42  153.30  128.55  179.92  
S&P 500100.00 116.00 153.58 174.60 177.01 198.18S&P 500100.00  101.38  113.51  138.29  132.23  173.86  
Dow Jones US Travel & Leisure100.00 113.33 164.87 191.85 203.17 218.56
Dow Jones U.S. Travel & LeisureDow Jones U.S. Travel & Leisure100.00  105.90  113.92  141.05  133.16  165.04  
The stock performance graph assumes for comparison that the value of the Company's common stock and of each index was $100 on December 31, 20112014 and that all dividends were reinvested. Past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future results.

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Item 6.    Selected Financial Data
The selected consolidated financial data presented below for the years 2012ended December 31, 2015 through 2016December 31, 2019 and as of the end of each such year, except for Adjusted Net Income amounts, are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with those financial statements and the related notes as well as in conjunction with Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Year Ended December 31,
2019
2018 (1)
201720162015
(in thousands, except per share data)
Operating Data:
Total revenues$10,950,661  $9,493,849  $8,777,845  $8,496,401  $8,299,074  
Operating Income$2,082,701  $1,894,801  $1,744,056  $1,477,205  $874,902  
Net Income (2)
$1,907,600  $1,815,792  $1,625,133  $1,283,388  $665,783  
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$1,878,887  $1,811,042  $1,625,133  $1,283,388  $665,783  
Adjusted Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Ltd.(3) (4) (5)
$2,002,847  $1,873,363  $1,625,133  $1,314,689  $1,065,066  
Per Share Data—Basic:
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$8.97  $8.60  $7.57  $5.96  $3.03  
Adjusted Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$9.56  $8.90  $7.57  $6.10  $4.85  
Weighted-average shares209,405  210,570  214,617  215,393  219,537  
Per Share Data—Diluted:
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$8.95  $8.56  $7.53  $5.93  $3.02  
Adjusted Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$9.54  $8.86  $7.53  $6.08  $4.83  
Weighted-average shares and potentially dilutive shares209,930  211,554  215,694  216,316  220,689  
Dividends declared per common share$2.96  $2.60  $2.16  $1.71  $1.35  
Balance Sheet Data:
Total assets (6) (7)
$30,320,284  $27,698,270  $22,360,926  $22,310,324  $20,782,043  
Total debt, including commercial paper and capital leases$11,034,876  $10,777,699  $7,539,451  $9,387,436  $8,527,243  
Common stock$2,365  $2,358  $2,352  $2,346  $2,339  
Total shareholders' equity$12,163,846  $11,105,461  $10,702,303  $9,121,412  $8,063,039  

(1)On July 31, 2018, we acquired a 66.7% equity stake in Silversea Cruise Holding Ltd ("Silversea Cruises"). Refer to Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition.
(2)Amount for 2017 includes a gain of $30.9 million related to the sale of Legend of the Seas.
(3)For 2019, 2018 and 2017, refer to Financial Presentation and Results of Operations under Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for the definition of Adjusted Net Income and a reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income to Net income.
(4)Amount for 2016 excludes the net loss related to the elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag of $21.7 million, the net gain related to the sale of the Pullmantur and CDF Croisieres de France brands of $3.8 million, restructuring charges of $8.5 million and other initiative costs of $5.0 million.
(5)Amount for 2015 excludes the impairment of Pullmantur related assets of $399.3 million.
(6)We reclassified prepaid commissions of $64.6 million from Customer deposits to Prepaid expenses and other assets in our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2017 in order to conform to the current year presentation.
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 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014 2013 2012
 (in thousands, except per share data)
Operating Data:         
Total revenues$8,496,401
 $8,299,074
 $8,073,855
 $7,959,894
 $7,688,024
Operating income$1,477,205
 $874,902
 $941,859
 $798,148
 $403,110
Net income$1,283,388
 $665,783
 $764,146
 $473,692
 $18,287
Adjusted Net Income(1) (2) (3)
$1,314,689
 $1,065,066
 $755,729
 $539,224
 $442,873
Per Share Data—Basic:         
Net income$5.96
 $3.03
 $3.45
 $2.16
 $0.08
Adjusted Net Income$6.10
 $4.85
 $3.41
 $2.46
 $2.03
Weighted-average shares215,393
 219,537
 221,658
 219,638
 217,930
Per Share Data—Diluted:         
Net income$5.93
 $3.02
 $3.43
 $2.14
 $0.08
Adjusted Net Income$6.08
 $4.83
 $3.39
 $2.44
 $2.02
Weighted-average shares and potentially dilutive shares216,316
 220,689
 223,044
 220,941
 219,457
Dividends declared per common share$1.71
 $1.35
 $1.10
 $0.74
 $0.44
Balance Sheet Data:         
Total assets$22,310,324
 $20,782,043
 $20,524,060
 $19,915,003
 $19,670,401
Total debt, including capital leases$9,387,436
 $8,527,243
 $8,254,818
 $7,916,860
 $8,332,418
Common stock$2,346
 $2,339
 $2,331
 $2,308
 $2,291
Total shareholders' equity$9,121,412
 $8,063,039
 $8,284,359
 $8,808,265
 $8,308,749
(7)Upon adoption of the new Lease accounting guidance effective January 1, 2019, we recognized right-of-use assets relating to operating leases within Operating lease right-of-use assets in our consolidated balance sheet. As of December 31, 2019, we reported Operating lease right-of-use assets of $687.6 million in our consolidated balance sheet. The comparative information presented has not been recast and continues to be reported under the accounting standards in effect for those periods. For further information on leases, refer to Note 10. Leases.

(1)
For 2016, 2015 and 2014, refer to Financial Presentation and Results of Operations under Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for definition of Adjusted Net Income and reconciliation of Adjusted Net Income to Net income.
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(2)Amount for 2013 excludes restructuring and related impairment charges of $56.9 million and an $8.6 million loss related to the estimated impact of Pullmantur's non-core businesses that were sold in 2014.
(3)
Amount for 2012 excludes an impairment charge of $385.4 million, to write down Pullmantur's goodwill to its implied fair value and to write down trademarks and trade names and certain long-lived assets, consisting of aircraft that was then owned and operated by Pullmantur Air, to their fair value, and a net deferred tax charge of $28.5 million. The net deferred tax charge includes a $33.7 million charge to record a 100% valuation allowance related to our deferred tax assets for Pullmantur and a $5.2 million tax benefit to reduce the deferred tax liability related to Pullmantur's trademarks and trade names. Additionally, the amount for 2012 excludes a $10.7 million loss related to the estimated impact of Pullmantur's non-core businesses that were sold in 2014.

Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
The discussion under this caption "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and elsewhere in this document, including, for example, under the "Risk Factors" and "Business" captions, includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact, including statements regarding guidance (including our expectations for the first quarter and full year of 2017,2020, our earnings and yield estimates for 20172020 set forth under the heading "Outlook" below and expectations regarding the timing and results of our Double-Double Program)goals for our rcl-20191231_g2.jpgprogram), business and industry prospects or future results of operations or financial position, made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K are forward-looking. Words such as "anticipate," "believe," "could," "estimate," "expect," "goal," "intend," "may," "plan," "project," "seek," "should," "will," "driving" and similar expressions are intended to further identify any of these forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements reflect management's current expectations but they are based on judgments and are inherently uncertain. Furthermore, they are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied in those forward-looking statements. Examples of these risks, uncertainties and other factors include, but are not limited to, those discussed in this Annual Report on Form 10-K and, in particular, the risks discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in Part I, Item 1A of this report.herein.
All forward-looking statements made in this Annual Report on Form 10-K speak only as of the date of this document. Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Overview
The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations have beenis organized to present the following:
a review of our critical accounting policies and of our financial presentation, including discussion of certain operational and financial metrics we utilize to assist us in managing our business;
a discussion of our results of operations for the year ended December 31, 20162019 compared to the same period in 20152018 and the year ended December 31, 20152018 compared to the same period in 2014;2017;
a discussion of our business outlook, including our expectations for selected financial items for the first quarter and full year of 2017;2020; and
a discussion of our liquidity and capital resources, including our future capital and contractual commitments and potential funding sources.
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Critical Accounting Policies
Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). (Refer to Note 1. General and Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). Certain of our accounting policies are deemed "critical," as they require management's highest degree of judgment, estimates and assumptions. We have discussed these accounting policies and estimates with the audit committee of our board of directors. We believe our most critical accounting policies are as follows:
Ship Accounting
Our shipsShips represent our most significant assets and are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation of ships is generally computed net of a 15%10%-15% projected residual value, using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset, which is generally 3030-35 years. The 30-year30-35 year useful life of our newly constructed ships and 15% associated10%-15% residual value are both based onis the weighted-average of all major components

of a ship. Our useful life and residual value estimates take into consideration the impact of anticipated technological changes, long-term cruise and vacation market conditions and historical useful lives of similarly-built ships. In addition, we take into consideration our estimates of the weighted-average useful lives of the ships' major component systems, such as hull, superstructure, main electric, engines and cabins. We employ a cost allocation methodology at the component level, in order to support the estimated weighted-average useful lives and residual values, as well as to determine the net cost basis of assets being replaced. Given the very large and complex nature of our ships, our accounting estimates related to ships and determinations of ship improvement costs to be capitalized require considerable judgment and are inherently uncertain. We do not have cost segregation studies performed to specifically componentize our ship systems. Therefore,However, we estimate the costs, useful lives and residual values of component systems based principally on general and technical information known about major ship component systems and their lives, andas well as our knowledge of the cruise vacation industry. We do not identify and track depreciation by ship component systems, but instead utilize these estimates to determine the net cost basis of assets replaced or refurbished. Improvement costs that we believe add value to our ships are capitalized as additions to the ship and depreciated over the shorter of the improvements' estimated useful lives or that of the associated ship. The estimated cost and accumulated depreciation of replaced or refurbished ship components are written off and any resulting losses are recognized in within Cruise operating expensesin our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss).
We periodically review estimated useful lives and residual values for ongoing reasonableness, considering long term views on our intended use of each class of ships and the planned level of improvements to maintain and enhance vessels within those classes. In the event a factor is identified that may trigger a change in the estimated useful lives and residual values of our ships, a review of the estimate is completed. In the fourth quarter of 2019, we completed a modernization of the Oasis of the Seas under our ship upgrade program. The level of capital investment, as well as planned investment levels in the other ships within the Oasis class, triggered a review of the estimated useful lives and residual values of the Oasis-class ships. Following a review of the estimate, considering the intended use of the vessel and assessment of the estimated lives of component assets forming the Oasis class ships, we concluded a change to the estimated lives and residual values of Oasis class ships was required. Effective fourth quarter of 2019, we revised the estimated useful lives and residual values of the Oasis-class ships from 30 years with a 15% residual value to 35 years with a 10% residual value. The change in the estimated useful lives and residual values was accounted for prospectively as a change in accounting estimate. For further information regarding this change in accounting estimate, refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
We use the deferral method to account for drydocking costs. Under the deferral method, drydocking costs incurred are deferred and charged to expense on a straight-line basis over the period to the next scheduled drydock, which we estimate to be a period of thirty to sixty months based on the vessel's age as required by Class. Deferred drydock costs consist of the costs to drydock the vessel and other costs incurred in connection with the drydock which are necessary to maintain the vessel's Class certification. Class certification is necessary in order for our cruise ships to be flagged in a specific country, obtain liability insurance and legally operate as passenger cruise ships. The activities associated with those drydocking costs cannot be performed while the vessel is in service and, as such, are done during a drydock as a planned major maintenance activity. The significant deferred drydock costs consist of hauling and wharfage services provided by the drydock facility, hull inspection and related activities (e.g., scraping, pressure cleaning, bottom painting), maintenance to steering propulsion, thruster equipment and ballast
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tanks, port services such as tugs, pilotage and line handling, and freight associated with these items. We perform a detailed analysis of the various activities performed for each drydock and only defer those costs that are directly related to planned major maintenance activities necessary to maintain Class. The costs deferred are related to activities not otherwise routinely periodically performed to maintain a vessel's designed and intended operating capability. Repairs and maintenance activities are charged to expense as incurred.
We use judgment when estimating the period between drydocks, which can result in adjustments to the estimated amortization of drydock costs. If the vessel is disposed of before the next drydock, the remaining balance in deferred drydock is written-off to the gain or loss upon disposal of vessel in the period in which the sale takes place. We also use judgment when identifying costs incurred during a drydock which are necessary to maintain the vessel's Class certification as compared to those costs attributable to repairs and maintenance which are expensed as incurred.
We believe we have made reasonable estimates for ship accounting purposes. However, should certain factors or circumstances cause us to revise our estimates of ship useful lives or projected residual values, depreciation expense could be materially higher or lower. If circumstances cause us to change our assumptions in making determinations as to whether ship improvements should be capitalized, the amounts we expense each year as repairs and maintenance costs could increase, partially offset by a decrease in depreciation expense. If we had reduced our estimated average ship useful life by one year, depreciation expense for 20162019 would have increased by approximately $62.7$129.3 million. If our ships were estimated to have no residual value, depreciation expense for 20162019 would have increased by approximately $221.9$325.1 million.
Business Combinations
On July 31, 2018, we acquired a 66.7% equity stake in Silversea Cruises for $1.02 billion in cash and contingent consideration. Refer to Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on the acquisition.
We account for business combinations in accordance with ASC 805, Business Combinations, by applying the acquisition method of accounting. The acquisition method of accounting requires that we record the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, and the noncontrolling interest, if any, at their respective fair values at the acquisition date. Goodwill is recognized as the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the net assets acquired. Significant estimates and assumptions are made by management to value such assets and liabilities based on third party valuations such as appraisals or internal valuations based on discounted cash flow analyses or other valuation techniques. Although we believe that those estimates and assumptions are reasonable and appropriate, they are inherently uncertain and subject to change. If during the measurement period (not to exceed one year), additional information is obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date related to the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, we may adjust our estimates to account for subsequent adjustments to the provisional amounts recognized at the acquisition date, resulting in an offsetting adjustment to the goodwill associated with the business acquired.
Uncertain tax positions and tax-related valuation allowances are initially established in connection with a business combination as of the acquisition date. We continue to collect information and reevaluate these estimates and assumptions quarterly. We will record any adjustments to our preliminary estimates to goodwill, provided that we are within the one-year measurement period. Our purchase price measurement period for the Silversea Cruises acquisition was closed during 2019.
Any contingent consideration is estimated at fair value at the acquisition date. Liability-classified contingent consideration is remeasured each reporting period, with changes in fair value recognized in earnings until the contingent consideration is settled.
Valuation of Goodwill, Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets and Long-Lived Assets
We review goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment at the reporting unit level annually or, when events or circumstances dictate, more frequently. The impairment review for goodwill consists of a qualitative assessment of whether it is more-likely-than-not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying amount, and if necessary, a two-step goodwill impairment test. Factors to consider when performing the qualitative assessment include general economic conditions, limitations on accessing capital, changes in forecasted operating results, changes in fuel prices and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. If the qualitative assessment demonstrates
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that it is more-likely-than-not that the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, it is not necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. We may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to step

one, for any reporting unit, in any period. On a periodic basis, we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed to step one to corroborate the results of recent years' qualitative assessments. We can resume the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in any subsequent period.
When performing the two-step goodwill impairment test, the fair value of the reporting unit is determined and compared to the carrying value of the net assets allocated to the reporting unit. We estimate the fair value of our reporting units using a probability-weighted discounted cash flow model. The estimation of fair value utilizing discounted expected future cash flows includes numerous uncertainties which require our significant judgment when making assumptions of expected revenues, operating costs, marketing, selling and administrative expenses, interest rates, ship additions and retirements as well as assumptions regarding the cruise vacation industry's competitive environment and general economic and business conditions, among other factors. The principal assumptions we use in the discounted cash flow model are projected operating results, weighted-average cost of capital, and terminal value. The discounted cash flow model uses the most current projected operating results for the upcoming fiscal year as a base. To that base, we add future years' cash flows assuming multiple revenue and expense scenarios that reflect the impact of different global economic environments beyond the base year on the reporting unit. We discount the projected cash flows using rates specific to the reporting unit based on its weighted-average cost of capital. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, no further analysis or write-down of goodwill is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value of its net assets, the implied fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all its underlying assets and liabilities, including both recognized and unrecognized tangible and intangible assets, based on their fair value. If necessary, goodwill is then written down to its implied fair value.
The impairment review for indefinite-life intangible assets can be performed using a qualitative or quantitative impairment assessment. The quantitative assessment consists of a comparison of the fair value of the asset with its carrying amount. We estimate the fair value of these assets using a discounted cash flow model and various valuation methods depending on the nature of the intangible asset, such as the relief-from-royalty method for trademarks and tradenames.trade names. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. If the fair value exceeds its carrying amount, the indefinite-life intangible asset is not considered impaired. As of December 31, 2016, the carrying amount of indefinite-life intangible assets was not material. Other intangible assets assigned finite useful lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. Refer to Note 6. Intangible Assets to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data for further information on indefinite-life intangible assets.
We review our ships aircraft and other long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate, based on estimated undiscounted future cash flows, that the carrying amount of these assets may not be fully recoverable. We evaluate asset impairment at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. The lowest level for which we maintain identifiable cash flows that are independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities is at the ship level for our ships and, prior to the sale of the aircraft, at the aggregated asset group level for our aircraft. If estimated future cash flows are less than the carrying value of an asset, an impairment charge is recognized to the extent its carrying value exceeds fair value.
We estimate fair value based on quoted market prices in active markets, if available. If active markets are not available, we base fair value on independent appraisals, sales price negotiations and projected future cash flows discounted at a rate estimated by management to be commensurate with the business risk. Quoted market prices are often not available for individual reporting units and for indefinite-life intangible assets. Accordingly, we estimate the fair value of a reporting unit and an indefinite-life intangible asset using an expected present value technique.
Royal Caribbean International
During the fourth quarter of 2016,2019, we performed a qualitative assessment of the Royal Caribbean International reporting unit. Based on our qualitative assessment, we concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that the estimated fair value of the Royal Caribbean International reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and thus, we did not proceed to the two-step goodwill impairment test. No indicators of impairment exist primarily because the reporting unit's fair value has consistently exceeded its carrying value by a significant margin its financial performance has been solid in the face of mixed economic environments and forecasts of operating results expected to be generated by the reporting unit appear sufficient to support its carrying value. As of
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December 31, 2019, the carrying amount of goodwill attributable to our Royal Caribbean reporting unit was $299.2 million.
Silversea Cruises
The goodwill for the Silversea Cruises reporting unit was recorded at fair value at July 31, 2018, the acquisition date. Refer to Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data for further information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition. During the fourth quarter of 2019, we performed a qualitative assessment of the Silversea Cruises reporting unit. Based on our qualitative assessment, we concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that the estimated fair value of the Silversea Cruises reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and thus, we did not proceed to the two-step goodwill impairment test. No indicators of impairment exist primarily because forecasts of operating results expected to be generated by the reporting unit appear sufficient to support its carrying value. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the carrying amount of goodwill attributable to our Royal CaribbeanSilversea Cruises reporting unit was $286.8 million.$1.1 billion.
2015 Impairment of Pullmantur Related Assets

The indefinite-life intangible asset related to the Silversea Cruises trade name acquired in the Silversea Cruises acquisition was recorded at fair value at July 31, 2018, the acquisition date. During the thirdfourth quarter of 2015,2019, we performed an interim impairment evaluationa qualitative assessment of Pullmantur’s goodwill and trademarks andthe Silversea Cruises trade names in connection with the preparation of our financial statements.name. As a result of this analysis, we determined thatthe assessment performed no impairment charge was recorded related to trade name intangible assets for the year ended December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2019 and 2018, the carrying valueamount of the Pullmantur reporting unit exceeded its fair value. Similarly, we determined that the carrying value of Pullmantur’s trademarks and trade names exceeded their fair value. Accordingly, upon the completion of the relevant impairment tests discussed above, we recognized impairment charges of $123.8indefinite-life intangible assets was $352.3 million and $174.3$351.7 million, for goodwill and trademark andrespectively, which primarily relates to the Silversea Cruises trade names, respectively, duringname acquired in the quarter ended September 30, 2015. These charges reflected the full carrying amounts of the goodwill and trademark and trade names leaving Pullmantur with no intangible assets on its books.Silversea Cruises acquisition.
Derivative Instruments
We enter into various forward, swap and option contracts to manage our interest rate exposure and to limit our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and fuel prices. These instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at their fair value and the vast majority are designated as hedges. We also use non-derivative financial instruments designated as hedges of our net investment in our foreign operations and investments. Although certain of our derivative financial instruments do not qualify or are not accounted for under hedge accounting, we do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. We account for derivative financial instruments in accordance with authoritative guidance. Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 14. 18. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for more information on related authoritative guidance, the Company's hedging programs and derivative financial instruments.
WeOn a regular basis, we enter into foreign currency forward contracts, and collars, interest rate cross-currency and fuel swaps and options with third-party institutions in over-the-counter markets. We estimate the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts and interest rate and cross-currency swaps using expected future cash flows based on the instruments' contract terms and published forward prices for foreign currency exchange and interest rates. We value floors which are embedded within our interest rate swaps using standard option pricing models with inputs based on the options’ contract terms, such as exercise price and maturity, and readily available market data, such as forward interest rates and interest rate volatility. We apply present value techniques and LIBOR or EURIBOR-based discount rates to convert the expected future cash flows to the current fair value of the instruments.
We estimate the fair value of our foreign currency collars using standard option pricing models with inputs based on the options' contract terms, such as exercise price and maturity, and readily available public market data, such as foreign exchange prices, foreign exchange volatility levels and discount rates.
We estimate the fair value of our fuel swaps using expected future cash flows based on the swaps' contract terms and forward prices. We derive forward prices from published forward fuel curves which in turn are based on pricing inputs provided by third-party institutions that transact in the fuel indices we hedge. We validate these pricing inputs against actual market transactions and published price quotes for similar assets. We apply present value techniques and LIBOR-based discount rates to convert the expected future cash flows to the current fair value of the instruments. We also corroborate our fair value estimates using valuations provided by our counterparties.
We adjust the valuation of our derivative financial instruments to incorporate credit risk.
We believe it is unlikely that materially different estimates for the fair value of our foreign currency forward contracts and interest rate cross-currency and fuel swaps and options would be derived from other appropriate valuation models using similar assumptions, inputs or conditions suggested by actual historical experience.


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Contingencies—Litigation
On an ongoing basis, we assess the potential liabilities related to any lawsuits or claims brought against us. While it is typically very difficult to determine the timing and ultimate outcome of such actions, we use our best judgment to determine if it is probable that we will incur an expense related to the settlement or final adjudication of such matters and whether a reasonable estimation of such probable loss, if any, can be made. In assessing probable losses, we take into consideration estimates of the amount of insurance recoveries, if any, which are recorded as assets when recoverability is probable. We accrue a liability when we believe a loss is probable and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. Due to the inherent uncertainties related to the eventual outcome of litigation and potential insurance recoveries, it is possible that certain matters may be resolved for amounts materially different from any provisions or disclosures that we have previously made.

Seasonality
Our revenues are seasonal based on demand for cruises. Demand is strongest for cruises during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months and holidays. In order to mitigate the impact of the winter weather in the Northern Hemisphere and to capitalize on the summer season in the Southern Hemisphere, our brands have focused on deployment to the Caribbean, Asia and Australia during that period.
Financial Presentation
Description of Certain Line Items
Revenues
Our revenues are comprised of the following:
Passenger ticket revenues, which consist of revenue recognized from the sale of passenger tickets and the sale of air transportation to and from our ships; and
Onboard and other revenues, which consist primarily of revenues from the sale of goods and/or services onboard our ships not included in passenger ticket prices, cancellation fees, sales of vacation protection insurance, and pre- and post-cruise tours. Additionally, revenue related to Pullmantur's travel agency network, land-based tours and air charter business to third parties are included in fees for operating certain port facilities. Onboard and other revenues through March 31, 2014, the date of the sale of Pullmantur's non-core businesses. Onboard and other revenues also includesinclude revenues we receive from independent third-partythird party concessionaires that pay us a percentage of their revenues in exchange for the right to provide selected goods and/or services onboard our ships, as well as revenues received for our bareboat charters to andcharter, procurement and management related services we perform on behalf of our unconsolidated affiliates.
Cruise Operating Expenses
Our cruise operating expenses are comprised of the following:
Commissions, transportation and other expenses, which consist of those costs directly associated with passenger ticket revenues, including travel agent commissions, air and other transportation expenses, port costs that vary with passenger head counts and related credit card fees;
Onboard and other expenses, which consist of the direct costs associated with onboard and other revenues, including the costs of products sold onboard our ships, vacation protection insurance premiums, costs associated with pre- and post-cruise tours and related credit card fees as well as the minimal costs associated with concession revenues, as the costs are mostly incurred by third-party concessionaires and costs incurred for the procurement and management related services we perform on behalf of our unconsolidated affiliates;
Payroll and related expenses, which consist of costs for shipboard personnel (costs associated with our shoreside personnel are included in Marketing, selling and administrative expenses);
Food expenses, which include food costs for both guests and crew;
Fuel expenses, which include fuel and related delivery, storage and emission consumable costs and the financial impact of fuel swap agreements; and
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Other operating expenses, which consist primarily of operating costs such as repairs and maintenance, port costs that do not vary with passenger head counts, vessel related insurance, entertainment and gains and/or losses related to the sale of our ships, if any. Additionally, costs associated with Pullmantur's travel agency network, land-based tours and air charter business to third parties are included in Other operating expenses through March 31, 2014, the date of the sale of Pullmantur's non-core businesses.
We do not allocate payroll and related expenses, food expenses, fuel expenses or other operating expenses to the expense categories attributable to passenger ticket revenues or onboard and other revenues since they are incurred to provide the total cruise vacation experience.

Selected Operational and Financial Metrics
We utilize a variety of operational and financial metrics which are defined below to evaluate our performance and financial condition. As discussed in more detail herein, certain of these metrics are non-GAAP financial measures. These non-GAAP financial measures whichare provided along with the related GAAP financial measures as we believe they provide useful information to investors as a supplement to our consolidated financial statements, which are prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. The presentation of non-GAAP financial information is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP.
rcl-20191231_g3.jpgProgram refers to the multi-year program designed to communicate and motivate employees to work towards company specific goals. The program includes five goals by 2025: delivering $20.00 adjusted earnings per share; further reducing the company’s carbon footprint by 25% against a 2019 base; delivering strong returns on invested capital; and continuing to improve on record guest satisfaction and employee engagement metrics. These goals have been put in place to focus our leadership on achieving outsized improvements in our performance going forward and are purposely aspirational. The strategies that we will employ to achieve the goals of the program are consistent with our ongoing operating strategies as listed in the Operating Strategies section. During the six-year time horizon of this program, there are many factors that will impact our ability to achieve these ambitious goals. In particular, our goal of reducing our carbon footprint by 25% will be challenging and will depend on our ability to take aggressive steps including the use of new technologies that have not yet been developed or proven.
Adjusted Earnings per Share ("Adjusted EPS") represents Adjusted Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. divided by weighted average shares outstanding or by diluted weighted average shares outstanding, as applicable. We believe that this non-GAAP measure is meaningful when assessing our performance on a comparative basis.
Adjusted Net Incomerepresents net income less net income attributable to noncontrolling interest excluding certain items that we believe adjusting for is meaningful when assessing our performance on a comparative basis. For the periods presented, these items included (i) costs, net of insurance recoveries, related to the Grand Bahama drydock structure incident involving Oasis of the Seas;(ii)our equity share of the write-off of the Grand Bahama drydock and other incidental expenses by Grand Bahama;(iii) the noncontrolling interest adjustment to exclude the impact of the contractual accretion requirements associated with the put option held by Heritage Cruise Holding Ltd.'s (previously known as Silversea Cruises Group Ltd.) noncontrolling interest; (iv) the change in fair value in the contingent consideration related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition; (v) a loss on the early extinguishment of debt related to the repayment of certain loans; (vi) the amortization of the Silversea Cruises intangible assets resulting from the acquisition; (vii) integration costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition; (viii) transaction costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition; (ix) restructuring charges incurred in relation to the reorganization of our international sales and marketing structure and other initiatives; (x) the impairment loss and other costs related to the exit of our tour operations business; (xi) the Pullmantur related assets, the netimpairment loss related to the elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag, the net gain related to the sale of the PullmanturSkysea Holding; and CDF brands and related costs, restructuring charges and other initiative costs related to our Pullmantur right-sizing strategy and other restructuring initiatives, the estimated impact of the divested Pullmantur non-core businesses for periods prior to the sales transaction, the loss recognized on the sale of Celebrity Century, (xii) the impact of the change in our voyage proration methodology and the reversal of a deferred tax asset valuation allowance due to Spanish tax reform. The estimated impact of the divested Pullmantur non-core businesses was arrived at by adjusting the net income (loss) of these businesses for the ownership percentage we retained, as well as, for intercompany transactions that are no longer eliminated in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) subsequentaccounting principle related to the sales transaction. Forrecognition of stock-based compensation expense from the full year 2014,graded attribution method to the impact of the voyage proration change represents net income that would have been recognized in 2013 had we recognized revenues and cruise operating expenses on a pro-rata basisstraight-line attribution method for all voyages.time-based stock awards.
Available Passenger Cruise Days ("APCD"APCD") is our measurement of capacity and represents double occupancy per cabin multiplied by the number of cruise days for the period.period, which excludes canceled cruise days and drydock days. We use this measure to perform capacity and rate analysis to identify our main non-capacity drivers that cause our cruise revenue and expenses to vary.
Double-DoubleProgram refers to the multi-year Adjusted EPS and Return on Invested Capital ("ROIC") goals we publicly announced in 2014 and are seeking to achieve by the end of 2017. We designed this program to help us better execute and achieve our business goals by clearly articulating longer-term financial objectives. Under the Double-Double Program, we are targeting Adjusted EPS of $6.78 by the end of 2017, which is double our 2014 Adjusted EPS of $3.39. We are also targeting ROIC of 10% by the end of 2017 as compared to ROIC of 5.9% in 2014.
Gross Cruise Costs represent the sum of total cruise operating expenses plus marketing, selling and administrative expenses. For the periods presented, Gross Cruise Costs exclude (i) restructuring charges incurred
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in relation to the reorganization of our international sales and marketing structure and other initiatives; (ii) transaction costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition; (iii) integration costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition; (iv) the impairment loss and other costs related to the exit of our tour operations business; and (v) the impact of the change in accounting principle related to the recognition of stock-based compensation expense from the graded attribution method to the straight-line attribution method for time-based stock awards, which were included within Marketing, selling and administrative expenses.
Gross Yields represent total revenues per APCD.
Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel represent Gross Cruise Costs excluding commissions, transportation and other expenses and onboard and other expenses and, in the case of Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel, fuel expenses (each of which is described above under the Description of Certain Line Items heading). In measuring our ability to control costs in a manner that positively impacts net income, we believe changes in Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel to be the most relevant indicators of our performance. A reconciliation of historical Gross Cruise Costs to Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel is provided below under Results of Operations. We have not provided a quantitative reconciliation of projected Gross Cruise Costs to projected Operations. Net Cruise Costs and projected Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel due toexclude the significant uncertainty in projecting the costs, deducted to arrive at these measures. Accordingly, we do not believe that reconciling information for such projected figures would be meaningful. For the periods prior to the salenet of the Pullmantur non-core businesses, Net Cruise Costs excludes the estimated impact of these divested businesses. Net Cruise Costs also excludes the net gaininsurance recoveries, related to the saleGrand Bahama drydock structure incident involving Oasis of the Pullmantur and CDF brands and related costs and initiative costs related to our Pullmantur right-sizing strategy and other restructuring initiatives, as well as the loss recognized on the sale of Celebrity Century.Seas.

Net Revenues represent total revenues less commissions, transportation and other expenses and onboard and other expenses (each of which is described above under the Description of Certain Line Items heading). For the periods prior to the sale of the Pullmantur non-core businesses, we have presented Net Revenues excluding the estimated impact of these divested businesses in the financial tables under Results of Operations.
Net Yields represent Net Revenues per APCD. We utilize Net Revenues and Net Yields to manage our business on a day-to-day basis as we believe that it isthey are the most relevant measuremeasures of our pricing performance because it reflectsthey reflect the cruise revenues earned by us net of our most significant variable costs, which are commissions, transportation and other expenses and onboard and other expenses. A reconciliation of historical Gross Yields to Net Yields is provided below under Results of Operations. We have not provided a quantitative reconciliation of projected Gross Yields to projected Net Yields due to the significant uncertainty in projecting the costs deducted to arrive at this measure. Accordingly, we do not believe that reconciling information for such projected figures would be meaningful. For the periods prior to the sale of the Pullmantur non-core businesses, Net Yields excludes the estimated impact of these divested businesses. Net Yields also excludes initiative costs related to the sale of the Pullmantur and CDF brands.
Occupancy, in accordance with cruise vacation industry practice, is calculated by dividing Passenger Cruise Days by APCD. A percentage in excess of 100% indicates that three or more passengers occupied some cabins.
Passenger Cruise Days represent the number of passengers carried for the period multiplied by the number of days of their respective cruises.
We believe Net Yields, Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel are our most relevant non-GAAP financial measures. However, a significant portion of our revenue and expenses are denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar. Because our reporting currency is the United States dollar, the value of these revenues and expenses can be affected by changes in currency exchange rates. Although such changes in local currency prices are just one of many elements impacting our revenues and expenses, they can be an important element. For this reason, we also monitor Net Yields, Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel as if the current periods'period's currency exchange rates had remained constant with the comparable prior periods'period's rates, or on a "Constant Currency" basis.
It should be emphasized that Constant Currency is primarily used for comparing short-term changes and/or projections. Changes in guest sourcing and shifting the amount of purchases between currencies can change the impact of the purely currency-based fluctuations.
The use of certain significant non-GAAP measures, such as Net Yields, Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel, allows us to perform capacity and rate analysis to separate the impact of known capacity changes from other less predictable changes which affect our business. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide expanded insight to measure revenue and cost performance in addition to the standard United States GAAP based financial measures. There are no specific rules or regulations for determining non-GAAP and Constant Currency measures, and as such, there exists the possibility that they may not be comparable to other companies within the industry.

We have not provided a quantitative reconciliation of (i) projected Total revenues to projected Net Revenues, (ii) projected Gross Yields to projected Net Yields, (iii) projected Gross Cruise Costs to projected Net Cruise Costs and projected Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel and (iv) projected Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Earnings per Share to projected Adjusted Net Income and Adjusted Earnings per Share because preparation of meaningful GAAP projections of Total revenues, Gross Yields, Gross Cruise Costs, Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Earnings per Share would require unreasonable effort. Due to

46


significant uncertainty, we are unable to predict, without unreasonable effort, the future movement of foreign exchange rates, fuel prices and interest rates inclusive of our related hedging programs. In addition, we are unable to determine the future impact of restructuring expenses or other non-core business related gains and losses which may result from strategic initiatives. These items are uncertain and could be material to our results of operations in accordance with GAAP. Due to this uncertainty, we do not believe that reconciling information for such projected figures would be meaningful.
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Executive Overview
The year 2016 marked the penultimateBy all accounts, 2019 was another year of very strong performance. We introduced three new vessels - Spectrum of the Seas, Celebrity Flora, and TUI Cruises Mein Schiff 2, launched a very successful Perfect Day destination at Coco Cay, modernized six ships and implemented Excalibur, our Double-Double program ("Double-Double"), whichdigital transformation platform, on most of the fleet. In addition, we implementedcontinued to find efficiencies, implement synergies and reduce costs, while at the same time, remained focused on strategic investments in 2014 to challenge our employees towards a true step change in performance. As part of this effort, we set two multi-year financial targets, including doubling our 2014 Adjusted Earnings Per Share (“Adjusted EPS”) and achieving double-digit Return on Invested Capital (“ROIC”) by the end of 2017. By communicating these goals to our employees, we have been able to better align and influence internal decision making and energize and focus our personnel towards reaching these targets. Our long-term commitment to grow revenue yields, manage costs and maintain steady capacity growth continues to guide us towards Double-Double. While our Double-Double goals are demanding, they are consistent with and reflect the trajectory of our business over the last several years in which we have experienced annual Adjusted EPS growth of approximately 39%, 42% and 26% and annual ROIC growth of approximately 16%, 29% and 17% in each of  2014, 2015 and 2016, respectively. areas that will boost revenue.


Our 20162019 net income was $1.3$1.9 billion, or $5.93$8.95 per diluted share, compared to $665.8 million,$1.8 billion, or $3.02$8.56 per diluted share, in 2015.2018. Adjusted Net Income for 20162019 was $1.3$2.0 billion, or $6.08$9.54 per diluted share, compared to $1.1$1.9 billion, or $4.83$8.86 per diluted share, in 2015.2018. Adjusted EPS for 2016 represents the third straight year we achieved a record amount, growing over 25% on 2015.

Additionally, Net Yields2019, on a Constant-Currencydiluted basis, increasedrepresents an 8% increase in earnings compared to 2018. We were able to achieve these results despite the dry-dock incident in the Grand Bahama shipyard, the cancellation of cruises to Cuba beginning in June of this year and an unusual hurricane season, all of which negatively impacted the company’s adjusted earnings per share for the seventh consecutive year. For the year ended December 31, 2016, our Net Yields on a Constant-Currency basisby approximately $0.80.

Total revenues increased by 3.9%,$1.5 billion in 2019 to $11.0 billion, compared to $9.5 billion in 2018, primarily driven by increases in both ticket and onboard yieldsyields. During 2019, our Gross Yields and Net Yields increased by 8.0%, on a benefit fromConstant-Currency basis, marking the deconsolidationtenth consecutive year of the Pullmantur brand from the rest of the company in August. The success of North American based sailings such as the Caribbean, Alaska, and Bermuda were largely responsible for our organic revenue growth. Higher yields wereThe addition of new vessels to the fleet, the consolidation of Silversea Cruises, Perfect Day at CocoCay and our Miami terminal operation also generated by the introductions of two new ships in 2016 - Ovation of the Seas in Aprilcontributed to our year-over-year revenue growth. Onboard revenue and Harmony of the Seas in May. Partly offsetting these successes was softer than anticipated demand from the China market and the continued geopolitical turmoil in Europe, resulting in a shift of sourcing from North American guests to European guests, particularly for Mediterranean sailings.

Net onboard revenue yield in 2016 grew by 7.8% year-over-year on a Constant Currency basis, despite the increasing value of the dollar relative to our basket of foreign currencies which created an unfavorable impact on our earnings and limited the spending power of our foreign guests. Growthgrowth came from a variety of areas, most notably fromrevenue enhancing initiatives, including beverage package sales and promotions, gaming initiatives and new strategies and promotions on our high speed onboard internet products. We expectshore excursions, specialty restaurants and Internet services.

Cruise operating expenses increased $801.0 million in 2019 to continue this upward onboard yield growth trend$6.1 billion from $5.3 billion in 20172018. Adjusting for capacity, our Gross Cruise Costs and expect them to grow by slightly more than the average net revenue yield growth for the year.
We remain dedicated to finding efficiencies, identifying synergies and reducing costs, while at the same time, focusing on strategic investments in areas that will boost revenue. In 2016, our Net Cruise Costs excluding fuelExcluding Fuel increased by 0.9%8.7% and 11.4%, respectively, on a Constant Currency basis compared to 2015. Going into 2017, we expect Net Cruise Costs excluding fuel on a Constant Currency basis to be flat as we remain intensely focused on cost controls,2018 driven primarily by the consolidation of Silversea Cruises, our new operations of Perfect Day at CocoCay and further realize economies of scale.our terminal operation in Miami.

The Company remains focused on improving returns for our shareholders. In 2016,2019, we bought back $300$100.0 million in shares of common stock completingand have $600.0 million remaining under our $500 million$1.0 billion share repurchase program that was announced in October 2015. Additionally, in September 2016,May 2018. Consistent with our earnings growth, we also announced a 28%11% increase to our common stock dividend.dividend, our seventh consecutive year with a dividend increase.
For
Perfect Day at CocoCay is the first of our Perfect Day Island Collection of next-level private destinations. The island debuted a combination of first-of-their-kind thrills and one-of-a-kind ways to chill that significantly change what is possible in a vacation destination. The island features the tallest waterslide in North America, the Up and Away helium balloon, and the Caribbean’s largest wave pool.

The year 2017,2020 has started off challenging as we address the impact of the recent coronavirus outbreak on our operations. Prior to the outbreak, our sailings in China were trending particularly well both in terms of rate and volume. Our itineraries in China were expected to represent 6% and 4% of our full year and first quarter 2020 capacity, respectively. The travel restrictions and other measures taken by China and other countries to contain the disease have resulted in the cancellation of an increasing number of our cruises in the region. We have also implemented several measures restricting the boarding of certain at-risk guests and crew on our ships. These and other concerns and restrictions relating to the coronavirus outbreak are having an impact on the demand for cruises and causing travel restrictions, guest cancellations, an unavailability of ports and/or destinations, ship redeployments and an inability to source our crew, provisions or supplies from certain places. All of these issues are having and are likely to continue to have a material impact on our bookings, operations and our overall financial performance. However, given the fluidity and uncertainty of this situation, we are unable to predict the full financial impact that this incident will have on our operations and financial condition, including what our yields and earnings for 2020 will be (see Outlook).

In 2020, we expect our capacity to increase 4.8% year-over-year as we add Odyssey of the Seas and Celebrity Apex as well as two Silversea vessels, Silver Origin and Silver Moon, to the fleet. We’ve slightly
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increased our capacity in the Caribbean will increase year-over-year as Harmonyto over 50% of our total capacity in 2020, driven by the inaugural winter seasons of Odyssey of the Seasand Celebrity EquinoxApex. Our European itineraries will remain inaccount for 17% of our 2020 capacity with the Caribbean year-round rather than spendingyear-over-year increase driven by the summer in Europe. While Harmonytiming of drydocks and the addition of Celebrity Apex and Silver Moon. Excluding the impact of the Seas will be replaced by Freedom of the Seas in Europe,recent coronavirus outbreak, we will not be replacing Celebrity Equinox in the Eastern Mediterranean. The combination of these deployment changes result in a reduction in capacity in Europe. Our capacity in the Asia Pacific region is expected to grow 5% year-over-year primarily due to the first fullexpect another year of deploymenttotal revenue and net yield growth driven by our new ships, strong demand for Ovation of the Seas. Industry-wide capacity in the region is expected to grow 17%, slowing our core products and continued growth from the 34% growth increase the region experienced in 2016.our onboard revenue areas.


In May 2016, we announced the order of our fifth Oasis-class ship for delivery in the spring of 2021, and two additional Edge-class ships scheduled for delivery in the fall of each of 2021 and 2022. In addition, we recently announced our rcl-20191231_g4.jpgprogram which presents specific goals to investing in new hardware, we opportunistically evaluate selling or transferring older ships tobe achieved by 2025: delivering $20.00 adjusted earnings per share; further optimize our fleet. Since 2014, we have sold or are about to sell four ships that are expectedreducing the company’s carbon footprint by 25%; delivering strong returns on invested capital; and continuing to improve on record guest satisfaction and employee engagement metrics. Our management team is goal motivated and our ROIC - the saleaim, through this program, is to establish clear, simple, and ambitious targets that will motivate our people and drive superior results. Adopting these clear and simple rcl-20191231_g5.jpggoals will help guide our everyday decision-making to focus on People, Profits and Planet.



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Results of Operations
For reporting purposes, we include Silversea Cruises’ results of operations on a three-month reporting lag from October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019 in our consolidated results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and from the date of acquisition through September 30, 2018 in our consolidated results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018. Refer to Note 1. General and Note 3. Business Combinations to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on the three-month reporting lag and the Silversea Cruises acquisition.
In addition to the items discussed above under "Executive Overview," significant items for 20162019 include:
Both our net incomeOur Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Adjusted Net Income for the year ended December 31, 20162019 was $1.3$1.9 billion and $2.0 billion, or $5.93$8.95 and $6.08$9.54 per share on a diluted basis, respectively, as compared to net incomeNet Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and Adjusted Net Income of $665.8 million$1.8 billion and $1.1$1.9 billion, or $3.02$8.56 and $4.83$8.86 per share on a diluted basis, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2015.2018.
Total revenues, excluding the effect of changes in foreign currency rates, increased by $1.6 billion for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018 primarily due to an increase in capacity and an increase in ticket prices and onboard spending on a per passenger basis, which are further discussed below.
The effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our passenger ticket and onboard and other revenue transactions, anddenominated in currencies other than the United States dollar, resulted in a decrease in total revenues of $127.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018.
Total cruise operating expenses, excluding the effect of changes in foreign currency rate, increased by $837.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2019 compared to the same period in 2018, primarily due to an increase in capacity, which is further discussed below.
The effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our cruise operating expenses, denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar, resulted in a decrease toin total revenuesoperating expenses of $187.9$36.9 million for the year ended December 31, 20162019 compared to the same period in 20152018.
Effective June 5th, 2019, we stopped sailings to Cuba as the U.S government rescinded authorized travel to Cuba under the People-to-People program and a decreaseprohibited travel to Cuba via cruise operating expenses of $40.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015.
Total revenues, excluding the unfavorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, increased by $385.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the same period in 2015ships. The estimated negative impact resulting from this regulatory change, primarily due to an increase in overall capacity and ticket prices, which are further discussed below.
Total Cruise operating expenses, excluding the favorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates, decreaseditineraries, is approximately $0.29 per share on a diluted basis to our Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
The estimated negative impact resulting from the Grand Bahama drydock structure incident involving Oasis of the Seas, net of insurance recoveries and including our share of the write-off of the related drydock by $41.9Grand Bahama, is approximately $0.36 per share on a diluted basis to our Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
The estimated negative impact resulting from 2019 hurricane-related disruptions was approximately $0.15 per share on a diluted basis to our Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
In April 2019, we entered into and drew in full on an unsecured three-year term loan agreement in the amount of $1.0 billion. Proceeds of this loan were used to repay the $700 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared364-day loan due July 2019 related to the same period in 2015, primarily due to a decrease in fuel expense, excludingacquisition of Silversea Cruises and the impactremaining balance of the increaseunsecured term loan originally incurred in capacity, which is further discussed below.
Effective January 1, 2016, we eliminated Pullmantur Holdings', the parent company2010 to purchase Allure of the Pullmantur and CDF brands, two-month reporting lag to be consistent withSeas. The repayment of these loans resulted in a total loss on the fiscal calendarextinguishment of the Company. As a resultdebt of this change, the results of Pullmantur Holdings for November and December 2015 are included in our statement of comprehensive$6.3 million, which was recognized within Other (expense) income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016. The effect of this change was a decrease to net income of $21.7 million and this amount is reported withinOther income in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016. Refer to Note 1. General to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on the elimination.



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In July 2016, we sold 51% of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings. We retain a 49% interest in Pullmantur Holdings as well as full ownership of the four vessels currently operated by the Pullmantur brand under bareboat charter arrangements. As a result of the sale of a majority interest in Pullmantur Holdings, we recognized an immaterial gain and no longer consolidate these businesses in our consolidated financial statements effective August 2016. Refer to Note 1. General to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.

Other items for 20162019 include:

In February 2019, TUI Cruises, our 50% joint venture, took delivery of a new Mein Schiff 2 and the existing Mein Schiff 2 was renamed Mein Schiff Herz.
In April 2016,During the second quarter of 2019, we took delivery of OvationSpectrum of the Seasand Celebrity Flora. To finance the purchase,purchases, we borrowed $841.8$908.0 million under a previously committed 12-year unsecured term loan, which is 95% guaranteed by Hermes. Refer to Note 7. Long-Term Debt to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.

In May 2016, we took delivery of Harmony of the Seas. To finance the purchase, we borrowed €700.7€80.0 million, or $739.2approximately $89.8 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016, and $226.1 million2019, respectively, under previously committed unsecured term loans. Both of the facilities are 100% guaranteed by COFACE. Refer to Note 7. Long-Term9. Debt to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. 1. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
Additionally, Spectrum of the Seas and Celebrity Flora entered service in April 2019 and at the end of June 2019, respectively.

In April 2019, we amended our $1.4 billion unsecured revolving credit facility due in 2020 to extend the termination date through April 2024, increase the facility size to $1.7 billion and reduce pricing. Refer to Note 9. Debt to our consolidated financial statements under Item 1. Financial Statements for further information.
In May 2016, TUIApril 2019, Silversea Cruises our 50% joint venture, took delivery of Mein Schiff 5.


In June 2016, we entered into an agreement to sell Legend of the Seas to Thomson Cruises. The sale is scheduled to be completed in March 2017 in order to retain the future revenues to be generated for sailings through that date. We expect to recognize a gain on the sale, which we do not expect will have a material effect to our annual consolidated financial statements.
During 2016, we entered into agreements with STX France to build a fifth Oasis-class ship for Royal Caribbean International and a third and fourth "Project Edge" ship for Celebrity Cruises. Additionally in 2016, we signed a memorandum of understanding with Meyer TurkuWerft to build two ships of a new generation, known as the Evolution-class. In September 2019, we entered into credit agreements for the unsecured financing of these ships for Royal Caribbean International, known as "Project Icon."up to 80% of each ship's contract price. Refer to Note 15. 11. Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. 1. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
In May 2019, we amended our $1.15 billion unsecured revolving credit facility due in 2022 to reduce pricing to match pricing on our $1.7 billion unsecured revolving credit facility due in 2024.
In June 2019, we entered into a $300 million unsecured term loan facility for the financing of Silversea Cruises' Silver Moon. Refer to Note 9. Debt to our consolidated financial statements under Item 1. Financial Statements for further information.
In June 2019, we entered into an agreement with Meyer Turku to build a third Icon-class ship. In December 2019, we entered into a credit agreement for the unsecured financing for up to 80% of the ship's contract price. Refer to Note 19. Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements for further information.
In December 2019, we entered into a credit agreement for the unsecured financing for up to 80% contract price for the sixth Oasis-class ship. Refer to Note 19. Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements for further information.
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We reported net income,Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd, Adjusted Net Income, earnings per share and Adjusted Earnings per Share as shown in the following table (in thousands, except per share data):
Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$1,878,887  $1,811,042  $1,625,133  
Adjusted Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.2,002,847  1,873,363  1,625,133  
Net Adjustments to Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. - Increase$123,960  $62,321  $—  
Adjustments to Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.:
Oasis of the Seas incident, Grand Bahama's drydock write-off and other incidental expenses (1)
35,239  —  —  
Loss on extinguishment of debt6,326  —  —  
Change in the fair value of contingent consideration and amortization of Silversea Cruises intangible assets related to Silversea Cruises acquisition (2)
30,675  2,046  —  
Restructuring charges and other initiatives expense (3)
13,707  —  —  
Transaction and integration costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition (2)
2,048  31,759  —  
Noncontrolling interest adjustment (4)
35,965  3,156  —  
Impairment loss related to Skysea Holding (5)
—  23,343  —  
Impairment and other costs related to exit of tour operations business (6)
—  11,255  —  
Impact of change in accounting principle (7)
—  (9,238) —  
Net Adjustments to Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. - Increase$123,960  $62,321  $—  
Basic:
   Earnings per Share$8.97  $8.60  $7.57  
   Adjusted Earnings per Share$9.56  $8.90  $7.57  
Diluted:
   Earnings per Share$8.95  $8.56  $7.53  
   Adjusted Earnings per Share$9.54  $8.86  $7.53  
Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding:
Basic209,405  210,570  214,617  
Diluted209,930  211,554  215,694  
 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Net income$1,283,388
 $665,783
 $764,146
Adjusted Net Income1,314,689
 1,065,066
 755,729
Net Adjustments to Net Income - Increase (Decrease)$31,301
 $399,283
 $(8,417)
Adjustments to Net Income:     
Impairment of Pullmantur related assets (1)
$
 $399,283
 $
Net loss related to the elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag21,656
 
 
Net gain related to the sale of the Pullmantur and CDF Croisières de France brands(3,834) 
 
Restructuring charges8,452
 
 4,318
Other initiative costs5,027
 
 21,211
Estimated impact of divested businesses prior to sales transaction
 
 11,013
Loss on sale of ship included within other operating expenses
 
 17,401
Impact of voyage proration change (2)

 
 (28,877)
Reversal of a deferred tax valuation allowance
 
 (33,483)
Net Adjustments to Net Income - Increase (Decrease)$31,301
 $399,283
 $(8,417)
      
Basic:     
   Earnings per Share$5.96
 $3.03
 $3.45
   Adjusted Earnings per Share$6.10
 $4.85
 $3.41
      
Diluted:     
   Earnings per Share$5.93
 $3.02
 $3.43
   Adjusted Earnings per Share$6.08
 $4.83
 $3.39
      
Weighted-Average Shares Outstanding:     
Basic215,393
 219,537
 221,658
Diluted216,316
 220,689
 223,044

(1) Includes aAmount includes incidental costs, net deferred income tax benefit of $12.0insurance recoveries of $14.5 million related to the Pullmantur impairment.

(2) Representscollapse of the net income amount that would have been recognized in 2013 had we recognized revenues and cruisedrydock structure at the Grand Bahama Shipyard involving Oasis of the Seas, which were reported primarily within Other operating expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2019; and $20.7 million regarding the Grand Bahama incident involving one of its drydocks, included in our equity investment income within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2019. Refer to Note 8. Other Assets to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information.
(2)Refer to Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition.
(3)Represents restructuring charges incurred in relation to the reorganization of our international sales and marketing structure and other initiatives expenses. Refer to Note 20. Restructuring Charges to our consolidated financial statements under item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on the restructuring activities.
(4)Adjustment made to exclude the impact of the contractual accretion requirements associated with the put option held by Silversea Cruises Group Ltd.'s noncontrolling interest. Refer to Note 11. Noncontrolling Interest to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on noncontrolling interest.
(5)Refer to Note 8. Other Assets to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for information on the impairment loss related to Skysea Holding.
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(6)In 2014, we created a pro-rata basistour operations business that focused on developing, marketing and selling land based tours around the world through an e-commerce platform. During the second quarter of 2018, we decided to cease operations and exit this business. As a result, we incurred exit costs, primarily consisting of fixed asset impairment charges and severance expense.
(7)In January 2018, we elected to change our accounting policy for all voyages.recognizing stock-based compensation expense from the graded attribution method to the straight-line attribution method for time-based stock awards. Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on our accounting policy.



The following table presents operating results as a percentage of total revenues for the last three years:
Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
2016 2015 2014201920182017
Passenger ticket revenues72.4 % 73.0 % 73.0 %Passenger ticket revenues71.7 %71.5 %71.9 %
Onboard and other revenues27.6 % 27.0 % 27.0 %Onboard and other revenues28.3 %28.5 %28.1 %
Total revenues100.0 % 100.0 % 100.0 %Total revenues100.0 %100.0 %100.0 %
Cruise operating expenses:     Cruise operating expenses:
Commissions, transportation and other15.9 % 16.9 % 17.0 %Commissions, transportation and other15.1 %15.1 %15.5 %
Onboard and other5.8 % 6.7 % 7.2 %Onboard and other5.8 %5.7 %5.6 %
Payroll and related10.4 % 10.4 % 10.5 %Payroll and related9.9 %9.7 %9.7 %
Food5.7 % 5.8 % 5.9 %Food5.3 %5.5 %5.6 %
Fuel8.4 % 9.6 % 11.7 %Fuel6.4 %7.5 %7.8 %
Other operating12.8 % 12.1 % 13.3 %Other operating12.8 %12.0 %11.5 %
Total cruise operating expenses59.0 % 61.4 % 65.7 %Total cruise operating expenses55.4 %55.4 %55.8 %
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses13.0 % 13.1 % 13.0 %Marketing, selling and administrative expenses14.2 %13.7 %13.5 %
Depreciation and amortization expenses10.5 % 10.0 % 9.6 %Depreciation and amortization expenses11.4 %10.9 %10.8 %
Impairment of Pullmantur related assets % 5.0 %  %
Restructuring and related impairment charges0.1 %  % 0.1 %
Operating income17.4 % 10.5 % 11.7 %Operating income19.0 %20.0 %19.9 %
Other expense(2.3)% (2.5)% (2.2)%
Net income15.1 % 8.0 % 9.5 %
Other income (expense):Other income (expense):
Interest incomeInterest income0.2 %0.3 %0.3 %
Interest expense, net of interest capitalizedInterest expense, net of interest capitalized(3.7)%(3.5)%(3.4)%
Equity investment incomeEquity investment income2.1 %2.2 %1.8 %
Other (expense) incomeOther (expense) income(0.2)%0.1 %(0.1)%
(1.6)%(0.8)%(1.4)%
Net IncomeNet Income17.4 %19.1 %18.5 %
Less: Net Income attributable to noncontrolling interestLess: Net Income attributable to noncontrolling interest0.3 %0.1 %— %
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.17.2 %19.1 %18.5 %

Selected statistical information is shown in the following table:
Year Ended December 31,
2019 (1)
2018 (1)
2017
Passengers Carried6,553,865  6,084,201  5,768,496  
Passenger Cruise Days44,803,953  41,853,052  40,033,527  
APCD41,432,451  38,425,304  36,930,939  
Occupancy108.1 %108.9 %108.4 %

(1)We acquired Silversea Cruises on July 31, 2018 and report their results on a three-month reporting lag. As a result, 2019 figures include October 2018 through September 2019 Silversea Cruises amounts and 2018 figures include August and September 2018 Silversea Cruises amounts. Refer to Note 1. General and Note 3. Business Combination to our consolidated financial statements
53

 Year Ended December 31,
 
2016 (1)
 2015 2014
Passengers Carried5,754,747
 5,401,899
 5,149,952
Passenger Cruise Days40,250,557
 38,523,060
 36,710,966
APCD37,844,644
 36,646,639
 34,773,915
Occupancy106.4% 105.1% 105.6%

(1) Does not include Novemberunder Item 8. Financial Statements and December 2015 amounts related toSupplementary Data for further information on the elimination of the Pullmanturthree-month reporting lag sinceand the impact is included within Other (expense) income in ourconsolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016. Additionally, effective August 2016, we no longer include Pullmantur Holdings in these amounts.Silversea Cruises acquisition.










Gross Yields and Net Yields were calculated as follows (in thousands, except APCD and Yields):Yields:
Year Ended December 31,
20192019
On a
Constant
Currency
basis
20182017
Passenger ticket revenues$7,857,057  $7,968,116  $6,792,716  $6,313,170  
Onboard and other revenues3,093,604  3,109,939  2,701,133  2,464,675  
Total revenues10,950,661  11,078,055  9,493,849  8,777,845  
Less:
Commissions, transportation and other1,656,297  1,675,941  1,433,739  1,363,170  
Onboard and other639,782  643,350  537,355  495,552  
Net Revenues$8,654,582  $8,758,764  $7,522,755  $6,919,123  
APCD41,432,451  41,432,451  38,425,304  36,930,939  
Gross Yields$264.30  $267.38  $247.07  $237.68  
Net Yields$208.88  $211.40  $195.78  $187.35  




















54

 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2016
On a
Constant
Currency
basis
 2015 2014
Passenger ticket revenues$6,149,323
 $6,320,827
 $6,058,821
 $5,893,847
Onboard and other revenues2,347,078
 2,363,497
 2,240,253
 2,180,008
Total revenues8,496,401
 8,684,324
 8,299,074
 8,073,855
Less:       
Commissions, transportation and other1,349,677
 1,382,295
 1,400,778
 1,372,785
Onboard and other493,558
 495,101
 553,104
 582,750
Net revenues including other initiative costs and divested businesses6,653,166
 6,806,928
 6,345,192
 6,118,320
Less:       
Other initiative costs included within Net Revenues(2,230) (2,129) 
 
Net revenues related to divested businesses prior to sales transaction
 
 

 35,656
Net Revenues$6,655,396
 $6,809,057
 $6,345,192
 $6,082,664
        
APCD37,844,644
 37,844,644
 36,646,639
 34,773,915
Gross Yields$224.51
 $229.47
 $226.46
 $232.18
Net Yields$175.86
 $179.92
 $173.15
 $174.92


Gross Cruise Costs, Net Cruise Costs and Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel were calculated as follows (in thousands, except APCD and costs per APCD):
Year Ended December 31,Year Ended December 31,
2016 2016 On a
Constant
Currency
basis
 2015 201420192019 On a
Constant
Currency
basis
20182017
Total cruise operating expenses$5,015,539
 $5,056,533
 $5,099,393
 $5,306,281
Total cruise operating expenses$6,062,765  $6,099,657  $5,262,207  $4,896,579  
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses1,100,290
 1,114,855
 1,086,504
 1,048,952
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses (1) (2)
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses (1) (2)
1,543,498  1,555,703  1,269,368  1,186,016  
Gross Cruise Costs6,115,829
 6,171,388
 6,185,897
 6,355,233
Gross Cruise Costs7,606,263  7,655,360  6,531,575  6,082,595  
Less:       Less:
Commissions, transportation and other1,349,677
 1,382,295
 1,400,778
 1,372,785
Commissions, transportation and other1,656,297  1,675,941  1,433,739  1,363,170  
Onboard and other493,558
 495,101
 553,104
 582,750
Onboard and other639,782  643,350  537,355  495,552  
Net Cruise Costs including divested businesses and other initiative costs4,272,594
 4,293,992
 4,232,015
 4,399,698
Net Cruise Costs Including Other CostsNet Cruise Costs Including Other Costs5,310,184  5,336,069  4,560,481  4,223,873  
Less:       Less:
Net gain related to the sale of Pullmantur and CDF Croisières de France brands included within other operating expenses(3,834) (3,834) 
 
Net Cruise Costs related to divested businesses prior to sales transaction
 
 
 47,854
Other initiative costs included within cruise operating expenses and marketing, selling and administrative expenses2,433
 2,525
 
 18,972
Loss on sale of ship included within other operating expenses
 
 
 17,401
Costs, net of insurance recoveries, related to the Oasis of the Seas incident included within cruise operating expenses
Costs, net of insurance recoveries, related to the Oasis of the Seas incident included within cruise operating expenses
14,530  14,530  —  —  
Net Cruise Costs4,273,995
 4,295,301
 4,232,015
 4,315,471
Net Cruise Costs5,295,654  5,321,539  4,560,481  4,223,873  
Less:       Less:
Fuel (1)
713,252
 714,257
 795,801
 947,391
697,962  697,981  710,617  681,118  
Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel$3,560,743
 $3,581,044
 $3,436,214
 $3,368,080
Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel$4,597,692  $4,623,558  $3,849,864  $3,542,755  
       
APCD37,844,644
 37,844,644
 36,646,639
 34,773,915
APCD41,432,451  41,432,451  38,425,304  36,930,939  
Gross Cruise Costs per APCD$161.60
 $163.07
 $168.80
 $182.76
Gross Cruise Costs per APCD$183.58  $184.77  $169.98  $164.70  
Net Cruise Costs per APCD$112.94
 $113.50
 $115.48
 $124.10
Net Cruise Costs per APCD$127.81  $128.44  $118.68  $114.37  
Net Cruise Cost Excluding Fuel per APCD$94.09
 $94.62
 $93.77
 $96.86
Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel per APCDNet Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel per APCD$110.97  $111.59  $100.19  $95.93  

(1) For the year ended December 31, 2016,2019, the amount does not include fuel expenseintegration costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition of $0.4$0.9 million, included withintransaction costs related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition of $1.2 million and restructuring and other initiative costs associated withof $13.7 million.
(2) For the redeployment of Pullmantur’s Empressyear ended December 31, 2018, the amount does not include transaction costs related to the Royal Caribbean International brand.Silversea Cruises acquisition of $31.8 million, the impairment and other costs related to the exit of our tour operations business of $11.3 million and the impact of the change in accounting principle of $9.2 million related to the recognition of stock-based compensation expense. Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on the change in an accounting principle.


55

Outlook
The widely reported coronavirus outbreak and efforts by China and other countries to move aggressively to contain the spread of the disease have adversely impacted our business, including a drop in demand for cruises, guest cancellations, travel restrictions, an unavailability of ports and/or destinations, cruise cancellations, ship redeployments and an inability to source our crew, provisions or supplies from certain places. We have implemented several measures to protect guest and crew, including denying boarding to those that have travelled from, to or through mainland China or Hong Kong in the past 15 days and performing mandatory specialized health screenings on at-risk guest and crew. These measures have caused us to cancel cruise bookings or restrict certain guests from booking our cruises. We are assessing the developments constantly and will update our protective measures as needed.

As a result of these measures, we have now cancelled 30 sailings in Southeast Asia and modified several itineraries in the region which overall have an estimated impact of $0.90 per share to our 2020 financial performance. If the company were to cancel all of its remaining sailings in Asia through the end of April, it would impact our 2020 financial performance by an additional $0.30.

There are still too many variables and uncertainties regarding the impact of this outbreak on our business in Asia and elsewhere to reasonably forecast the full impact on our business, including what our yields and earnings for 2020 will be. These concerns and restrictions over the outbreak are impacting our bookings and are having, and are likely to continue to have, a material impact on our overall financial performance.

The company does not make predictions about fuel pricing, interest rates or currency exchange rates but does provide guidance about its future business activities. On January 26, 2017,February 4, 2020, we announced the following initial full year and first quarter 20172020 guidance based on the then current fuel pricing, interest rates and currency exchange rates:rates. Given the fluidity of the circumstances related to the recent coronavirus and the actions being taken to contain its spread, the following 2020 guidance does not include any financial impact related to the coronavirus outbreak:


Full Year 2017

2020
As ReportedConstant Currency
Net Yields3.3%2.5% to 5.3%4.5%4.0%2.25% to 6.0%4.25%
Net Cruise Costs per APCDBetter than flat1.75% to 2.25%Flat1.75% to 2.25%
Net Cruise Costs per APCD, excluding FuelFlat1.75% to (1%)2.25%Flat1.75% to 2.25%
Capacity IncreaseChange(1.7%)4.8% 
Depreciation and Amortization$9351,376 to $945$1,392 million
Interest Expense, net$280368 to $290$384 million
Fuel Consumption (metric tons)1,332,0001,534,300 
Fuel Expenses$704744 million
Percent Hedged (fwd consumption)60%54% 
Impact of 10% change in fuel pricesFuel Prices$3037 million
1% Change in Currency$1721 million
1% Change in Net YieldYields$6891 million
1% Change in NCC x Fuel$3548 million
1%100 basis pt. Change in LIBOR$4337 million
Adjusted Earnings per Share — Diluted$6.9010.40 to $7.10$10.70





56

First Quarter 2017
2020

As Reported
Constant Currency
Net Yields(0.5%) to (1.0%)Approx. 5.0%4.5% to 5.0%(0.5%)
Net Cruise Costs per APCDApprox. (4.0%)4.25%(3.5%) to (4.0%)Approx. 4.5%
Net Cruise Costs per APCD, excluding FuelApprox. (5.0%)3.0%Approx. (4.5%)3.0%
Capacity IncreaseChange1.0%4.5% 
Depreciation and Amortization$230 million321 to $240$325 million
Interest Expense, net$7085 to $80$89 million
Fuel Consumption (metric tons)336,000375,200 
Fuel Expenses$178191 million
Percent Hedged (fwd consumption)59%62% 
Impact of 10% change in fuel pricesFuel Prices$79 million
1% Change in Currency$34 million
1% Change in Net YieldYields$1620 million
1% Change in NCC x Fuel$912 million
1%100 basis pt. Change in LIBOR$97 million
Adjusted Earnings per Share — DilutedApprox. $0.90$0.80 to $0.85


Since our earnings release on January 26, 2017, bookingsFebruary 4, 2020, fuel prices and foreign currency exchange rates have remained encouragingfluctuated and consistent with our previous expectations.are likely to continue to do so. Accordingly, except for the impact of the recent coronavirus outbreak, described above, fuel prices and foreign currency exchange rates, our forecast has remainedremains essentially unchanged.


Volatility in foreign currency exchange rates affects the United States dollar value of our earnings. Based on our highest net exposure for each quarter and the full year 2017,2020, the top five foreign currencies are ranked below. For example, the Australian Dollar is the most impactful currency in the first and fourth quarters of 2017.2020. Rankings are based on estimated net exposures.


RankingQ1Q2Q3Q4FY 2017YTD 2020
1AUDGBPGBPAUDGBP
2CADCNHCADCNHGBPAUD
3GBPAUDEURCADCNHCAD
4CNHBRLCADCNHCADCNHEURCADCNH
5EURMXNMXNEURMXNAUDEURCNHEUR

The currency abbreviations above are defined as follows:
Currency AbbreviationCurrency
AUDAustralian Dollar
CADBRL Canadian DollarBrazilian Real
CNHCAD Chinese YuanCanadian Dollar
EURCNH EuroChinese Yuan
GBPEUR British PoundEuro
MXNGBP British Pound
MXN Mexican Peso





57

Year Ended December 31, 20162019 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2015

2018
In this section, references to 20162019 refer to the year ended December 31, 20162019 and references to 20152018 refer to the year ended December 31, 2015.

2018.
Revenues

Total revenues for 20162019 increased $197.3 million,$1.5 billion, or 2.4%15.3%, to $8.5$11.0 billion from $8.3$9.5 billion in 2015.2018.

Passenger ticket revenues comprised 72.4%71.7% of our 20162019 total revenues. Passenger ticket revenues increased by $90.5 million,$1.1 billion, or 1.5%.15.7% from 2018. The increase was primarily due to:

a 3.3%an 7.8% increase in capacity, which increased passengerPassenger ticket revenues by $198.1$565.0 million, netprimarily due to the additions of Spectrum of the capacity decreaseSeas in the second quarter of 2019, Symphony of the Seas in the second quarter of 2018, Azamara Pursuit in the third quarter of 2018, Celebrity Edge in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the acquisition of Silversea Cruises in the second half of 2018, partially offset by a significant increase in dry dock days in 2019 compared to 2018 and the negative impact of canceled and modified sailings resulting from the sale of our majority interestdry-dock incident in Pullmantur Holdings;the Grand Bahama shipyard and
hurricane-related disruptions during 2019.

an increase of $63.9$614.0 million in ticket prices primarily driven by our newest shipsas well asthe addition of Spectrum of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Azamara Pursuit, Celebrity Edge and the Silversea Cruises fleet, and the higher pricing on Alaskaour Caribbean and Caribbean sailings. Asia/Pacific sailings, net of the negative impact to our ticket price on a per passenger basis resulting from itinerary changes related to the travel restrictions to Cuba.
The increase in ticket prices was partially offset by lower pricing on Mediterranean and Asia sailings.

The increase in passengerPassenger ticket revenues was partially offset by the unfavorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our revenue transactions denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar of approximately $171.5$(111.1) million.

The remaining 27.6%28.3% of 20162019 total revenues was comprised of Onboard and other revenues, which increased $106.8$392.5 million, or 4.8%14.5%. The increase in Onboard and other revenues was primarily due to:

a $70.5 million increase attributable to the 3.3% increase in capacity noted above; and

an $89.9$118.4 million increase in onboard revenue attributable to higher spending on a per passenger basis primarily due to our ship upgradeshore excursions, Perfect Day at CocoCay, specialty restaurants, internet services, beverage package sales and promotions, gaming initiatives and new programs and activities offered to our guests;
a $193.6 million increase attributable to the 7.8% increase in capacity noted above, net of the negative impact of canceled and modified sailings resulting from the dry-dock incident in the Grand Bahama shipyard and hurricane-related disruptions in 2019; and
a $79.7 million increase in other revenue enhancing initiatives, including various beverage and gaming initiatives, the promotion of specialty restaurants and the increasedrevenues primarily due to revenue associated with internetour new cruise terminal at PortMiami and cancellation fees associated with non-refundable deposits and higher pricing.
Onboard and other telecommunication services partially offsetrevenues included concession revenues of $363.8 million in 2019 and $339.0 million in 2018.
Cruise Operating Expenses
Total cruise operating expenses for 2019 increased $800.6 million, or 15.2%, to $6.1 billion in 2019 from $5.3 billion in 2018. The increase was primarily due to:
the 7.8% increase in capacity noted above, which increased cruise operating expenses by $433.3 million;
a decrease$367.3 million increase in port activities revenue mainlytotal cruise operating expenses, excluding capacity, was primarily due to itinerary changes.

the addition of Silversea Cruises to our fleet in the second half of 2018 as well as incidental costs related to the collapse of the drydock structure at the Grand Bahama Shipyard involving Oasis of the Seas, expenses associated with operating Perfect Day at CocoCay and our new cruise terminal at PortMiami.
The increase in Cruise operating expenses was partially offset by:

an approximate $16.4 million unfavorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our onboard and other revenue transactions denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar; and

a $37.2 million decrease in other revenues primarily related to our travel agency business that was sold in 2015 partially offset by an increase in revenue received for our bareboat charter and ship management services associated with our unconsolidated affiliates. The decrease in revenues from our travel agency business sold is mostly offset by the related decrease in travel agency expenses discussed below.

Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $316.9 million in 2016 and $327.1 million in 2015.

Cruise Operating Expenses

Total cruise operating expenses for 2016 decreased $83.9 million, or 1.6%, to $5.0 billion in 2016 from $5.1 billion in 2015. The decrease was primarily due to:

a $114.4$47.0 million decrease in fuel expense,expenses, excluding the impact of the increase in capacity. Our cost of fuel (net of the financial impact of fuel swap agreements) for 20162019 decreased 10.3%11% per metric ton compared to 2015;2018; and

58

an approximate $40.9 milliona favorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our cruise operating expensescosts denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar;

a $41.2 million decrease in other expenses primarily related to our travel agency business that was sold in 2015, which mostly offsets the related decrease in travel agency revenues discussed above;

a $25.0 million decrease in air expense primarily due to the decrease in air transportation sales and lower costs; and

a $20.2 million decrease in shore excursion expense attributable to lower contractual costs incurred and the decrease in port activities revenue discussed above.

The decrease was partially offset by a $164.7 million increase attributable to the 3.3% increase in capacity noted above.

dollar of $37.0 million.
Marketing, Selling and Administrative Expenses

Marketing, selling and administrative expenses for 2016 remained consistent compared to 2015.

Depreciation and Amortization Expenses

Depreciation and amortization expenses for 20162019 increased $67.9$256.1 million, or 8.2%19.7%, to $894.9 million$1.6 billion from $827.0 million$1.3 billion in 2015.2018. The increase was primarily due to the addition of HarmonySilversea Cruises in the second half of 2018, higher spending on advertisement and media promotions and an increase in payroll and benefits expense primarily driven by an increase in headcount and higher stock price year over year related to our performance share awards. Additionally, 2019 includes expenses associated with Hurricane Dorian relief efforts, which did not occur in 2018.
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses for 2019 and 2018 include transaction costs incurred by us related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition of $1.2 million and $31.8 million, respectively.
Depreciation and Amortization Expenses
Depreciation and amortization expenses for 2019 increased $212.2 million, or 20.5%, to $1.2 billion. The increase was primarily due to the addition of Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas in the second quarter of 2016 into our fleet and the addition of Anthem2019, Symphony of the Seasin the second quarter of 20152018, Azamara Pursuit in the third quarter of 2018, Celebrity Edge in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the addition of Silversea Cruises to our fleet in the second half of 2018. Additionally, to a lesser extent, the increase is also attributable to new shipboard additions associated with our ship upgrade projects and additions related to our shoreside projects.
Other Income (Expense)
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized, increased $74.8 million, or 22.4%, to $408.5 million in 2019 from $333.7 million in 2018. The increase was primarily due to a higher average debt level in 2019 compared to 2018 attributable to the financing of our newbuilds and our acquisition of Silversea Cruises in the second half of 2018 and to lesser extent, higher interest rates in 2019 compared to 2018.
Equity investment income increased $20.2 million, or 9.6%, to $231.0 million in 2019 from $210.8 million in 2018 primarily due to an increase in income from various equity investments, partially offset by equity investment losses from Grand Bahama as a result of a drydock write-off in 2019.
Other expense was $24.5 million in 2019 compared to Other income of $11.1 million in 2018. The increase in expense of $35.6 million was mainly due to higher taxes resulting from a full year of Silversea Cruises activity reported in 2019 and higher U.S. taxable income in 2019; and an increase in the fair value of contingent consideration related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition. In addition, a gain of $21.8 million was reported in 2018 related to the recognition of the remaining balance of a deferred gain from the sale of SplendourCelebrity Galaxy to TUI Cruises in March 2009. In April 2018, TUI Cruises sold this ship to an affiliate of TUI AG, resulting in the recognition of the Seasremaining balance of the deferred gain. Other income in April 2016.

Impairment2018 also includes a gain of Pullmantur Related Assets

During 2015,$13.7 million related to the sale of our remaining equity interest in a travel agency business that we recognizedsold in 2015. The gains in 2018 were partially offset by an impairment charge of $411.3$23.3 million to write down Pullmantur's goodwill to its implied fair valueour investment balance, debt facility and to write down trademarks and trade names and certain long-lived assets, consisting of three aircraft owned and operated by Pullmantur Air and two ships owned and operated by Pullmantur,other receivables due from Skysea Holding to their fair value.

Restructuring Charges

We incurred restructuring charges of approximately $8.5 millionnet realizable value in 2016. Refer2018. For further information on the deferred gain recognized and impairment charge, refer to Note 16. Restructuring Charges8. Other Assets to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Datafor further information on our restructuring initiatives..

Other Income (Expense)

Interest expense, net of interest capitalized, increased $29.6 million, or 10.7%, to $307.4 million in 2016 from $277.7 million in 2015. The increase was due to a higher average debt level attributable to the financing of Ovation of the SeasGross and Harmony of the Seas, partially offset by lower pricing on debt refinanced in 2015.

Equity investment income increased $47.3 million, or 58.4%, to $128.4 million in 2016 from $81.0 million in 2015 mainly due to the increase in income from TUI Cruises, one of our equity method investments.

Other expense in 2016 was $35.7 million compared to $24.4 million in 2015. The increase in expense of $11.2 million was primarily due to a net loss of $21.7 million related to the elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag in 2016. The increase in other expense was partially offset by a decrease of $9.6 million in foreign exchange losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency.

Net Yields

Gross and Net Yields increased 1.6%7.0% and 6.7% in 20162019, respectively, compared to 20152018 primarily due to the increase in passenger ticket and onboard and other revenues discussed above. Gross and Net Yields increased 3.9% in 2016 compared to 2015 on a Constant Currency basis.basis increased 8.2% and 8.0%, respectively, in 2019 compared to 2018.

Gross and Net Cruise Costs

Gross and Net Cruise Costs increased 1.0%16.5% and 16.1%, respectively, in 20162019 compared to 20152018 and Gross and Net Cruise Costs per APCD increased 8.0% and 7.7%, respectively, in 2019, compared to 2018, primarily due to the increase in capacity, partially offset by the decrease in fuel, which are furthercruise operating expenses discussed above. Gross and Net Cruise Costs per APCD decreased 2.2% in 2016 compared to 2015 primarily due to the decrease in fuel. Net Cruise Costs per APCD on a Constant Currency basis decreased 1.7%increased 17.2% and 16.7% respectively, in 20162019 compared to 2015.2018.

59

Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel

Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel per APCD remained consistentincreased 10.8% in 20162019 compared to 20152018 and increased 0.9% in 2016 compared to 2015 on a Constant Currency basis.

basis increased 11.4% in 2019 compared to 2018.
Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income

Other comprehensive income lossin 20162019 was $411.9$170.0 millioncompared to aOther comprehensive loss of$431.4 $293.5 million in 2015.2018. The changedecrease in loss of $843.4$123.5 million was primarily due to the Gain on cash flow derivative hedges in 2016 of $411.2 million compared to the Loss on cash flow derivative hedges in 2019 of $406.0$151.3 million compared to the Loss on cash flow derivative hedges of $286.9 million in 2015.2018. The gaindecrease of $135.5 million in 2016 resulted mostly from the reclassification of losses to earnings during 2016 from fuelLoss on cash flow hedges. In addition, therederivative hedges in 2019 was primarily due to an increase in the fair value of our fuel swapsswap instruments held in 2016 as a result of higher forward fuel prices. The loss in 2015 was primarily due2019 compared to the decrease in the fair value of our fuel swaps and of our foreign currency forward contracts as a result of decreases in fuel prices and forward currency rates, somewhat offset by the reclassification of losses to earnings during 2015 from fuel cash flow hedges.

2018.
Year Ended December 31, 20152018 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2014

2017
In this section, references to 20152018 refer to the year ended December 31, 20152018 and references to 20142017 refer to the year ended December 31, 2014.


2017.
Revenues

Total revenues for 20152018 increased $225.2$716.0 million, or 2.8%8.2%, to $8.3$9.5 billion from $8.1$8.8 billion in 2014.2017.

Passenger ticket revenues comprised 73.0%71.5% of our 20152018 total revenues. Passenger ticket revenues increased by $165.0$479.5 million, or 2.8%, to $6.1 billion in 20157.6% from $5.9 billion in 2014.2017. The increase was primarily due to:

a 5.4%4.0% increase in capacity, which increased Passenger ticket revenues by $317.4$255.5 million, net of the unfavorable impact of the change in our voyage proration. The increase in capacity was primarily due to the addition of AnthemSymphony of the Seasin the second quarter of 2018, Azamara Pursuit in the third quarter of 2018 and, Quantumto a lesser extent, Celebrity Edge in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the Silversea Cruises fleet, partially offset by the sale of Legend of the Seas in 2017 and additional dry dock days in 2018 compared to 2017. Additionally, 2017 includes the impact of canceled sailings from hurricane-related disruptions which entered servicedid not recur in April 2015 and October 2014, respectively; and
2018;

an increase of $181.1$216.3 million in ticket prices primarily driven by higher pricing on AnthemAsia/Pacific and Europe sailings and the increase to our ticket price on a per passenger basis due to the addition of Symphony of the Seas, Azamara Pursuit, Celebrity Edge and Quantum of the Seas as well as higher pricing on Europe, Alaska and Caribbean sailings.

The increase in passenger ticket revenues wasSilversea Cruises fleet, partially offset by a decrease in pricing on Caribbean sailings; and
the unfavorablefavorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our revenue transactions denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar of approximately $333.6$7.8 million.

The remaining 27.0%28.5% of 20152018 total revenues was comprised of Onboard and other revenues, which increased $60.2$236.5 million, or 2.8%9.6%. The increase in Onboard and other revenues was primarily due to:

a $111.3 million increase attributable to the 5.4% increase in capacity noted above, net of the unfavorable impact of the change in our voyage proration; and

a $35.5$112.5 million increase in onboard revenue attributable to higher spending on a per passenger basis primarily due to our ship upgrade programs and other revenue enhancing initiatives, including various beverage package sales and promotions, gaming initiatives, and new strategies and promotions on our shore excursion, specialty restaurant and Internet services;
a $97.4 million increase attributable to the 4.0% increase in capacity noted above; and
a $23.2 million increase in other revenue primarily due to cancellation fees mostly associated with non-refundable deposit promotions and the addition and promotion of specialty restaurants, the increased revenue associated with internet and other telecommunication services and other onboard activities.Silversea Cruises.

The increase was partially offset by:

an approximate $50.8 million unfavorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our onboard and other revenue transactions denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar; and

a $38.1 million decrease in revenues related to Pullmantur's non-core businesses that were sold in 2014.

Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $327.1$339.0 million in 20152018 and $324.3$326.5 million in 2014.

2017.
Cruise Operating Expenses

Total cruise operating expenses for 20152018 decreased $206.9$365.6 million, or 3.9%7.5%, to $5.1 billion in 2015 from $5.3 billion in 2014.2018 from $4.9 billion in 2017. The decrease was primarily due to:

a $195.1 million decrease in fuel expense, excluding the impact of the increase in capacity. Our cost of fuel (net of the financial impact of fuel swap agreements) for 2015 decreased 16.0% per metric ton compared to 2014;

an approximate $157.6 million favorable effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our cruise operating expenses denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar;

a $40.4 million decrease in expenses related to Pullmantur's non-core businesses that were sold in 2014;


a $24.6 million decrease in shore excursion expense attributable to lower contractual costs incurred and itinerary changes;

a $19.4 million decrease in lease expense due to the lease termination and purchase of Brilliance of the Seas in 2014; and

a $17.4 million loss incurred in 2014 due to the sale of Celebrity Century that did not recur in 2015.

The decrease was partially offset by a $276.7 million increase attributable to a 5.4%4.0% increase in capacity noted above, netwhich increased cruise operating expenses by $198.6 million;
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a $30.9 million gain recognized in our voyage proration.

Marketing, Selling and Administrative Expenses

Marketing, selling and administrative expenses for 2015 increased $37.6 million, or 3.6%. The increase was primarily due to an increase in advertising spending mainly relating to our initiatives in the North American, Australian and Asian markets, an increase in payroll and benefits primarily due to an increase in our stock price over the past year related to our performance share awards and higher IT labor costs2017 resulting from the addition of projects and initiatives in 2015. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in administrative expenses mainly driven by the sale of Pullmantur's non-core businesses in 2014 and savings realized from our cost containment initiatives.

Depreciation and Amortization Expenses

Depreciation and amortization expenses for 2015 increased $54.6 million, or 7.1%, to $827.0 million from $772.4 million in 2014. The increase was primarily due to the addition of QuantumLegend of the Seas, and Anthem of the Seas into our fleet, new shipboard additions associated with our ship upgrade projects and the acquisition of the Brilliance of the Seas, which was previously under lease, partially offset by the sale of Celebrity Century in September 2014.

Impairment of Pullmantur Related Assets

During 2015, we recognized an impairment charge of $411.3 million to write down Pullmantur's goodwill to its implied fair value and to write down trademarks and trade names and certain long-lived assets, consisting of three aircraft owned by Pullmantur and two ships owned and operated by Pullmantur, to their fair value. Refer to Note 3. Goodwill and Note 4. Intangible Assets to our consolidated financial statements for further information on the impairment of these assets.

Restructuring Charges

We incurred restructuring charges of approximately $4.3 million in 2014, which did not recur in 2015.2018;

Other Income (Expense)

Interest expense, net of interest capitalized, increased $19.4a $37.3 million or 7.5%, to $277.7 million in 2015 from $258.3 million in 2014. The increase was primarily due to a higher average debt level attributable to the financing of Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas, partially offset by lower pricing on debt refinanced in 2015 and 2014.

Equity investment income increased $29.4 million, or 56.9%, to $81.0 million in 2015 from $51.6 million in 2014 mainly due to the increase in income from TUI Cruises, one of our equity method investments.

Other expense in 2015 was $24.4 million comparedpayroll and related expenses primarily driven by Silversea Cruises' higher crew to Other income of $18.6 million in 2014. Thepassenger ratio, an increase in employee bonuses and changes in our gratuity structure;
a $23.5 million increase in air expense of $43.0 million was primarily due to a $33.5 million tax benefit related to the reversaladdition of Silversea Cruises and itinerary changes;
a deferred tax asset valuation allowance resulting from Spanish tax reform in 2014, which did not recur in 2015 and $20.9$19.7 million in foreign exchange losses from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency in 2015 compared to $0.9 million in gains in 2014. The increase in other expense was partially offset by a net deferred tax

benefit of $12.0 million resulting from the impairment of the Pullmantur related assets in 2015, which did not occur in 2014.

Net Yields

Net Yields decreased 1.0% in 2015 compared to 2014vessel maintenance primarily due to the unfavorable effecttiming of changes in foreign currency exchange rates related to our passenger ticket revenue transactions denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar noted above. Net Yields increased 3.5% in 2015 compared to 2014 on a Constant Currency basis primarily due to the increase in passenger ticketscheduled drydocks; and onboard and other revenues discussed above.

Net Cruise Costs

Net Cruise Costs decreased 1.9% in 2015 compared to 2014 primarily due to the decrease in fuel and the favorablean unfavorable effect of changes in foreign currency, exchange rates related to our cruise operating expenses denominated in currencies other than the United States dollar of $8.1 million.
Marketing, Selling and Administrative Expenses
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses for 2018 increased $117.1 million, or 9.9%, to $1.3 billion from $1.2 billion in 2017. The increase was primarily due to transaction costs incurred by us related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition, marketing, selling and administrative expenses due to the addition of Silversea Cruises, the impairment and other costs related to the exit of our tour operations business, which occurred in 2018, and an increase in payroll and benefits expense primarily driven by an increase in headcount, partially offset by lower stock prices year over year related to our performance share awards, as well as higher spending on advertisement.
Depreciation and Amortization Expenses
Depreciation and amortization expenses for 2018 increased $82.5 million, or 8.7%, to $1.0 billion. The increase was primarily due to the addition of Symphony of the Seas,Azamara Pursuit and Silversea Cruises to our fleet and, to a lesser extent, the addition of Celebrity Edge, new shipboard additions associated with our ship upgrade projects and additions related to our shoreside projects. The increase was partially offset by the sale of Legend of the Seas in 2017.
Other Income (Expense)
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized, increased $33.7 million, or 11.2%, to $333.7 million in 2018 from $300.0 million in 2017. The increase was mostly due to a higher average debt level in 2018 compared to 2017, attributable to the financing of Symphony of the Seas, Celebrity Edge and our acquisition of Silversea Cruises in 2018, and higher interest rates in 2018 compared to 2017, partially offset by an increase in capacity.capitalized interest due to our ships on order.
Equity investment income increased $54.5 million, or 34.9%, to $210.8 million in 2018 from $156.2 million in 2017 primarily due to an increase in income from TUI Cruises.
Other income was $11.1 million in 2018 compared to Other expense of $5.3 million in 2017. The change of $16.4 million was mainly due to a gain of $21.8 million in 2018 related to the recognition of the remaining balance of a deferred gain from the sale of Celebrity Galaxy to TUI Cruises in March 2009. In April 2018, TUI Cruises sold this ship to an affiliate of TUI AG, resulting in the recognition of the remaining balance of the deferred gain. In addition, Other income in 2018 includes a gain of $13.7 million related to the sale of our remaining equity interest in a travel agency business that we sold in 2015. The increase in Other income was partially offset by an impairment charge of $23.3 million to write down our investment balance, debt facility and other receivables due from Skysea Holding to their net realizable value in 2018. For further information on the deferred gain recognized and impairment charge, refer to Note 8. Other Assets to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
Gross and Net Yields
Gross and Net Yields increased 4.0% and 4.5% in 2018, respectively, compared to 2017 primarily due to the increase in passenger ticket and onboard and other revenues, which are further discussed above. Gross and Net Yields on a Constant Currency basis increased 3.8% and 4.4%, respectively, in 2018 compared to 2017.
Gross and Net Cruise Costs
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Gross and Net Cruise Costs increased 7.4% and 8.0%, respectively, in 2018 compared to 2017 and Gross and Net Cruise Costs per APCD decreased 6.9%increased 3.2% and 3.8%, respectively, in 20152018 compared to 2014.2017, primarily due to the increase in cruise operating expenses discussed above. Gross and Net Cruise Costs per APCD on a Constant Currency basis decreased 4.7%increased 7.2% and 7.7%, respectively, in 20152018 compared to 2014.

2017.
Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel

Net Cruise Costs Excluding Fuel per APCD decreased 3.2%increased 4.4% in 20152018 compared to 20142017 and remained consistent in 2015 compared to 2014 on a Constant Currency basis.

basis increased 4.1% in 2018 compared to 2017.
Other Comprehensive Loss(Loss) Income

Other comprehensive lossdecreased by $471.2 in 2018 was $293.5 million compared to Other comprehensive income of $582.2 million in 2015 compared to 20142017. The change of $875.7 million was primarily due to a $463.3 million decrease in lossesthe Loss on cash flow derivative hedges resulting mostly from in 2018 of $286.9 million compared to the reclassification of losses to earnings during 2015 from fuelGain on cash flow hedges.derivative hedges of $570.5 million in 2017. The change of $857.4 million in 2018 was primarily due to a decrease in foreign currency forward contract values in 2018 compared to an increase in 2017, a decrease in fuel swap instrument values in 2018 compared to an increase in 2017 and fuel swap losses recognized in income in 2017 compared to fuel swap gains recognized in income in 2018.

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Future Application of Accounting Standards
Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information on Recent Accounting Pronouncements.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources and Uses of Cash
Cash flow generated from operations provides us with a significant source of liquidity. Net cash provided by operating activities increased $570.3$237.2 million to $2.5$3.7 billion for 2016in 2019 compared to $1.9$3.5 billion for 2015.in 2018. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to an increase in proceeds from customer deposits and an increase in cash receipts from onboard spending. The increase was partially offset by a decrease in dividends received from unconsolidated affiliates of $92.9 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities increased $604.6 million to $3.5 billion in 2018 compared to $2.9 billion in 2017. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to an increase in proceeds from customer deposits, an increase in cash receipts from onboard spending and a decrease in fuel costs in 20162018 compared to 2015.2017. Additionally, dividends received from unconsolidated affiliates increased by $42.6$133.4 million.
Net cash provided by operating activities increased $202.6 million to $1.9 billion for 2015 compared to $1.7 billion for 2014. The increase in cash provided by operating activities was primarily attributable to an increase in proceeds from customer deposits, an increase in cash receipts from onboard spending and a decrease in fuel costs and interest paid in 2015 compared to the same period in 2014.
Net cash used in investing activities increased $981.9 milliondecreased $1.4 billion to $2.7$3.1 billion in 20162019 compared to $1.7$4.5 billion in 2015.2018. The decrease was primarily attributable to the $916.1 million of cash paid for the acquisition of Silversea Cruises, net of cash acquired, in 2018, which did not recur in 2019 and a decrease in capital expenditures of $635.4 million due mostly to the delivery of two more ships in 2018 compared to 2019, partially offset by higher fleet modernization costs in 2019 compared to 2018.
Net cash used in investing activities increased $4.3 billion to $4.5 billion in 2018 compared to $213.6 million in 2017. The increase was primarily attributable to an increase in capital expenditures of $881.0 million in 2016 compared to the same period in 2015$3.1 billion primarily due to the deliveriesdelivery of OvationSymphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas in 2016. Additionally, cash repayments received on loansCelebrity Edge and to our unconsolidated affiliates decreased $86.0 million in 2016

compared to the same period in 2015 mainly due to TUI Cruises repaying in 2015 the outstanding balance of the debt facility we originally provided to them in 2011.
Net cash used in investing activities decreased $27.4 million in 2015 compared to 2014. During 2015, our use of cash was primarily related to capital expenditures of $1.6 billion, down from $1.8 billion in 2014. The decrease in capital expenditures during 2015 was primarily attributable toa lesser extent the purchase of Brilliance of the Seas Azamara Pursuitin 2014. The decrease in cash used in investing activities was also due to a decrease in investments in and loans to unconsolidated affiliates of $132.4 million in 20152018 compared to 2014no ship deliveries or purchases in 2017 and an increase$916.1 million of cash paid for the acquisition of Silversea Cruises, net of cash acquired, in cash repayments received on loans to unconsolidated affiliates of $48.1 million in 2015 compared to 2014. The decrease was partially offset by $220.02018 as well as $230.0 million of proceeds received from the sale of Celebrity Centuryproperty and equipment in 2014 that2017, which did not recur in 2015. Additionally, there 2018.
Net cash used in financing activities was an increase$670.4 million in 2019 compared to Net cash paidprovided in financing activities of $1.2 billion in 2018. The change was primarily attributable to a decrease in debt proceeds of $5.1 billion in 2019 compared to 2018 primarily due to a decrease in borrowings on our revolving credit facilities and less unsecured term loan borrowings resulting from less ship deliveries in 2019 and the settlementfinancing of derivative financial instrumentsthe acquisition of $110.5 million.Silversea Cruises in 2018. This decrease in proceeds was partially offset by a decrease in repayments of debt of $2.9 billion and a decrease in stock repurchases of $475.5 million in 2019 compared to 2018.
Net cash provided by financing activities was $243.8 million for 2016$1.2 billion in 2018 compared to Net cash used in financing activities of$253.5 million2.7 billion in 2015.2017. The increasechange was primarily attributable to an increase in debt proceeds from the issuance of $2.9commercial paper notes of $4.7 billion during 2016in 2018 compared to 2015, partially offset by an increasenone issued in repayment of debt of $2.2 billion, an increase in stock repurchases of $100.0 million2017 and an increase in dividends paiddebt proceeds of $66.3 million during 2016$2.7 billion in 2018 compared to 2015.2017. The increase in debt proceeds in 2018 was primarily due to the $841.8$1.2 billion unsecured term loan borrowed to finance Symphony of the Seas, and the $729.0 million unsecured term loan borrowed in April 2016 to finance Ovation of Celebrity Edge, the Seas, the €700.7 million and $226.1 million unsecured term loans borrowed in May 2016 to finance Harmony of the Seas, the $200.0 million unsecured term loan borrowed in April 2016 and higher drawings on our revolving credit facilities during 2016 compared to the $742.1 million unsecured term loan borrowed in April 2015 to finance Anthem of the Seas. The increase in repayment of debt was primarily due to higher payments on our revolving credit facilities.
Net cash used in financing activities was $253.5 million for 2015 compared to Net cash provided by financing activities of $17.5 million in 2014. This change was primarily due to an increase of $394.3 million in repayment of debt, an increase of dividends paid of $81.3 million and a decrease in the proceeds from the exercise of common stock options of $59.6 million. The increase in cash used in financing activities was partially offset by a $245.5 million increase in debt proceeds and a $36.1 million decrease in the repurchase of treasury stock. The increase in repayment of debt was due to higher payments of $1.1 billion on our revolving credit facilities and a payment at maturity of $279.0 million on our 11.875% unsecured senior notes during 2015 compared to the payment at maturity of our €745.0 million 5.625% unsecured senior notes during 2014. The increase in debt proceeds was primarily due to the $742.1$700.0 million unsecured term loan borrowed to finance the purchaseacquisition of Anthem of the Seas and higher drawings of $706.0 millionSilversea Cruises,an increase in borrowings on our revolving credit facilities in 2015 compared to proceeds received on an unsecured term loanand the $130.0 million credit agreement.
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Future Capital Commitments
Our future capital commitments consist primarily of new ship orders. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we have two Quantum-class ships and two Oasis-class ships, one Quantum-class ship, and three ships of a new generation, known as our Icon-class, on order for our Royal Caribbean International brand with an aggregate capacity of approximately 19,20032,400 berths. As of December 31, 2019, we have three Edge-class ships with an aggregate capacity of approximately 9,400 berths. Additionally as of December 31, 2019, we have four "Project Edge"five ships on order for our CelebritySilversea Cruises brand with an aggregate capacity of approximately 11,6002,400 berths. Refer to Item 1. Business-Operations for further information on our ships on order. For each of these orders, we have committed unsecured financing arrangements in place covering 80% of the cost of the ship, eachalmost all of which include sovereign financing guarantees.

As of December 31, 2016,2019, the aggregate cost of our ships on order, not including the TUI Cruises'any ships on order by our Partner Brands and the "Project Icon"Silversea Cruises ships whichthat remain subject to conditions of effectiveness,contingent upon final documentation and financing, was approximately $8.4$14.8 billion, of which we had deposited $316.1$881.5 million as of such date. Approximately 66.7%65.9% of the aggregate cost was exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate at December 31, 2016.2019. (Refer to Note 14. 18. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments and Note 15. 19. Commitments and Contingencies to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data)Data).

As of December 31, 2016,2019, anticipated overall capital expenditures, based on our existing ships on order, are approximately $0.6$4.7 billion for 2017, $2.62020, $3.5 billion for 2018, $1.52021, $3.6 billion for 20192022 and $2.0$2.9 billion for 2020.2023.

Contractual Obligations
As of December 31, 2016,2019, our contractual obligations were as follows (in thousands):
Payments due by period Payments due by period
  Less than 1-3 3-5 More than  Less than1-33-5More than
Total 1 year years years 5 years Total1 yearyearsyears5 years
Operating Activities: 
  
  
  
  
Operating Activities:     
Operating lease obligations(1)
$309,797
 $20,749
 $33,025
 $24,135
 $231,888
Operating lease obligations(1)
$938,354  $126,234  $217,941  $177,057  $417,122  
Interest on long-term debt(2)
1,294,426
 281,066
 416,711
 277,028
 319,621
Interest on long-term debt(2)
1,918,714  348,821  588,296  383,167  598,430  
Other(3)
795,247
 232,055
 292,353
 160,520
 110,319
Other(3)
455,404  202,879  194,936  23,356  34,233  
Investing Activities:0
        Investing Activities:
Ship purchase obligations(4)
6,454,147
 108,084
 2,746,358
 3,005,993
 593,712
Ship purchase obligations(4)
11,418,681  2,195,931  4,958,432  3,060,998  1,203,320  
Financing Activities:0
        Financing Activities:
Long-term debt obligations(5)
9,147,052
 1,078,719
 3,057,417
 2,233,047
 2,777,869
Capital lease obligations(6)
40,384
 7,016
 7,031
 8,060
 18,277
Other(7)
51,744
 18,364
 25,286
 7,805
 289
Commercial paper(5)
Commercial paper(5)
1,434,180  1,434,180  —  —  —  
Debt obligations(6)
Debt obligations(6)
9,370,438  1,153,024  3,270,006  1,476,538  3,470,870  
Capital lease obligations(7)
Capital lease obligations(7)
230,258  33,562  53,203  10,541  132,952  
Other(8)
Other(8)
15,008  4,841  7,406  2,761  
Total$18,092,797
 $1,746,053
 $6,578,181
 $5,716,588
 $4,051,975
Total$25,781,037  $5,499,472  $9,290,220  $5,134,418  $5,856,927  


(1)   We are obligated under noncancelable operating leases primarily for offices, warehouses and motor vehicles. Amounts represent contractual obligations with initial terms in excess of one year.
(2)     Long-term debtDebt obligations mature at various dates through fiscal year 20282037 and bear interest at fixed and variable rates. Interest on variable-rate debt is calculated based on forecasted debt balances, including the impact of interest rate swap agreements, using the applicable rate at December 31, 2016.2019. Debt denominated in other currencies is calculated based on the applicable exchange rate at December 31, 2016.2019.
(3)    Amounts primarily represent future commitments with remaining terms in excess of one year to pay for our usage of certain port facilities, marine consumables, services and maintenance contracts. Amounts do not include the PortMiami lease further discussed below under Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements.
(4)     Amounts do not include potential obligations which remain subject to cancellation at our sole discretion. In addition,discretion or any agreements entered for ships on order that remain contingent upon completion of conditions precedent. Additionally, amounts do not include activity related to Silversea Cruises, including ships placed on order, if any, during the conditional agreements with Meyer Turkuthree-month reporting lag period. Refer to the Capital Expenditure section.
(5)   Refer to Note 9. Debt to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Datato our consolidated financial statements for the two "Project Icon" ships.further information.
(5)     Amounts represent debt obligations with initial terms in excess
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(6) Debt denominated in other currencies is calculated based on the applicable exchange rate at December 31, 2016.2019. In addition, debt obligations presented above are net of debt issuance costs of $206.6 million as of December 31, 2019.
(6)(7)      Amounts represent capital lease obligations with initial terms in excess of one year.
(7)(8)     Amounts represent fees payable to sovereign guarantors in connection with certain of our export credit debt facilities and facility fees on our revolving credit facilities.
Please refer to Funding Needs and Sources below for discussion on the planned funding of the above contractual obligations.
As a normal part of our business, depending on market conditions, pricing and our overall growth strategy, we continuously consider opportunities to enter into contracts for the building of additional ships. We may also consider the sale of ships or the purchase of existing ships. We continuously consider potential acquisitions and strategic alliances. If any of these were to occur, they would be financed through the incurrence of additional indebtedness, the issuance of additional shares of equity securities or through cash flows from operations.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We and TUI AG have each guaranteed the repayment by TUI Cruises of 50% of a bank loan provided to TUI Cruises which is due 2022. Notwithstanding this, the lenders have agreed to release each shareholder’s guarantee in 2018.loan. As of December 31, 2016, €116.32019, the outstanding principal amount of the loan was €26.4 million, or approximately $122.7$29.7 million, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016, remains outstanding.2019. The loan amortizes quarterly and is currently secured by a first mortgage on Mein Schiff Herz, previously known as Mein Schiff 2. Based on current facts and circumstances, we do not believe potential obligations under our guarantee of this guaranteebank loan are probable.

TUI Cruises has entered into various ship construction and credit agreements that include certain restrictions on each of our and TUI AG's ability to reduce our current ownership interest in TUI Cruises below 37.55% through 2021.
In July 2016, we executed an agreement with Miami Dade County (“MDC”), which was simultaneously assigned to Sumitomo Banking Corporation (“SMBC”), to lease land from MDC and construct a new cruise terminal at PortMiami in Miami, Florida. The terminal is expected to be approximately 170,000 square feet and will serve as a homeport. During the construction period, SMBC will fund the costs of the terminal’s construction and land lease. Upon completion of the terminal's construction, we will operate and lease the terminal from SMBC for a five-year term. We determined that the lease arrangement between SMBC and us should be accounted for as an operating lease upon completion of the terminal.May 2031.
Some of the contracts that we enter into include indemnification provisions that obligate us to make payments to the counterparty if certain events occur. These contingencies generally relate to changes in taxes, increased lender capital costs and other similar costs. The indemnification clauses are often standard contractual terms and are entered into in the normal course of business. There are no stated or notional amounts included in the indemnification clauses and we are not able to estimate the maximum potential amount of future payments, if any, under these indemnification clauses. We have not been required to make any payments under such indemnification clauses in the past and, under current circumstances, we do not believe an indemnification obligation is probable.
As of December 31, 2016,2019, other than the items described above, we are not party to any other off-balance sheet arrangements, including guarantee contracts, retained or contingent interest, certain derivative instruments and variable interest entities, that either have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on our financial position.
Funding Needs and Sources
We have significant contractual obligations of which our debt service obligations and the capital expenditures associated with our ship purchases represent our largest funding needs. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we havehad approximately $1.7$5.5 billion in contractual obligations due through December 31, 20172020 of which approximately $1.1$2.6 billion relates to long-term debt maturities $108.1including our commercial paper notes, $348.8 million relates to interest on debt and $2.2 billion relates to progress payments on our ship purchasesorders and $281.1 million relates to interest on long-term debt.the final installments payable due upon the deliveries of Celebrity Apex, Silver Origin, Silver Moon and Odyssey of the Seas in 2020. We have historically relied on a combination of cash flows provided by operations, drawdowns under our available credit facilities and our commercial paper program, the incurrence of additional debt and/or the refinancing of our existing debt and the issuance of additional shares of equity securities to fund these obligations.
WeAs of December 31, 2019, we had a working capital deficit of $3.7$6.8 billion, as of December 31, 2016 as compared to a working capital deficit of $3.5which included $1.2 billion as of December 31, 2015. Included within our working capital deficit is $1.3 billion and $899.5 million of current portion of debt, including capitalfinance leases, asand $1.4 billion of commercial paper. As of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. The increase in2018, we had a working capital deficit was primarily due to the increase inof $5.9 billion, which included $1.6 billion of current liabilitiesportion of our long-term debt, including finance leases and customer deposits.$0.8 million of commercial paper. Similar to others in our industry, we operate with a substantial working capital deficit. This deficit is mainly attributable to the fact that, under our business model, a vast majority of our passenger ticket receipts are collected in advance of the applicable sailing date. These advance passenger
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receipts remain a current liability until the sailing date. The cash generated from these advance receipts is used interchangeably with cash on hand from other sources, such as our revolving credit facilities, commercial paper and other cash from operations. The cash received as advanced receipts can be used to fund operating expenses for the applicable future sailing or otherwise, pay down our revolving credit facilities and commercial paper, invest in long term investments or any other use of cash. In addition, we have a relatively low-level of accounts receivable and rapid turnover results in a limited investment in inventories. We generate substantial cash flows from operations, and our business model, along with our unsecured revolving credit facilities, has historically allowed us to maintain this working capital deficit and still meet our operating, investing and financing needs. We expect that we will continue to have working capital deficits in the future.
As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had liquidity of $980.6 million,$1.5 billion, consisting of approximately $132.6$243.7 million in cash and cash equivalents and $848.0 million$1.3 billion available under our unsecured credit facilities. facilities, net of our outstanding commercial paper notes.
We anticipate that our cash flows from operations and our current financing arrangements, as described above, will be adequate to meet our capital expenditures and debt repayments over the next 12-monthtwelve-month period.


In October 2015, our boardAs of directors authorizedDecember 31, 2019, we have approximately $600.0 million that remains available for future common stock repurchase transactions under a 24-month common stock repurchase program for up to $500 million that was completed$1.0 billion authorized by our board of directors in August 2016. During 2016, we purchased 4.1 million shares for a total of $300.0 million inMay 2018. Repurchases under the program may be made at management's discretion from time to time on the open market transactions. Theseor through privately negotiated transactions were recorded within Treasury stock inand are expected to be funded from available cash or borrowings. Refer to Note 12. Shareholders' Equity to our consolidated balance sheet. Our repurchasesfinancial statements under this program, including the 2.1 million shares repurchased Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplemental Data for $200.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2015, totaled $500.0 million.

further information.
If any person acquires ownership of more than 50% of our common stock or, subject to certain exceptions, during any 24-month period, a majority of the Boardour board of directors is no longer comprised of individuals who were members of the Boardour board of directors on the first day of such period, we may be obligated to prepay indebtedness outstanding under our credit facilities, which we may be unable to replace on similar terms. Our public debt securities also contain change of control provisions that would be triggered by a third-party acquisition of greater than 50% of our common stock coupled with a ratings downgrade. If this were to occur, it would have an adverse impact on our liquidity and operations.

Debt Covenants
Certain of our financing agreements contain financial covenants that require us, among other things, to maintain minimum net worth of at least $7.2$9.9 billion, a fixed charge coverage ratio of at least 1.25x and limit our net debt-to-capital ratio to no more than 62.5%. The fixed charge coverage ratio is calculated by dividing net cash from operations for the past four quarters by the sum of dividend payments plus scheduled principal debt payments in excess of any new financings for the past four quarters. Our minimum net worth and maximum net debt-to-capital calculations exclude the impact of Accumulated other comprehensive loss on Total shareholders' equity. We arewere well in excess of all financialdebt covenant requirements as of December 31, 2016.2019. The specific covenants and related definitions can be found in the applicable debt agreements, the majority of which have been previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Dividends
In December 2016,2019, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.48$0.78 per share which was paid in the first quarter of 2017.2020. We declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.48$0.78 per share during the third quarter of 20162019 which was paid in the fourth quarter of 2016.2019. During the first and second quarters of 2016,2019, we declared and paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.375$0.70 per share.share which was paid in the second and third quarters of 2019, respectively. During the first quarter of 2016,2019, we also paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.375$0.70 per share which was declared during the fourth quarter of 2015.2018.


66



Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Financial Instruments and Other

General

We are exposed to market risk attributable to changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and fuel prices. We managetry to mitigate these risks through a combination of our normal operating and financing activities and through the use of derivative financial instruments pursuant to our hedging practices and policies. The financial impact of these hedging instruments is primarily offset by corresponding changes in the underlying exposures being hedged. We achieve this by closely matching the amount, term and conditions of the derivative instrument with the underlying risk being hedged. Although certain of our derivative financial instruments do not qualify or are not accounted for under hedge accounting, we doour objective is not to hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. We monitor our derivative positions using techniques including market valuations and sensitivity analyses. (Refer to Note 14. 18. Fair Value Measurementsand Derivative Instruments to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.)

Interest Rate Risk

Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates to our long-term debt obligations including future interest payments. At December 31, 2016,2019, approximately 40.5%62.1% of our long-term debt was effectively fixed as compared to 31.2%59.1% as of December 31, 2015.2018. We use interest rate swap agreements to modify our exposure to interest rate movements and to manage our interest expense.

Market risk associated with our long-term fixed rate debt is the potential increase in fair value resulting from a decrease in interest rates. We use interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert a portion of our fixed-rate debt to a floating-rate basis to manage this risk. At December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following fixed-rate debt instruments:
Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2016 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Fixed RateSwap Floating Rate: LIBOR plusAll-in Swap Floating Rate as of December 31, 2016Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2019 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Fixed RateSwap Floating Rate: LIBOR plusAll-in Swap Floating Rate as of December 31, 2019
Oasis of the Seas term loan
$175,000
October 20215.41%3.87%5.13%
Oasis of the Seas term loan
$70,000  October 20215.41%  3.87%  5.8%  
Unsecured senior notes650,000
November 20225.25%3.63%4.54%Unsecured senior notes650,000  November 20225.25%  3.63%  5.54%  
$825,000
 $720,000  
These interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as fair value hedges.

The estimated fair value of our long-term fixed-rate debt at December 31, 20162019 was $1.6$5.6 billion, using quoted market prices, where available, or using the present value of expected future cash flows which incorporates risk profile. The fair value of our fixed to floating interest rate swap agreements was estimated to be a liability of $16.2$1.6 million as of December 31, 2016,2019, based on the present value of expected future cash flows. A hypothetical one percentage point decrease in interest rates at December 31, 20162019 would increase the fair value of our hedged and unhedged long-term fixed-rate debt by approximately $83.4$266.2 million and would increase the fair value of our fixed to floating interest rate swap agreements by approximately $39.8$16.5 million.

Market risk associated with our long-term floating-rate debt is the potential increase in interest expense from an increase in interest rates. We use interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert a portion of our floating-rate debt to a fixed-rate basis to manage this risk. A hypothetical one percentage point increase in interest rates would increase our forecasted 20172020 interest expense by approximately $42.7$37.4 million, assuming no change in foreign currency exchange rates.

67

At December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following floating-rate debt instruments:

Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2019 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Floating RateAll-in Swap Fixed Rate
Celebrity Reflection term loan
$272,708  October 2024LIBOR plus0.40%  2.85%  
Quantum of the Seas term loan
428,750  October 2026LIBOR plus1.30%  3.74%  
Anthem of the Seas term loan
453,125  April 2027LIBOR plus1.30%  3.86%  
Ovation of the Seas term loan
587,917  April 2028LIBOR plus1.00%  3.16%  
Harmony of the Seas term loan (1)
551,325  May 2028EURIBOR plus1.15%  2.26%  
Odyssey of the Seas term loan (2)
460,000  October 2032LIBOR plus0.95%  3.20%  
$2,753,825  

Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2016 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Floating RateAll-in Swap Fixed Rate
Celebrity Reflection term loan
436,333
October 2024LIBOR plus0.40%2.85%
Quantum of the Seas term loan
612,500
October 2026LIBOR plus1.30%3.74%
Anthem of the Seas term loan
634,375
April 2027LIBOR plus1.30%3.86%
Ovation of the Seas term loan
795,417
April 2028LIBOR plus1.00%3.16%
Harmony of the Seas term loan (1)
701,056
May 2028EURIBOR plus1.15%2.26%
 3,179,681
    

(1) Interest rate swap agreements hedging the Euro-denominated term loan for Harmony of the Seas include EURIBOR zero-floors matching the hedged debt EURIBOR zero-floor. Amount presented is based on the exchange rate as of December 31, 2016.2019.

(2) Interest rate swap agreements hedging the term loan for Odyssey of the Seas include LIBOR zero-floors matching the hedged debt LIBOR zero-floor. The anticipated unsecured term loan for the financing of Odyssey of the Seas is expected to be drawn in October 2020.
These interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as cash flow hedges.

The fair value of our floating to fixed interest rate swap agreements was estimated to be a liability of $42.8$65.4 million as of December 31, 20162019 based on the present value of expected future cash flows. These interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as cash flow hedges.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

Our primary exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk relates to our ship construction contracts denominated in Euros, our foreign currency denominated debt and our international business operations. WeOn a regular basis, we enter into foreign currency forward contracts collar options and, from time to time, we utilize cross-currency swap agreements and collar options to manage portions of the exposure to movements in foreign currency exchange rates.

The estimated fair value, as of December 31, 2016,2019, of our Euro-denominated forward contracts associated with our ship construction contracts was a liability of $73.7$139.2 million, based on the present value of expected future cash flows. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the aggregate cost of our ships on order, not including the TUI Cruises' ships on order by our Partner Brands and those subject to conditions to effectiveness,the Silversea Cruises ships that remain contingent upon final documentation and financing, was approximately $8.4$14.8 billion, of which we had deposited $316.1$881.5 million as of such date. Approximately 66.7%65.9% and 58.2%53.5% of the aggregate cost of the ships under construction was exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate at December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, respectively. A hypothetical 10% strengthening of the Euro as of December 31, 2016,2019, assuming no changes in comparative interest rates, would result in a $558.0$972.2 million increase in the United States dollar cost of the foreign currency denominated ship construction contracts exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate. The majority of ourOur foreign currency forward contracts, collar options and cross-currency swapcontract agreements are accounted for as cash flow fair value or net investment hedges depending on the designation of the related hedge.

Our international business operations subject us to foreign currency exchange risk. We transact business in many different foreign currencies and maintain investments in foreign operations which may expose us to financial market risk resulting from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Movements in foreign currency exchange rates may affect the value of our earnings in foreign currencies and cash flows. We manage most of this exposure on a consolidated basis, which allows us to take advantage of any natural offsets. Therefore, weakness in one particular currency might be offset by strengths in other currencies over time. The extent to which one currency is effective as a natural offset of another currency fluctuates over time. In addition, some foreign currency exposures have little to no mitigating natural offsets available.

68

We consider our investments in our foreign operations to be denominated in relatively stable currencies and of a long-term nature. As of December 31, 2019, we maintained foreign currency forward contracts and designated them as hedges of a portion of our net investment in TUI Cruises of €173.0 million, or approximately $194.2 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. These forward currency contracts mature in October 2021.
We partially mitigatealso address the exposure of our investments in foreign operations by denominating a portion of our debt in our subsidiaries’subsidiaries' and investments’investments' functional currencies and designating it as a hedge of these subsidiaries and investments. We had designated debt as a hedge of our net investments primarily in TUI Cruises of approximately €295.0

€319.0 million, or approximately $311.2$358.1 million, through December 31, 2016.2019. As of December 31, 2015, no2018, we had designated debt was designated as a hedge of our net investments primarily in Pullmantur and TUI Cruises. Cruises of approximately €280.0 million, or approximately $320.2 million.
We have included net gains of approximately $114.0$96.8 million and $104.5$86.1 million of foreign-currency transaction lossesremeasurement and of changes in the fair value of derivatives in the foreign currency translation adjustment component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss at December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, respectively.

Lastly, onOn a regular basis, we enter into foreign currency forward contracts and, from time to time, we utilize cross-currency swap agreements and collar options to minimize the volatility resulting from the remeasurement of net monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than our functional currency or the functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries. During 2016,2019, we maintained an average of approximately $642.4$689.7 million of these foreign currency forward contracts. These instruments are not designated as hedging instruments. In 2016, 2015For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 20142017 changes in the fair value of the foreign currency forward contracts were lossesresulted in gains (losses) of approximately $51.1$1.4 million,, $55.5 $(62.4) million and $48.6$62.0 million, respectively, which offset gains (losses) arising from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies in those same years of $39.8$0.4 million,, $57.6 million and $34.6 million and $49.5(75.6) million, respectively. These changes were recognized in earnings within Other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

Fuel Price Risk

Our exposure to market risk for changes in fuel prices relates primarily to the consumption of fuel on our ships. Fuel cost (net of the financial impact of fuel swap agreements), as a percentage of our total revenues, was approximately 8.4%6.4% in 2016, 9.6%2019, 7.5% in 20152018 and 11.7%7.8% in 2014.2017. We use fuel swap agreements to mitigate the financial impact of fluctuations in fuel prices.

As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had fuel swap agreements to pay fixed prices for fuel with an aggregate notional amount of approximately $1.0 billion,$810.0 million, maturing through 2020.2023. The fuel swap agreements represented 60%54% of our projected 20172020 fuel requirements, 44%30% of our projected 20182021 fuel requirements, 35%19% of our projected 20192022 fuel requirements and 20%5% of our projected 20202023 fuel requirements. These fuel swap agreements are generally accounted for as cash flow hedges. The estimated fair value of these contracts at December 31, 20162019 was estimated to be a liability of $227.9$23.8 million. We estimate that a hypothetical 10% increase in our weighted-average fuel price from that experienced during the year ended December 31, 20162019 would increase our forecasted 20172020 fuel cost by approximately $30.0$36.8 million, net of the impact of fuel swap agreements.



Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Our Consolidated Financial Statements and Quarterly Selected Financial Data are included beginning on page F-1 of this report.
Item 9.    Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.

69

Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management, with the participation of our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon such evaluation, our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that those controls and procedures are effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure and are effective to provide reasonable assurance that such information is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the SEC’sSecurities and Exchange Commission's (the "SEC") rules and forms.
Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f). Our management, with the participation of our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting based on the Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations ("COSO") of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, management concluded that our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2016. 2019.
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 20162019 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, the independent registered certified public accounting firm that audited our consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, as stated in its report, which is included herein on page F-2.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting identified in connection with the evaluation required by Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(d) during the quarter ended December 31, 20162019 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

Inherent Limitations on Effectiveness of Controls

It should be noted that any system of controls, however well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, and not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the system will be met. In addition, the design of any control system is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events. Because of these and other inherent limitations of control systems, there is only reasonable assurance that our controls will succeed in achieving their goals under all potential future conditions.

Item 9B.    Other Information
None.

70

PART III
Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance; Executive Compensation; Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters; Certain Relationships and Related Transactions; and Director Independence and Principal Accountant Fees and Services.
Except for information concerning executive officers (called for by Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K), which is included in Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the information required by Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 is incorporated herein by reference to certain sections of the Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Definitive Proxy Statement relating to our 20172020 Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the "Proxy Statement") to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission no later than 120 days after the close of the fiscal year. Please refer to the following sections in the Proxy Statement for more information regarding our corporate governance:information: "Corporate Governance"; "Proposal 1—Election of Directors"; and "Certain Relationships and Related Person Transactions.Transactions"; "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance"; "Executive Compensation"; "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management"; and "Proposal 3—Ratification of Principal Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm." Copies of the Proxy Statement will become available when filed through our Investor Relations website at www.rclinvestor.comwww.rclcorporate.com (please see "Financial Reports" under "Financial Information"); by contacting our Investor Relations department at 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, Florida 33132—telephone (305) 982-2625; or by visiting the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
We have adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to all of our employees, including our executive officers, and our directors. A copy of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics is posted in the corporate governance section of our website at www.rclinvestor.comwww.rclcorporate.com and is available in print, without charge, to shareholders upon written request to our Corporate Secretary at Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd., 1050 Caribbean Way, Miami, Florida 33132. Any amendments to the code or any waivers from any provisions of the code granted to executive officers or directors will be promptly disclosed to investors by posting on our website at www.rclinvestor.com.www.rclcorporate.com. None of the websites referenced in this Annual Report on Form 10-K or the information contained therein is incorporated herein by reference.

71

PART IV
Item 15.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a)(1)  Financial Statements
Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data and are included beginning on page F-1 of this report.
(1)Financial Statement Schedules
None.
(1)Exhibits
Exhibits 10.36 through 10.57 represent management compensatory plans or arrangements.
Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number  Exhibit DescriptionFormExhibit  Filing Date/ Period End Date  
3.1  S-33.1  3/23/2009
3.2  8-K3.1  12/6/2018
4.1  Indenture dated as of July 15, 1994, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., successor to NationsBank of Georgia, National Association, as Trustee20-F2.4  12/31/1994
4.2  Sixth Supplemental Indenture dated as of October 14, 1997, to the Indenture, dated as of July 15, 1994, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee20-F2.11  12/31/1997
4.3  Eighth Supplemental Indenture dated as of March 16, 1998, to the Indenture, dated as of July 15, 1994, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee20-F2.13  12/31/1997
4.4  S-34.1  7/31/2006
4.5  8-K4.1  11/7/2012
4.6  8-K4.1  11/28/2017
4.7  10-K4.7  12/31/2018
4.8  10-K4.8  12/31/2018
4.9  10-K4.9  12/31/2018
4.10
10.1  Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement dated as of July 30, 1997, by and among the Company, A. Wilhelmsen AS., Cruise Associates, Monument Capital Corporation, Archinav Holdings, Ltd. and Overseas Cruiseship, Inc.20-F2.20  12/31/1997
10.2  8-K10.1  12/7/2017
72

Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number  Exhibit DescriptionFormExhibit  Filing Date/ Period End Date  
10.3  8-K10.1  4/10/2019
10.4  10-Q10.3  7/25/2019
10.5  8-K10.3  10/17/2017
10.6  10-K10.7  12/31/2015
10.7  10-Q10.4  6/30/2018
10.8  10-K10.8  12/31/2015
10.910-Q10.5  6/30/2018
10.1010-Q10.1  3/31/2016
10.1110-Q10.6  6/30/2018
10.1210-K10.10  12/31/2015
10.1310-Q10.1  10/30/2019
10.1410-Q10.1  3/31/2018
10.158-K10.1  11/19/2015
73

Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number  Exhibit DescriptionFormExhibit  Filing Date/ Period End Date  
10.1610-Q10.7  6/30/2018
10.1710-Q10.8  6/30/2018
10.188-K10.2  11/19/2015
10.1910-Q10.9  6/30/2018
10.2010-Q10.10  6/30/2018
10.2110-K10.18  12/31/2018
10.228-K10.2  6/28/2016
10.2310-K10.20  12/31/2018
10.248-K10.1  7/28/2017
10.258-K10.2  7/28/2017
10.268-K10.3  7/28/2017
74

Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number  Exhibit DescriptionFormExhibit  Filing Date/ Period End Date  
10.278-K10.1  12/18/2019
10.288-K10.1  10/17/2017
10.2910-Q10.11  6/30/2018
10.308-K10.2  10/17/2017
10.3110-Q10.12  6/30/2018
10.328-K10.1  12/20/2019
10.338-K10.1  7/5/2018
10.348-K10.2  4/10/2019
10.358-K10.1  6/18/2018
10.3610-K10.17  12/31/2016
10.3710-Q10.3  9/30/2008
10.3810-Q10.4  9/30/2008
10.3910-K10.23  12/31/2013
10.4010-Q10.7  9/30/2017
10.4110-K10.31  12/31/2010
10.4210-K10.27  12/31/2014
75

Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number  Exhibit DescriptionFormExhibit  Filing Date/ Period End Date  
10.4310-K10.26  12/31/2015
10.4410-K10.22  12/31/2012
10.4510-Q10.2  6/30/2013
10.4610-Q10.3  6/30/2015
10.4710-K10.33  12/31/2014
10.4810-K10.31  12/31/2016
10.4910-K10.26  2/25/2013
10.5010-K10.33  12/31/2014
10.5110-Q10.4  6/30/2015
10.528-K10.3  12/8/2005
10.5310-K10.31  12/31/2006
10.5410-K10.31  12/31/2007
10.5510-Q10.1  9/30/2008
10.5610-K10.38  12/31/2008
10.5710-K10.35  12/31/2013
21.1
23.1
23.2
24.1
31.1
31.2
32.1
* Filed herewith
** Furnished herewith
Interactive Data File
76

(2)101 Financial Statement Schedules
None.
The following financial statements from Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019 formatted in iXBRL (Inline eXtensible Business Reporting Language) are as follows:
(3)Exhibits(i)the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017;
(ii)the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2019 and 2018;
(iii)the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017;
(iv)the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017; and
(v)the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged in summary and detail.
104Cover Page Interactive Data File, formatted in iXBRL and contained in Exhibit 101
The exhibits listed on the accompanying Index to Exhibits are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and such Index to Exhibits is hereby incorporated herein by reference.


Item 16.    Form 10-K Summary
None.


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
(Registrant)
By:/s/ JASON T. LIBERTY
Jason T. Liberty Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and duly authorized signatory)


February 23, 201725, 2020
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities indicated on February 23, 2017.
25, 2020.
/s/ RICHARD D. FAIN
Richard D. Fain
 Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
/s/ JASON T. LIBERTY
Jason T. Liberty
 Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
/s/ HENRY L. PUJOL
Henry L. Pujol
 Senior Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer (Principal Accounting Officer)
*
John F. Brock
Director
*
Stephen R. Howe Jr.
Director
*
William L. Kimsey
Director
*
Maritza G. Montiel
Director
*
Ann S. Moore
Director
*
Eyal M. Ofer
Director
*
Thomas J. Pritzker
Director
*
William K. Reilly
Director
*
Bernt Reitan
Director
*
Vagn O. Sørensen
Director
*
Donald Thompson
Director
*
Arne Alexander Wilhelmsen
Director

*By:/s/ JASON T. LIBERTY
Jason T. Liberty, as Attorney-in-Fact


INDEX TO EXHIBITS
Exhibits 10.15 through 10.43 represent management compensatory plans or arrangements.
    Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number Exhibit Description Form Exhibit Filing Date/ Period End Date
3.1 Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company, as amended (composite) S-3 3.1 3/23/2009
3.2 Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Company 8-K 3.1 9/11/2013
4.1 Indenture dated as of July 15, 1994, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., successor to NationsBank of Georgia, National Association, as Trustee 20-F 2.4 12/31/1994
4.2 Sixth Supplemental Indenture dated as of October 14, 1997, to the Indenture, dated as of July 15, 1994, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee 20-F 2.11 12/31/1997
4.3 Eighth Supplemental Indenture dated as of March 16, 1998, to the Indenture, dated as of July 15, 1994, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee 20-F 2.13 12/31/1997
4.4 Form of Indenture, dated as of July 31, 2006, by and between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee S-3 4.1 7/31/2006
4.5 Second Supplemental Indenture dated as of November 7, 2012 between the Company, as issuer, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee 8-K 4.1 11/7/2012
10.1 Amended and Restated Registration Rights Agreement dated as of July 30, 1997, by and among the Company, A. Wilhelmsen AS., Cruise Associates, Monument Capital Corporation, Archinav Holdings, Ltd. and Overseas Cruiseship, Inc. 20-F 2.20 12/31/1997
10.2 Amendment to the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 15, 2015, by and among the Company, The Bank of Nova Scotia, as administrative agent for the lender parties and the lender parties 8-K 10.1 6/19/2015
10.3 Assignment and Amendment to the Credit Agreement, dated as of August 23, 2013, by and among the Company, Nordea Bank Finland plc, New York Branch, as administrative agent for the lender parties and the lender parties 8-K 10.1 8/26/2013
10.4 Amendment No. 1 to the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 10, 2015, by and among the Company Nordea Bank Finland Plc, New York Branch, as administrative agent for the lender parties and the lender parties 10-Q 10.2 6/30/2015
10.5 Amendment No. 4 to Hull No. S-697 Credit Agreement, dated as of February 2, 2016, by and between the Company, the Lenders from time to time party thereto, the Mandated Lead Arrangers and KfW-IPEX-Bank GmbH, as Hermes Agent and Facility Agent 10-K 10.7 12/31/2015
10.6 Amendment No. 4 to Hull No. S-698 Credit Agreement, dated as of February 3, 2016, by and between the Company, the Lenders from time to time party thereto, the Mandated Lead Arrangers and KfW-IPEX-Bank GmbH, as Hermes Agent and Facility Agent 10-K 10.8 12/31/2015
10.7 Amendment No. 1 to Hull No. S-699 Credit Agreement, dated as of March 31, 2016, by and between the Company, the Lenders from time to time party thereto, the Mandated Lead Arrangers and KfW-IPEX-Bank GmbH, as Hermes Agent and Facility Agent 10-Q 10.1 3/31/2016
10.8 Amendment and Restatement Agreement, dated as of January 15, 2016, in respect of a Facility Agreement dated, as of July 9, 2013, by and between the Company, the Lenders from time to time party thereto, Société Générale, as Facility Agent and Mandated Lead Arranger, BNP Paribas, as Documentation Bank and Mandated Lead Arranger, and HSBC France, as Mandated Lead Arranger 10-K 10.10 12/31/2015
10.9 Novation Agreement, dated as of January 30, 2015, by and between Frosaitomi Finance Ltd. the Company, Citibank International Limited, Citicorp Trustee Company Limited, Citibank N.A., London Branch and the banks and financial institutions as a lender parties thereto 8-K 10.1 2/5/2015

    Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number Exhibit Description Form Exhibit Filing Date/ Period End Date
10.10 Form of Hull No. B34 Novated Credit Agreement (as amended and restated on February 8, 2017)*
      
10.11 Hull No. S-700 Credit Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2015, by and among the Company, the Lenders from time to time party thereto and KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH, as Hermes Agent, Facility Agent and Initial Mandated Lead Arranger. 8-K 10.1 11/19/2015
10.12 Hull No. S-713 Credit Agreement, dated as of November 13, 2015, by and among the Company, the Lenders from time to time party thereto and KfW IPEX-Bank GmbH, as Hermes Agent, Facility Agent and Initial Mandated Lead Arranger. 8-K 10.2 11/19/2015
10.13 Novation Agreement, dated as of June 22, 2016, by and between Saintiami Finance Ltd., Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Citibank Europe Plc, UK Branch, Citicorp Trustee Company Limited, Citibank N.A., London Branch, HSBC France, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Europe Limited, Paris Branch and the banks and financial institutions as lender parties thereto
 8-K 10.1 6/28/2016
10.14 Novation Agreement, dated as of June 22, 2016, by and between Azairemia Finance Ltd., Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Citibank Europe Plc, UK Branch, Citicorp Trustee Company Limited, Citibank N.A., London Branch, HSBC France, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Europe Limited, Paris Branch and the banks and financial institutions as lender parties thereto
 8-K 10.2 6/28/2016
10.15 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. 2000 Stock Award Plan 8-K 10.1 12/8/2005
10.16 Amendment No. 1 to 2000 Stock Award Plan 8-K 10.1 9/22/2006
10.17 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. 2008 Equity Incentive Plan (as amended)*      
10.18 Form of 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Stock Option Award Agreement—Incentive Options 10-Q 10.3 9/30/2008
10.19 Form of 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Stock Option Award Agreement—Nonqualified Options 10-Q 10.4 9/30/2008
10.20 Form of 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Agreement - Executive Officer Grants 10-K 10.2 12/31/2013
10.22 Form of 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Restricted Stock Unit Agreement—Director Grants 10-K 10.31 12/31/2010
10.23 Form of 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Performance Shares Agreement 10-K 10.27 12/31/2014
10.24 Form of 2008 Equity Incentive Plan Performance-Based Restricted Shares Agreement 10-K 10.26 12/31/2015
10.25 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2012, by and between the Company and Richard D. Fain 10-K 10.22 12/31/2012
10.26 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2012, by and between the Company and Adam M. Goldstein 10-K 10.23 12/31/2012
10.27 Employment Agreement, dated as of December 31, 2012, by and between the Company and Harri U. Kulovaara 10-K 10.26 12/31/2012
10.28 Employment Agreement, dated as of May 20, 2013, by and between the Company and Jason T. Liberty 10-Q 10.20 6/30/2013
10.29 Employment Agreement, dated as of July 16, 2015, by and between the Company and Michael W. Bayley 10-Q 10.3 6/30/2015
10.30 Form of First Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated as of February 6, 2015 (entered into between the Company and each of Messrs. Fain, Goldstein, Kulovaara and Liberty) 10-K 10.3 12/31/2014
10.31 Employment Agreement dated as of August 3, 2015, by and between Celebrity Cruises Inc. and Lisa Lutoff-Perlo*
      

    Incorporated By Reference
Exhibit Number Exhibit Description Form Exhibit Filing Date/ Period End Date
10.32 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Executive Short-Term Bonus Plan 10-Q 10.4 6/30/2015
10.33 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. et. al. Non Qualified 401(k) Plan 8-K 10.2 12/8/2005
10.34 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. et. al. Non Qualified 401(k) Plan 10-K 10.29 12/31/2006
10.35 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. et. al. Non Qualified 401(k) Plan 10-K 10.28 12/31/2007
10.36 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. et. al. Non Qualified 401(k) Plan 10-K 10.36 12/31/2008
10.37 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 8-K 10.3 12/8/2005
10.38 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 10-K 10.31 12/31/2006
10.39 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 10-K 10.31 12/31/2007
10.40 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 10-Q 10.1 9/30/2008
10.41 Amendment to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan 10-K 10.38 12/31/2008
10.42 Summary of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Board of Directors Compensation*      
10.43 Cruise Policy for Members of the Board of Directors of the Company 10-K 10.35 12/31/2013
12.1 Statement regarding computation of fixed charge coverage ratio*      
18.1 
Preferability Letter Regarding Change in Accounting Principle*

      
21.1 List of Subsidiaries*      
23.1 Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered certified public accounting firm*      
23.2 Consent of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP*      
24.1 Power of Attorney*      
31.1 Certification of Richard D. Fain required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934*      
31.2 Certification of Jason T. Liberty required by Rule 13a-14(a) or Rule 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934*      
32.1 Certification of Richard D. Fain and Jason T. Liberty pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code**      
*Filed herewith
**Furnished herewith
Interactive Data File
101*By:—The following financial statements from Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016, as filed with the SEC on February 23, 2017, formatted in XBRL, as follows:/s/ JASON T. LIBERTY
(i)the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014;
(ii)the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015;
(iii)the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014;
(iv)the Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014; and
(v)the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements, tagged in summary and detail.
Jason T. Liberty, as Attorney-in-Fact


77

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



F-1

Report of Independent Registered Certified Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders
of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Opinions on the Financial Statements and Internal Control over Financial Reporting
In our opinion,We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the related consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), of shareholders’shareholders' equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. and its subsidiaries at December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 20162019, including the related notes (collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”). We also have audited the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2019 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016,2019, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework(2013)issued by the CommitteeCOSO.
Change in Accounting Principle
As discussed in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company has changed its method of Sponsoring Organizationsaccounting for leases as of January 1, 2019 due to the Treadway Commission (COSO). adoption of Accounting Standard Codification (“ASC”) 842, Leases (“ASC 842”), which was adopted using the modified retrospective approach.
Basis for Opinions
The Company's management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management'sManagement’s Report on Internal Control overOver Financial Reporting appearing under Item 9A. Our responsibility is to express opinions on thesethe Company’s consolidated financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence supportingregarding the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements, assessingstatements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, andas well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statement presentation.statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As discussed in Notes 1Definition and 2 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for the consolidationLimitations of Pullmantur Holdings and the manner in which it classifies debt issuance costs in 2016.

Internal Control over Financial Reporting
A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company'scompany’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company'scompany’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

F-2

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

Critical Audit Matters

The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (i) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (ii) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.

Ship Accounting

As described in Notes 2 and 7 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company had vessels with a net book value of approximately $22.7 billion recorded in its financial statements as of December 31, 2019, with capitalized ship improvement costs of approximately $538 million for the year then ended. Ship improvement costs that add value are capitalized, the useful life of the improvement is estimated, and the replaced asset is disposed of on a net cost basis. Any such improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the improvement’s estimated useful lives or that of the associated ship. Accounting estimates related to ship accounting and determinations of ship improvements costs to be capitalized require considerable judgment and are inherently uncertain.Vessels are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization and depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the vessels. Management considers the costs and estimates of the useful lives of the ships’ component assets, which are categorized into major component systems, such as the hull, superstructure, main electric, engines and cabins, to determine the estimated weighted-average useful life of a vessel. An assessment of cost allocation methodology is performed at the component level, in order to support the estimated weighted-average useful life and residual values, as well as determine the net cost basis of assets being replaced. Management reviews estimated useful lives and residual values periodically for ongoing reasonableness, and where a trigger for change is identified, a review of the estimate is completed. In the fourth quarter of 2019, the Company invested approximately $170 million of upgrades to its Oasis of the Seas ship under their ship upgrade program. Based on the expected impact of these enhancements, as well as planned future investments and upgrades in the balance of the Oasis class of ships, management now estimates that certain ship components and the overall life of the Oasis class of ships will be extended longer than those previously estimated. In determining the change in estimated useful life and residual value, management utilized quantitative and qualitative analysis, including historical and projected usage patterns, industry benchmarks, planned maintenance programs and projected operational and financial performance of the class.
The principal considerations for our determination that performing procedures relating to ship accounting is a critical audit matter are the significant judgments by management when determining (i) whether ship improvement costs add value to the Company’s ships and are capitalizable; (ii) the related useful life assigned to these ship improvement costs; (iii) the estimated net cost basis of the associated assets being replaced; and (iv) whether changes to estimated weighted-average useful lives and residual values are necessary. This in turn led to significant auditor judgment, subjectivity, and effort in performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence relating to capitalized ship improvement costs; the estimated useful lives of ship improvement costs; the estimated net cost basis of assets replaced; and management's assessment of the weight-average useful lives and residual values for the Oasis-class ships. In addition, the audit effort involved the use of professionals with specialized skill and knowledge to assist in performing these procedures and evaluating the audit evidence obtained.
Addressing the matter involved performing procedures and evaluating audit evidence in connection with forming our overall opinion on the consolidated financial statements. These procedures included testing the effectiveness of management’s controls relating to ship improvement costs, including the assessment of the capitalization of ship improvement costs, the estimated useful lives and net cost basis of the assets being replaced and management’s reassessment of the estimated useful lives and residual values for the Oasis class ships during 2019. These procedures also included, among others, for a sample of ship improvement costs, (i) evaluating whether the costs capitalized add value to a ship; (ii) evaluating the reasonableness of the assigned estimated useful lives; and (iii) evaluating the reasonableness of the estimated net cost basis of the assets being replaced. Further, for management’s reassessment of estimated useful life and residual value of the Oasis class of ships, our procedures included (i) evaluating the reasonableness of the 35 year useful life and 10% residual value assigned to the Oasis class ships, considering management’s historical experience with similarly built ships, as well as consideration of anticipated technology and market changes (ii) evaluating the reasonableness of the changes in the estimated useful lives and residual values at the component asset level, (iii) evaluating the feasibility of management’s intended use of the Oasis class of ships, considering 1) historical and projected use patterns 2) consistency of planned refurbishments and maintenance with current program 3) consistency of projected forecasts with past performance and 4) consistency with industry external data. Professionals with specialized skill and knowledge were used to assist in evaluating the appropriateness of the estimated useful lives of the assets being replaced and the estimated useful life and residual value of the Oasis class of ships.


F-3


/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLPMiami, FL
Miami, FloridaFebruary 25, 2020
February 23, 2017We have served as the Company’s auditor since at least 1989, which includes periods before the Company became subject to SEC reporting requirements. We have not been able to determine the specific year we began serving as auditor of the Company.



F-4

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
(in thousands, except per share data)
Passenger ticket revenues$7,857,057  $6,792,716  $6,313,170  
Onboard and other revenues3,093,604  2,701,133  2,464,675  
Total revenues10,950,661  9,493,849  8,777,845  
Cruise operating expenses:
Commissions, transportation and other1,656,297  1,433,739  1,363,170  
Onboard and other639,782  537,355  495,552  
Payroll and related1,079,121  924,985  852,990  
Food583,905  520,909  492,857  
Fuel697,962  710,617  681,118  
Other operating1,405,698  1,134,602  1,010,892  
Total cruise operating expenses6,062,765  5,262,207  4,896,579  
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses1,559,253  1,303,144  1,186,016  
Depreciation and amortization expenses1,245,942  1,033,697  951,194  
Operating Income2,082,701  1,894,801  1,744,056  
Other income (expense):
Interest income26,945  32,800  30,101  
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized(408,513) (333,672) (299,982) 
Equity investment income230,980  210,756  156,247  
Other (expense) income(24,513) 11,107  (5,289) 
(175,101) (79,009) (118,923) 
Net Income1,907,600  1,815,792  1,625,133  
Less: Net Income attributable to noncontrolling interest28,713  4,750  —  
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$1,878,887  $1,811,042  $1,625,133  
Earnings per Share:
Basic$8.97  $8.60  $7.57  
Diluted$8.95  $8.56  $7.53  
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Net Income$1,907,600  $1,815,792  $1,625,133  
Other comprehensive (loss) income:
Foreign currency translation adjustments869  (14,251) 17,307  
Change in defined benefit plans(19,535) 7,643  (5,583) 
(Loss) gain on cash flow derivative hedges(151,313) (286,861) 570,495  
Total other comprehensive (loss) income(169,979) (293,469) 582,219  
Comprehensive Income$1,737,621  $1,522,323  $2,207,352  
Less: Comprehensive Income attributable to noncontrolling interest28,713  4,750  —  
Comprehensive Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$1,708,908  $1,517,573  $2,207,352  


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
 (in thousands, except per share data)
Passenger ticket revenues$6,149,323
 $6,058,821
 $5,893,847
Onboard and other revenues2,347,078
 2,240,253
 2,180,008
Total revenues8,496,401
 8,299,074
 8,073,855
Cruise operating expenses:     
Commissions, transportation and other1,349,677
 1,400,778
 1,372,785
Onboard and other493,558
 553,104
 582,750
Payroll and related882,891
 861,775
 847,641
Food485,673
 480,009
 478,130
Fuel713,676
 795,801
 947,391
Other operating1,090,064
 1,007,926
 1,077,584
Total cruise operating expenses5,015,539
 5,099,393
 5,306,281
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses1,100,290
 1,086,504
 1,048,952
Depreciation and amortization expenses894,915
 827,008
 772,445
Impairment of Pullmantur related assets
 411,267
 
Restructuring charges8,452
 
 4,318
 7,019,196
 7,424,172
 7,131,996
Operating Income1,477,205
 874,902
 941,859
Other income (expense):     
Interest income20,856
 12,025
 10,344
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized(307,370) (277,725) (258,299)
Equity investment income128,350
 81,026
 51,640
Other (expense) income(1)
(35,653) (24,445) 18,602
 (193,817) (209,119) (177,713)
Net Income$1,283,388
 $665,783
 $764,146
Basic Earnings per Share:     
Net income$5.96
 $3.03
 $3.45
Diluted Earnings per Share:     
Net income$5.93
 $3.02
 $3.43
Comprehensive Income (Loss)     
Net Income$1,283,388
 $665,783
 $764,146
Other comprehensive income (loss):     
Foreign currency translation adjustments2,362
 (30,152) (26,102)
Change in defined benefit plans(1,636) 4,760
 (7,213)
Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges411,223
 (406,047) (869,350)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)411,949
 (431,439) (902,665)
Comprehensive Income (Loss)$1,695,337
 $234,344
 $(138,519)
F-5


(1)Including a $21.7 million loss related to the 2016 elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag, a net deferred tax benefit of $12.0 million related to the 2015 Pullmantur impairment and a deferred tax benefit of $33.5 million related to the 2014 reversal of a valuation allowance.


ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
As of December 31,
20192018
(in thousands, except share data)
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents$243,738  $287,852  
Trade and other receivables, net305,821  324,507  
Inventories162,107  153,573  
Prepaid expenses and other assets429,211  456,547  
Derivative financial instruments21,751  19,565  
Total current assets1,162,628  1,242,044  
Property and equipment, net25,466,808  23,466,163  
Operating lease right-of-use assets687,555  —  
Goodwill1,385,644  1,378,353  
Other assets1,617,649  1,611,710  
Total assets$30,320,284  $27,698,270  
Liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interest and shareholders' equity
Current liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt$1,186,586  $1,646,841  
Commercial paper1,434,180  775,488  
Current portion of operating lease liabilities96,976  —  
Accounts payable563,706  488,212  
Accrued interest70,090  74,550  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities1,078,345  899,761  
Derivative financial instruments94,875  78,476  
Customer deposits3,428,138  3,148,837  
Total current liabilities7,952,896  7,112,165  
Long-term debt8,414,110  8,355,370  
Long-term operating lease liabilities601,641  —  
Other long-term liabilities617,810  583,254  
Total liabilities17,586,457  16,050,789  
Commitments and contingencies (Note 19)
Redeemable noncontrolling interest569,981  542,020  
Shareholders' equity
Preferred stock ($0.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; 0ne outstanding)—  —  
Common stock ($0.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 236,547,842 and 235,847,683 shares issued, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively)2,365  2,358  
Paid-in capital3,493,959  3,420,900  
Retained earnings11,523,326  10,263,282  
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(797,713) (627,734) 
Treasury stock (27,746,848 and 26,830,765 common shares at cost, December 31, 2019 and December 31, 2018, respectively)(2,058,091) (1,953,345) 
Total shareholders' equity12,163,846  11,105,461  
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interest and shareholders’ equity$30,320,284  $27,698,270  


 As of December 31,
 2016 2015
 (in thousands, except share data)
Assets   
Current assets   
Cash and cash equivalents$132,603
 $121,565
Trade and other receivables, net291,899
 238,972
Inventories114,087
 121,332
Prepaid expenses and other assets209,716
 220,579
Derivative financial instruments
 134,574
Total current assets748,305
 837,022
Property and equipment, net20,161,427
 18,777,778
Goodwill288,386
 286,764
Other assets1,112,206
 880,479
 $22,310,324
 $20,782,043
Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity   
Current liabilities   
Current portion of long-term debt$1,285,735
 $899,542
Accounts payable305,313
 302,072
Accrued interest46,166
 38,325
Accrued expenses and other liabilities692,322
 658,601
Derivative financial instruments146,592
 651,866
Customer deposits1,965,473
 1,742,286
Total current liabilities4,441,601
 4,292,692
Long-term debt8,101,701
 7,627,701
Other long-term liabilities645,610
 798,611
Commitments and contingencies (Note 15)
 
Shareholders' equity   
Preferred stock ($0.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding)
 
Common stock ($0.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 234,613,486 and 233,905,166 shares issued, December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)2,346
 2,339
Paid-in capital3,328,517
 3,297,619
Retained earnings7,860,341
 6,944,862
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(916,484) (1,328,433)
Treasury stock (20,019,237 and 15,911,971 common shares at cost, December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively)(1,153,308) (853,348)
Total shareholders' equity9,121,412
 8,063,039
 $22,310,324
 $20,782,043
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

F-6


ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
(in thousands)
Operating Activities
Net Income$1,907,600  $1,815,792  $1,625,133  
Adjustments:
Depreciation and amortization1,245,942  1,033,697  951,194  
Impairment losses—  33,651  —  
Net deferred income tax expense (benefit)7,745  (2,679) 1,730  
(Gain) loss on derivative instruments not designated as hedges(1,431) 61,148  (61,704) 
Share-based compensation expense75,930  46,061  69,459  
Equity investment income(230,980) (210,756) (156,247) 
Amortization of debt issuance costs31,991  41,978  45,943  
Amortization of commercial paper notes discount31,263  10,652  —  
Loss on extinguishment of debt6,326  —  —  
Change in fair value of contingent consideration18,400  —  —  
Gain on sale of property and equipment—  —  (30,902) 
Gain on sale of unconsolidated affiliate—  (13,680) —  
Recognition of deferred gain—  (21,794) —  
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Increase in trade and other receivables, net(9,898) (9,573) (32,043) 
(Increase) decrease in inventories(8,533) (23,849) 2,424  
   Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other assets15,669  (71,770) 20,859  
Increase in accounts payable75,281  91,737  36,780  
(Decrease) increase in accrued interest(4,460) 18,773  1,303  
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities96,490  42,937  34,215  
Increase in customer deposits280,139  385,990  274,705  
Dividends received from unconsolidated affiliates150,177  243,101  109,677  
Other, net28,715  7,723  (17,960) 
Net cash provided by operating activities3,716,366  3,479,139  2,874,566  
Investing Activities
Purchases of property and equipment(3,024,663) (3,660,028) (564,138) 
Cash received on settlement of derivative financial instruments7,621  76,529  63,224  
Cash paid on settlement of derivative financial instruments(68,836) (98,074) —  
Investments in and loans to unconsolidated affiliates(25,569) (27,172) (10,396) 
Cash received on loans to unconsolidated affiliates32,870  124,238  62,303  
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment—  —  230,000  
Proceeds from the sale of unconsolidated affiliate—  13,215  —  
Acquisition of Silversea Cruises, net of cash acquired—  (916,135) —  
Other, net(12,829) (1,731) 5,415  
Net cash used in investing activities(3,091,406) (4,489,158) (213,592) 
Financing Activities
Debt proceeds3,525,564  8,590,740  5,866,966  
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-7


ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - CONTINUED
 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
 (in thousands)
Operating Activities     
Net income$1,283,388
 $665,783
 $764,146
Adjustments:     
Depreciation and amortization894,915
 827,008
 772,445
Impairment of Pullmantur related assets
 411,267
 
Net deferred income tax expense (benefit)2,608
 (10,001) (41,003)
Share-based compensation expense32,659
 36,073
 26,116
Equity investment income(128,350) (81,026) (51,640)
Amortization of debt issuance costs52,795
 52,153
 54,993
Loss on sale of property and equipment
 
 17,401
Loss on derivative instruments not designated as hedges45,670
 59,162
 48,637
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:     
Decrease in trade and other receivables, net4,759
 63,102
 100,095
(Increase) decrease in inventories(1,679) 1,197
 26,254
Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses and other assets11,519
 (2,262) 21,234
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable29,564
 (25,278) (40,651)
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest7,841
 (10,749) (53,951)
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities20,718
 33,859
 62,019
Increase (decrease) in customer deposits188,632
 (92,849) 14,885
Dividends received from unconsolidated affiliates75,942
 33,338
 5,814
Other, net(4,291) (14,411) 16,965
Net cash provided by operating activities2,516,690
 1,946,366
 1,743,759
Investing Activities     
Purchases of property and equipment(2,494,363) (1,613,340) (1,811,398)
Cash paid on settlement of derivative financial instruments(213,202) (178,597) (68,098)
Investments in and loans to unconsolidated affiliates(9,155) (56,163) (188,595)
Cash received on loans to unconsolidated affiliates38,213
 124,253
 76,167
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment
 
 220,000
Other, net (1)
(46,385) (19,128) 1,546
Net cash used in investing activities(2,724,892) (1,742,975) (1,770,378)
Financing Activities     
Debt proceeds7,338,560
 4,399,501
 4,153,958
Debt issuance costs(88,241) (68,020) (72,974)
Repayments of debt(6,365,570) (4,118,553) (3,724,218)
Purchase of treasury stock(299,960) (200,000) (236,074)
Dividends paid(346,487) (280,212) (198,952)
Proceeds from exercise of common stock options2,258
 11,252
 70,879
Cash received on settlement of derivative financial instruments
 
 22,835
Other, net3,249
 2,520
 2,026
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities243,809
 (253,512) 17,480
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash(24,569) (17,555) (6,307)
Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
Debt issuance costs(50,348) (81,959) (51,590) 
Repayments of debt(4,060,244) (6,963,511) (7,835,087) 
Proceeds from issuance of commercial paper notes26,240,540  4,730,286  —  
Repayments of commercial paper notes(25,613,111) (3,965,450) —  
Purchase of treasury stock(99,582) (575,039) (224,998) 
Dividends paid(602,674) (527,494) (437,455) 
Proceeds from exercise of common stock options1,742  4,264  2,525  
Other, net(12,258) (13,764) 3,843  
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(670,371) 1,198,073  (2,675,796) 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash1,297  (20,314) 2,331  
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(44,114) 167,740  (12,491) 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year287,852  120,112  132,603  
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$243,738  $287,852  $120,112  
Supplemental Disclosures
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest, net of amount capitalized$246,312  $252,466  $249,615  
Non-Cash Investing Activities
Contingent consideration for the acquisition of Silversea Cruises—  44,000  —  
Purchases of property and equipment included in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other liabilities86,155  —  139,644  
Notes receivable issued upon sale of property and equipment—  —  20,409  




The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-8

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents11,038
 (67,676) (15,446)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year121,565
 189,241
 204,687
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year$132,603
 $121,565
 $189,241
Supplemental Disclosures     
Cash paid during the year for:     
Interest, net of amount capitalized$256,775
 $248,611
 $276,933

     
Non-Cash Investing Activities     
  Notes receivable issued upon sale of property and equipment$213,042
 $
 $

(1)Amount includes $26.0 million in 2016 related to cash included in the divestitureTable of Pullmantur Holdings (formerly known as Royal Caribbean Holdings de España S.L. or RCHE).Contents


ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Common StockPaid-in CapitalRetained EarningsAccumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)Treasury StockTotal Shareholders' Equity
(in thousands, except per share data)
Balances at January 1, 2017$2,346  $3,328,517  $7,860,341  $(916,484) $(1,153,308) $9,121,412  
Activity related to employee stock plans 61,600  —  —  —  61,606  
Common stock dividends, $2.16 per share—  —  (463,069) —  —  (463,069) 
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges—  —  —  570,495  —  570,495  
Change in defined benefit plans—  —  —  (5,583) —  (5,583) 
Foreign currency translation adjustments—  —  —  17,307  —  17,307  
Purchase of treasury stock—  —  —  —  (224,998) (224,998) 
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.—  —  1,625,133  —  —  1,625,133  
Balances at December 31, 20172,352  3,390,117  9,022,405  (334,265) (1,378,306) 10,702,303  
Cumulative effect of accounting changes—  —  (23,476) —  —  (23,476) 
Activity related to employee stock plans 30,783  —  —  —  30,789  
Common stock dividends, $2.60 per share—  —  (546,689) —  —  (546,689) 
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges—  —  —  (286,861) —  (286,861) 
Change in defined benefit plans—  —  —  7,643  —  7,643  
Foreign currency translation adjustments—  —  —  (14,251) —  (14,251) 
Purchases of treasury stock—  —  —  —  (575,039) (575,039) 
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.—  —  1,811,042  —  —  1,811,042  
Balances at December 31, 20182,358  3,420,900  10,263,282  (627,734) (1,953,345) 11,105,461  
Activity related to employee stock plans 73,059  —  —  (5,164) 67,902  
Common stock dividends, $2.96 per share—  —  (618,843) —  —  (618,843) 
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges—  —  —  (151,313) —  (151,313) 
Change in defined benefit plans—  —  —  (19,535) —  (19,535) 
Foreign currency translation adjustments—  —  —  869  —  869  
Purchases of treasury stock—  —  —  —  (99,582) (99,582) 
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.—  —  1,878,887  —  —  1,878,887  
Balances at December 31, 2019$2,365  $3,493,959  $11,523,326  $(797,713) $(2,058,091) $12,163,846  


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-9

 Common Stock Paid-in Capital Retained Earnings Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Treasury Stock Total Shareholders' Equity
 (in thousands)
Balances at January 1, 2014$2,308
 $3,159,038
 $6,054,952
 $5,671
 $(413,704) $8,808,265
Issuance under employee related plans23
 94,514
 
 
 
 94,537
Common Stock dividends
 
 (243,550) 
 
 (243,550)
Dividends declared by non-controlling interest(1)

 
 (300) 
 
 (300)
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges
 
 
 (869,350) 
 (869,350)
Change in defined benefit plans
 
 
 (7,213) 
 (7,213)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
 
 (26,102) 
 (26,102)
Purchase of Treasury Stock        (236,074) (236,074)
Net income
 
 764,146
 
 
 764,146
Balances at December 31, 20142,331
 3,253,552
 6,575,248
 (896,994) (649,778) 8,284,359
Issuance under employee related plans8
 40,497
 
 
 
 40,505
Common Stock dividends
 
 (296,169) 
 
 (296,169)
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges
 
 
 (406,047) 
 (406,047)
Change in defined benefit plans
 
 
 4,760
 
 4,760
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
 
 (30,152) 
 (30,152)
Purchases of Treasury Stock
 3,570
 
 
 (203,570) (200,000)
Net income
 
 665,783
 
 
 665,783
Balances at December 31, 20152,339
 3,297,619
 6,944,862
 (1,328,433) (853,348) 8,063,039
Issuance under employee related plans7
 30,898
 
 
 
 30,905
Common Stock dividends
 
 (367,909) 
 
 (367,909)
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges
 
 
 411,223
 
 411,223
Change in defined benefit plans
 
 
 (1,636) 
 (1,636)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
 
 2,362
 
 2,362
Purchases of Treasury Stock
 
 
 
 (299,960) (299,960)
Net income
 
 1,283,388
 
 
 1,283,388
Balances at December 31, 2016$2,346
 $3,328,517
 $7,860,341
 $(916,484) $(1,153,308) $9,121,412

(1)Dividends declared by Falmouth Land Company Limited to its non-controlling shareholder.


ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1.General
Description of Business
We are a global cruise company. We own and operate three4 global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara Club Cruises.Silversea Cruises (collectively, our "Global Brands"). We also own a 50% joint venture interest in the German brand TUI Cruises and a 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur and have a minority interest(collectively, our "Partner Brands"). We account for our investments in our Partner Brands under the Chinese brand SkySea Cruises.equity method of accounting. Together, our Global Brands and our Partner Brands operate a combined 4961 ships as of December 31, 2016.2019. Our ships operate on a selection of worldwide itineraries that call on approximately 535more than 1,000 destinations on all seven7 continents.
EffectiveOn July 31, 2016,2018, we sold 51% of our interestacquired a 66.7% equity stake in Pullmantur Holdings (formerly known as Royal Caribbean Holdings de España S.L. or "RCHE"Silversea Cruise Holding Ltd. ("Silversea Cruises"), the parent company of the Pullmantur brand. We retain a 49% interestan ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line with 9 ships, from Silversea Cruises Group Ltd. ("SCG") for $1.02 billion in Pullmantur Holdings as well as full ownership of the four vessels currently operated by the Pullmantur brand under bareboat charter arrangements. We account for the bareboat charters of the vessels to Pullmantur Holdings as operating leases. We also provide certain ship management services to Pullmantur Holdings. We recognized an immaterial gain on the sale of our majority interest in Pullmantur Holdings. In addition, we also continue to retain full ownership of the aircraft, which were not impacted by this sale transaction. Effective August 2016, we no longer consolidate Pullmantur Holdings in our consolidated financial statementscash and our investment in the company is accounted for under the equity method of accounting.contingent consideration. Refer to Note 6. Other Assets3. Business Combination for further information on our retained interest in Pullmantur Holdings. The sale did not represent a strategic shift that will have a major effect on our operations and financial results, as we continue to provide similar itineraries to and source passengers from the markets served by the Pullmantur business. Therefore, the sale of Pullmantur Holdings did not meet the criteria for discontinued operations reporting.Silversea Cruises acquisition.
Basis for Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements
The consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"). Estimates are required for the preparation of financial statements in accordance with these principles. Actual results could differ from these estimates. Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies for a discussion of our significant accounting policies.
All significant intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated in consolidation. We consolidate entities over which we have control, usually evidenced by a direct ownership interest of greater than 50%, and variable interest entities where we are determined to be the primary beneficiary. Refer to Note 6. 8. Other Assets for further information regarding our variable interest entities. We consolidate the operating results of Silversea Cruises on a three-month reporting lag to allow for more timely preparation of our consolidated financial statements. No material events or other transactions involving Silversea Cruises have occurred from September 30, 2019 through December 31, 2019 that would require further disclosure or adjustment to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2019. For affiliates we do not control but over which we have significant influence on financial and operating policies, usually evidenced by a direct ownership interest from 20% to 50%, the investment is accounted for using the equity method.
Prior to January 1, 2016, we consolidated the operating results of Pullmantur Holdings on a two-month reporting lag to allow for more timely preparation of our consolidated financial statements. Effective January 1, 2016, we eliminated the two-month reporting lag to reflect Pullmantur Holdings' financial position, results of operations and cash flows concurrently and consistently with the fiscal calendar of the Company ("elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag"). The elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag represented a change in accounting principle which we believed to be preferable because it provided more current information to the users of our financial statements. A change in accounting principle requires retrospective application, if material. The impact of the elimination of the reporting lag was immaterial to prior periods and is immaterial for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. As a result, we have accounted for this change in accounting principle in our consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2016. Accordingly, the results of Pullmantur Holdings for November and December 2015 are included in our statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016. The effect of this change was a decrease to net income of $21.7 million, which has been reported within Other income in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016.


F-8

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


Note 2.Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Revenues and Expenses
Deposits received on sales of passenger cruises are initially recorded as customer deposit liabilities on our balance sheet. Customer deposits are subsequently recognized as passenger ticket revenues, together with revenues from onboard and other goods and services and all associated cruise operating expenses of a voyage.

Historically, we recognized revenues and cruise operating expenses for our shorter voyages (voyages of ten days or less) upon voyage completion while we recognized revenues and cruise operating expenses for voyages in excess of ten days For further information on a pro-rata basis. We followed this completed voyagerevenue recognition, approach on our shorter voyages because the difference between prorating revenue from such voyages and recognizing such revenue at the completion of the voyage was immaterialrefer to our consolidated financial statements. As of September 30, 2014, we changed our methodology and recognized passenger ticket revenues, revenues from onboard and other goods and services and all associated cruise operating expenses for all of our uncompleted voyages on a pro-rata basis. We believe that recognizing revenues and cruise operating expenses on a pro-rata basis for all voyages is preferable as revenues and expenses are recorded in the period in which the revenue generating activities are performed.

The effect of this change was an increase to Passenger ticket revenues and Onboard and other revenues, as well as an increase to our Cruise operating expensesNote. 4 Revenues. The change was not individually material to our revenues or any of our cruise operating expenses, and resulted in an aggregate increase to operating income and net income of $53.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, the change has not been retrospectively applied to prior periods, as the impact of prorating all voyages was immaterial to the respective periods presented.
Revenues and expenses include port costs that vary with guest head counts. The amounts of such port costs charged to our guests and included within Passenger ticket revenues on a gross basis were $570.3 million, $561.1 million and $546.6 million for the years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash and marketable securities with original maturities of less than 90 days.
Inventories
Inventories consist of provisions, supplies and fuel carried at the lower of cost (weighted-average) or market.net realizable value.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
F-10

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. We capitalize interest as part of the cost of acquiring certain assets. Improvement costs that we believe add value to our ships are capitalized as additions to the ship, the useful lives of the improvements are estimated and depreciated over the shorter of the improvements' estimated useful lives or that of the associated ship.ship, and the replaced assets are disposed of on a net cost basis. The estimated cost and accumulated depreciation of replaced or refurbished ship components are written off and any resulting losses are recognized in Cruise operating expenses. Liquidated damages received from shipyards as a result of the late delivery of a new ship are recorded as reductions to the cost basis of the ship.
Depreciation of property and equipment is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of the asset. The useful lives of our ships are generally 3030-35 years, net of a 15%10%-15% projected residual value. The 30-year30-35-year useful life of our newly constructed ships and 15% associated10%-15% residual value are both based on the weighted-average of all major components of a ship. Our useful life and residual value estimates take into consideration the impact of anticipated technological changes, long-term cruise and vacation market conditions and historical useful lives of similarly-built ships. In addition, we take into consideration our estimates of the weighted-average useful lives of the ships' major component systems, such as hull, superstructure, main electric, engines and cabins. We employ a cost allocation methodology at the component level, in order to support the estimated weighted-average useful lives and residual values, as well as to determine the net cost basis of assets being replaced. Given the very large and complex nature of our ships, our accounting estimates related to ships and determinations of ship improvement costs to be capitalized require considerable judgment and are inherently uncertain. Depreciation for assets under capital leases is computed using the shorter of the lease term or related asset life.
Depreciation of property and equipment is computed utilizing the following useful lives:

Years
Shipsgenerally, 30-35
Ship improvements3-25
Buildings and improvements10-40
Computer hardware and software3-10
Transportation equipment and other3-30
Leasehold improvementsShorter of remaining lease term or useful life 3-30

We periodically review estimated useful lives and residual values for ongoing reasonableness, considering long term views on our intended use of each class of ships and the planned level of improvements to maintain and enhance vessels within those classes. In the event a factor is identified that may trigger a change in the estimated useful lives and residual values of our ships, a review of the estimate is completed. In the fourth quarter of 2019, we completed a modernization of the Oasis of the Seas under our ship upgrade program. We spent $538.0 million under this ship upgrade program for the year ended December 31, 2019, with the Oasis of the Seas representing approximately $170.0 million. As a result of this capital investment and future planned investments in our Oasis-class ships, we performed a review of the estimated useful lives and residual values of Oasis-class ships, concluding in a change to the estimate. Effective fourth quarter of 2019, we revised the estimated useful lives of our Oasis-class ships from 30 years with a 15% residual value to 35 years with a 10% residual value. The change in the estimated useful lives and residual values was accounted for prospectively as a change in accounting estimate. The 35-year useful life with a 10% residual value is based on revised estimates of the weighted-average useful life of all major ship components for the Oasis-class ships. The change in estimate is consistent with our recent investments in and future plans to continue to invest in the upgrade of these ships, resulting in the use of certain ship components longer than originally estimated. In determining the change in estimated useful life and residual value, we utilized quantitative and qualitative analysis, including historical and projected usage patterns, industrybenchmarks, planned maintenance programs and projected operational and financial performance of the class. The change allows us to better match depreciation expense with the periods these assets are expected to be in use. For the year ended
F-9
F-11

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



Years
Shipsgenerally 30
Ship improvements3-20
Buildings and improvements10-40
Computer hardware and software3-10
Transportation equipment and other3-30
Leasehold improvementsShorter of remaining lease term or useful life 3-30
December 31, 2019, this change increased operating income and net income by approximately $4.6 million and increased earnings per share by $0.02 per share on a basic and diluted basis.
We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate, based on estimated undiscounted future cash flows, that the carrying amount of these assets may not be fully recoverable. For purposes of recognition and measurement of an impairment loss, long-lived assets are grouped with other assets and liabilities at the lowest level for which identifiable cash flows are largely independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities. The lowest level for which we maintain identifiable cash flows that are independent of the cash flows of other assets and liabilities is at the ship level for our ships and at the aggregated asset group level for our aircraft.ships. If estimated future cash flows are less than the carrying value of an asset, an impairment charge is recognized to the extent its carrying value exceeds fair value.
We use the deferral method to account for drydocking costs. Under the deferral method, drydocking costs incurred are deferred and charged to expense on a straight-line basis over the period to the next scheduled drydock, which we estimate to be a period of thirty to sixty months based on the vessel's age as required by Class. Deferred drydock costs consist of the costs to drydock the vessel and other costs incurred in connection with the drydock which are necessary to maintain the vessel's Class certification. Class certification is necessary in order for our cruise ships to be flagged in a specific country, obtain liability insurance and legally operate as passenger cruise ships. The activities associated with those drydocking costs cannot be performed while the vessel is in service and, as such, are done during a drydock as a planned major maintenance activity. The significant deferred drydock costs consist of hauling and wharfage services provided by the drydock facility, hull inspection and related activities (e.g., scraping, pressure cleaning, bottom painting), maintenance to steering propulsion, thruster equipment and ballast tanks, port services such as tugs, pilotage and line handling, and freight associated with these items. We perform a detailed analysis of the various activities performed for each drydock and only defer those costs that are directly related to planned major maintenance activities necessary to maintain Class. The costs deferred are not otherwise routinely periodically performed to maintain a vessel's designed and intended operating capability. Repairs and maintenance activities are charged to expense as incurred.
Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired. We review goodwill for impairment at the reporting unit level annually or, when events or circumstances dictate, more frequently. The impairment review for goodwill consists of a qualitative assessment of whether it is more-likely-than-not that a reporting unit's fair value is less than its carrying amount, and if necessary, a two-step goodwill impairment test. Factors to consider when performing the qualitative assessment include general economic conditions, limitations on accessing capital, changes in forecasted operating results, changes in fuel prices and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. If the qualitative assessment demonstrates that it is more-likely-than-not that the estimated fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, it is not necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. We may elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to step one, for any reporting unit, in any period. On a periodic basis, we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed to step one to corroborate the results of recent years' qualitative assessments. We can resume the qualitative assessment for any reporting unit in any subsequent period. When performing the two-step goodwill impairment test, the fair value of the reporting unit is determined and compared to the carrying value of the net assets allocated to the reporting unit. If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying value, no further analysis or write-down of goodwill is required. If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than the carrying value of its net assets, the implied fair value of the reporting unit is allocated to all its underlying assets and liabilities, including both recognized and unrecognized tangible and intangible assets, based on their fair value. If necessary, goodwill is then written down to its implied fair value.

F-10

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


Intangible Assets
In connection with our acquisitions, we have acquired certain intangible assets to which value has been assigned based on our estimates. Intangible assets that are deemed to have an indefinite life are not amortized, but are subject to an annual impairment test, or when events or circumstances dictate, more frequently. The impairment review for indefinite-life intangible assetassets can be performed using a qualitative or quantitative impairment testassessment. The quantitative assessment consists of a comparison of the fair value of the indefinite-life intangible
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asset with its carrying amount. If the carrying amount exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to that excess. If the fair value exceeds its carrying amount, the indefinite-life intangible asset is not considered impaired.
Other intangible assets assigned finite useful lives are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.
Contingencies — Litigation
On an ongoing basis, we assess the potential liabilities related to any lawsuits or claims brought against us. While it is typically very difficult to determine the timing and ultimate outcome of such actions, we use our best judgment to determine if it is probable that we will incur an expense related to the settlement or final adjudication of such matters and whether a reasonable estimation of such probable loss, if any, can be made. In assessing probable losses, we take into consideration estimates of the amount of insurance recoveries, if any, which are recorded as assets when recoverability is probable. We accrue a liability when we believe a loss is probable and the amount of loss can be reasonably estimated. Due to the inherent uncertainties related to the eventual outcome of litigation and potential insurance recoveries, it is possible that certain matters may be resolved for amounts materially different from any provisions or disclosures that we have previously made.
Advertising Costs
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred except those costs which result in tangible assets, such as brochures, which are treated as prepaid expenses and charged to expense as consumed. Advertising costs consist of media advertising as well as brochure, production and direct mail costs.
Media advertising was $240.3$309.4 million, $242.8$255.7 million and $205.2$233.5 million, and brochure, production and direct mail costs were $120.8$156.0 million, $127.1$133.4 million and $136.7$126.7 million for the years 2016, 2015ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2014,2017, respectively.
Derivative Instruments
We enter into various forward, swap and option contracts to manage our interest rate exposure and to limit our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and fuel prices. These instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at their fair value and the vast majority are designated as hedges. We also use non-derivative financial instruments designated as hedges of our net investment in our foreign operations and investments. Although certain of our derivative financial instruments do not qualify or are not accounted for under hedge accounting, we doour objective is not to hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes.
At inception of the hedge relationship, a derivative instrument that hedges the exposure to changes in the fair value of a firm commitment or a recognized asset or liability is designated as a fair value hedge. A derivative instrument that hedges a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows related to a recognized asset or liability is designated as a cash flow hedge.
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated as fair value hedges are offset against changes in the fair value of the underlying hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments. Gains and losses on derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges are recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss until the underlying hedged transactions are recognized in earnings. The foreign currency transaction gain or loss of our non-derivative financial instruments and the changes in the fair value of derivatives designated as hedges of our net investment in foreign operations and investments are recognized as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss along with the associated foreign currency translation adjustment of the foreign operation.operation or investment. In certain hedges of our net investment in foreign operations and investments, we exclude forward points from the assessment of hedge effectiveness and we amortize the related amounts directly into earnings.

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On an ongoing basis, we assess whether derivatives used in hedging transactions are "highly effective" in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flow of hedged items. WeFor our net investment hedges, we use the dollar offset method to measure effectiveness. For all other hedging programs, we use the long-haul method to assess hedge effectiveness using regression analysis for each hedge relationship under our interest rate, foreign currency and fuel hedging programs. We apply the samerelationship. The methodology for assessing hedge
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effectiveness is applied on a consistent basis for assessing hedge effectiveness to all hedges within each one of our hedging programprograms (i.e., interest rate, foreign currency ship construction, foreign currency net investment and fuel). We performFor our regression analyses, overwe use an observation period of up to three years, utilizing market data relevant to the hedge horizon of each hedge relationship. High effectiveness is achieved when a statistically valid relationship reflects a high degree of offset and correlation between the changes in the fair values of the derivative instrument and the hedged item. The determination of ineffectiveness is based on the amount of dollar offset between the change in fair value of the derivative instrument and the change in fair value of the hedged item at the end of the reporting period. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge or hedge accounting is discontinued, any change in fair value of the derivative since the last date at which it was determined to be effective is recognized in earnings. In addition, the ineffective portion of our highly effective hedges is immediately recognized in earnings and reported in Other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
Cash flows from derivative instruments that are designated as fair value or cash flow hedges are classified in the same category as the cash flows from the underlying hedged items. In the event that hedge accounting is discontinued, cash flows subsequent to the date of discontinuance are classified within investing activities. Cash flows from derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments are classified as investing activities.
We consider the classification of the underlying hedged item’s cash flows in determining the classification for the designated derivative instrument’s cash flows. We classify derivative instrument cash flows from hedges of benchmark interest rate or hedges of fuel expense as operating activities due to the nature of the hedged item. Likewise, we classify derivative instrument cash flows from hedges of foreign currency risk on our newbuild ship payments as investing activities and derivative instrument cash flows from hedges of foreign currency risk on debt payments as financing activities.
Foreign Currency Translations and Transactions
We translate assets and liabilities of our foreign subsidiaries whose functional currency is the local currency, at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. We translate revenues and expenses at weighted-average exchange rates for the period. Equity is translated at historical rates and the resulting foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is reflected as a separate component of Shareholders' equity. Exchange gains or losses arising from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity involved are immediately included in our earnings, except for certain liabilities that have been designated to act as a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation or investment. Exchange gains (losses) were $39.8$0.4 million, $34.6$57.6 million and $49.5$(75.6) million for the years 2016, 2015ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2014,2017, respectively, and were recorded within Other income (expense). The majority of our transactions are settled in United States dollars. Gains or losses resulting from transactions denominated in other currencies are recognized in income at each balance sheet date.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
We monitor our credit risk associated with financial and other institutions with which we conduct significant business and, to minimize these risks, we select counterparties with credit risks acceptable to us and we seek to limit our exposure to an individual counterparty. Credit risk, including but not limited to counterparty nonperformance under derivative instruments, our credit facilities and new ship progress payment guarantees, is not considered significant, as we primarily conduct business with large, well-established financial institutions, insurance companies and export credit agencies many of which we have long-term relationships with and which have credit risks acceptable to us or where the credit risk is spread out among a large number of counterparties. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we did not have any exposure under our derivative instruments. As of December 31, 2015, we had 0 counterparty credit risk exposure under our derivative instruments compared to credit risk exposures of approximately $4.8$5.6 million on December 31, 2018, which waswere limited to the cost of replacing the contracts in the event of non-performance by the counterparties to the contracts, allthe majority of which are currently our lending banks.

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We do not anticipate nonperformance by any of our significant counterparties. In addition, we have established guidelines we follow regarding credit ratings and instrument maturities to maintain safety and liquidity. We do not normally require collateral or other security to support credit relationships; however, in certain circumstances this option is available to us.
Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share incorporates the incremental shares issuable upon the assumed exercise of stock options and conversion of potentially dilutive securities.
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Stock-Based Employee Compensation
We measure and recognize compensation expense at the estimated fair value of employee stock awards. Compensation expense for awards and the related tax effects are recognized as they vest. We use the estimated amount of expected forfeitures to calculate compensation costs for all outstanding awards.
Segment Reporting
We owncontrol and operate three4 global cruise brands,brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara and Azamara ClubSilversea Cruises. We also own a 50% joint venture interest with TUI AG which operatesin the German brand TUI Cruises, a 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur and have a minority interest in the Chinese brand SkySea Cruises.Pullmantur. We believe our brands possess the versatility to enter multiple cruise market segments within the cruise vacation industry. Although each of these brands havehas its own marketing style as well as ships and crews of various sizes, the nature of the products sold and services delivered by these brands share a common base (i.e., the sale and provision of cruise vacations). Our brands also have similar itineraries as well as similar cost and revenue components. In addition, our brands source passengers from similar markets around the world and operate in similar economic environments with a significant degree of commercial overlap. As a result, our brands have been aggregated as a single reportable segment based on the similarity of their economic characteristics, types of consumers, regulatory environment, maintenance requirements, supporting systems and processes as well as products and services provided. Our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer has been identified as the chief operating decision-maker and all significant operating decisions including the allocation of resources are based upon the analyses of the Company as one1 segment.
Information Refer to Note 4. Revenues for passenger ticket revenue information by geographic area is shown in the table below. Passenger ticket revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on where the reservation originates.area.

2016
2015
2014
Passenger ticket revenues: 
 
 
United States55%
55% 53%
All other countries45%
45% 47%
RecentAdoption of Accounting Pronouncements
Revenue from Contracts with CustomersLeases
In May 2014, amended GAAPOn January 1, 2019, we adopted the guidance was issued to clarify the principles used to recognize revenue for all entities. The guidance also requires more detailed disclosures and provides additional guidance for transactions that were not comprehensively addressedcodified in the prior accounting guidance. This guidance must be appliedAccounting Standard Codification ("ASC") 842, Leases ("ASC 842") using one of two retrospective application methods and will be effective for our annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods therein. Early adoption is permitted for our annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods therein. We are currently evaluating the impact, if any, of the adoption of the revenue recognition guidance to our consolidated financial statements and intend to elect the modified retrospective approach and elected the optional transition method, which allows entities to all contracts oninitially apply the standard at the adoption date of initial application, January 1, 2018.  This will involve applying the guidance retrospectively only to the most current period presented in the financial statements and recognizing the

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cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance as anrecognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the January 1, 2018 opening balance of retained earnings atin the dateperiod of initial application. adoption. Upon adoption, we applied the guidance to all existing leases.

Leases

In February 2016, amended GAAP guidance was issued to increase the transparency and comparability of lease accounting among organizations. For leases with a term greater than 12 months, the amendments requirenew guidance requires the lease rights and obligations arising from the leasing arrangements, including operating leases, to be recognized as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. Upon adoption of the new guidance, the most significant impact was the recognition of right-of-use assets and lease liabilities relating to operating leases in the amounts of $801.8 million and $820.5 million, respectively, reported within Operating lease right-of-use assets and Long-term operating lease liabilities, respectively, with the current portion of the liability reported within Current portion of operating lease liabilities, in our consolidated balance sheet as of January 1, 2019. Accounting for finance leases remained substantially unchanged and continues to be reported within Property and equipment, net and Long-term debt, with the current portion of the debt reported within Current portion of debt, in our consolidated balance sheets. There was no cumulative effect of applying the new standard and accordingly there was no adjustment to our retained earnings upon adoption. The amendments also expandcomparative information presented has not been recast and continues to be reported under the required disclosures surrounding leasing arrangements.accounting standards in effect for those periods. For further information on leases, refer to Note 10. Leases.
This guidance did not have a material impact to our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss), consolidated statements of cash flows and our debt-covenants calculations under our current agreements.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In June 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standard Update ("ASU") 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326); Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. This ASU, along with subsequent ASUs issued to clarify certain of its provisions, introduces new guidance which makes substantive changes to the accounting model for financial assets subject to credit losses that are measured at amortized cost, as well as certain off-balance sheet credit exposures. The guidance must be applied usingprimary updates include the introduction of a retrospective application methodnew current expected credit loss (“CECL”) model that is based on expected rather than
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incurred losses. This ASU and the related amendments will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal yearsour annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2018 and interim periods within those years. Early adoption is permitted.January 1, 2020. We are currently evaluating the impact ofthat the adoption of this newly issued guidance will have to our consolidated financial statements.

EffectIn January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350) – Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment, which simplifies the subsequent measurement of Derivative Contract Novationsgoodwill by eliminating the second step of the goodwill impairment test. Under the new standard, goodwill impairment should be recognized based on Existing Hedge Accounting Relationships

In March 2016, amended GAAP guidance was issued addressing the effectamount by which the carrying amount of derivative contract novations on existing hedge accounting relationships. The amendments clarify that a change inreporting unit exceeds its fair value, but should not exceed the counterpartytotal amount of goodwill allocated to a derivative instrument that has been designated as a hedging instrument does not, in and of itself, require dedesignation of that hedging relationship provided that all other hedge accounting criteria continue to be met. The guidance must be applied using a prospective or modified retrospective application method andthe reporting unit. This ASU will be effective for financial statements issued for fiscal yearsour annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The adoption of this newly issuedJanuary 1, 2020. This guidance is not expected to have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.

Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments

statements, but may require us to modify our annual or interim goodwill impairment tests.
In August 2016, amended GAAP2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-15, Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Topic 350-40), which requires a customer in a cloud computing arrangement that is a service contract to follow the internal-use software guidance was issued to clarify how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. The amendments are aimed at reducing the existing diversity in practice. The guidance should be applied using a retrospective transition methoddetermine which implementation costs to each period presented andcapitalize as assets or expense as incurred. This ASU will be effective for our annual periodsreporting period beginning after December 15, 2017January 1, 2020 and interim periods within those annual periods. Earlywe expect to elect the prospective adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period.method. The adoptionguidance may impact the accounting treatment of this newly issued guidance is not expectedour future implementation costs related to have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements. 

Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory

cloud computing arrangements.
In October 2016, amended GAAPJanuary 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-01, Investments – Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments - Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivative and Hedging (Topic 815), which clarifies the interaction of rules for equity securities, the equity method of accounting, and forward contracts and purchase options on certain types of securities. The guidance was issued that requiresclarifies how to account for the income tax consequencestransition into and out of an intra-entity transferthe equity method of an asset, other than inventory, to be recognized ataccounting when considering observable transactions under the time that the transfer occurs, rather than when the asset is sold to an outside party.measurement alternative. The new guidanceASU is effective for annual and interim reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2018. Early2020, including interim reporting periods within those annual periods, with early adoption is permitted as of the beginning of an annual period for which financial statements have not been issued. The guidance is required to be adopted retrospectively by recording a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings as of the beginning of the adoption period.permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of this newly issuednew guidance toon our consolidated financial statements.

Reclassifications
Interests heldFor the year ended December 31, 2019, we separately presented Amortization of commercial paper notes discount in our consolidated statements of cash flows. As a result, the prior year amortization amount was reclassified within Operating Activities to conform to the current year presentation.
Note 3. Business Combination
On July 31, 2018, we acquired a 66.7% equity stake in Silversea Cruise Holding Ltd. ("Silversea Cruises"), an ultra-luxury and expedition cruise line, from Heritage Cruise Holding Ltd. ("HCH"), previously known as Silversea Cruises Group Ltd. Silversea Cruises enhances our presence in the ultra-luxury and expedition markets and provides us with an opportunity to drive long-term capacity growth in these markets.
The purchase price consisted of $1.02 billion in cash, net of assumed liabilities, and contingent consideration that can range from 0 up to a maximum of approximately 472,000 shares of our common stock, and is payable upon achievement of certain 2019-2020 performance metrics by Silversea Cruises. The fair value of the contingent consideration at the acquisition date was $44.0 million. Changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration are recorded in our results of operations, if any, in the period of the change. Refer to Note 18. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for further information on the valuation of the contingent consideration.
To finance a portion of the purchase price, we drew in full on a $700 million unsecured credit agreement and the remainder of the transaction consideration was financed through Related Parties that arethe use of our revolving credit facilities. Refer to Note 9. Debt for further information on the credit agreement.
We have accounted for this transaction under Common Control

In October 2016, amended GAAP guidancethe provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations. The purchase price for the Silversea Cruises acquisition was issued relatedallocated based on estimates of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, with the excess allocated to Interests held through Related Parties that are under Common Control, which alters how a decision maker needsgoodwill. Goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes and consisted primarily of the opportunity to consider indirect interestsexpand our cruise operations in a Variable Interest Entity ("VIE") held through an entity under common control. The amended guidance addresses how a single decision maker of a VIE should treat indirect interests that are held through related parties under common control, when determining whether it is the primary beneficiary of that VIE. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal

strategic growth areas.
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For reporting purposes, we included Silversea Cruises’ results of operations on a three-month reporting lag from October 1, 2018 through September 30, 2019 in our consolidated results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2019 and from the July 31, 2018 date of acquisition through September 30, 2018 in our consolidated results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2018. We have included Silversea Cruises' balance sheets as of September 30, 2019 and 2018 in our consolidated balance sheets as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Refer to Note 1. General for further information on this three-month reporting lag.
years beginning afterThere were no material measurement period adjustments recorded for the year ended December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. We are currently evaluating31, 2019.
The following table summarizes the impactpurchase price allocation based on estimated fair values of the adoptionassets acquired and liabilities assumed related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition as of this newly issued guidanceJuly 31, 2018. Our purchase price allocation was final during 2019.
(in thousands)Estimated Fair Value as of Acquisition Date (as Previously Reported)Measurement Period Adjustments (1)Estimated Fair Value as of Acquisition Date (as Adjusted)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents$103,865  $—  $103,865  
Trade and other receivables, net7,163  —  7,163  
Inventories18,331  —  18,331  
Prepaid expenses and other assets(2)120,496  —  120,496  
Derivative financial instruments2,886  —  2,886  
Property and equipment, net(3)1,114,270  —  1,114,270  
Goodwill1,090,010  (5,224) 1,084,786  
Other assets(4)498,457  —  498,457  
Total assets acquired2,955,478  (5,224) 2,950,254  
Liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt(5)26,851  —  26,851  
Accounts payable36,960  —  36,960  
Accrued interest1,773  —  1,773  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities82,531  (5,224) 77,307  
Customer deposits453,798  —  453,798  
Long-term debt(5)727,935  —  727,935  
Other long-term liabilities23,860  —  23,860  
Total liabilities assumed1,353,708  (5,224) 1,348,484  
Redeemable noncontrolling interest(6)537,770  —  537,770  
Total purchase price$1,064,000  $—  $1,064,000  
(1) As a result of additional information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date, we recorded measurement period adjustments during 2019, which resulted in a net decrease to Goodwill of $5.2 million.
(2) Amount includes $32.0 million of cash held as collateral with credit card processors as of July 31, 2018.
(3) Property and equipment, net includes 2 ships under capital lease agreements amounting to $156.0 million as of July 31, 2018. The respective capital lease liabilities are reported within Long-term debt. Refer to Note 9. Debt for further information on the capital lease financing arrangements.
(4) Amount includes $494.6 million of intangible assets. Refer to Note 6. Intangible Assets for further information on the intangible assets acquired.
(5)  Refer to Note 9. Debt for further information on long-term debt assumed.
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(6)  Refer to Note 11. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest for further information on the redeemable noncontrolling interest recorded.
As of December 31, 2018, intangible assets, net include intangible assets acquired in the Silversea Cruises acquisition, which were recorded at fair value at acquisition date as follows:
Fair Value at Acquisition Date (in thousands) Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years) 
Silversea Cruises trade name$349,500  Indefinite-life  
Customer relationships97,400  15
Galapagos operating license36,100  16
Other finite-life intangible assets11,560  2
Total intangible assets$494,560  
Similar to our other ship-operating and vessel-owning subsidiaries, Silversea Cruises is currently exempt from U.S. corporate tax on U.S. source income from the international operation of ships pursuant to Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code. Additionally, the deferred tax liability recognized in connection with the acquisition of Silversea Cruises was not material to our consolidated financial statements.
Reclassifications
On January 1, 2016, we adopted Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 835, Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, using the retrospective approach. Due to the adoption of ASC 835, $139.8 million of debt issuance costs have been reclassified in the consolidated balance sheet,statements and there were no net operating losses recognized as of December 31, 2015,2018.
For the year ended December 31, 2018, Total revenues and Net Income in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) include $130.1 million and $3.3 million, respectively, of revenues and net income from Other assets to either Current portionSilversea Cruises since the date of long-term debt or Long-term debt acquisition through September 30, 2018. For the year ended December 31, 2018, our results of operations also include transaction-related costs of $31.8 million, which were included primarily within Marketing, selling and administrative expenses in order to conformour consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
Pro-forma financial results relating to the current year presentation.Silversea Cruises acquisition are not presented, as this acquisition was not material to our consolidated results of operations.

Note 4. Revenues
Revenue Recognition
Revenues are measured based on consideration specified in our contracts with customers and are recognized as the related performance obligations are satisfied.
The majority of our revenues are derived from passenger cruise contracts which are reported within Passenger ticket revenues in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Our performance obligation under these contracts is to provide a cruise vacation in exchange for the ticket price. We satisfy this performance obligation and recognize revenue over the duration of each cruise, which generally range from two to 25 nights.
Passenger ticket revenues include charges to our guests for port costs that vary with passenger head counts. These type of port costs, along with port costs that do not vary by passenger head counts, are included in our operating expenses. The amounts of port costs charged to our guests and included within Passenger ticket revenues on a gross basis were $666.8 million, $611.4 million and $569.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
Our total revenues also include onboard and other revenues, which consist primarily of revenues from the sale of goods and services onboard our ships that are not included in passenger ticket prices. We receive payment before or concurrently with the transfer of these goods and services to passengers during a cruise and recognize revenue at the time of transfer over the duration of the related cruise.
As a practical expedient, we have omitted disclosures on our remaining performance obligations as the duration of our contracts with customers is less than a year.
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Disaggregated Revenues
The following table disaggregates our total revenues by geographic regions where we provide cruise itineraries (in thousands):
Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
Revenues by itinerary
North America(1)$6,392,354  $5,399,951  $5,062,305  
Asia/Pacific(2)1,529,898  1,463,083  1,588,802  
Europe(3)1,942,057  1,914,549  1,509,586  
Other regions567,904  348,145  285,954  
Total revenues by itinerary10,432,213  9,125,728  8,446,647  
Other revenues(4)518,448  368,121  331,198  
Total revenues$10,950,661  $9,493,849  $8,777,845  
(1)Includes the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.
(2)Includes Southeast Asia (e.g., Singapore, Thailand and the Philippines), East Asia (e.g., China and Japan), South Asia (e.g., India and Pakistan) and Oceania (e.g., Australia and Fiji Islands) regions.
(3)Includes European countries (e.g., the Nordics, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom).
(4)Includes revenues primarily related to cancellation fees, vacation protection insurance and pre- and post-cruise tours and fees for operating certain port facilities. Amounts also include revenues related to our bareboat charter, procurement and management related services we perform on behalf of our unconsolidated affiliates. Refer to Note 8. Other Assets for more information on our unconsolidated affiliates.
Passenger ticket revenues are attributed to geographic areas based on where the reservation originates. For the years ended December 31, 20152019, 2018 and December 31, 2014, share-based compensation expense of $36.1 million and $26.1 million, equity investment income of $81.0 million and $51.6 million and amortization of debt issuance costs of $27.1 million and $26.6 million, respectively, have been reclassified in2017, our guests were sourced from the consolidated statements of cash flows from Other, net to Share-based compensation expense, Equity investment income and Amortization of debt issuance costs, respectively, within Net cash provided by operating activities in order to conform to the current year presentation.following areas:

Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
Passenger ticket revenues:
United States65 %61 %59 %
United Kingdom%10 %%
All other countries (1)26 %29 %32 %
Additionally,(1)No other individual country's revenue exceeded 10% for the years ended December 31, 20152019, 2018 and 2017.
Customer Deposits and Contract Liabilities
Our payment terms generally require an upfront deposit to confirm a reservation, with the balance due prior to the cruise. Deposits received on sales of passenger cruises are initially recorded as Customer deposits in our consolidated balance sheets and subsequently recognized as passenger ticket revenues during the duration of the cruise. ASC 606, Revenues from Contracts with Customers, defines a “contract liability” as an entity’s obligation to transfer goods or services to a customer for which the entity has received consideration from the customer. We consider customer deposits to be a contract liability once the customer no longer retains the unilateral right, resulting from the passage of time, to cancel such customer's reservation and receive a full refund. Customer deposits as of December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2017 included contract liabilities of $1.7 billion, $1.9 billion and $1.4 billion, respectively. Substantially all of our contract liabilities as of the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were recognized and reported within Total revenues in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Contract Receivables and Contract Assets
Although we generally require full payment from our customers prior to their cruise, we grant credit terms to a relatively small portion of our revenue sourced in select markets outside of the United States. As a result, we have
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outstanding receivables from passenger cruise contracts in those markets. We also have receivables from credit card merchants for cruise ticket purchases and goods and services sold to guests during cruises that are collected before, during or shortly after the cruise voyage. In addition, we have receivables due from concessionaires onboard our vessels. These receivables are included within Trade and other receivables, net in our consolidated balance sheets.
We have contract assets that are conditional rights to consideration for satisfying the construction services performance obligations under a service concession arrangement. As of December 31, 2019, 2018, and 2017, our contract assets were $55.5 million, $57.8 million and $60.1 million, respectively, and were included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. Given the short duration of our cruises and our collection terms, we do not have any other significant contract assets.
Assets Recognized from the Costs to Obtain a Contract with a Customer
Prepaid travel agent commissions are an incremental cost of obtaining contracts with customers that we recognize as an asset and include within Prepaid expenses and other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. Prepaid travel agent commissions were $163.2 million and $153.5 million as of December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively. Substantially all of our prepaid travel agent commissions at December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2014, amortization of debt issuance costs of $17.2 million2017 were expensed and $19.8 million, respectively, have been reclassified from Decrease (increase)reported within Commissions, transportation and other in prepaid expenses and other assets and $7.9 million and $8.5 million, respectively, have been reclassified from Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities in theour consolidated statements of cash flowsto Amortization of debt issuance costs,within Net cash provided by operating activities in order to conform tocomprehensive income (loss) for the current year presentation.years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, respectively.
Note 3.5.Goodwill
The carrying amount of goodwill attributable to our Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and CelebritySilversea Cruises reporting units and the changes in such balances during the years ended December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 20152018 were as follows (in thousands):
Royal Caribbean International  Celebrity Cruises  Silversea Cruises  Total  
Balance at December 31, 2017$286,880  $1,632  $—  $288,512  
Goodwill attributable to the acquisition of Silversea Cruises (1)1,090,010  1,090,010  
Foreign currency translation adjustment(169) —  —  (169) 
Balance at December 31, 2018286,711  1,632  1,090,010  1,378,353  
Silversea Goodwill adjustment—  —  (5,224) (5,224) 
Goodwill attributable to the purchase of photo operations onboard our ships (2)12,518  —  —  12,518  
Foreign currency translation adjustment(3) —  —  (3) 
Balance at December 31, 2019$299,226  $1,632  $1,084,786  $1,385,644  

(1)In 2018, we purchased Silversea Cruises. Refer to Note 3. Business Combination for further information.
 Royal
Caribbean
International
Celebrity CruisesTotal
Balance at December 31, 2014$286,958
$
$286,958
Foreign currency translation adjustment(194)
(194)
Balance at December 31, 2015286,764

286,764
Goodwill attributable to purchase of Ocean Adventures(1)

1,600
1,600
Foreign currency translation adjustment(10)32
22
Balance at December 31, 2016$286,754
$1,632
$288,386
(1)(2)In 2019, we purchased the photo operations onboard our ships from our previous concessionaire. The acquisition was accounted for as a business purchase combination using the purchase method of accounting which requires the use of fair value measurements. The Ocean Adventures business combination, including purchase transaction and assets acquired, was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements.
The carrying amount of goodwill attributable to our Pullmantur reporting unit and the changes in such balances during the year ended December 31, 2015 were as follows (in thousands):
 Pullmantur
Balance at December 31, 2014$133,584
Impairment charge(123,814)
Foreign currency translation adjustment(9,770)
Balance at December 31, 2015$

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


consolidated financial statements.
During the fourth quarter of 2016,2019, we performed a qualitative assessment of whether it was more-likely-than-not that our Royal Caribbean International reporting unit's fair value was less than its carrying amount before applying the two-step goodwill impairment test. The qualitative analysis included assessing the impact of certain factors such as general economic conditions, limitations on accessing capital, changes in forecasted operating results, changes in fuel prices and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Based on our qualitative assessment, we concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that the estimated fair value of the Royal Caribbean International reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and thus, we did not proceed to the two-step goodwill impairment test. No indicators of impairment exist primarily because the reporting unit's fair value has consistently exceeded its carrying value by a significant margin its financial performance has been solid in the face of mixed economic environments and forecasts of operating results generated by the reporting unit appear sufficient to
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

support its carrying value. As a result of our assessment, we did 0t record an impairment of goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2019.
During the fourth quarter of 2019, we also performed a qualitative assessment of whether it was more-likely-than-not that our Silversea Cruises reporting unit's fair value was less than its carrying amount before applying the two-step goodwill impairment test. The qualitative analysis included assessing the impact of certain factors such as general economic conditions, limitations on accessing capital, changes in forecasted operating results, changes in fuel prices and fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. Based on our qualitative assessment, we concluded that it was more-likely-than-not that the estimated fair value of the Silversea Cruises reporting unit exceeded its carrying value and thus, we did not proceed to the two-step goodwill impairment test. No indicators of impairment exist primarily because forecasted operating results of the reporting unit appear sufficient to support its carrying value. As a result of our assessment, we did not0t record an impairment of goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2016.2019.
DuringFor the fourth quarter of 2015, we performed our annual impairment review of goodwill for the Royal Caribbean International reporting unit. We elected to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceeded directly to step one of the two-step goodwill impairment test to corroborate the results of prior years' qualitative assessments. As a result of the test, we determined the fair value of the Royal Caribbean International reporting unit exceeded its carrying value by approximately 90% resulting in no impairment to the Royal Caribbean International goodwill for the yearyears ended December 31, 2015.
In 2015, for our Pullmantur reporting unit, we reviewed the two-step goodwill impairment test based on our cash flow projections. As a result of this analysis, we determined that the carrying value of the Pullmantur reporting unit exceeded its fair value. Accordingly, upon the completion of the two-step impairment test, we recognized a goodwill impairment charge of $123.8 million. The charge reflected the full carrying amount of the goodwill leaving Pullmantur with no goodwill on its books. This impairment charge was recognized in earnings during the third quarter of 20152018 and is reported within Impairment of Pullmantur related assets within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Refer to Note 14. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for further information regarding the Pullmantur reporting unit estimated fair value calculation.

For the year ended December 31, 2014,2017, we did not0t record an impairment of goodwill for our reporting units. Accumulated goodwill impairment losses as of December 31, 2016 were $443.0 million attributable to our Pullmantur reporting unit.


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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


Note 4.6.Intangible Assets
Intangible assets consist of finite and indefinite life assets and are reported in within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets.
The carrying amountfollowing is a summary of indefinite-lifeour intangible assets was not material as of December 31, 2016. Indefinite-life2019 (in thousands, except weighted average amortization period):
As of December 31, 2019
Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)Gross Carrying ValueAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Value
Finite-life intangible assets:
Customer relationships13.8$97,400  $7,576  $89,824  
Galapagos operating license24.747,669  6,010  41,659  
Other finite-life intangible assets0.811,560  6,743  4,817  
Total finite-life intangible assets156,629  20,329  136,300  
Indefinite-life intangible assets352,275  —  352,275  
Total intangible assets, net$508,904  $20,329  $488,575  










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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

The following is a summary of our intangible assets consisted of the following as of December 31, 20152018 (in thousands):
 2015
Indefinite-life intangible asset—Pullmantur trademarks and trade names$188,038
Impairment charge(174,285)
Foreign currency translation adjustment(13,753)
Total$
During the third quarter of 2015, we performed an interim impairment evaluation of Pullmantur's trademarks and trade names using a discounted cash flow model and the relief-from-royalty method to compare the fair value of these indefinite-lived intangible assets to its carrying value. We used a discount rate comparable to the rate used in valuing the Pullmantur reporting unit in our goodwill impairment test. Based on our cash flow projections, we determined that the fair value of Pullmantur’s trademarks and trade names no longer exceeded their carrying value. Accordingly, we recognized an impairment charge of approximately $174.3 million to write down trademarks and trade names to their fair value. The charge reflected the full carrying amount of the trademark and trade names leaving Pullmantur with no intangible assets on its books. This impairment charge was recognized in earnings during the third quarter of 2015 and is reported within Impairment of Pullmantur related assets within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Refer to Note 14. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for further information regarding the estimated fair value calculation of these assets.
For the year ended December 31, 2014, we did not record an impairment of Pullmantur's trademark and trade names.
Finite-life intangible assets had a gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization amount of $8.4 million and $0.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2016, consisting of operating licenses to operate in the Galapagos Islands. As of December 31, 2016, the remainingthousands, except weighted average remaining life of these licenses were approximately 27.6 years. Amortization expenseamortization period):
As of December 31, 2018
Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)Gross Carrying ValueAccumulated AmortizationNet Carrying Value
Finite-life intangible assets:
Customer relationships14.8$97,400  $1,082  $96,318  
Galapagos operating license25.847,669  4,206  43,463  
Other finite-life intangible assets1.811,560  963  10,597  
Total finite-life intangible assets156,629  6,251  150,378  
Indefinite-life intangible assets351,725  —  351,725  
Total intangible assets, net$508,354  $6,251  $502,103  
The estimated future amortization for finite-life intangible assets was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements.for each of the next five years is as follows (in thousands):
Year
2020$12,995  
2021$8,179  
2022$8,179  
2023$8,179  
2024$8,179  

Note 5.7.Property and Equipment
Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands):
As of December 31,
20192018
Ships$28,348,088  $27,209,553  
Ship improvements3,920,800  2,965,634  
Ships under construction1,110,962  817,800  
Land, buildings and improvements, including leasehold improvements and port facilities472,067  321,136  
Computer hardware and software, transportation equipment and other1,698,007  1,120,988  
Total property and equipment35,549,924  32,435,111  
Less—accumulated depreciation and amortization(1)
(10,083,116) (8,968,948) 
$25,466,808  $23,466,163  
 2016 2015
Ships$23,978,822
 $22,102,025
Ship improvements2,359,639
 2,019,294
Ships under construction354,425
 734,998
Land, buildings and improvements, including leasehold improvements and port facilities341,605
 337,109
Computer hardware and software, transportation equipment and other1,108,301
 1,025,264
Total property and equipment28,142,792
 26,218,690
Less—accumulated depreciation and amortization(7,981,365) (7,440,912)
 $20,161,427
 $18,777,778
(1)Amount includes accumulated depreciation and amortization for assets in service.
Ships under construction include progress payments for the construction of new ships as well as planning, design, capitalized interest and other associated costs. We capitalized interest costs of $25.3$56.5 million, $26.5$49.6 million and $28.8$24.2 million for the years 2016, 2015ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2014,2017, respectively.

During 2019, we took delivery of Spectrum of the Seas and Celebrity Flora. During 2018, we completed our purchase of Azamara Pursuit and took delivery of Symphony of the Seas and Celebrity Edge. Refer to Note 9. Debt for further information.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



We reviewUpon our long-lived assetsacquisition of Silversea Cruises, we added 9 ships to our fleet, 2 of which are under capital lease agreements and 1 under an operating lease. As of December 31, 2019, Silversea Cruises operates 8 ships as the operating lease for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate potential impairment. During 2016, we sold our 51% interest in Pullmantur Holdings. ForSilver Discover was terminated during 2019. Refer to Note 3. Business Combination for further information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition and Note 9. Debt for further information on the capital leases.
During 2017, we sold our 3 aircraft and 6% of our ownership stake in Wamos Air, S.A. (formerly known as Pullmantur Air, S.A.) to Wamos Air, S.A. In connection with the sale transaction, referwe extended 2 loans to Note 1. General. Due to this saleWamos Air, S.A. totaling €17.3 million. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we received principal and theinterest payments of €5.4 million resulting change in the naturefull repayment of one of the cash flows generated byloans. As of December 31, 2019, a receivable of €9.9 million, or approximately $11.1 million, based on the vessels that are owned by us and operated by Pullmantur Holdings, we reviewed these vessels for impairment. We determined thatexchange rate at December 31, 2019, was outstanding related to the undiscounted future cash flowsprincipal amount of the vessels exceeded their carrying value; therefore, no impairmentremaining loan. The remaining loan accrues interest at 5.25% per annum, amortizes through maturity of July 2021, and is secured by first priority security interests over the aircraft engines and shares sold in connection with the transaction. The sale resulted in an immaterial gain that was required.recognized in earnings during the year ended December 31, 2017. Post-sale, we retained a 13% interest in Wamos Air, S.A.

During 2016,2017, we entered into agreements with STX France to build a fifth Oasis-class ship and a third and fourth "Project Edge" ship. Refer to Note 15. Commitments and Contingencies for further information.

In April 2016, we completed the previously announced sale of Splendoursold Legend of the Seasto TUI Cruises. Concurrent with the acquisition, TUI Cruises leased the ship to Thomson Cruises, an affiliate of TUI AG, our joint venture partner who will operate the ship. The gain recognized did not have a material effect to our consolidated financial statements.

In June 2016, we entered into an agreement to sell Legend of the Seas to Thomsonin TUI Cruises. The sale is scheduled to be completedresulted in March 2017 in order to retain the future revenues to be generated for sailings through that date. We expect to recognize a gain on the sale, which we do not expect will have a material effect to our annual consolidated financial statements.

During 2015, in conjunction with performing the two-step goodwill impairment test for the Pullmantur reporting unit, we identified that the estimated fair value of certain long-lived assets, consisting of two ships$30.9 million and three aircraft were less than their carrying values. As a result of this determination, we evaluated these assets pursuant to our long-lived asset impairment test, resulting in an impairment charge of $113.2 million to write down these assets to their estimated fair values. This impairment charge was recognized in earnings during the third quarter of 2015 and is reported within Impairment of Pullmantur related assets Other operatingwithinCruise operating expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Refer for the year ended December 31, 2017.
In January of 2020, Zenith was sold to Note 14. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for further information regarding the estimated fair value calculation of these assets.

During 2015, Pullmantur sold Ocean Dream to an unrelateda third party for $34.6 million. The purchase priceapproximately its net book value. Zenith was paid via a secured promissory note, payable over a nine-year period. The buyer's obligations under this loan accrue interest at the rate of 6.0% per annum and are secured by a first priority mortgage on the ship. The sale resulted in an immaterial gain that was deferred and is expectedpreviously bareboat chartered to be recognized at the end of the nine-year term.Pullmantur Holdings S.L.
Note 6.8.Other Assets
A VIEVariable Interest Entity ("VIE") is an entity in which the equity investors have not provided enough equity to finance the entity's activities or the equity investors (1) cannot directly or indirectly make decisions about the entity's activities through their voting rights or similar rights; (2) do not have the obligation to absorb the expected losses of the entity; (3) do not have the right to receive the expected residual returns of the entity; or (4) have voting rights that are not proportionate to their economic interests and the entity's activities involve or are conducted on behalf of an investor with a disproportionately small voting interest.
We have determined that TUI Cruises GmbH, our 50%-owned joint venture, which operates the brand TUI Cruises, is a VIE. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the net book value of our investment in TUI Cruises was approximately $515.9$598.1 million, primarily consisting of $323.5$443.1 million in equity and a loan of $192.4 million.€133.2 million, or approximately $149.5 million, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. As of December 31, 2018, the net book value of our investment in TUI Cruises was $578.1 million, primarily consisting of $403.0 million in equity and a loan of €150.6 million, or approximately $172.2 million, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018. The loan, which was made in connection with the sale of Splendour of the Seasin April 2016, accrues interest at a rate of 6.25% per annum and is payable over a 10-year term.10 years. This loan is 50% guaranteed by TUI AG, our joint venture partner in TUI Cruises, and is secured by a first priority mortgage on the ship. Refer to Note 5. 7. Property and Equipmentfor further information. As of December 31, 2015, the net book value of our investment in TUI Cruises was approximately $293.8 million, consisting of equity. The majority of these amounts were included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets.


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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


In addition, we and TUI AG have each guaranteed the repayment by TUI Cruises of 50% of a bank loan borrowed by TUI Cruises.loan. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the outstanding principal amount of the loan was €116.3€26.4 million, or approximately $122.7$29.7 million, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016. While this loan matures in May 2022, the lenders have agreed to release each shareholder's guarantee in 2018.2019. The loan amortizes quarterly and is currently secured by a first mortgagesmortgage on the Mein Schiff 1 and Mein Schiff 2 vessels.Herz. Based on current facts and circumstances, we do not believe potential obligations under our guarantee of this bank loan are probable. In addition to our guarantee of the bank loan, TUI Cruises has various ship construction and financing agreements which include certain restrictions on each of our and TUI AG’s ability to reduce our current ownership interest in TUI Cruises below 37.55% through May 2031.
Our investment amount, outstanding term loan and the potential obligations under the bank loan guarantee are substantially our maximum exposure to loss in connection with our investment in TUI Cruises. We have determined that we are not the primary beneficiary of TUI Cruises. We believe that the power to direct the activities that most
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

significantly impact TUI Cruises’ economic performance are shared between ourselves and TUI AG. All the significant operating and financial decisions of TUI Cruises require the consent of both parties, which we believe creates shared power over TUI Cruises. Accordingly, we do not consolidate this entity and account for this investment under the equity method of accounting.
In March 2009, we sold Celebrity Galaxy to TUI Cruises has three newbuild shipsfor €224.4 million, or $290.9 million, to serve as the original Mein Schiff 1. Due to the related party nature of this transaction, the gain on order with Meyer Turku scheduledthe sale of the ship of $35.9 million was deferred and being recognized over the remaining life of the ship which was estimated to be delivered in each of 2017,23 years. In April 2018, and 2019. TUI Cruises hassold the original Mein Schiff 1 and as a result we accelerated the recognition of the remaining balance of the deferred gain, which was $21.8 million. This amount is included within Other income (expense) in place agreementsour consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the secured financing of each of the ships on order for up to 80% of the contract price. The remaining portion of the contract price of the ships is expected to be funded through an existing €150.0 million bank facility and TUI Cruises’ cash flows from operations. The various ship construction and financing agreements include certain restrictions on each of our and TUI AG’s ability to reduce our current ownership interest inyear ended December 31, 2018.
On February 7, 2020, TUI Cruises below 37.55% through 2021.entered into an agreement to acquire Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, a luxury and expedition brand for German-speaking guests, from TUI AG. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises operates 2 luxury liners and 3 smaller expedition ships. The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions.
We have determined that Pullmantur Holdings S.L. ("Pullmantur Holdings"), which operates the Pullmantur brand and in which we have a 49% noncontrolling interest and SpringwaterCapital LLC has a 51% interest, is a VIE for which we are not the primary beneficiary, as we do not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance. Accordingly, subsequent to the sale of our 51% interest in Pullmantur Holdings to Springwater Capital LLC ("Springwater"), we do not consolidate this entity and we account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2016, the net book value of2019 and December 31, 2018, our investmentmaximum exposure to loss in Pullmantur Holdings was was immaterial to$49.7 million and $58.5 million, respectively, consisting of loans and other receivables. These amounts were included within Trade and other receivables, net and Other assets in our consolidated financial statements.balance sheets.

In conjunction with the sale, weWe have provided a non-revolving working capital facility to a Pullmantur Holdings subsidiary in the amount of up to €15.0 million or approximately $15.8$16.8 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016.2019. Proceeds of the facility, which maywere available to be drawn through JulyDecember 31, 2018 will bearaccrue interest at thean interest rate of 6.5% per annum, and are payable through 2022. An affiliate of Springwater Capital LLC, has guaranteed repayment of 51% of the outstanding amounts under the facility. As of December 31, 2016, no amounts had been drawn2019, €11.0 million, or approximately $12.3 million, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019, was outstanding under this facility. See Note 1. General for further discussionAs of December 31, 2018, €14.0 million, or approximately $16.0 million, based on the sales transaction.exchange rate at December 31, 2018, was outstanding under this facility.
We have determined that Grand Bahama Shipyard Ltd. ("Grand Bahama"), a ship repair and maintenance facility in which we have a 40% noncontrolling interest, is a VIE. This facility serves cruise and cargo ships, oil and gas tankers and offshore units. We utilize this facility, among other ship repair facilities, for our regularly scheduled drydocks, ship upgrades and certain emergency repairs as may be required. During the yearyears ended December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, we made payments of $39.8$45.7 million and $21.7$44.7 million, respectively, to Grand Bahama for ship repair and maintenance services. We have determined that we are not the primary beneficiary of this facility, as we do not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the facility's economic performance. Accordingly, we do not consolidate this entity and we account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the net book value of our investment in Grand Bahama was $47.9 million, consisting of $27.0 million in equity and loans of $20.9 million. As of December 31, 2018, the net book value of our investment in Grand Bahama was approximately $47.0$56.1 million, consisting of $23.2$41.4 million in equity and a loanloans of $23.8 million. As of December 31, 2015, the net book value of our investment in Grand Bahama was approximately $51.2 million, consisting of $12.6 million in equity and a loan of $38.6$14.6 million. These amounts represent our maximum exposure to loss related to our investment in Grand Bahama. During 2016, our debt agreement withOur loans to Grand Bahama was amended to extend the maturity by 10 yearsmature between December 2020 and increase the applicableMarch 2026 and bear interest rate to the lower of (i)at LIBOR plus 3.50% and (ii) 5.50%.2.0% to 3.75%, capped at 5.75% for the majority of the outstanding loan balance. Interest payable on the loanloans is due on a semi-annual basis. We continue to classifyDuring the loan, as modified, as non-accrual status.years ended December 31, 2019 and 2018, we received principal and interest payments of $8.6 million and $16.4 million, respectively. The loan balance isbalances are included within Trade and other receivables, net and Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. DuringThe loans are currently accruing interest under the year ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we received payments of

effective yield method.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



approximately $14.8 million and $4.4 million, respectively. We monitor credit risk associated with the loan through our participation on Grand Bahama's board of directors along with our review of Grand Bahama's financial statements and projected cash flows. Based on this review, we believe the risk of loss associated with the outstanding loan is not probable as of December 31, 2016.2019.
We have determined thatIn April 2019, Grand Bahama experienced an incident involving one of its drydocks where Oasis of the Seas was undergoing maintenance.  The damage from the incident resulted in a write-off of the related drydock by Grand Bahama.  Our equity investment income for the year ended December 31, 2019 reflects our equity share of the write-off and other incidental expenses. Grand Bahama's management is working with its insurance underwriter to determine coverage under their existing policies.
In March 2018, we and Ctrip.com International Ltd. ("Ctrip") announced the decision to end the Skysea Holding International Ltd. ("Skysea Holding"), venture in which we have a 35% noncontrolling interest, is36% ownership interest. As a VIE for whichresult, we are notreviewed the primary beneficiary, as we do not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the entity's economic performance. Accordingly, we do not consolidate this entity and we account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. In December 2014, we and Ctrip.com International Ltd, which also owns 35% of Skysea Holding, each provided a debt facility to a wholly owned subsidiary of Skysea Holding in the amount of $80.0 million. Interest under these facilities, which mature in January 2030, initially accrues at a rate of 3.0% per annum with an increase of at least 0.5% every two years through maturity. The facilities, which are pari passu to each other, are each 100% guaranteed by Skysea Holding and are secured by first priority mortgages on the ship SkySeaGolden Era. As of December 31, 2016, the net book valuerecoverability of our investment in Skysea Holding and determined that our investment, debt facility and other receivables due from the brand were impaired and recognized an impairment charge of $23.3 million which was included within Other (expense)income in our consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018. The charge reflected a full impairment of our investment in SkySea Holding and other receivables due to us and reduced the debt facility and related accrued interest due to us to Skysea Holdings to its subsidiariesnet realizable value.
In December 2018, the Golden Era, the ship operated by SkySea Cruises, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Skysea Holdings, was approximately $95.4 million, consistingsold to an affiliate of $9.2 millionTUI AG. Proceeds from the sale were distributed to Ctrip and us, which eliminated our net receivable balance due from Skysea Holding, resulting in equity and loans of $86.2 million.no further impairment charges. As of December 31, 2015, the net book value of our investment in Skysea Holding and its subsidiaries was approximately $99.8 million, consisting of $17.3 million in equity and a loan of $82.5 million. The majority of these amounts were included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets and represent our maximum exposure2019, we do not have any exposures to loss related to our investment in Skysea Holding.

The following table setstables set forth information regarding our investments accounted for under the equity method of accounting, including the entities discussed above, (in thousands):
Year ended December 31,
201920182017
Share of equity income from investments$230,980  $210,756  $156,247  
Dividends received (1)
$150,177  $243,101  $109,677  
  For the period ended December 31,
  2016 2015 2014
Share of equity income from investments $128,350
 $81,026
 $51,640
Dividends received $75,942
 $33,338
 $5,814


(1) For the year ended December 31, 2019, TUI Cruises paid us dividends totaling €170.0 million, or approximately $190.3 million, based on the exchange rates at the time of the transactions. The amounts included in the table above are net of tax withholdings.
As of December 31,
20192018
Total notes receivable due from equity investments$184,558  $201,979  
Less-current portion (1)
25,933  19,075  
Long-term portion (2)
$158,625  $182,904  

(1)  Included within Trade and other receivables, net in our consolidated balance sheets.
(2)Included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets.
We also provide ship management services to TUI Cruises GmbH, Pullmantur Holdings and Skysea Holding.Holding (which ceased cruising operations in September 2018). Additionally, we bareboat charter to Pullmantur Holdings the vessels currently operated by its brands, which were retained by us in connection withfollowing the sale of our majority interest.51% interest in Pullmantur Holdings. We recorded the following as it relates to these services in our operating results within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) (in thousands):
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Year ended December 31,
201920182017
 For the period ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Revenues $30,517
 $20,217
 $8,465
Revenues$47,242  $54,705  $53,532  
Expenses $12,795
 $15,669
 $3,960
Expenses$4,304  $11,531  $15,176  
Summarized financial information for our affiliates accounted for under the equity method of accounting was as follows (in thousands):

As of December 31,
20192018
Current assets$435,152  $471,428  
Non-current assets4,019,394  3,826,018  
Total assets$4,454,546  $4,297,446  
Current liabilities$1,094,552  $1,064,741  
Non- current liabilities2,267,936  2,217,909  
Total liabilities$3,362,488  $3,282,650  
Equity attributable to:
Noncontrolling interest$1,784  $1,672  

Year ended December 31,
201920182017
Total revenues$2,354,744  $2,255,352  $1,994,014  
Total expenses(1,875,952) (1,779,160) (1,684,276) 
Net income$478,792  $476,192  $309,738  


F-20
F-26

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



Note 9.Debt
  As of December 31,
  2016 2015
Current Assets $382,529
 $315,264
Non Current Assets 2,922,471
 2,246,809
Total Assets $3,305,000
 $2,562,073
     
Current Liabilities $761,331
 $585,887
Non Current Liabilities 1,693,941
 1,231,262
Total Liabilities $2,455,272
 $1,817,149
     
Equity Attributable to:    
Noncontrolling Interest $1,544
 $1,683
  For the period ended December 31,
  2016 2015 2014
Total Revenues $1,232,191
 $990,172
 $797,441
Total Expenses (972,454) (830,898) (682,430)
Net Income $259,737
 $159,274
 $115,011
Note 7.Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt consists of the following (in thousands):

 As of December 31,
Interest Rate(1)
Maturities Through20192018
Fixed rate debt:
Senior notes 2.65% to 7.50%  2020 - 2028$1,746,280  $1,724,194  
Secured senior notes7.25%  2025662,398  670,437  
Unsecured term loans2.53% to 5.41%  2021 - 20302,806,774  2,148,351  
Total fixed rate debt5,215,452  4,542,982  
Variable rate debt:
Unsecured revolving credit facilities(2)
2.79%  2022 - 2024165,000  795,000  
Commercial paper2.19%  20191,434,180  775,488  
USD unsecured term loan2.31% to 5.64%  2019 - 20283,519,853  4,005,848  
Euro unsecured term loan1.15% to 1.58%  2021 - 2028676,740  734,176  
Total variable rate debt5,795,773  6,310,512  
Finance lease liabilities230,258  130,944  
Total debt (3)
11,241,483  10,984,438  
Less: unamortized debt issuance costs(206,607) (206,739) 
Total debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs11,034,876  10,777,699  
Less—current portion including commercial paper(2,620,766) (2,422,329) 
Long-term portion$8,414,110  $8,355,370  

(1)Interest rates based on outstanding loan balance as of December 31, 2019 and, for variable rate debt, include either LIBOR or EURIBOR plus the applicable margin.
F-21

Table(2)Includes $1.7 billion facility due in 2024 and $1.2 billion facility due in 2022, each of Contentswhich accrue interest at LIBOR plus 1.00%, currently 2.91%, and are subject to a facility fee of 0.125%.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.(3)At December 31, 2019 and 2018, the weighted average interest rate for total debt was 3.99% and 4.14%, respectively.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


 2016 2015
$1.4 billion unsecured revolving credit facility, LIBOR plus 1.50%, currently 2.26% and a facility fee of 0.25%, due 2020$925,000
 $945,000
$1.2 billion unsecured revolving credit facility, LIBOR plus 1.50%, currently 2.24% and a facility fee of 0.25%, due 2018805,000
 895,000
Unsecured senior notes and senior debentures, 5.25% to 7.50%, due 2018, 2022 and 20271,073,261
 1,434,542
$200 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.30%, currently 2.06% due 2017200,000
 
$841.8 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.00%, currently 2.26% due through 2028806,756
 
$226.1 million unsecured term loan, 2.53%, due through 2028216,677
 
€700.7 million unsecured term loan, EURIBOR plus 1.15% currently 1.15%, due through 2028708,417
 
$742.1 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.30%, currently 2.56%, due through 2027649,338
 711,180
$273.2 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.75%, currently 2.52%, due 2017273,166
 
$519 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 0.45%, currently 1.71%, due through 2020173,049
 216,311
$420 million unsecured term loan, 5.41%, due through 2021171,444
 207,223
$420 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.65%, currently 2.91%, due through 2021175,000
 210,000
€159.4 million unsecured term loan, EURIBOR plus 1.58%, currently 1.58%, due through 202170,082
 86,650
$524.5 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 0.50%, currently 1.48%, due through 2021218,542
 262,250
$566.1 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 0.37%, currently 1.63%, due through 2022259,448
 306,621
$1.1 billion unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.65%, currently 2.91%, due through 2022460,652
 537,426
$632.0 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 0.40%, currently 1.38%, due through 2023368,643
 421,306
$673.5 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 0.40%, currently 1.66%, due through 2024448,983
 505,106
$65.0 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.75%, currently 2.52%, due through 201967,027
 71,500
$380.0 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.75%, currently 2.52%, due 2018380,000
 380,000
$791.1 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.30%, currently 2.56%, due through 2026659,256
 725,182
$290.0 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 1.75%, currently 2.52%, due 2018290,000
 290,000
€365 million unsecured term loan, EURIBOR plus 1.75%, currently 1.75%, due 2017123,963
 396,755
$7.3 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 2.5%, currently 3.76%, due through 20233,964
 4,440
$30.3 million unsecured term loan, LIBOR plus 3.75%, currently 4.70%, due through 20216,597
 11,793
Capital lease obligations40,385
 48,770
Total debt9,574,650
 8,667,055
Less: unamortized debt issuance costs(187,214) (139,812)
Total debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs9,387,436
 8,527,243
Less: current portion(1,285,735) (899,542)
Long-term portion$8,101,701
 $7,627,701

In February 2016,April 2019, we amended our $1.4 billion unsecured term loans for Oasis ofrevolving credit facility due in 2020 to extend the Seastermination date through April 2024, increase the facility size to $1.7 billion and Allure of the Seas to reduce the margins on those facilities and incorporate certain covenant improvements included in our more recent credit facilities.pricing. The interest rate on both the $420.0 million floating rate tranche of the Oasis of the Seas term loan and the $1.1 billion Allure of the Seas term loan was reduced fromfacility fee vary with our senior debt rating and are currently set at LIBOR plus 1.85% to LIBOR plus 1.65%.1.0% per annum and 0.125% per annum, respectively. These amendments did not result in the extinguishment of debt.

In February 2016,addition, in May 2019, we agreed with the lendersamended our $1.15 billion unsecured revolving credit facility due in 2022 to reduce pricing to match pricing on our €365.0 million$1.7 billion unsecured revolving credit facility due in 2024.
In April 2019, we entered into and drew in full on an unsecured three-year term loan due 2017 to convert €247.5 million, or $273.2 million,agreement in the amount of the outstanding principal balance from Euro to United States dollars. Interest on the new United States dollar tranche$1.0 billion. The loan accrues interest at a floating rate based onof LIBOR plus an applicable margin, which varies with our senior debt rating, and is currently 1.075% per annum. Proceeds of this loan were used to repay the applicable margin. The$700 million 364-day loan due July 2019 related to the acquisition of Silversea Cruises and the remaining balance of the facilityunsecured term loan originally incurred in 2010 to purchase Allure of €117.5 million will remain outstandingthe Seas. The repayment of these loans resulted in Euro and will continue to accrue interest at a floating rate

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


basedtotal loss on EURIBOR, subject to a 0% floor, plus the applicable margin. The applicable margin varies with our debt rating and was 1.75% as of December 31, 2016. The amendment did not result in the extinguishment of debt.debt of $6.3 million, which was recognized within Other (expense) income within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the twelve months ended December 31, 2019.

In April 2016,2019, we took delivery of OvationSpectrum of the Seas. To finance the purchase, we borrowed $841.8$908.0 million under a previously committed unsecured term loan which is 95% guaranteed by Euler Hermes Deutschland AG ("Hermes"),Aktiengesellschaft, the official export credit agency of Germany. The loan amortizes semi-annually over 12 years and bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin of 1.00%, totaling 2.26% as of December 31, 2016. During 2015, we entered into forward-starting interest rate swap agreements which effectively converted $830.0 million of the loan from the floating rate available to us per the credit agreement to a fixed rate including the applicable margin, of 3.16% effective from April 20163.45% per annum.
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

In May 2019, we took delivery of Celebrity Flora. The purchase was financed through the maturity of the loan. See Note 14. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for further information regarding these agreements.

In April 2016, we entered into and drew in full on a credit agreement which provides an unsecured term loan facility entered into in November 2017 in an amount up to €80.0 million, or approximately $89.8 million based on the amountexchange rate at December 31, 2019. As of $200 million.December 31, 2019, we had fully drawn on this facility. The loan is due and payable at maturity in April 2017.November 2024. Interest on the loan accrues at a floating rate based on LIBOREURIBOR plus athe applicable margin. The applicable margin of 1.30%, totaling 2.06%varies with our debt rating and was 1.195% as of December 31, 2016.2019.
In June 2018, we established a commercial paper program pursuant to which we may issue short-term unsecured notes from time to time in an aggregate amount of up to $1.2 billion, which was increased to $2.9 billion in August 2019. The proceeds from this loan were used to repay amounts outstanding undercommercial paper issued is backstopped by our unsecured revolving credit facilities.

In May 2016, we took delivery of Harmony of the Seas. To finance the purchase, we borrowed an unsecured Euro-denominated term loan in the amount of €700.7 million, or $739.2 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016, and an unsecured United States dollar-denominated term loan in the amount of $226.1 million under previously committed credit agreements. Both of the facilities are 100% guaranteed by Compagnie Francaise d’Assurance pour le Commerce Extérieur (“COFACE”), the official export credit agency of France. The Euro-denominated term loan amortizes semi-annually over 12 years and bears interest at EURIBOR, subject to a 0% floor, plus the applicable margin of 1.15%, totaling 1.15% as As of December 31, 2016. The United States dollar-denominated term loan amortizes semi-annually over 12 years and bears2019, we had $1.4 billion of commercial paper notes outstanding with a weighted average interest at a fixed rate of 2.53%. During 2015,2.19% and a weighted average maturity of approximately 21 days. As of December 31, 2018 we entered into forward-startinghad $777.0 million of commercial paper notes outstanding with a weighted average interest rate swap agreements which effectively converted €693.4 million, or $731.5 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016, of the Euro-denominated term loan from the floating rate per the credit agreement to3.19% and a fixed rate, including the applicable margin, of 2.26% effective from May 2016 through theweighted average maturity of the loan. See Note 14. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instrumentsapproximately 23 days.
Except for further information regarding these agreements.
AllCelebrity Flora, all of our unsecured ship financing term loans are guaranteed by the export credit agency in the respective country in which the ship is constructed. In consideration for these guarantees, depending on the financing arrangement, we pay to the applicable export credit agency (1) fees from 1.48%a fee of 0.77% per annum based on the outstanding loan balance semi-annually over the term of the loan (subject to adjustment under certain of our facilities based upon our credit ratings) or (2) an upfront fee of 2.35% to 2.37% of the maximum loan amount. We amortize the fees that are paid upfront over the life of the loan and those that are paid semi-annually over each respective payment period. We classifyPrior to the loan being drawn, we present these fees within Debt issuance costsOther assets in our consolidated balance sheets. Once the loan is drawn, such fees are classified as a discount to the related loan, or contra-liability account, within Current portion of long-term debt or Long-term debt. In our consolidated statements of cash flows, andwe classify these fees within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets.Amortization of debt issuance costs.
Under certain of our agreements, the contractual interest rate, facility fee and/or export credit agency fee vary with our debt rating.
The unsecured senior notes and senior debentures are not redeemable prior to maturity, except that certain series may be redeemed upon the payment of a make-whole premium.
Following is a schedule of annual maturities on long-term debt including capitalFinance Leases
Silversea Cruises operates 2 ships, the Silver Whisper and Silver Explorer, under finance leases as of December 31, 2016. Thefinance lease for eachthe Silver Whisper will expire in 2022, subject to an option to purchase the ship, and the finance lease for the Silver Explorer will expire in 2021, subject to an option to extend the lease for up to an additional six years. The total aggregate amount of the next five years (in thousands):finance lease liabilities recorded for these ships at the acquisition date was $82.8 million. The lease payments on the Silver Whisper are subject to adjustments based on the LIBOR rate. Refer to Note 3. Business Combination for further information regarding the assets acquired and liabilities assumed in the Silversea Cruises acquisition.


F-23
F-28

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



Following is a schedule of annual maturities on our total debt net of debt issuance costs, and including capital leases and commercial paper, as of December 31, 2019 for each of the next five years (in thousands):
Year
2020$2,620,766  
2021843,906  
20222,479,303  
2023763,382  
2024723,697  
Thereafter3,603,822  
$11,034,876  

Note 10. Leases
Our operating leases primarily relate to preferred berthing arrangements, real estate and shipboard equipment and are included within Operating lease right-of-use assets, and Long-term operating lease liabilities with the current portion of the liability included within Current portion of operating lease liabilities in our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2019. Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the consolidated balance sheet. We recognize lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, for further information on the adoption of ASC 842.
Finance leases are included within Property and equipment, net and Long-term debt, with the current portion of the debt reported within Current portion of debt, in our consolidated balance sheets.
Our finance leases include 2 ships, Silver Whisper and Silver Explorer, operated by Silversea Cruises. The finance lease for Silver Whisper will expire in 2022, subject to an option to purchase the ship, and the finance lease for Silver Explorer will expire in 2021, subject to an option to extend the lease for up to an additional 6 years.
In June 2019, the Company entered into a new master lease agreement (“Master Lease”) with Miami-Dade County relating to the buildings and surrounding land located at its Miami headquarters, which are classified as finance leases in accordance with ASC 842. Prior to entering into the Master Lease, the buildings were classified as operating lease assets. The finance lease for the buildings and land will expire in 2072, which includes an initial 43 years lease term and 2 five-year options to extend the lease. We consider the possibility of exercising the 2 five-year options reasonably certain.
For some of our real estate leases and berthing agreements, we do have the option to extend our current lease term. For those lease agreements with renewal options, the renewal periods for real estate leases range from one to 10 years and the renewal periods for berthing agreements range from one year to 20 years. Generally, we do not include renewal options as a component of our present value calculation for berthing agreements. However, for certain real estate leases, we include them. Additionally, we do have a residual value guarantee associated with our lease of a terminal at PortMiami in Miami, Florida that approximates a percentage of cost of the asset as of the inception of the lease. We consider the possibility of incurring costs associated with the residual value guarantee to be remote.
As most of our leases do not provide an implicit rate, we use our incremental borrowing rate in determining the present value of lease payments. We estimate our incremental borrowing rates based on LIBOR and U.S. Treasury note rates corresponding to lease terms increased by the Company’s credit risk spread and reduced by the estimated impact of collateral. We used the incremental borrowing rate as of the adoption date for operating leases that commenced prior to that date. In addition, we have lease agreements with lease and non-lease components, which are generally accounted for separately. However, for berthing agreements, we account for the lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.
Additionally, we bareboat charter to Pullmantur Holdings the vessels currently operated by its brands, which were retained by us following the sale of our 51% interest in Pullmantur Holdings in 2016. We account for the
F-29


Year 
2017$1,285,735
20182,309,952
2019754,496
20201,608,187
2021632,920
Thereafter2,796,146
 $9,387,436
bareboat charters of these vessels as operating leases for which we are the lessor.  The remaining payments and term of these leases are immaterial to our consolidated financial statements.

Supplemental balance sheet information for leases was as follows (in thousands):
As of December 31, 2019
Lease assets:
Finance lease right-of-use assets, net:
Property and equipment, gross$376,159 
Accumulated depreciation(57,955)
Property and equipment, net318,204 
Operating lease right-of-use assets 687,555 
Total lease assets$1,005,759 
Lease liabilities:
Finance lease liabilities:
Current portion of debt$33,561 
   Long-term debt196,697 
Total finance lease liabilities230,258 
Operating lease liabilities:
Current portion of operating lease liabilities 96,976 
Long-term operating lease liabilities 601,641 
Total operating lease liabilities698,617 
Total lease liabilities$928,875 

The components of lease expense were as follows (in thousands):
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) ClassificationTwelve Months Ended December 31, 2019
Lease costs:
Operating lease costsCommission, transportation and other$76,226 
Operating lease costsOther operating expenses27,868 
Operating lease costsMarketing, selling and administrative expenses18,837 
Finance lease costs:
Amortization of right-of-use-assetsDepreciation and amortization expenses22,044 
Interest on lease liabilitiesInterest expense, net of interest capitalized8,355 
Total lease costs$153,330 

In addition, certain of our berth agreements include variable lease costs based on the number of passengers berthed. During the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, we had $103.3 million of variable lease costs recorded within Commission, transportation and other in our consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss).



F-30


Weighted average of the remaining lease terms and weighted average discount rates are as follows:
As of December 31, 2019
Weighted average of the remaining lease term
Operating leases10.3
Finance leases30.22
Weighted average discount rate
Operating leases4.65 %
Finance leases4.47 %

Supplemental cash flow information related to leases is as follows (in thousands):
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2019
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from operating leases$125,307 
Operating cash flows from finance leases$8,355 
Financing cash flows from finance leases$32,090 

As of December 31, 2019, maturities related to lease liabilities were as follows (in thousands):
YearsOperating LeasesFinance Leases
2020$126,235  $43,793  
2021113,033  46,726  
2022104,907  23,801  
2023101,547  12,539  
202475,510  12,528  
Thereafter417,122  405,756  
Total lease payments938,354  545,143  
Less: Interest(239,737) (314,885) 
Present value of lease liabilities$698,617  $230,258  

Operating lease payments do not include any costs related to options to extend lease terms as none are reasonably certain of being exercised.







F-31


Under ASC 840, Leases, future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases, primarily for offices, warehouses and motor vehicles, as of December 31, 2018 were as follows (in thousands):
Years
2019$67,682  
202064,237  
202156,142  
202252,759  
202352,522  
Thereafter383,974  
$677,316  

Total expense for operating leases, under ASC 840, primarily for offices, warehouses and motor vehicles amounted to $32.2 million and $29.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
In July 2016, we executed an agreement with Miami Dade County (“MDC”), which was simultaneously assigned to Sumitomo Banking Corporation (“SMBC”), to lease land from MDC and construct a new cruise terminal of approximately 170,000 square feet at PortMiami in Miami, Florida, which was completed during the fourth quarter of 2018 and serves as a homeport. During the construction period, SMBC funded the costs of the terminal’s construction and land lease. Once the terminal was substantially completed, we commenced operating and leasing the terminal from SMBC for a five-year term. We determined that the lease arrangement between SMBC and us should be accounted for as an operating lease.

Note 11. Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
In connection with the acquisition of Silversea Cruises, we recorded a redeemable noncontrolling interest of $537.8 million due to the put options held by HCH. The put options may require us to purchase HCH's remaining interest, or 33.3% of Silversea Cruises, upon the occurrence or nonoccurrence of certain future events that are not solely within our control. As of December 31, 2019, HCH's interest is presented as Redeemable noncontrolling interest and is classified outside of shareholders' equity in our consolidated balance sheets. Additionally, the noncontrolling interest's share in the net earnings (loss) and contractual accretion requirements associated with the put options are included in Net Income attributable to noncontrolling interests in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
The following table presents changes in the redeemable noncontrolling interest as of December 31, 2019 (in thousands):
Balance as of January 1, 2018$— 
Additions (Silversea Cruises acqusition)537,770 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, including the contractual accretion of the put options4,750 
Other(500)
Balance at December 31, 2018$542,020 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, including the contractual accretion of the put options28,713 
Distribution to noncontrolling interest(752)
Balance at December 31, 2019$569,981 




F-32

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Note 8.12.Shareholders' Equity
Dividends Declared
During the fourth and third quarters of 2016,2019, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.78 per share which was paid in the first quarter of 2020 and fourth quarter of 2019, respectively. During the first and second quarters of 2019, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.70 per share which was paid in the second and third quarters of 2019, respectively.
During the fourth and third quarters of 2018, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.70 per share which was paid in the first quarter of 2019 and fourth quarter of 2018, respectively. During the first and second quarters of 2018, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.60 per share which was paid in the second and third quarters of 2018, respectively. During the first quarter of 2018, we also paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.60 per share which was declared during the fourth quarter of 2017.
During the fourth and third quarters of 2017, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.60 per share which was paid in the first quarter of 2018 and fourth quarter of 2017, respectively. During the first and second quarters of 2017, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.48 per share which was paid in the first quarter of 2017 and fourth quarter of 2016, respectively. We also declared and paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.375 per share during each of the first and second quarters of 2016.

During the fourth and third quarters of 2015, we declared a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.375 per share which was paid in the first quarter of 2016 and fourth quarter of 2015,2017, respectively. We also declared and paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.30 per share during each of the first and second quarters of 2015. During the first quarter of 2015,2017, we also paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.30$0.48 per share which was declared during the fourth quarter of 2014.2016.

Common Stock Repurchase Program
During the fourth quarter of 2015,In May 2018, our board of directors authorized a 24-month common stock repurchase program for up to $500$1.0 billion. The timing and number of shares to be repurchased will depend on a variety of factors, including price and market conditions. Repurchases under the program may be made at management's discretion from time to time on the open market or through privately negotiated transactions. During the year ended December 31, 2019, we repurchased 0.9 million that was completed in August 2016. During 2016, we purchased 4.1 million shares of our common stock under this program, for a total of $300.0$99.6 million, in open market transactions. These transactions that were recorded within Treasury stock in our consolidated balance sheet. Our repurchasessheets. As of December 31, 2019, we have $600.0 million that remains available for future stock repurchase transactions under this program, including the 2.1 million shares repurchased for $200.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2015, totaled $500.0 million.our Board authorized program.
Note 9.13.Stock-Based Employee Compensation
We currently have awards outstanding under two1 stock-based compensation plans,plan, our 2008 Equity Plan, which provideprovides for awards to our officers, directors and key employees. The plans consistplan consists of a 2000 Stock Award Plan and a 2008 Equity Plan. Our ability to issue new awards under the 2000 Stock Award Plan terminated in accordance with the terms of the plan in September 2009. The 2008 Equity Plan, as amended, provides for the issuance of up to 14,000,000 shares of our common stock pursuant to grants of (i) incentive and non-qualified stock options, (ii) stock appreciation rights, (iii) stock awards (including time-based and/or performance-based stock awards) and (iv) restricted stock units (including time-based and performance-based restricted stock units). During any calendar year, no one individual (other than non-employee members of our Boardboard of Directors)directors) may be granted awards of more than 500,000 shares and no non-employee member of our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors may be granted awards with a value in excess of $500,000 at the grant date. Options and restricted stock units outstanding as of December 31, 20162019 generally vest in equal installments over four years from the date of grant. In addition, performance shares and performance share units generally vest in three years. With certain limited exceptions, awards are forfeited if the recipient ceases to be an employee before the shares vest. Options are granted at a price not less than the fair value of the shares on the date of grant and expire not later than ten years after the date of grant.
Prior to 2012, our officers received a combination of stock options and restricted stock units. Beginning in 2012, our officers instead receive their long-term incentive awards through a combination of performance share units and restricted stock units. Each performance share unit award is expressed as a target number of performance share units based upon the fair market value of our common stock on the date the award is issued. The actual number of shares underlying each award (not to exceed 200% of the target number of performance share units) will be determined based upon the Company's achievement of a specified performance target range. In 2016,2019, we issued a target number of

F-24

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


182,464 187,924 performance share units, which will vest approximately three years following the award issue date. The performance payout of these grants will be based on return on our invested capital ("ROIC") and
F-33

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

earnings per share (“EPS”) for the year ended December 31, 2018,2021, as may be adjusted by the Talent and Compensation Committee of our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors in early 20192022 for events that are outside of management's control. In 2014, we also issued a one-time performance-based equity award to our Chairman & Chief Executive Officer in a target amount of 63,771 performance share units, with the actual number of shares payable under the grant to range from 0% to 200% of target based on our 2015 ROIC performance. In February 2016, the Compensation Committee set the payout level for this grant at 165% of target. The shares issued in settlement of this award vested in February 2016 but remain subject to restrictions on transfer until December 2017, the third anniversary of the award issuance date.
Beginning in 2016, our senior officers meeting certain minimum age and service criteria receive their long-term incentive awards through a combination of restricted stock awards and restricted stock units. The restricted stock awards are subject to both performance and time-based vesting criteria while the restricted stock units are subject only to time-based vesting criteria. Each restricted stock award is issued in an amount equal to 200% of the target number of shares underlying the award based upon the fair market value of our common stock on the date the award is issued. Dividends accrue (but do not get paid) on the restricted stock awards during the vesting period, with the accrued amounts to be paid out following vesting only on the number of shares underlying the award which actually vest based on satisfaction of the performance criteria. The actual number of shares that vest (not to exceed 200% of the shares) will be determined based upon the Company's achievement of a specified performance target range. In 2016,2019, we issued 132,228194,486 restricted stock awards, representing 200% of the target number of shares underlying the award, all of which are considered issued and outstanding from the date of issuance, however; grantees will only retain those shares earned as the result of the Company achieving the performance goals during the measurement period. The performance payout of the 20162019 awards will be based on our return on invested capital ("ROIC")ROIC and earnings per share (“EPS”)EPS for the year ended December 31, 2018,2021, as may be adjusted by the Talent and Compensation Committee of our Boardboard of Directorsdirectors in early 20192022 for events that are outside of management's control.
On January 24, 2018, the Company issued a one-time bonus award for all non-officer employees. These awards vest, in equal installments, over the 3 years following the award issue date. For shoreside eligible employees, awards were issued as equity-settled restricted stock units.
We also provide an Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP") to facilitate the purchase by employees of up to 1,300,000 shares of common stock in the aggregate. Offerings to employees are made on a quarterly basis. Subject to certain limitations, the purchase price for each share of common stock is equal to 85% of the average of the market prices of the common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on the first business day of the purchase period and the last business day of each month of the purchase period. During 2016, 2015the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 2014, 42,347, 28,7242017, 91,586, 74,100 and 26,92151,989 shares of our common stock were purchased under the ESPP at a weighted-average price of $65.48, $72.52$98.20, $97.50 and $52.08,$93.15, respectively.
In 1994, we granted to our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer an award of common stock, issuable in quarterly installments of 10,086 shares until the earlier of the termination of his employment or June 2014. In furtherance of this grant, we issued an aggregate of 20,172 shares of common stock in 2014.
Total compensation expense recognized for employee stock-based compensation for the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 20142017 was as follows:follows (in thousands):
Employee Stock-Based CompensationEmployee Stock-Based Compensation
Classification of expense2016 2015 2014Classification of expense201920182017
(In thousands)     
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses$32,659
 $36,073
 $26,116
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses$75,930  $46,061  $69,459  
Total compensation expense$32,659
 $36,073
 $26,116
Total compensation expense$75,930  $46,061  $69,459  
The fair value of each stock option grant is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The estimated fair value of stock options, less estimated forfeitures, is amortized over the vesting period using the graded-vesting method. We did not issue any stock options during the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 2014.

2017.
F-25
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)




Stock option activity and information about stock options outstanding are summarized in the following table:
Stock Option ActivityNumber of
Options
 Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
 Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(1)
Stock Option ActivityNumber of
Options
Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price
Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value(1)


 
 (years) (in thousands)(years)(in thousands)
Outstanding at January 1, 2016411,809
 $33.69
 3.12
 $28,111
Outstanding at January 1, 2019Outstanding at January 1, 2019153,093  $29.06  1.23$10,399  
Granted
 
 
 
Granted—  —  
Exercised(61,014) $37.87
 
 
Exercised(87,262) $19.96  
Canceled(4,485) $44.72
 
 
Canceled(844) $33.73  
Outstanding at December 31, 2016346,310
 $32.82
 2.39
 $17,221
Vested and expected to vest at December 31, 2016346,310
 $32.82
 2.39
 $17,221
Options Exercisable at December 31, 2016346,310
 $32.82
 2.39
 $17,221
Outstanding at December 31, 2019Outstanding at December 31, 201964,987  $41.22  0.87$5,990  
Vested at December 31, 2019Vested at December 31, 201964,987  $41.22  0.87$5,990  
Options Exercisable at December 31, 2019Options Exercisable at December 31, 201964,987  $41.22  0.87$5,990  

(1)The intrinsic value represents the amount by which the fair value of stock exceeds the option exercise price as of December 31, 2016.
(1)The intrinsic value represents the amount by which the fair value of stock exceeds the option exercise price.
The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 20142017 was $17.2$8.1 million, $13.8$11.1 million and $35.9$4.5 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016,2019, there was no0 unrecognized compensation cost, net of estimated forfeitures, related to stock options granted under our stock incentive plan.
Restricted stock units are converted into shares of common stock upon vesting or, if applicable, are settled on a one-for-one1-for-one basis. The cost of these awards is determined using the fair value of our common stock on the date of the grant, and compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period. Restricted stock activity is summarized in the following table:
Restricted Stock Units ActivityNumber of
Awards
Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2019$800,585  $103.32  
Granted293,707  112.13  
Vested(267,134) 96.96  
Canceled(25,323) 109.32  
Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2019$801,835  $88.97  
Restricted Stock Units ActivityNumber of
Awards
 Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested share units at January 1, 2016820,649
 $54.98
Granted376,744
 $64.51
Vested(333,733) $48.91
Canceled(115,144) $58.45
Non-vested share units expected to vest as of December 31, 2016748,516
 $61.95

The weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock units granted during the yearyears ended 2015December 31, 2018 and 20142017 was $73.98$122.12 and $54.60,$99.03, respectively. The total fair value of shares released on the vesting of restricted stock units during the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 20142017 was $23.2$30.8 million, $27.6$33.9 million and $20.7$38.7 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had $13.7$37.1 million of total unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to restricted stock unit grants, which will be recognized over the weighted-average period of 1.081.39 years.
Performance share units are converted into shares of common stock upon vesting on a one-for-one1-for-one basis. We estimate the fair value of each performance share when the grant is authorized and the related service period has commenced. We remeasure the fair value of our performance shares in each subsequent reporting period until the grant date has occurred, which is the date when the performance conditions are satisfied. We recognize compensation cost over the vesting period based on the probability of the service and performance conditions being achieved adjusted for each subsequent fair value measurement until the grant date. If the specified service and performance conditions

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


are not met, compensation expense will not be recognized and any previously recognized compensation expense will be reversed. Performance share units activity is summarized in the following table:
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Performance Share Units ActivityNumber of
Awards
 Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Performance Share Units ActivityNumber of
Awards
Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested share units at January 1, 2016504,211
 $53.57
Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2019Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2019302,561  88.57  
Granted182,464
 $65.83
Granted187,924  87.39  
Vested(253,509) $52.25
Vested(198,537) 62.49  
Canceled(91,014) $50.99
Canceled(5,931) 95.12  
Non-vested share units expected to vest as of December 31, 2016342,152
 $61.78
Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2019Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2019286,017  105.76  

The weighted-average estimated fair value of performance share units granted during the yearyears ended 2015December 31, 2018 and 20142017 was $71.36$97.98 and $56.72,$84.16, respectively. The total fair value of shares released on the vesting of performance share units during the years ended December 31, 20162019, 20152018 and 20142017 was $16.9$23.0 million, $18.327.3 million and $0.4$10.0 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had $7.9$10.0 million of total unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to performance share unit grants, which will be recognized over the weighted-average period of 1.06 years.year.
The shares underlying our restricted stock awards to age and service eligible senior officers are issued as of the grant date in an amount equal to 200% of the target number of shares. Following the vesting date, the restrictions will lift with respect to the number of shares for which the performance criteria was met and any excess shares will be cancelled.canceled. Dividends will accrue on the issued restricted shares during the vesting period, but will not be paid to the recipient until the awards vest and the final number of shares underlying the award is determined, at which point, the dividends will be paid in cash only on the earned shares. We estimate the fair value of each restricted stock award when the grant is authorized and the related service period has commenced. We remeasure the fair value of these restricted stock awards in each subsequent reporting period until the grant date has occurred, which is the date when the performance conditions are satisfied. We recognize compensation cost over the vesting period based on the probability of the service and performance conditions being achieved adjusted for each subsequent fair value measurement until the grant date. If the specified service and performance conditions are not met, compensation expense will not be recognized, any previously recognized compensation expense will be reversed, and any unearned shares will be returned to the Company. Restricted stock awards activity is summarized in the following table:
Restricted Stock Awards ActivityNumber of
Awards
Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2019390,198  96.03  
Granted194,486  118.08  
Vested(120,329) 66.93  
Canceled(11,899) 66.93  
Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2019452,456  114.01  
Restricted Stock Awards ActivityNumber of
Awards
 Weighted-
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested share units at January 1, 2016
 $
Granted132,228
 $66.93
Vested
 $
Canceled
 $
Non-vested share units expected to vest as of December 31, 2016132,228
 $66.93

The weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $129.23 and $95.04, respectively. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had $1.5$3.2 million of total unrecognized compensation expense, net of estimated forfeitures, related to restricted stock award grants, which will be recognized over the weighted-average period of 0.181.24 years.

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Note 10.14.Earnings Per Share
A reconciliation between basic and diluted earnings per share is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

Year Ended December 31,
201920182017
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for basic and diluted earnings per share$1,878,887  $1,811,042  $1,625,133  
Weighted-average common shares outstanding209,405  210,570  214,617  
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards525  984  1,077  
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding209,930  211,554  215,694  
Basic earnings per share$8.97  $8.60  $7.57  
Diluted earnings per share$8.95  $8.56  $7.53  
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


 Year Ended December 31,
 2016 2015 2014
Net income for basic and diluted earnings per share$1,283,388
 $665,783
 $764,146
Weighted-average common shares outstanding215,393
 219,537
 221,658
Dilutive effect of stock options, performance share awards and restricted stock awards923
 1,152
 1,386
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding216,316
 220,689
 223,044
Basic earnings per share:     
Net income$5.96
 $3.03
 $3.45
Diluted earnings per share:     
Net income$5.93
 $3.02
 $3.43
There were no0 antidilutive shares for the yearyears ended December 31, 20162019, 20152018 and 2014.2017.
Note 11.15.Retirement Plan
We maintain a defined contribution plan covering full-time shoreside employees who have completedemployees. Effective January 1, 2016, we commenced annual, non-elective contributions to the minimum periodplan on behalf of continuous service. Annualall eligible participants equal to 3% of participants' eligible earnings. Remaining annual contributions to the plan are discretionary and are based on fixed percentages of participants' salaries and years of service, not to exceed certain maximums. Contribution expenses were $16.7$21.2 million, $16.8$18.9 million and $15.4$17.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 2014,2017, respectively.
Note 12.16.Income Taxes
We are subject to corporate income taxes in countries where we have operations or subsidiaries. We and the majority of our ship-operating and vessel-owning subsidiaries are currently exempt from U.S. corporate income tax on U.S. source income from the international operation of ships pursuant to Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code. Regulations under Section 883 have limited the activities that are considered the international operation of a ship or incidental thereto. Accordingly, our provision for U.S. federal and state income taxes includes taxes on certain activities not considered incidental to the international operation of our ships.
Additionally, someone of our ship-operating subsidiaries areis subject to income tax under the tonnage tax regimesregime of Malta or the United Kingdom. Under these regimes,this regime, income from qualifying activities is subject to corporate income tax, but the tax is computed by reference to the tonnage of the ship or ships registered under the relevant provisions of the tax regimes (the "relevant shipping profits"), which replaces the regular taxable income base. Income from activities not considered qualifying activities, which we do not consider significant, remains subject to Maltese or U.K.United-Kingdom corporate income tax.
Income tax expense (benefit) for items not qualifying under Section 883, tonnage taxestax and income taxes for the remainder of our subsidiaries was approximately $20.1$32.6 million, $11.1$20.9 million and $(20.9)$18.3 million and was recorded within Other income (expense) for the years ended December 31, 2016, 20152019, 2018 and 2014, respectively.2017, respectively, and was recorded within Other income (expense). In addition, all interest expense and penalties related to income tax liabilities are classified as income tax expense within Other income (expense).
For a majority of our subsidiaries, we do not expect to incur income taxes on future distributions of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries.earnings. Accordingly, no deferred income taxes have been provided for the distribution of these earnings. Where we do expect to incur income taxes on future distributions of undistributed earnings, we have provided for deferred taxes, which we do not consider significant to our operations.
As of December 31, 2016,2019, the Company had Net Operating Lossesdeferred tax assets, for foreign net operating losses (“NOLs”) in foreign jurisdictions of $67.6$25.1 million. If not utilized, $51.8We have provided a full valuation allowance for these NOLs. $17.6 million of the NOLs are subject to expirationexpire between 20172020 and 2024. The Company has not recognized any benefits related to these NOLs, as all NOLs have full valuation allowances.

2025.
F-28
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



NetOur deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities and corresponding valuation allowances related to our operations were not material as of December 31, 20162019 and 2015.2018.
We regularly review deferred tax assets for recoverability based on our history of earnings, expectations of future earnings, and tax planning strategies. Realization of deferred tax assets ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income to support the amount of deferred taxes. A valuation allowance is recorded in those circumstances in which we conclude it is not more-likely-than-not we will recover the deferred tax assets prior to their expiration.
During the fourth quarter of 2014, Spain adopted tax reform legislation, which included among other things, a reduction of the corporate income tax rate from 30% to 28% in 2015 and a further reduction to 25% in 2016. As a result, we adjusted our deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities in Spain to reflect the new tax rate at which we believe they will be realized. This change resulted in a net deferred income tax benefit of $10.0 million. The tax reform also amended the net operating loss carryforward rules by changing the carryforward period from 18 years to unlimited and by changing the annual utilization limitation from 25% of taxable income to 70% of taxable income for certain taxpayers, including Pullmantur. As a result of the change of the net operating loss carryforward period, we reversed a portion of the valuation allowance recorded in 2012 to the extent of 70% of the rate-adjusted deferred tax liability recorded for the basis difference between the tax and book values of the trademarks and trade names recorded at the time of the Pullmantur acquisition and other indefinite lived assets recorded. The amount of the valuation allowance reversed in the fourth quarter of 2014 was $33.5 million which was recorded as a deferred tax benefit. These deferred tax adjustments are reported within Other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
During the third quarter of 2015, the Pullmantur trademark and trade names were impaired. As a result of the impairment, there was no longer a difference between the book and tax basis of the trademark and trade names. During the third quarter of 2015, we reversed the deferred tax liability of $43.4 million and increased the deferred tax asset valuation allowance by $31.4 million, or to 100% of the deferred tax asset balance. The resulting net $12.0 million deferred tax benefit was recorded as part of our income tax provision and was reported within Other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Effective July 31, 2016, we sold 51% of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings. For further information on the sale transaction, refer to Note 1. General.


Note 13. 17. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

The following table presents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)loss by component for the years ended December 31, 20162019, 2018 and 20152017 (in thousands):


Changes related to cash flow derivative hedgesChanges in defined
benefit plans
Foreign currency translation adjustmentsAccumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2017$(820,850) $(28,083) $(67,551) $(916,484) 
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications381,865  (6,755) 17,307  392,417  
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss188,630  1,172  —  189,802  
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss)570,495  (5,583) 17,307  582,219  
Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2018(250,355) (33,666) (50,244) (334,265) 
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications(297,994) 6,156  (14,251) (306,089) 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss11,133  1,487  —  12,620  
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income(286,861) 7,643  (14,251) (293,469) 
Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2019(537,216) (26,023) (64,495) (627,734) 
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications(146,108) (20,314) 869  (165,553) 
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss(5,205) 779  —  (4,426) 
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income(151,313) (19,535) 869  (169,979) 
Accumulated comprehensive loss at December 31, 2019$(688,529) $(45,558) $(63,626) $(797,713) 
F-29
F-38

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



  Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges Changes in defined
benefit plans
 Foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
         
Accumulated comprehensive income (loss) at January 1, 2014 $43,324
 $(23,994) $(13,659) $5,671
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications (919,094) (8,937) (28,099) (956,130)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 49,744
 1,724
 1,997
 53,465
Net current-period other comprehensive loss (869,350) (7,213) (26,102) (902,665)
         
Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2015 (826,026) (31,207) (39,761) (896,994)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications (697,671) 3,053
 (25,952) (720,570)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 291,624
 1,707
 (4,200) 289,131
Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income (406,047) 4,760
 (30,152) (431,439)
         
Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2015 (1,232,073) (26,447) (69,913) (1,328,433)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 73,973
 (2,777) 2,362
 73,558
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 337,250
 1,141
 
 338,391
Net current-period other comprehensive income (loss) 411,223
 (1,636) 2,362
 411,949
         
Accumulated comprehensive loss at December 31, 2016 $(820,850) $(28,083) $(67,551) $(916,484)

The following table presents reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)loss for the years ended December 31, 20162019, 2018 and 20152017 (in thousands):

Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ComponentsYear Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017Affected Line Item in Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges:
Interest rate swaps(4,289) (10,931) (31,603) Interest expense, net of interest capitalized
Foreign currency forward contracts(14,063) (12,843) (10,840) Depreciation and amortization expenses
Foreign currency forward contracts(5,080) 12,855  (9,472) Other income (expense)
Foreign currency forward contracts—  —  —  Other indirect operating expenses
Foreign currency collar options—  —  (2,408) Depreciation and amortization expenses
Fuel swaps(1,292) (1,580) 7,382  Other income (expense)
Fuel swaps29,929  1,366  (141,689) Fuel
5,205  (11,133) (188,630) 
Amortization of defined benefit plans:
Actuarial loss(779) (1,487) (1,172) Payroll and related
(779) (1,487) (1,172) 
Total reclassifications for the period$4,426  $(12,620) $(189,802) 


F-30

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


  Amount of Loss Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) into Income
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Components Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 Year Ended December 31, 2014 Affected Line Item in Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Loss on cash flow derivative hedges:        
     Cross currency swaps $
 $
 $(261) Interest expense, net of interest capitalized
     Interest rate swaps (41,480) (36,401) (15,264) Interest expense, net of interest capitalized
     Foreign currency forward contracts (8,114) (2,871) (1,887) Depreciation and amortization expenses
     Foreign currency forward contracts (14,342) 7,580
 (4,291) Other income (expense)
     Foreign currency forward contracts 
 
 (57) Interest expense, net of interest capitalized
     Foreign currency forward contracts (207) 
 
 Other indirect operating expenses
     Foreign currency collar options (2,408) (1,605) 
 Depreciation and amortization expenses
     Fuel swaps 13,685
 (9,583) 
 Other income (expense)
     Fuel swaps (284,384) (248,744) (27,984) Fuel
  (337,250) (291,624) (49,744)  
Amortization of defined benefit plans:        
    Actuarial loss (1,141) (1,414) (888) Payroll and related


Prior service costs
 
 (293) (836) 

Payroll and related
  (1,141) (1,707) (1,724)  
Release of foreign cumulative translation due to sale or liquidation of businesses:        
Foreign cumulative translation 
 4,200
 (1,997) Other operating
Total reclassifications for the period $(338,391) $(289,131) $(53,465)  

Note 14.18. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments
Fair Value Measurements
The estimated fair value of our financial instruments that are not measured at fair value, categorized based upon the fair value hierarchy, are as follows (in thousands):
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Using Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 UsingFair Value Measurements at December 31, 2019Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2018
DescriptionTotal Carrying Amount Total Fair Value 
Level 1(1)
 
Level 2(2)
 
Level 3(3)
 Total Carrying Amount Total Fair Value 
Level 1(1)
 
Level 2(2)
 
Level 3(3)
DescriptionTotal Carrying AmountTotal Fair Value
Level 1(1)
Level 2(2)
Level 3(3)
Total Carrying AmountTotal Fair Value
Level 1(1)
Level 2(2)
Level 3(3)
Assets:                   Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents(4)
$132,603
 $132,603

$132,603
 $
 $
 $121,565
 $121,565
 $121,565
 $
 $
Cash and cash equivalents(4)Cash and cash equivalents(4)$243,738  $243,738  $243,738  —  —  $287,852  $287,852  $287,852  —  —  
Total Assets$132,603
 $132,603

$132,603
 $
 $
 $121,565
 $121,565
 $121,565
 $
 $
Total Assets$243,738  $243,738  $243,738  $—  $—  $287,852  $287,852  $287,852  $—  $—  
Liabilities:                   Liabilities:
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)(5)
$9,347,051
 $9,859,266

$
 $9,859,266
 $
 $8,478,473
 $8,895,009
 $
 $8,895,009
 $
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)(5)Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)(5)$9,370,438  $10,059,055  —  $10,059,055  —  $9,871,267  $10,244,214  —  $10,244,214  —  
Total Liabilities$9,347,051
 $9,859,266

$
 $9,859,266
 $
 $8,478,473
 $8,895,009
 $
 $8,895,009
 $
Total Liabilities$9,370,438  $10,059,055  $—  $10,059,055  $—  $9,871,267  $10,244,214  $—  $10,244,214  $—  


(1)Inputs based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Valuation of these items does not entail a significant amount of judgment.
(2)Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the liability, either directly or indirectly. For unsecured revolving credit facilities and unsecured term loans, fair value is determined utilizing the income valuation approach. This valuation model takes into account the contract terms of our debt such as the debt maturity and the interest rate on the debt. The valuation model also takes into account the creditworthiness of the Company.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



(3)Inputs that are unobservable. The Company did not use any Level 3 inputs as of December 31, 2019 and 2018.
(1)Inputs based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Valuation of these items does not entail a significant amount of judgment.
(2)Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the liability, either directly or indirectly. For unsecured revolving credit facilities and unsecured term loans, fair value is determined utilizing the income valuation approach. This valuation model takes into account the contract terms of our debt such as the debt maturity and the interest rate on the debt. The valuation model also takes into account the creditworthiness of the Company.
(3)Inputs that are unobservable. The Company did not use any Level 3 inputs as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(4)Consists of cash and marketable securities with original maturities of less than 90 days.
(5)Consists of unsecured revolving credit facilities, senior notes, senior debentures and term loans. Does not include our capital lease obligations.

(4)Consists of cash and marketable securities with original maturities of less than 90 days.
(5)Consists of unsecured revolving credit facilities, senior notes, senior debentures and term loans. These amounts do not include our capital lease obligations or commercial paper.
Fair Value Measurements on a Nonrecurring Basis
During 2018, we announced that Skysea Holding would cease cruising operations by the end of 2018. As a result, we did not deem our investment balance to be recoverable and estimated the fair value of our investment to be zero. For further information on our Skysea Holding investment and impairment, refer to Note 8. Other Assets.
Other Financial Instruments
The carrying amounts of accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued interest, and accrued expenses and commercial paper approximate fair value atas of December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015.2018.
Assets and liabilities that are recorded at fair value have been categorized based upon the fair value hierarchy. The following table presents information about the Company's financial instruments recorded at fair value on a recurring basis (in thousands):
Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2016 Using Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 UsingFair Value Measurements at December 31, 2019Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2018
DescriptionTotal Fair Value 
Level 1(1)
 
Level 2(2)
 
Level 3(3)
 Total Fair Value 
Level 1(1)
 
Level 2(2)
 
Level 3(3)
DescriptionTotal Fair Value
Level 1(1)
Level 2(2)
Level 3(3)
Total Fair Value
Level 1(1)
Level 2(2)
Level 3(3)
Assets:               Assets:
Derivative financial instruments(4)
$19,397
 $
 $19,397
 $
 $134,574
 $
 $134,574
 $
Derivative financial instruments(4)
$39,994  $—  $39,994  $—  $65,297  $—  $65,297  $—  
Investments(5)
$3,576
 3,576
 
 
 $3,965
 3,965
 
 
Total Assets$22,973
 $3,576
 $19,397
 $
 $138,539
 $3,965
 $134,574
 $
Total Assets$39,994  $—  $39,994  $—  $65,297  $—  $65,297  $—  
Liabilities:               Liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments(6)
$373,497
 $
 $373,497
 $
 $1,044,292
 $
 $1,044,292
 $
Derivative financial instruments(5)
Derivative financial instruments(5)
$257,728  $—  $257,728  $—  $201,812  $—  $201,812  $—  
Contingent consideration(6)
Contingent consideration(6)
62,400  —  —  62,400  44,000  —  —  44,000  
Total Liabilities$373,497
 $
 $373,497
 $
 $1,044,292
 $
 $1,044,292
 $
Total Liabilities$320,128  $—  $257,728  $62,400  $245,812  $—  $201,812  $44,000  

(1)Inputs based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Valuation of these items does not entail a significant amount of judgment.
(2)Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. For foreign currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps and fuel swaps, fair value is derived using valuation models that utilize the income valuation approach. These valuation models take into account the contract terms, such as maturity as well as other inputs, such as foreign exchange rates and curves, fuel types, fuel curves and interest rate yield curves. Fair value for foreign currency collar options is determined by using standard option pricing models with inputs based on the options' contract terms, such as exercise price and maturity, and readily available public market data, such as foreign exchange curves, foreign exchange volatility levels and discount rates. All derivative instrument fair values take into account the creditworthiness of the counterparty and the Company.
(3)Inputs that are unobservable. The Company did not use any Level 3 inputs as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
(4)Consists of foreign currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps and fuel swaps. Please refer to the "Fair Value of Derivative Instruments" table for breakdown by instrument type.
(5)
Consists of exchange-traded equity securities and mutual funds reported within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets.
(1)Inputs based on quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access. Valuation of these items does not entail a significant amount of judgment.
(2)Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. For foreign currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps and fuel swaps, fair value is derived using valuation models that utilize the income valuation approach. These valuation models take into account the contract terms, such as maturity as well as other inputs, such as foreign exchange rates and curves, fuel types, fuel curves and interest rate yield curves. Derivative instrument fair values take into account the creditworthiness of the counterparty and the Company.
(3)Inputs that are unobservable.
(4)Consists of foreign currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps and fuel swaps. Refer to the "Fair Value of Derivative Instruments" table for breakdown by instrument type.
(5)Consists of foreign currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps and fuel swaps. Refer to the "Fair Value of Derivative Instruments" table for breakdown by instrument type.
(6)The contingent consideration related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition is estimated by applying a Monte-Carlo simulation method using our closing stock price along with significant inputs not observable in the market, including the probability of achieving the milestones and estimated future operating results. The Monte-Carlo simulation is a generally accepted statistical technique used to generate a defined number of valuation paths in order to develop a reasonable estimate of fair value. Refer to Note 3. Business Combination for further information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition. For the twelve months ended December 31, 2019, we recorded a contingent consideration expense of $18.4 million within Other (expense) income in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
(6)Consists of foreign currency forward contracts, interest rate swaps and fuel swaps. Please refer to the "Fair Value of Derivative Instruments" table for breakdown by instrument type.
The reported fair values are based on a variety of factors and assumptions. Accordingly, the fair values may not represent actual values of the financial instruments that could have been realized as of December 31, 20162019 or December 31, 2015,
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2018, or that will be realized in the future, and do not include expenses that could be incurred in an actual sale or settlement.

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


In 2016, we purchased Ocean Adventures. The acquisition was accounted for as a business purchase combination using the purchase method of accounting which requires the use of fair value measurements. The business combination, including purchase transaction and assets acquired, was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements. For goodwill attributable to the purchase, refer to Note 3. Goodwill.
The following table presents information about the Company's goodwill, indefinite-life intangible assets and long-lived assets for our Pullmantur reporting unit, further discussed in Note 3. Goodwill and Note 4. Intangible Assets, recorded at fair value on a nonrecurring basis (in thousands):
  Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2015 Using
Description Total Carrying Amount Total Fair Value Level 3 Total Impairment
Pullmantur Goodwill (1)
 $
 $
 
 $123,814
Indefinite-life intangible asset-Pullmantur trademarks and trade names (2)
 $
 $
 
 $174,285
Long-lived assets — Pullmantur aircraft and vessels (3)
 $140,846
 $140,846
 $140,846
 $113,168
Total $140,846
 $140,846
 $140,846
 $411,267

(1)We estimated the fair value of the Pullmantur reporting unit using a probability-weighted discounted cash flow model. The principal assumptions used in the discounted cash flow model are projected operating results, weighted-average cost of capital and terminal value. Significantly impacting these assumptions was the decision to reduce the size of Pullmantur's fleet. The discounted cash flow model used our 2016 projected operating results as a base. To that base we added future years’ cash flows through 2020 assuming multiple revenue and expense scenarios that reflect the impact of different global economic environments for this period on Pullmantur’s reporting unit. We assigned a probability to each revenue and expense scenario. We discounted the projected cash flows using rates specific to Pullmantur’s reporting unit based on its weighted-average cost of capital, which was determined to be 11%. The fair value of Pullmantur's goodwill was estimated as of August 31, 2015, the date of the last impairment test, at which point it was fully impaired.
(2)We estimated the fair value of our indefinite-life intangible asset using a discounted cash flow model and the relief-from-royalty method. These trademarks and trade names relate to Pullmantur and we have used a discount rate of 11.5%, comparable to the rate used in valuing the Pullmantur reporting unit. The fair value of these assets were estimated as of August 31, 2015, the date of the last impairment test, at which point they were fully impaired.
(3)We estimated the fair value of our long-lived assets using the market approach for the aircraft and a blended indication from the cost and market approaches for the vessels as of August 31, 2015, the date of the last impairment test, including depreciation through December 31, 2015. We believe this amount estimates fair value as of December 31, 2015. A significant input in performing the fair value assessments for these assets was comparable market transactions.

We have master International Swaps and Derivatives Association (“ISDA”) agreements in place with our derivative instrument counterparties. These ISDA agreements generally provide for final close out netting with our counterparties for all positions in the case of default or termination of the ISDA agreement. We have determined that our ISDA agreements provide us with rights of setoff on the fair value of derivative instruments in a gain position and those in a loss position with the same counterparty. We have elected not to offset such derivative instrument fair values in our consolidated balance sheets.

See Credit Related Contingent Features for further discussion on contingent collateral requirements for our derivative instruments.

The following table presents information about the Company’s offsetting of financial assets under master netting agreements with derivative counterparties:counterparties (in thousands):


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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements
 Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting AgreementsAs of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
 As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance SheetGross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Liabilities
Cash Collateral
Received
Net Amount of
Derivative Assets
Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance SheetGross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Assets
Cash Collateral
Received
Net Amount of
Derivative Assets
 Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Liabilities
 Cash Collateral
Received
 Net Amount of
Derivative Assets
 Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Assets
 Cash Collateral
Received
 Net Amount of
Derivative Assets
(In thousands)                
Derivatives subject to master netting agreements $19,397
 $(19,397) $
 $
 $134,574
 $(129,815) $
 $4,759
Derivatives subject to master netting agreements$39,994  $(39,994) $—  $—  $65,297  $(60,303) $—  $4,994  
Total $19,397
 $(19,397) $
 $
 $134,574
 $(129,815) $
 $4,759
Total$39,994  $(39,994) $—  $—  $65,297  $(60,303) $—  $4,994  
The following table presents information about the Company’s offsetting of financial liabilities under master netting agreements with derivative counterparties:counterparties (in thousands):

Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements
As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance SheetGross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Assets
Cash Collateral
Pledged
Net Amount of
Derivative Liabilities
Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance SheetGross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Liabilities
Cash Collateral
Pledged
Net Amount of
Derivative Liabilities
Derivatives subject to master netting agreements$(257,728) $39,994  $—  $(217,734) $(201,812) $60,303  $—  $(141,509) 
Total$(257,728) $39,994  $—  $(217,734) $(201,812) $60,303  $—  $(141,509) 
  Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements
  As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015
  Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Assets
 Cash Collateral
Pledged
 Net Amount of
Derivative Liabilities
 Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting
Recognized
Derivative Liabilities
 Cash Collateral
Pledged
 Net Amount of
Derivative Liabilities
(In thousands)                
Derivatives subject to master netting agreements $(373,497) $19,397
 $7,213
 $(346,887) $(1,044,292) $129,815
 $
 $(914,477)
Total $(373,497) $19,397
 $7,213
 $(346,887) $(1,044,292) $129,815
 $
 $(914,477)

Derivative Instruments
We are exposed to market risk attributable to changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and fuel prices. We managetry to mitigate these risks through a combination of our normal operating and financing activities and through the use of derivative financial instruments pursuant to our hedging practices and policies. The financial impact of these hedging instruments is primarily offset by corresponding changes in the underlying exposures being hedged. We achieve this by closely matching the notional amount, term and conditions of the derivative instrument with the underlying risk being hedged. Although certain of our derivative financial instruments do not qualify or are not accounted for under hedge accounting, we doour objective is not to hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. We monitor our derivative positions using techniques including market valuations and sensitivity analyses.
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

We enter into various forward, swap and option contracts to manage our interest rate exposure and to limit our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and fuel prices. These instruments are recorded on the balance sheet at their fair value and the vast majority are designated as hedges. We also use non-derivative financial instruments designated as hedges of our net investment in our foreign operations and investments.
At inception of the hedge relationship, a derivative instrument that hedges the exposure to changes in the fair value of a firm commitment or a recognized asset or liability is designated as a fair value hedge. A derivative instrument that hedges a forecasted transaction or the variability of cash flows related to a recognized asset or liability is designated as a cash flow hedge.
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated as fair value hedges are offset against changes in the fair value of the underlying hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments. Gains and losses on derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges are recorded as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss until the underlying hedged transactions are recognized in earnings. The foreign currency transaction gain or loss of our non-derivative financial instruments and the changes

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


in the fair value of derivatives designated as hedges of our net investment in foreign operations and investments are recognized as a component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss along with the associated foreign currency translation adjustment of the foreign operation.operation or investment, with the amortization of excluded components affecting earnings.
On an ongoing basis, we assess whether derivatives used in hedging transactions are "highly effective" in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flow of hedged items. WeFor our net investment hedges, we use the dollar offset method to measure effectiveness. For all other hedging programs, we use the long-haul method to assess hedge effectiveness using regression analysis for each hedge relationship under our interest rate, foreign currency and fuel hedging programs. We apply the samerelationship. The methodology for assessing hedge effectiveness is applied on a consistent basis for assessing hedge effectiveness to all hedges within each one of our hedging programprograms (i.e., interest rate, foreign currency ship construction, foreign currency net investment and fuel). We performFor our regression analyses, overwe use an observation period of up to three years, utilizing market data relevant to the hedge horizon of each hedge relationship. High effectiveness is achieved when a statistically valid relationship reflects a high degree of offset and correlation between the changes in the fair values of the derivative instrument and the hedged item. The determination of ineffectiveness is based on the amount of dollar offset between the change in fair value of the derivative instrument and the change in fair value of the hedged item at the end of the reporting period. If it is determined that a derivative is not highly effective as a hedge or hedge accounting is discontinued, any change in fair value of the derivative since the last date at which it was determined to be effective is recognized in earnings. In addition, the ineffective portion of our highly effective hedges is immediately recognized in earnings and reported in Other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
Cash flows from derivative instruments that are designated as fair value or cash flow hedges are classified in the same category as the cash flows from the underlying hedged items. In the event that hedge accounting is discontinued, cash flows subsequent to the date of discontinuance are classified within investing activities. Cash flows from derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments are classified as investing activities.
We consider the classification of the underlying hedged item’s cash flows in determining the classification for the designated derivative instrument’s cash flows. We classify derivative instrument cash flows from hedges of benchmark interest rate or hedges of fuel expense as operating activities due to the nature of the hedged item. Likewise, we classify derivative instrument cash flows from hedges of foreign currency risk on our newbuild ship payments as investing activities and derivative instrument cash flows from hedges of foreign currency risk on debt payments as financing activities.
Interest Rate Risk
Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates primarily relates to our long-term debt obligations including future interest payments. At December 31, 2016,2019 and 2018, approximately 40.5%62.1% and 59.1%, respectively, of our long-term debt was effectively fixed as compared to 31.2% as of December 31, 2015.fixed. We use interest rate swap agreements to modify our exposure to interest rate movements and to manage our interest expense.

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


Market risk associated with our long-term fixed rate debt is the potential increase in fair value resulting from a decrease in interest rates. We use interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert a portion of our fixed-rate debt to a floating-rate basis to manage this risk. At December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following fixed-rate debt instruments:
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2016 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Fixed RateSwap Floating Rate: LIBOR plusAll-in Swap Floating Rate as of December 31, 2016Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2019 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Fixed RateSwap Floating Rate: LIBOR plusAll-in Swap Floating Rate as of December 31, 2019
Oasis of the Seas term loan
$175,000
October 20215.41%3.87%5.13%
Oasis of the Seas term loan
$70,000  October 20215.41%  3.87%  5.80%  
Unsecured senior notes650,000
November 20225.25%3.63%4.54%Unsecured senior notes650,000  November 20225.25%  3.63%  5.54%  
$825,000
 $720,000  
These interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as fair value hedges.

Market risk associated with our long-term floating rate debt is the potential increase in interest expense from an increase in interest rates. We use interest rate swap agreements that effectively convert a portion of our floating-rate debt to a fixed-rate basis to manage this risk. At December 31, 20162019 and December 31, 2015,2018, we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following floating-rate debt instruments:
Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2019 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Floating RateAll-in Swap Fixed Rate
Celebrity Reflection term loan
$272,708  October 2024LIBOR plus0.40%  2.85%  
Quantum of the Seas term loan
428,750  October 2026LIBOR plus1.30%  3.74%  
Anthem of the Seas term loan
453,125  April 2027LIBOR plus1.30%  3.86%  
Ovation of the Seas term loan
587,917  April 2028LIBOR plus1.00%  3.16%  
Harmony of the Seas term loan (1)
551,325  May 2028EURIBOR plus1.15%  2.26%  
Odyssey of the Seas term loan(2)
460,000  October 2032LIBOR plus0.95%  3.20%  
$2,753,825  

Debt InstrumentSwap Notional as of December 31, 2016 (In thousands)MaturityDebt Floating RateAll-in Swap Fixed Rate
Celebrity Reflection term loan

$436,333
October 2024LIBOR plus0.40%2.85%
Quantum of the Seas term loan
612,500
October 2026LIBOR plus1.30%3.74%
Anthem of the Seas term loan
634,375
April 2027LIBOR plus1.30%3.86%
Ovation of the Seas term loan
795,417
April 2028LIBOR plus1.00%3.16%
Harmony of the Seas term loan (1)
701,056
May 2028EURIBOR plus1.15%2.26%
 $3,179,681
    

(1)(1) Interest rate swap agreements hedging the Euro-denominated term loan for Harmony of the Seas include EURIBOR zero-floors matching the hedged debt EURIBOR zero-floor. Amount presented is based on the exchange rate as of December 31, 2016.2019.

(2) Interest rate swap agreements hedging the term loan for Odyssey of the Seas include LIBOR zero-floors matching the hedged debt LIBOR zero-floor. The anticipated unsecured term loan for the financing of Odyssey of the Seas is expected to be drawn in October 2020.
These interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as cash flow hedges.
The notional amount of interest rate swap agreements related to outstanding debt and on our current unfunded financing arrangements as of December 31, 20162019 and 20152018 was $4.0$3.5 billion and $4.3$3.4 billion, respectively.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
Derivative Instruments
Our primary exposure to foreign currency exchange rate risk relates to our ship construction contracts denominated in Euros, our foreign currency denominated debt and our international business operations. We enter into foreign currency forward contracts collar options and cross currency swap agreements to manage portions of the exposure to movements in foreign currency exchange rates. As of December 31, 2016,2019, the aggregate cost of our ships on order, not including the TUI Cruises' ships on order and those subject to conditions to effectiveness, was approximately $8.4$14.8 billion, of which we had deposited $316.1$881.5 million as of such date. Approximately 66.7%These amounts do not include any ships placed on order that are contingent upon completion of conditions precedent and/or financing, any ships on order by our Partner Brands and 58.2%any ships on order placed by Silversea Cruises during the reporting lag period. Refer to Note 19. Commitments and Contingencies, for further information on our ships on order. At December 31, 2019 and 2018, approximately 65.9% and 53.5%, respectively, of the aggregate cost of the ships under construction was exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The majority of ourrate. Our foreign currency forward contracts, collar options and cross currency swapcontract agreements are accounted for as cash flow fair value or net investment hedges depending on the designation of the related hedge.
On a regular basis, we enter into foreign currency forward contracts and, from time to time, we utilize cross-currency swap agreements and collar options to minimize the volatility resulting from the remeasurement of net monetary assets and liabilities denominated in a

currency other than our functional currency or the functional
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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



currency other than our functional currency or the functional currencies of our foreign subsidiaries. During the fourth quarter of 2016,year ended December 31, 2019, we maintained an average of approximately $642.4$689.7 million of these foreign currency forward contracts. These instruments are not designated as hedging instruments. In 2016, 2015For the years ended December 31, 2019, 2018 and 20142017, changes in the fair value of the foreign currency forward contracts were lossesresulted in gains (losses) of approximately $51.1$1.4 million, $55.5(62.4) million and $48.6$62.0 million, respectively, which offset gains (losses) arising from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies in those same years of $39.8$0.4 million, $34.657.6 million and $49.5(75.6) million, respectively. These changesamounts were recognized in earnings within Other income (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
We consider our investments in our foreign operations to be denominated in relatively stable currencies and of a long-term nature. As of December 31, 2019, we maintained foreign currency forward contracts and designated them as hedges of a portion of our net investments primarily in TUI Cruises of €173.0 million, or approximately $194.2 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. These forward currency contracts mature in October 2021.
The notional amount of outstanding foreign exchange contracts, including ourexcluding the forward contracts and collar options,entered into to minimize remeasurement volatility, as of December 31, 20162019 and 20152018 was $1.3$2.9 billion and $2.4$3.7 billion, respectively.
Non-Derivative Instruments
We also address the exposure of our investments in foreign operations by denominating a portion of our debt in our subsidiaries' and investments' functional currencies and designating it as a hedge of these subsidiaries and investments. We had designated debt as a hedge of our net investments primarily in TUI Cruises of approximately €295.0€319.0 million, or approximately $311.2$358.1 million, throughas of December 31, 2016.2019. As of December 31, 2015, no2018, we had designated debt was designated as a hedge of our net investments primarily in Pullmantur and TUI Cruises.Cruises of €280.0 million, or approximately $320.2 million.
Fuel Price Risk
Our exposure to market risk for changes in fuel prices relates primarily to the consumption of fuel on our ships. We use fuel swap agreements to mitigate the financial impact of fluctuations in fuel prices.
Our fuel swap agreements are generally accounted for as cash flow hedges. At December 31, 2016,2019, we have hedged the variability in future cash flows for certain forecasted fuel transactions occurring through 2020.2023. As of December 31, 20162019 and 2015,2018, we had the following outstanding fuel swap agreements:agreements as hedges of our fuel exposure:
Fuel Swap Agreements
As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
(metric tons)
2019—  856,800  
2020830,500  830,500  
2021488,900  488,900  
2022322,900  322,900  
202382,400  —  

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

 Fuel Swap Agreements
 As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015
 (metric tons)
2016
 930,000
2017799,065
 854,000
2018616,300
 583,000
2019521,000
 231,000
2020306,500
 
Fuel Swap Agreements
As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
(% hedged)
Projected fuel purchases for year:
2019—  58 %
202054 %54 %
202130 %28 %
202219 %19 %
2023%—  
 Fuel Swap Agreements
 As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015
 (% hedged)
Projected fuel purchases for year:   
2016
 65%
201760% 59%
201844% 40%
201935% 15%
202020% %
At December 31, 2016 and 2015, $138.5 million and $321.0 million, respectively, of2019 there was 0 material estimated unrealized net loss associated with our cash flow hedges pertaining to fuel swap agreements were expected to be reclassified to earnings from Accumulated other comprehensive losswithin the next 12 months.twelve months when compared to $26.8 million at December 31, 2018. Reclassification is expected to occur as the result of fuel consumption associated with our hedged forecasted fuel purchases.

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


The fair value and line item caption of derivative instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets were as follows:follows (in thousands):
Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
Asset DerivativesLiability Derivatives
Balance Sheet
Location
As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018Balance Sheet
Location
As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
Fair ValueFair ValueFair ValueFair Value
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20(1)
Interest rate swapsOther assets$11  $23,518  Other long-term liabilities$64,168  $40,467  
Foreign currency forward contractsDerivative financial instruments—  4,044  Derivative financial instruments75,260  39,665  
Foreign currency forward contractsOther assets9,380  10,844  Other long-term liabilities64,711  16,854  
Fuel swapsDerivative financial instruments16,922  10,966  Derivative financial instruments16,901  37,627  
Fuel swapsOther assets8,677  9,204  Other long-term liabilities33,965  65,182  
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-2034,990  58,576  255,005  199,795  
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
Foreign currency forward contractsDerivative financial Instruments3,186  1,751  Derivative financial instruments2,419  808  
Foreign currency forward contractsOther assets—  1,579  Other long-term liabilities—  833  
Fuel swapsDerivative financial instruments1,643  2,804  Derivative financial instruments295  376  
Fuel swapsOther assets175  587  Other long-term liabilities —  
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-205,004  6,721  2,723  2,017  
Total derivatives$39,994  $65,297  $257,728  $201,812  

(1)Accounting Standard Codification 815-20 "Derivatives and Hedging."
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

 Fair Value of Derivative Instruments
 Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives
 Balance Sheet
Location
 As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015 Balance Sheet
Location
 As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015
  Fair Value Fair Value  Fair Value Fair Value
(In thousands)           
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20(1)
           
Interest rate swapsOther assets $5,246
 $
 Other long-term liabilities $57,679
 $67,371
Foreign currency forward contractsDerivative financial instruments 
 93,996
 Derivative financial instruments 5,574
 320,873
Foreign currency forward contractsOther assets 
 
 Other long-term liabilities 68,165
 
Fuel swapsDerivative financial instruments 
 
 Derivative financial instruments 129,486
 307,475
Fuel swapsOther assets 13,608
 
 Other long-term liabilities 95,125
 325,055
Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20  18,854
 93,996
   356,029
 1,020,774
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20           
Foreign currency forward contractsDerivative Financial Instruments 
 32,339
 Derivative financial instruments 
 
Fuel swapsDerivative financial instruments 
 8,239
 Derivative financial instruments 11,532
 23,518
Fuel swapsOther assets 543
 
 Other long-term liabilities 5,936
 
Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20  543
 40,578
   17,468
 23,518
Total derivatives  $19,397
 $134,574
   $373,497
 $1,044,292
The location and amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income on fair value and cash flow hedging relationships were as follows (in thousands):

(1)
Accounting Standard Codification 815-20 "Derivatives and Hedging."
Year Ended December 31, 2019  Year Ended December 31, 2018  
Fuel ExpenseDepreciation and Amortization ExpensesInterest Income (Expense)Other Income (Expense)Fuel ExpenseDepreciation and Amortization ExpensesInterest Income (Expense)Other Income (Expense)
Total amounts of income and expense line items presented in the statement of financial performance in which the effects of fair value or cash flow hedges are recorded$697,962  $1,245,942  $(381,568) $(24,513) $710,617  $1,033,697  $(300,872) $11,107  
The effects of fair value and cash flow hedging:
Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20
Interest contracts
Hedged itemsn/a  n/a  $(23,464) —  n/a  n/a  4,673  $—  
Derivatives designated as hedging instrumentsn/a  n/a  $16,607  —  n/a  n/a  $(8,854) $—  
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20
Interest contracts
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into incomen/a  n/a  $(4,289) n/a  n/a  n/a  $(10,931) n/a  
Commodity contracts
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income$29,929  n/a  n/a  $(1,292) $1,366  n/a  n/a  $(1,580) 
Foreign exchange contracts
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into incomen/a  $(14,063) n/a  $(5,080) n/a  $(12,843) n/a  $12,855  

Year Ended December 31, 2017
Fuel ExpenseDepreciation and Amortization ExpensesInterest Income (Expense)Other Income (Expense)
Total amounts of income and expense line items presented in the statement of financial performance in which the effects of fair value or cash flow hedges are recorded$681,118  $951,194  $(269,881) $(5,289) 
The effects of fair value and cash flow hedging:
Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20
Interest contracts
Hedged itemsn/a  n/a  $—  $6,065  
Derivatives designated as hedging instrumentsn/a  n/a  $3,007  $(3,139) 
Gain or (loss) on cash flow hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20
Interest contracts
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into incomen/a  n/a  $(31,603) n/a  
Commodity contracts
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income$(141,689) n/a  n/a  $7,382  
Foreign exchange contracts
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into incomen/a  $(13,248) n/a  $(9,472) 
F-46

ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

The carrying value and line item caption of non-derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets were as follows:follows (in thousands):
 Carrying ValueCarrying Value
Non-derivative instrument designated as
hedging instrument under ASC 815-20
 Balance Sheet Location As of December 31, 2016 As of December 31, 2015Non-derivative instrument designated as
hedging instrument under ASC 815-20
Balance Sheet LocationAs of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
(In thousands)    
Foreign currency debt Current portion of long-term debt $61,601
 $
Foreign currency debtCurrent portion of long-term debt$73,572  $38,168  
Foreign currency debt Long-term debt 249,624
 
Foreign currency debtLong-term debt284,506  281,984  

 
 $311,225
 $
$358,078  $320,152  
The effect of derivative instruments qualifying and designated as hedging instruments and the related hedged items in fair value hedges on the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) was as follows:follows (in thousands):

Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative and Hedged ItemAmount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on DerivativeAmount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Hedged Item
Derivatives and related Hedged Items under ASC 815-20 Fair Value Hedging RelationshipsYear Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017Year Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017
Interest rate swapsInterest expense (income), net of interest capitalized$16,607  $(8,854) $3,007  $(23,464) $4,673  $—  
Interest rate swapsOther income (expense)—  —  (3,139) —  —  6,065  
$16,607  $(8,854) $(132) $(23,464) $4,673  $6,065  
F-38

TableThe fair value and line item caption of Contentsderivative instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets for the cumulative basis adjustment for fair value hedges were as follows (in thousands):
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


  Location of Gain
(Loss)
Recognized in
Income on
Derivative and
Hedged Item
 Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
Income on Derivative
 Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
Income on Hedged Item
Derivatives and Related Hedged Items
under ASC 815-20 Fair Value Hedging
Relationships
 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015
(In thousands)          
Interest rate swaps Interest expense, net of interest capitalized $7,448
 $11,276
 $7,203
 $15,743
Interest rate swaps Other income (expense) (3,625) 10,779
 5,072
 (7,533)

 
 $3,823
 $22,055
 $12,275
 $8,210
Line Item in the Statement of Financial Position Where the Hedged Item is IncludedCarrying Amount of the Hedged LiabilitiesCumulative amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities
As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018As of December 31, 2019As of December 31, 2018
Current portion of long-term debt and Long-term debt$715,234  $725,486  $(1,301) $(24,766) 
$715,234  $725,486  $(1,301) $(24,766) 
The effect of derivative instruments qualifying and designated as cash flow hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows:follows (in thousands):
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on DerivativeLocation of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into IncomeAmount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Income
Derivatives under ASC 815-20 Cash Flow Hedging RelationshipsYear Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017Year Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017
Interest rate swaps$(72,732) $18,578  $(13,312) Interest expense$(4,289) $(10,931) $(31,603) 
Foreign currency forward contracts(148,881) (222,645) 276,573  Depreciation and amortization expenses(14,063) (12,843) (10,840) 
Foreign currency forward contracts—  —  —  Other income (expense)(5,080) 12,855  (9,472) 
Foreign currency forward contracts—  —  —  Other indirect operating expenses—  —  —  
Foreign currency collar options—  —  —  Depreciation and amortization expenses—  —  (2,408) 
Fuel swaps—  —  —  Other income (expense)(1,292) (1,580) 7,382  
Fuel swaps75,505  (93,927) 118,604  Fuel29,929  1,366  (141,689) 
$(146,108) $(297,994) $381,865  $5,205  $(11,133) $(188,630) 
F-47
  Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income
on Derivatives
(Effective Portion)
 Location of Gain
(Loss) Reclassified
from Accumulated
OCI into Income
(Effective Portion)
 Amount of Gain (Loss)
Reclassified from Accumulated
Other Comprehensive Income into Income
(Effective Portion)
 Location of Gain
(Loss) Recognized
in Income on
Derivative
(Ineffective
Portion and Amount Excluded from
Effectiveness
Testing)
 Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Income
on Derivative (Ineffective
Portion and
Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness testing)
Derivatives under
ASC 815-20 Cash Flow
Hedging Relationships
 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015  Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015  Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015
(In thousands)                
Interest rate swaps (31,049) (52,602) Interest expense (41,480) (36,401) Other income (expense) 
 38
Foreign currency forward contracts (51,092) (141,470) Depreciation and amortization expenses (8,114) (2,871) Other income (expense) 
 
Foreign currency forward contracts 
 
 Other income (expense) (14,342) 7,580
 Other income (expense) (59) 
Foreign currency forward contracts 
 
 Other indirect operating expenses (207) 
 Other income (expense) 
 
Foreign currency collar options 
 (64,559) Depreciation and amortization expenses (2,408) (1,605) Other income (expense) 
 
Fuel swaps 
 
 Other income (expense) 13,685
 (9,583) Other income (expense) 
 
Fuel swaps 156,139
 (439,040) Fuel (284,384) (248,744) Other income (expense) (751) (487)
  $73,998
 $(697,671)   $(337,250) $(291,624)   $(810) $(449)

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



The table below represents amounts excluded from the assessment of effectiveness for our net investment hedging instruments for which the difference between changes in fair value and periodic amortization is recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (in thousands):
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income (Net Investment Excluded Components)Year Ended December 31, 2019
Net inception fair value at January 1, 2019$(8,359)
Amount of gain recognized in income on derivatives for the year ended December 31, 20194,024 
Amount of loss remaining to be amortized in accumulated other comprehensive loss as of December 31, 2019(3,673)
Fair value at December 31, 2019$(8,008)
The effect of non-derivative instruments qualifying and designated as net investment hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows:follows (in thousands):
 Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Effective Portion)
 Location of Gain
(Loss) in Income
(Ineffective Portion
and Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income (Ineffective Portion and
Amount Excluded from
Effectiveness Testing)
Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Non-derivative instruments under ASC 815-20
Net Investment Hedging Relationships
 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015Non-derivative instruments under ASC 815-20
Net Investment Hedging Relationships
Year Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017
(In thousands) 
 
 
 
 
Foreign Currency Debt $20,295
 $8,955
 Other income (expense) $
 $
Foreign Currency Debt$6,111  $13,210  $(38,971) 
 $20,295
 $8,955
 
 $
 $
$6,111  $13,210  $(38,971) 
The effect of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows:follows (in thousands):
 Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized
in Income on Derivatives
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized
in Income on Derivative
Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging
Instruments under ASC 815-20
 Location of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Income
on Derivatives
 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2015Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging
Instruments under ASC 815-20
Location of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Income
on Derivative
Year Ended December 31, 2019Year Ended December 31, 2018Year Ended December 31, 2017
(In thousands)    
Foreign currency forward contracts Other income (expense) $(51,029) $(55,489)Foreign currency forward contractsOther income (expense)$1,356  $(62,423) $61,952  
Fuel swaps Other income (expense) (1,000) (175)Fuel swapsFuel(37) 1,161  —  
Fuel swapsFuel swapsOther income (expense)112  114  (1,133) 

 
 $(52,029) $(55,664)$1,431  $(61,148) $60,819  
Credit Related Contingent Features
Our current interest rate derivative instruments may require us to post collateral if our Standard & Poor's and Moody's credit ratings remainare below specified levels. Generally, if on the fifth anniversary of executing a derivative instrument or on any succeeding fifth-year anniversary our credit ratings for our senior unsecured debt were to be rated below BBB- by Standard & Poor's and Baa3 by Moody's, then the counterparty may periodically demand that we post collateral in an amount equal to the difference between (i) the net market value of all derivative transactions with such counterparty that have reached their fifth year anniversary, to the extent negative, and (ii) the applicable minimum call amount.
The amount of collateral required to be posted following such event will change as, and to the extent, our net liability position increases or decreases by more than the applicable minimum call amount. If our credit rating for our senior unsecured debt is subsequently equal to, or above BBB- by Standard & Poor's or Baa3 by Moody's, then any collateral posted at such time will be released to us and we will no longer be required to post collateral unless we meet the collateral trigger requirement, generally, at the next fifth-year anniversary. Currently,At December 31, 2019, 5 of our interest rate derivative instruments had reached their fifth anniversary; however, our senior unsecured debt credit rating is BB+ with a positive outlookwas Baa2 by Moody's and BBB- by Standard & Poor's and, Ba1 with a positive outlook by Moody's. We currently have seven interest rate derivative hedges that have a term of at least five years. As of December 31, 2016, two of these instruments had reached their fifth anniversary and, accordingly, we posted $7.2 million inwere not required to post any collateral as of such date.
During the next 12 months, two more of our interest rate derivative hedges will reach their fifth anniversary. If each of these two interest rate hedges had already reached its fifth anniversary as of December 31, 2016, our maximum collateral exposure would have been $22.8 million. Similarly, our maximum collateral exposure as of December 31, 2015, would have been $14.6 million if all hedges scheduled to reach their fifth anniversary date within one year had instead reached their fifth anniversary as of December 31, 2015.

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)


Note 15.19.Commitments and Contingencies
Capital ExpendituresShip Purchase Obligations
Our future capital commitments consist primarily of new ship orders. As of December 31, 2016,2019, we had two1 Quantum-class ship, 2 Oasis-class ships and two Oasis-class3 ships of a new generation, known as our Icon-class, on order
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

for our Royal Caribbean International brand with an aggregate capacity of approximately 19,20032,400 berths. Additionally,As of December 31, 2019, we have four "Project Edge"had 3 Edge-class ships on order for our Celebrity Cruises brand with an aggregate capacity of approximately 11,6009,400 berths. Additionally as of December 31, 2019, we had 5 ships on order with an aggregate capacity of approximately 2,400 berths for our Silversea Cruises brand. The following provides further information on recent developments with respect to our ship orders:orders.
During 2016,2017, we entered into credit agreements for the unsecured financing of ourthe 2 Icon-class ships for up to 80% of each ship’s contract price. For each ship, the official Finnish export credit agency, Finnvera plc, has agreed to guarantee 100% of a substantial majority of the financing to the lenders, with a smaller portion of the financing to be 95% guaranteed by Euler Hermes, the official German export credit agency. The maximum loan amount under each facility is not to exceed €1.4 billion, or approximately $1.6 billion, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. Interest on approximately 75% of each loan will accrue at a fixed rate of 3.56% and 3.76% for the first two "Project Edge"and the second Icon-class ships, respectively, and the balance will accrue interest at a floating rate ranging from LIBOR plus 1.10% to 1.15% and LIBOR plus 1.15% to 1.20% for the first and the second Icon-class ships, respectively. Each loan will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following delivery of each ship. The first and second Icon-class ships will each have a capacity of approximately 5,600 berths and are expected to enter service in the second quarters of 2022 and 2024, respectively.
During 2017, we entered into credit agreements for the unsecured financing of the third and fourth Edge-class ships and the fifth Oasis-class ship for up to 80% of each ship’s contract price through facilities to be guaranteed 100% by COFACE,Bpifrance Assurance Export, the official export credit agency of France. The ships will each have a capacity of approximately 2,900 berths and are expected to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the first half of 2020, respectively. Under these financing arrangements, we have the right, but not the obligation, to satisfy the obligations to be incurred upon delivery and acceptance of each vesselship under the shipbuilding contract by assuming, at delivery and acceptance, the debt indirectly incurred by the shipbuilder during the construction of each ship. The maximum loan amount under each facility is not to exceed €684.2 million in the case of the third Edge-class ship and the United States dollar equivalent of €622.6€714.6 million and €652.6 million,€1.1 billion in the case of the fourth Edge-class ship and fifth Oasis-class ship, or approximately $656.8$802.1 million and $688.5 million,$1.2 billion, respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016, for the first "Project Edge" ship delivery and the second "Project Edge" ship delivery, respectively.2019. The loans will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following delivery of each ship. Interest on the loans will accrue at a fixed rate of 3.23%.

During 2016, we entered into agreements with STX France to build1.28% for the third Edge-class ship and at a fixed rate of 3.18% for both, the fourth Edge-class ship and the fifth Oasis-class ship for Royal Caribbean International and aship. The third and fourth "Project Edge" ship for Celebrity Cruises. We received commitments for the unsecured financing of theEdge-class ships, for up to 80% of the ship’s contract price through a facility to be guaranteed 100% by COFACE. The ships are expected to enter service during the second quarter of 2021, and fourth quarters of each of 2021 and 2022, respectively. 

In October 2016, we signedwhich will have a memorandumcapacity of understanding with Meyer Turku to build two ships of a new generation of ships for Royal Caribbean International, known as "Project Icon," whichapproximately 3,250, are expected to enter service in the secondfourth quarters of 2021 and 2022, and 2024, respectively. While the design is still being finalized, each ship will likely accommodate approximately 5,000 guests. These orders are contingent upon completion of conditions precedent, including documentation and financing.

During 2015, we entered into a credit agreement for the unsecured financing of the fourthThe fifth Oasis-class ship for Royal Caribbean International for up to 80% of the ship’s contract price through a facility to be guaranteed 100% by COFACE. The ship will have a capacity of approximately 5,4505,700 berths and is expected to enter service in the second quarter of 2021.
During 2016, we entered into credit agreements for the unsecured financing of our first 2 Edge-class ships for up to 80% of each ship’s contract price through facilities to be guaranteed 100% by Bpifrance Assurance Export, the official export credit agency of France. Celebrity Edge, the first Edge-class ship for our Celebrity Cruises brand, entered service in December 2018. For further information on the financing agreement for this ship, refer to Note 9. Debt.The second Edge-class ship will have a capacity of approximately 2,900 berths and is expected to enter service in the first quarter of 2018.2020. Under the financing arrangement for the second Edge-class ship, we have the right, but not the obligation, to satisfy the obligations to be incurred upon delivery and acceptance of the vessel under the shipbuilding contract by assuming, at delivery and acceptance, the debt indirectly incurred by the shipbuilder during the construction of the ship. The maximum loan amount under the facility for the second Edge-class ship delivery is not to exceed the United States dollar equivalent of €931.2€627.1 million, or approximately $982.4 billion,$704.0 million, respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016.2019. The loan will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following delivery of the ship. Interest on the loan will accrue at a fixed rate of 3.82%3.23%. In 2017, we amended the €931.2 million credit agreement, increasing the maximum facility amount to approximately €1.0 billion.

InDuring 2015, we entered into agreements with Meyer Werft to build the fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships for Royal Caribbean International. In 2015, we receiveda credit agreementsagreement for the unsecured financing of the shipsfifth Quantum-class ship for up to 80% of each of the ship’s contract price.price, through a facility to be guaranteed 95% by Euler Hermes, official export credit agency of Germany. Hermes has agreed to guarantee to the lenderslender payment of 95% of the financing. The shipsship will each have a capacity of approximately 4,1504,200 berths and is expected to enter service in the second quarter of 2019 and the fourth quarter of 2020, respectively. These2020. This credit agreements makeagreement makes available to us an unsecured term loansloan in an amount up to the USUnited States dollar equivalent of €762.9 million and €777.5 million, or approximately $804.9$872.7 million, and $820.3 million, respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2016. The loan amortizes semi-

2019.
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)



annuallyThe loan will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following delivery of the ship. At our election, prior to delivery of the ship, delivery, interest on the loans will accrue either (1) at a fixed rate of 3.45% (inclusive of the applicable margin) or (2) at a floating rate equal to LIBOR plus 0.95%.
Our future capital commitments consist primarily of new ship orders. As of December 31, 2016,2019, our Global Brands have the following ships on order:
ShipShipyardExpected to Enter
Service
Approximate
Berths
Royal Caribbean International —
Oasis-class:
Wonder of the SeasChantiers de l’Atlantique2nd Quarter 20215,700 
   UnnamedChantiers de l’Atlantique4th Quarter 20235,700 
Quantum-class:
Odyssey of the SeasMeyer Werft4th Quarter 20204,200 
Icon-class:
UnnamedMeyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 20225,600 
UnnamedMeyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 20245,600 
UnnamedMeyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 20255,600 
Celebrity Cruises —
Edge-class:
Celebrity ApexChantiers de l’Atlantique2nd Quarter 20202,900 
Celebrity BeyondChantiers de l’Atlantique4th Quarter 20213,250 
UnnamedChantiers de l’Atlantique4th Quarter 20223,250 
Silversea Cruises — (1)
Silver OriginDe Hoop3rd Quarter 2020100 
Muse-class:
Silver MoonFincantieri3rd Quarter 2020550 
Silver DawnFincantieri3rd Quarter 2021550 
Evolution-class:
UnnamedMeyer Werft1st Quarter 2022600 
UnnamedMeyer Werft1st Quarter 2023600 
TUI Cruises (50% joint venture) —
Mein Schiff 7Meyer Turku Oy2nd Quarter 20232,900 
UnnamedFincantieri3rd Quarter 20244,100 
UnnamedFincantieri1st Quarter 20264,100 
Total Berths55,300 
(1) The revenue impact from Silversea Cruises' new ships will be recognized on a three month reporting lag from the "Expected to Enter Service" dates above. Refer to Note 1. General to our consolidated financial statements under Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information.
In June 2019, Silversea Cruises entered into a $300 million unsecured term loan facility for the financing of Silver Moon to pay a portion of the ship's contract price through a facility guaranteed by us. We expect to draw upon this loan when we take delivery of the ship. The loan will be due and payable at maturity in June 2028. Interest on the loan will accrue at LIBOR plus 1.50%.
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In September 2019, Silversea Cruises entered into 2 credit agreements, guaranteed by us, for the unsecured financing of the first and second Evolution-class ships for an amount of up to 80% of each ship's contract price through facilities to be guaranteed 95% by Euler Hermes, the official export credit agency of Germany. The maximum loan amount under each facility is not to exceed the United States dollar equivalent of €351.6 million in the case of the first Evolution-class ship and €359.0 million in the case of the second Evolution-class ship, or approximately $394.7 million and $403.0 million, respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. Each loan, once funded, will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following the delivery of each ship.  At our election, interest on each loan will accrue either (1) at a fixed rate of 4.14% and 4.18%, respectively (inclusive of the applicable margin) or (2) at a floating rate equal to LIBOR plus 0.79% and 0.83%, respectively. The first and second Evolution-class ships will each have a capacity of approximately 600 berths and are scheduled for delivery in the first quarters of 2022 and 2023, respectively.

In December 2019, we entered into a credit agreement for the unsecured financing of the sixth Oasis-class ship for up to 80% of the ship’s contract price through a facility to be guaranteed 100% by Bpifrance Assurance Export, the official export credit agency of France. Under the financing arrangement, we have the right, but not the obligation, to satisfy the obligations to be incurred upon delivery and acceptance of the ship under the shipbuilding contract by assuming, at delivery and acceptance, the debt indirectly incurred by the shipbuilder during the construction of the ship. The maximum loan amount under the facility is not to exceed the United States dollar equivalent of €1.3 billion, or approximately $1.5 billion based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. The loan will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following delivery of the ship. Interest on the loan will accrue at a fixed rate of 3.00% (inclusive of margin). The sixth Oasis-class ship will have a capacity of approximately 5,700 berths and is scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2023.

In December 2019, we entered into a credit agreement for the unsecured financing of the third Icon-class ship for up to 80% of the ship’s contract price. Finnvera plc, the official export credit agency of Finland, has agreed to guarantee 95% of the substantial majority of the financing, with a smaller portion of the financing to be 95% guaranteed by Euler Hermes, the official German export credit agency. The maximum loan amount under the facility is not to exceed the United States dollar equivalent of €1.4 billion, or approximately $1.6 billion based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2019. The loan, once funded, will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following the delivery of the ship. Approximately 60% of the loan will accrue interest at a fixed rate of 3.29%. The balance of the loan will accrue interest at a floating rate of LIBOR plus 0.85%. The third Icon-class ship will have a capacity of approximately 5,600 berths and is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2025.
As of December 31, 2019, the aggregate cost of our ships on order, not including the TUI Cruises'any ships on order by our Partner Brands and the "Project Icon"Silversea Cruises ships whichthat remain subject to conditions of effectiveness,contingent upon final documentation and financing, was approximately $8.4$14.8 billion, of which we had deposited $316.1$881.5 million as of such date. Approximately 66.7%65.9% of the aggregate cost was exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate at December 31, 2016. (Refer2019. Refer to Note 14. 18. Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments).
Litigationfor further information.
In April 2015,addition, as of December 31, 2019, we have an agreement in place with Chantiers de l’Atlantique to build an additional Edge-class ship for delivery in the Alaska Department4th quarter of Environmental Conservation issued Notices2024, which is contingent upon completion of Violation toconditions precedent and financing.
Litigation
On August 27, 2019, 2 lawsuits were filed against Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises seeking monetary penaltiesLtd. in the U.S. District Court for alleged violationsthe Southern District of Florida under Title III of the Alaska Marine Visible Emission Standards that occurred overCuban Liberty and Democratic Solidarity Act, also known as the previous five years on certain of our vessels.  In February 2017, we settled all claims pursuant to a Compliance OrderHelms-Burton Act. The complaint filed by Consent in which we agreed to payHavana Docks Corporation alleges it holds an amount and perform certain remedial actions which,  individually andinterest in the aggregate, are immaterialHavana Cruise Port Terminal and the complaint filed by Javier Garcia-Bengochea alleges that he holds an interest in the Port of Santiago, Cuba, both of which were expropriated by the Cuban Government. The complaints further allege that Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. trafficked in those properties by embarking and disembarking passengers at these facilities. The plaintiffs seek all available statutory remedies, including the value of the expropriated property, plus interest, treble damages, attorneys’ fees and costs. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. filed its answer to each complaint on October 4, 2019. We believe we have meritorious defenses to the claims, and we intend to vigorously defend ourselves against them. We believe that it is unlikely that the outcome of these matters will have
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a material adverse impact to our financial condition, or results of operations andor cash flows. However, the outcome of litigation is inherently unpredictable and subject to significant uncertainties, and there can be no assurances that the final outcome of this case will not be material.
We are routinely involved in other claims typical within the cruise vacationtravel and tourism industry. The majority of these claims are covered by insurance. We believe the outcome of such claims, net of expected insurance recoveries, will not have a material adverse impact on our financial condition or results of operations and cash flows.
Operating Leases
We are obligated under other noncancelable operating leases primarily for offices, warehouses and motor vehicles. As of December 31, 2016, future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases were as follows (in thousands):
Year 
2017$20,749
201817,422
201915,603
202014,365
20219,770
Thereafter231,888
 $309,797
Total expense for all operating leases amounted to $29.0 million, $29.7 million and $52.0 million for the years 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
Other
In July 2016, we executed an agreement with Miami Dade County (“MDC”), which was simultaneously assigned to Sumitomo Banking Corporation (“SMBC”), to lease land from MDC and construct a new cruise terminal at PortMiami in Miami, Florida. The terminal is expected to be approximately 170,000 square-feet and will serve as a homeport. During the construction period, SMBC will fund the costs of the terminal’s construction and land lease. Upon completion of the terminal's construction, we will operate and lease the terminal from SMBC for a five-year term. We determined that the lease arrangement between SMBC and us should be accounted for as an operating lease upon completion of the terminal.

Some of the contracts that we enter into include indemnification provisions that obligate us to make payments to the counterparty if certain events occur. These contingencies generally relate to changes in taxes, increased lender

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capital costs and other similar costs. The indemnification clauses are often standard contractual terms and are entered into in the normal course of business. There are no stated or notional amounts included in the indemnification clauses and we are not able to estimate the maximum potential amount of future payments, if any, under these indemnification clauses. We have not been required to make any payments under such indemnification clauses in the past and, under current circumstances, we do not believe an indemnification in any material amount is probable.

If any person acquires ownership of more than 50% of our common stock or, subject to certain exceptions, during any 24-month period, a majority of the Boardour board of directors is no longer comprised of individuals who were members of the Boardour board of directors on the first day of such period, we may be obligated to prepay indebtedness outstanding under our credit facilities, which we may be unable to replace on similar terms. Our public debt securities also contain change of control provisions that would be triggered by a third-party acquisition of greater than 50% of our common stock coupled with a ratings downgrade. If this were to occur, it would have an adverse impact on our liquidity and operations.
At December 31, 2016,2019, we have future commitments to pay for our usage of certain port facilities, marine consumables, services and maintenance contracts as follows (in thousands):
Year
2020$202,879  
2021137,840  
202257,096  
202314,596  
20248,760  
Thereafter34,233  
$455,404  

Year 
2017$232,055
2018162,434
2019129,920
2020103,013
202157,506
Thereafter110,319
 $795,247


Note 16. 20. Restructuring Charges

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2014, we incurred restructuring charges of $8.5 million and $4.3 million, respectively, in connection with our profitability initiatives. For the year ended December 31, 2015,2019, we incurred restructuring charges of $12.0 million in connection with our international sales and marketing strategy. For the year ended December 31, 2018 and 2017, we did not0t incur restructuring charges.

Centralization of Global Sales and Marketing Structure
2016 Profitability Initiatives:

Pullmantur Right-sizing Strategy

Pullmantur'sDuring the year ended December 31, 2019, we implemented a strategy overrelated to the last several years hadrestructuring and centralization of our international sales and marketing structure. Activities related to this strategy focused both on its core cruise market in Spain and on expansion throughout Latin America, especially Brazil. However, due to significant and increased challenges facing Pullmantur's Latin American operations, in 2015, we decided to significantly change our strategymoving from growing the brand through vessel transfersa multi-brand sales model to a right-sizing strategy. This right-sizing strategy included reducingbrand dedicated sales model, which resulted in the consolidation of some of our exposure to Latin America, refocusing on the brand’s core market of Spain and, consequently, reducing the size of Pullmantur’s fleet.

The right-sizing strategy activities included the closing of Pullmantur's regional head office in Brazil, the redeployment of Pullmantur’s Empress to the Royal Caribbean International brandinternational offices and personnel reorganization in Pullmantur's headquartersamong our sales and CDF's office in France.marketing teams. The closure of the Brazil office and the personnel reorganization resulted in the recognition of a liability for one-time termination benefits during the twelve months ended December 31, 2016.2019. We also incurred contract termination costs related to the closure of the Brazil office.


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As a result of these actions, we incurred restructuring exit costs of $2.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 which are reported within Restructuring charges in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

The following table summarizes our restructuring exit costs related to the above strategy (in thousands):
  Beginning
Balance
January 1, 2016
 Accruals Payments Ending Balance December 31, 2016 Cumulative
Charges
Incurred
Termination benefits $
 $2,587
 $2,587
 $
 $2,587
Contract termination costs  
  68
  68
  
  68
Other related costs  
  
  
  
  
Total $
 $2,655
 $2,655
 $
 $2,655


In connection with this strategy, we incurred approximately $3.6 million of other costs during the year ended December 31, 2016 that primarily consisted of costs associated with the redeployment of Pullmantur's Empress to the Royal Caribbean International brand that are reported within Cruise operating expenses,Depreciation and amortization expenses and Marketing, selling and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). During 2016, we completed the restructuring activities related to this initiative.

In July 2016, we sold 51%some of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings. In connection with the sale, we incurred approximately $4.9 million of other costs during the year ended December 31, 2016 that are reported within Cruise operating expenses and Marketing, selling and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Refer to Note 1. General for further information regarding this sale transaction.

Other Restructuring Initiatives

During 2016, we moved forward with certain other initiatives, including the closing of an international office in Brazil related to the Royal Caribbean International brand and personnel reorganization in our corporate offices. These initiatives resulted in restructuring costs of $5.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2016. The restructuring costs are mainly due to the recognition of a liability for one-time termination benefits. During 2016, we completed the restructuring activities related to these initiatives.

The following table summarizes our restructuring exit costs related to the above initiatives (in thousands):

  Beginning
Balance
January 1, 2016
 Accruals Payments Ending Balance December 31, 2016 Cumulative
Charges
Incurred
Termination benefits $
 $5,612
 $2,851
 $2,761
 $5,612
Contract termination costs  
  15
  15
  
  15
Other related costs  
  170
  3
  167
  170
Total $
 $5,797
 $2,869
 $2,928
 $5,797

2014 Profitability Initiatives:

Consolidation of Global Sales, Marketing, General and Administrative Structure

This initiative related to restructuring and consolidation of our global sales, marketing and general and administrative structure. Activities related to this initiative include the consolidation of most of our call centers located outside of the United States and the establishment of brand dedicated sales, marketing and revenue management teams in key priority markets. Activities related to this initiative commenced in 2013. For the year ended December 31, 2014, we incurred restructuring exit costs of $1.1 million mainly related to discretionary bonus payments paid to persons

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whose positions were eliminated as part of our restructuring activities that are reported within Restructuring charges in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

In connection with this initiative, we incurred approximately $7.4 million of other costs during 2014 that primarily consisted of call center transition costs and accelerated depreciation on lease hold improvements and are reported within Marketing, selling and administrative expenses and Depreciation and amortization expenses, respectively, in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). During 2014, we completed the restructuring activities related to this initiative.

Pullmantur Restructuring

Restructuring Exit Costs

In the fourth quarter of 2013, we moved forward with an initiative related to Pullmantur’s focus on its cruise business and its expansion in Latin America. Activities related to this initiative included the sale of Pullmantur's non-core businesses. This resulted in the recognition of a liability for one-time termination benefits and we also incurred contract termination costsoffices and other related costs consisting of legal and consulting fees to implement this initiative.

As a
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result of these actions, we incurred restructuring exit costs of $3.2$12.0 million for the year ended December 31, 20142019, which arewere reported within Restructuring chargesMarketing, selling and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).

In connection with this initiative,2020, we incurred approximately $8.9 million of otherexpect to incur additional immaterial costs during 2014, associated with placing operating management closeras it relates to the Latin American market that are reported within Marketing, selling and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). During 2014, we completed the restructuring activities related toof this initiative.strategy.

The following table summarizes our restructuring exit costs (in thousands):
Sale of Pullmantur Non-core Businesses
Beginning
Balance
January 1, 2019
AccrualsPaymentsEnding Balance December 31, 2019Cumulative
Charges
Incurred
Termination benefits—  $8,880  $491  $8,389  $8,880  
Contract termination costs—  338  —  338  338  
Other related costs—  2,808  23  2,785  2,808  
Total—  $12,026  $514  $11,512  $12,026  


As part of our Pullmantur related initiatives, on March 31, 2014, Pullmantur sold the majority of its interest in its non-core businesses. These non-core businesses included Pullmantur’s land-based tour operations, travel agency and 49% interest in its air business. In connection with the sale agreement, we retained a 19% interest in each of the non-core businesses as well as 100% ownership of the aircraft which are being dry leased to Pullmantur Air. Consistent with our Pullmantur two-month lag reporting period at the time, we reported the impact of the sale in the second quarter of 2014. Refer to
Note 1. General for information on the basis on which we prepare our consolidated financial statements.

The sale resulted in a gain of $0.6 million recognized during the year ended December 31, 2014, inclusive of the release of cumulative translation adjustment losses, which was reported within Other operating expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Refer to Note 13. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for further information on the release of the foreign currency translation losses.


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Note 17.21.Quarterly Selected Financial Data (Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
First QuarterSecond QuarterThird QuarterFourth Quarter
20192018201920182019201820192018
Total revenues(1)
$2,439,767  $2,027,756  $2,806,631  $2,337,605  $3,186,850  $2,796,187  $2,517,413  $2,332,301  
Operating income$318,831  $274,146  $573,653  $456,895  $890,792  $799,733  $299,425  $364,027  
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.$249,681  $218,653  $472,830  $466,295  $883,240  $810,391  $273,136  $315,703  
Earnings per share
Basic$1.19  $1.03  $2.26  $2.20  $4.21  $3.88  $1.31  $1.51  
Diluted$1.19  $1.02  $2.25  $2.19  $4.20  $3.86  $1.30  $1.50  
Dividends declared per share$0.70  $0.60  $0.70  $0.60  $0.78  $0.70  $0.78  $0.70  

(1)Our revenues are seasonal based on the demand for cruises. Demand is strongest for cruises during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months and holidays.
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 (In thousands, except per share data)
 First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter
 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015 2016 2015
Total revenues(1)
$1,917,795
 $1,815,599
 $2,105,262
 $2,058,322
 $2,563,741
 $2,523,100
 $1,909,603
 $1,902,053
Operating income(2)
$163,127
 $105,682
 $282,273
 $261,297
 $734,963
 $258,005
 $296,842
 $249,918
Net income(2)(3)(4)
$99,140
 $45,230
 $229,905
 $184,967
 $693,257
 $228,787
 $261,086
 $206,799
Earnings per share:               
Basic$0.46
 $0.21
 $1.07
 $0.84
 $1.04
 $1.04
 $1.22
 $0.94
Diluted$0.46
 $0.20
 $1.06
 $0.84
 $1.03
 $1.03
 $1.21
 $0.95
Dividends declared per share$0.375
 $0.30
 $0.375
 $0.30
 $0.48
 $0.375
 $0.48
 $0.375

(1)Our revenues are seasonal based on the demand for cruises. Demand is strongest for cruises during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months and holidays.
(2)Amounts for the third quarter of 2015 include an impairment charge of $411.3 million to write down Pullmantur's goodwill, trademarks and trade names and certain long-lived assets to their fair value.
(3)Amount for the first quarter of 2016 includes $21.7 million net loss related to the elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag.
(4)
Amount for the third quarter of 2015 includes a tax benefit of $12.0 million related to the Pullmantur impairment. Refer to Note 12. Income Taxes for further information.

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