Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL) 10-K 22 Feb 19 2018 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Feb. 14, 2019	Jun. 30, 2018
Document and Entity Information
Entity Registrant Name	ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD
Entity Central Index Key	884,887
Document Type	10-K
Document Period End Date	Dec. 31, 2018
Amendment Flag	false
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Entity Small Business	false
Entity Public Float			$ 18.5
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		209,186,598
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMP

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Total revenues		$ 9,493,849	$ 8,777,845	$ 8,496,401
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		5,262,207	4,896,579	5,015,539
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses		1,303,144	1,186,016	1,108,742
Depreciation and amortization expenses		1,033,697	951,194	894,915
Operating Income		1,894,801	1,744,056	1,477,205
Other income (expense):
Interest income		32,800	30,101	20,856
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized		(333,672)	(299,982)	(307,370)
Equity investment income		210,756	156,247	128,350
Other income (expense)	[1]	11,107	(5,289)	(35,653)
Total other income (expense)		(79,009)	(118,923)	(193,817)
Net Income		1,815,792	1,625,133	1,283,388
Less: Net Income attributable to noncontrolling interest		4,750	0	0
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.		$ 1,811,042	$ 1,625,133	$ 1,283,388
Earnings per Share:
Basic (in dollars per share)		$ 8.60	$ 7.57	$ 5.96
Diluted (in dollars per share)		$ 8.56	$ 7.53	$ 5.93
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Net Income		$ 1,815,792	$ 1,625,133	$ 1,283,388
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments		(14,251)	17,307	2,362
Change in defined benefit plans		7,643	(5,583)	(1,636)
(Loss) gain on cash flow derivative hedges		(286,861)	570,495	411,223
Total other comprehensive (loss) income		(293,469)	582,219	411,949
Comprehensive Income		1,522,323	2,207,352	1,695,337
Less: Comprehensive Income attributable to noncontrolling interest		4,750	0	0
Comprehensive Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.		1,517,573	2,207,352	1,695,337
Loss from elimination of reporting lag of subsidiary				(21,700)
Passenger ticket revenues
Total revenues		6,792,716	6,313,170	6,149,323
Onboard and other revenues
Total revenues		2,701,133	2,464,675	2,347,078
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		537,355	495,552	493,558
Commissions, transportation and other
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		1,433,739	1,363,170	1,349,677
Payroll and related
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		924,985	852,990	882,891
Food
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		520,909	492,857	485,673
Fuel
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		710,617	681,118	713,676
Other operating
Cruise operating expenses:
Total cruise operating expenses		$ 1,134,602	$ 1,010,892	$ 1,090,064
[1]	For the year ended December 31, 2016, Other income (expense) included a $21.7 million loss related to the 2016 elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 287,852	$ 120,112
Trade and other receivables, net	324,507	318,641
Inventories	153,573	111,393
Prepaid expenses and other assets	456,547	258,171
Derivative financial instruments	19,565	99,320
Total current assets	1,242,044	907,637
Property and equipment, net	23,466,163	19,735,180
Goodwill	1,378,353	288,512
Other assets	1,611,710	1,429,597
Total assets	27,698,270	22,360,926
Current liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt	1,646,841	1,188,514
Commercial paper	775,488	0
Accounts payable	488,212	360,113
Accrued interest	74,550	47,469
Accrued expenses and other liabilities	899,761	903,022
Derivative financial instruments	78,476	47,464
Customer deposits	3,148,837	2,308,291
Total current liabilities	7,112,165	4,854,873
Long-term debt	8,355,370	6,350,937
Other long-term liabilities	583,254	452,813
Total liabilities	16,050,789	11,658,623
Commitments and contingencies
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	542,020	0
Shareholders' equity
Preferred stock ($0.01 par value; 20,000,000 shares authorized; none outstanding)	0	0
Common stock ($0.01 par value; 500,000,000 shares authorized; 235,847,683 and 235,198,901 shares issued, December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively)	2,358	2,352
Paid-in capital	3,420,900	3,390,117
Retained earnings	10,263,282	9,022,405
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(627,734)	(334,265)
Treasury stock (26,830,765 and 21,861,308 common shares at cost, December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017, respectively)	(1,953,345)	(1,378,306)
Total shareholders' equity	11,105,461	10,702,303
Total liabilities, redeemable noncontrolling interest and shareholders’ equity	$ 27,698,270	$ 22,360,926

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	20,000,000	20,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock, par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	500,000,000	500,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	235,847,683	235,198,901
Treasury stock, common shares (in shares)	26,830,765	21,861,308

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Net Income		$ 1,815,792	$ 1,625,133	$ 1,283,388
Adjustments:
Depreciation and amortization		1,033,697	951,194	894,915
Impairment losses		33,651	0	0
Net deferred income tax (benefit) expense		(2,679)	1,730	2,608
Loss (gain) on derivative instruments not designated as hedges		61,148	(61,704)	45,670
Share-based compensation expense		46,061	69,459	32,659
Equity investment income		(210,756)	(156,247)	(128,350)
Amortization of debt issuance costs		41,978	45,943	52,795
Gain on sale of property and equipment		0	(30,902)	0
Gain on sale of unconsolidated affiliate		(13,680)	0	0
Recognition of deferred gain		(21,794)	0	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
(Increase) decrease in trade and other receivables, net		(9,573)	(32,043)	4,759
(Increase) decrease in inventories		(23,849)	2,424	(1,679)
(Increase) decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets		(71,770)	20,859	11,519
Increase in accounts payable		91,737	36,780	29,564
Increase in accrued interest		18,773	1,303	7,841
Increase in accrued expenses and other liabilities		42,937	34,215	20,718
Increase in customer deposits		385,990	274,705	188,632
Dividends received from unconsolidated affiliates		243,101	109,677	75,942
Other, net		18,375	(17,960)	(4,291)
Net cash provided by operating activities		3,479,139	2,874,566	2,516,690
Investing Activities
Purchases of property and equipment		(3,660,028)	(564,138)	(2,494,363)
Cash received on settlement of derivative financial instruments		76,529	63,224	110,637
Cash paid on settlement of derivative financial instruments		(98,074)	0	(323,839)
Investments in and loans to unconsolidated affiliates		(27,172)	(10,396)	(9,155)
Cash received on loans to unconsolidated affiliates		124,238	62,303	38,213
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment		0	230,000	0
Proceeds from the sale of unconsolidated affiliate		13,215	0	0
Acquisition of Silversea Cruises, net of cash acquired		(916,135)	0	0
Other, net	[1]	(1,731)	5,415	(46,385)
Net cash used in investing activities		(4,489,158)	(213,592)	(2,724,892)
Financing Activities
Debt proceeds		8,590,740	5,866,966	7,338,560
Debt issuance costs		(81,959)	(51,590)	(88,241)
Repayments of debt		(6,963,511)	(7,835,087)	(6,365,570)
Proceeds from issuance of commercial paper notes		4,730,286	0	0
Repayments of commercial paper notes		(3,965,450)	0	0
Purchase of treasury stock		(575,039)	(224,998)	(299,960)
Dividends paid		(527,494)	(437,455)	(346,487)
Proceeds from exercise of common stock options		4,264	2,525	2,258
Other, net		(13,764)	3,843	3,249
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities		1,198,073	(2,675,796)	243,809
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash		(20,314)	2,331	(24,569)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents		167,740	(12,491)	11,038
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year		120,112	132,603	121,565
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year		287,852	120,112	132,603
Cash paid during the year for:
Interest, net of amount capitalized		252,466	249,615	256,775
Non-Cash Investing Activities
Contingent consideration for the acquisition of Silversea Cruises		44,000	0	0
Purchases of property and equipment included in accounts payable and accrued expenses and other liabilities		0	139,644	0
Notes receivable issued upon sale of property and equipment		$ 0	$ 20,409	213,042
Divestiture of Pullmantur Holdings				$ 26,000
[1]	Amount includes $26.0 million in 2016 related to cash included in the divestiture of Pullmantur Holdings.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAR

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Treasury Stock
Balance at Dec. 31, 2015	$ 8,063,039	$ 2,339	$ 3,297,619	$ 6,944,862	$ (1,328,433)	$ (853,348)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Activity related to employee stock plans	30,905	7	30,898
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
Balance at Dec. 31, 2016	9,121,412	2,346	3,328,517	7,860,341	(916,484)	(1,153,308)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Activity related to employee stock plans	61,606	6	61,600
Common stock dividends	(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
Purchases of treasury stock	(224,998)					(224,998)
Net Income	1,625,133			1,625,133
Balance at Dec. 31, 2017	10,702,303	2,352	3,390,117	9,022,405	(334,265)	(1,378,306)
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity
Activity related to employee stock plans	30,789	6	30,783
Common stock dividends	(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	1,811,042			1,811,042
Balance at Dec. 31, 2018	$ 11,105,461	$ 2,358	$ 3,420,900	$ 10,263,282	$ (627,734)	$ (1,953,345)

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SH_2

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Parenthetical) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Common stock dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 0.7	$ 0.7	$ 0.60	$ 0.60	$ 0.6	$ 0.6	$ 0.48	$ 0.48	$ 0.48	$ 2.60	$ 2.16	$ 1.71

General

General	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
General	General Description of Business We are a global cruise company. We own and operate four global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and, most recently, 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 (collectively, our "Partner Brands"). We account for our investments in our Partner Brands under the equity method of accounting. Together, our Global Brands and our Partner Brands operate a combined 60 ships as of December 31, 2018 . Our ships operate on a selection of worldwide itineraries that call on more than 1,000 destinations on all seven continents. 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 with nine ships, from Silversea Cruises Group Ltd. ("SCG") for $1.02 billion in cash and contingent consideration. Refer to Note 3 . Business Combination for further information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition. 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 36% ownership interest. Skysea Holding ceased cruising operations in September 2018, and in December 2018, the Golden Era , the ship operated by SkySea Cruises, and owned by a wholly-owned subsidiary of Skysea Holding, was sold to an affiliate of TUI AG, our joint venture partner in TUI Cruises. Refer to Note 8 . Other Assets for further information regarding our investment in SkySea Holding. 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 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, 2018 through December 31, 2018 that would require further disclosure or adjustment to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 . 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. Effective July 31, 2016, we sold 51% of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings, the parent company of the Pullmantur brand. We retained 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. 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") and accounted for this change in accounting principle in our consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2016. The impact of the elimination of the reporting lag was immaterial for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. Accordingly, the results of Pullmantur Holdings for November and December 2015 were 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 (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	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. For further information on revenue recognition, refer to Note. 4 Revenues . 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 net realizable value. 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 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 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 30 years , net of a 15% projected residual value. The 30 -year useful life of our newly constructed ships and 15% associated 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. 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 Ships generally 30 Ship improvements 3-20 Buildings and improvements 10-40 Computer hardware and software 3-10 Transportation equipment and other 3-30 Leasehold improvements Shorter of remaining lease term or useful life 3-30 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. 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. 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 indefinite-life intangible asset impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the indefinite-life intangible 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 $255.7 million , $233.5 million and $240.3 million , and brochure, production and direct mail costs were $133.4 million , $126.7 million and $120.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 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, our 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 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. 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. 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 same methodology on a consistent basis for assessing hedge effectiveness to all hedges within each hedging program (i.e., interest rate, foreign currency and fuel). We perform regression analyses over 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. 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. 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. 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 $57.6 million , $(75.6) million and $39.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 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, 2018 and 2017 , we had counterparty credit risk exposure under our derivative instruments of approximately $5.6 million and $212.8 million , respectively, which were limited to the cost of replacing the contracts in the event of non-performance by the counterparties to the contracts, the majority of which are currently our lending banks. 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 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. 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 control and operate four global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and most recently, Silversea Cruises. We also own a 50% joint venture interest in the German brand TUI Cruises, a 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur and a 36% interest in the Chinese brand SkySea Cruises, which ceased cruising operations in September 2018. We believe our brands possess the versatility to enter multiple cruise market segments within the cruise vacation industry. Although each of these brands have 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 one segment. Refer to Note 4 . Revenues for passenger ticket revenue information by geographic area. Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance codified in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , and applied the guidance to all contracts using the modified retrospective method. The new standard converged wide-ranging revenue recognition concepts and requirements that lead to diversity in application for particular industries and transactions into a single revenue standard containing comprehensive principles for recognizing revenue. The cumulative effect of applying the newly issued guidance was not material and accordingly there was no adjustment made to our retained earnings upon adoption on January 1, 2018. The newly adopted guidance has not had a material impact on our consolidated financial statements on an ongoing basis. Due to the adoption of ASC 606, we currently present prepaid commissions as an asset within Prepaid expenses and other assets . In addition, we have 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. Refer to Note 4 . Revenues for disclosures with respect to our revenue recognition policies. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance in Accounting Standard Update ("ASU") 2016-16, Income Taxes 740: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory , which requires the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, to be recognized at the time that the transfer occurs, rather than when the asset is sold to an outside party. We adopted the standard using the modified retrospective method and recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment to reduce retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 by $6.6 million , which reflects the elimination of the deferred tax asset related to intercompany asset transfers. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance in ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities , which was issued to simplify and align the financial reporting of hedging relationships to the economic results of an entity’s risk management activities. We adopted the amended guidance using the modified retrospective approach. Adoption of the guidance allowed us to modify the designated risk in our fair value interest rate hedges to the benchmark interest rate component, resulting in changes to the cumulative and ongoing fair value measurement for the hedged debt. Upon adoption, we also elected to hedge the contractually specified components of our commodities purchase contracts. For our cash flow hedges, there will be no periodic measurement or recognition of ineffectiveness. For all hedges, the earnings effect of the hedging instrument will be reported in the same period and in the same income statement line item in which the earnings effect of the hedged item is reported. As a result of the adoption of this guidance, we recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment to reduce retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 by $16.9 million . The cumulative-effect adjustment includes an increase to the debt carrying value of $14.4 million for our fair value interest rate hedges as of January 1, 2018, which reflects the cumulative fair value measurement change to debt at adoption resulting from the modified designated risk, and an increase to other comprehensive income (loss) of $2.5 million , which represents an increase to the deferred gain on active cash flow hedges at adoption. Additionally, the new standard requires modifications to existing presentation and disclosure requirements on a prospective basis. As such, disclosures for the year ended December 31, 2018 conform to these disclosure requirements. Refer to Note 16 . Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Note 17 . Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for additional information. Recent Accounting Pronouncements 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 require the lease rights and obligations arising from the leasing arrangements, including operating leases, to be recognized as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. The amendments also expand the required disclosures surrounding leasing arrangements. The guidance will be effective for our annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods therein. The amended guidance requires the use of a modified retrospective approach in applying the new lease accounting standard. We elected the optional transition method, which allows entities to initially apply the standard at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. The standard will have a material effect on our consolidated balance sheets due to the recognition of operating lease assets and operating lease liabilities primarily related to real estate, shipboard equipment and preferred berthing arrangements. Upon adoption, we expect that there will be no cumulative-effect adjustment of initially applying the guidance to our opening balance of retained earnings. We do not expect this amended guidance to have a material impact to our consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of cash flows and our debt-covenant compliance under our current agreements on an ongoing basis. Derivatives and Hedging In October 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-16, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap (OIS) Rate as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes , which permits use of the OIS rate based on SOFR as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for purposes of applying hedge accounting. SOFR is a new index calculated by short-term repurchase agreements backed by U.S Treasury securities. The guidance is required to be adopted on a prospective basis for qualifying new or redesignated hedging relationships entered into on or after the adoption date. This ASU will be effective for our annual reporting period beginning January 1, 2019. The adoption of this newly issued guidance is not expected to have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements. Change in Accounting Principle - Stock-based Compensation In January 2018, we elected to change our accounting policy for recognizing stock-based compensation expense from the graded attribution method to the straight-line attribution method for time-based stock awards. The adoption of the straight-line attribution method for time-based stock awards represents a change in accounting principle which we believe to be preferable because it is the predominant method used in our industry. A change in accounting principle requires retrospective application, if material. The impact of the adoption of the straight-line attribution method to our time-based awards was immaterial to prior periods and to our year ended December 31, 2018. As a result, we have accounted for this change in accounting principle in our consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2018. The effect of this change was an increase to Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. of $9.2 million , or $0.04 per share for each of basic and diluted earnings per share, for year ended December 31, 2018, which is reported within Marketing, selling and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Reclassifications For the year ended December 31, 2018, we separately presented Cash received on settlement of derivative financial instruments and Cash paid on settlement of derivative financial instruments in our consolidated statements of cash flows. As a result, prior years amounts were reclassified within Investing Activities to conform to current year presentation. Additionally, we have 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 to conform with current year presentation. Refer to the Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements presented above for further information on this reclassification .

Business Combination

Business Combination	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Business Combination	Business Combination On July 31, 2018, we acquired a 66.7% equity stake in Silversea Cruises enhancing our presence in the ultra-luxury and expedition markets and providing 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 zero 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 and was recorded within Other liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. Subsequent changes to the fair value of the contingent consideration are recorded in our results of operations in the period of the change. Refer to Note 17 . 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 entered into and drew in full on a $700 million credit agreement. Refer to Note 9 . Debt for further information on the credit agreement. The remainder of the transaction consideration was financed through the use of our revolving credit facilities. We have accounted for this transaction under the provisions of ASC 805, Business Combinations . The purchase price for the Silversea Cruises acquisition was allocated based on preliminary estimates of the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition date, with the excess allocated to goodwill. Goodwill is not deductible for tax purposes and consisted primarily of the opportunity to expand our cruise operations in strategic growth areas. For reporting purposes, beginning with our fourth quarter 2018, we included Silversea Cruises’ results of operations on a three-month reporting lag from the acquisition date through September 30, 2018. We have included Silversea Cruises' balance sheet as of September 30, 2018 in our consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2018 . Refer to Note 1 . General for further information on this three-month reporting lag. The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation based on preliminary estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition as of July 31, 2018. We have not finalized the allocation of the purchase price as it requires extensive use of accounting estimates and valuation methodologies in the determination of such fair values. (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, net 5,640 1,523 7,163 Inventories 19,004 (673 ) 18,331 Prepaid expenses and other assets (2) 119,920 576 120,496 Derivative financial instruments 2,886 — 2,886 Property and equipment, net (3) 1,109,467 4,803 1,114,270 Goodwill 1,086,539 3,471 1,090,010 Other assets (4) 494,657 3,800 498,457 Total assets acquired 2,941,978 13,500 2,955,478 Liabilities Current portion of long-term debt (5) 26,851 — 26,851 Accounts payable 36,960 — 36,960 Accrued interest 1,773 — 1,773 Accrued expenses and other liabilities 80,571 1,960 82,531 Customer deposits 453,798 — 453,798 Long-term debt (5) 727,935 — 727,935 Other long-term liabilities 12,320 11,540 23,860 Total liabilities assumed 1,340,208 13,500 1,353,708 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 the fourth quarter of 2018, which resulted in a net increase to Goodwill of $3.5 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 two 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. (6) Refer to Note 10 . Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest for further information on the redeemable noncontrolling interest recorded. 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 and there were no net operating losses recognized as of December 31, 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 Silversea Cruises since the date of 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 our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Pro-forma financial results relating to the Silversea Cruises acquisition are not presented, as this acquisition is not material to our consolidated results of operations.

Revenues

Revenues	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenues	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 $611.4 million , $569.5 million and $570.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 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. Disaggregated Revenues The following table disaggregates our total revenues by geographic regions where we provide cruise itineraries (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Revenues by itinerary North America (1) $ 5,399,951 $ 5,062,305 $ 4,606,875 Asia/Pacific (2) 1,463,083 1,588,802 1,536,799 Europe (3) 1,914,549 1,509,586 1,711,496 Other regions 348,145 285,954 354,529 Total revenues by itinerary 9,125,728 8,446,647 8,209,699 Other revenues (4) 368,121 331,198 286,702 Total revenues $ 9,493,849 $ 8,777,845 $ 8,496,401 (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. 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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , our guests were sourced from the following areas: Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Passenger ticket revenues: United States 61 % 59 % 55 % United Kingdom 10 % 9 % 10 % All other countries (1) 29 % 32 % 35 % (1) No other individual country's revenue exceeded 10% for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 . 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 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 do not consider customer deposits to be a contract liability until 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 presented in our consolidated balance sheets include contract liabilities of $1.9 billion and $1.4 billion as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Substantially all of our contract liabilities as of December 31, 2017 were recognized and reported within Total revenues in our consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018 . 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 source in select markets outside of the United States. As a result, we have 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, 2018 and 2017 , our contract assets were $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 $153.5 million and $64.6 million as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , respectively. Substantially all of our prepaid travel agent commissions at December 31, 2017 were expensed and reported within Commissions, transportation and other in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018 .

Goodwill

Goodwill	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill	Goodwill The carrying amount of goodwill attributable to our Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises reporting units and the changes in such balances during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows (in thousands): Royal Caribbean International Celebrity Cruises Silversea Cruises Total Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 286,754 $ 1,632 $ — $ 288,386 Foreign currency translation adjustment 126 — — 126 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, 2018 $ 286,711 $ 1,632 $ 1,090,010 $ 1,378,353 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) In 2018, we purchased Silversea Cruises. Refer to Note 3 . Business Combination for further information. During the fourth quarter of 2018 , 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 and forecasts of operating results generated by the reporting unit appear sufficient to support its carrying value. As a result of our assessment, we did not record an impairment of goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2018 . During the fourth quarter of 2018 , 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 not record an impairment of goodwill for the year ended December 31, 2018 . For the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 , we did not record an impairment of goodwill for our reporting units.

Intangible Assets

Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Intangible Assets	Intangible Assets Intangible assets consist of finite and indefinite life assets and are reported within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. The following is a summary of our intangible assets as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands, except weighted average amortization period): As of December 31, 2018 Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Finite-life intangible assets: Customer relationships 14.8 $ 97,400 $ 1,082 $ 96,318 Galapagos operating licenses 25.8 47,669 4,206 43,463 Other finite-life intangible assets 1.8 11,560 963 10,597 Total finite-life intangible assets 156,629 6,251 150,378 Indefinite-life intangible assets 351,725 — 351,725 Total intangible assets, net $ 508,354 $ 6,251 $ 502,103 As of December 31, 2017 , finite-life intangible assets had a gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization amount of $11.6 million and $3.7 million , respectively, consisting of operating licenses to operate in the Galapagos Islands. As of December 31, 2017 , the remaining weighted average remaining life of these licenses was approximately 26.6 years . The carrying amount of indefinite-life intangible assets was not material as of December 31, 2017 . 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 relationships 97,400 15 Galapagos operating license 36,100 26 Other finite-life intangible assets 11,560 2 Total intangible assets $ 494,560 Amortization expense for finite-life intangible assets was immaterial to our consolidated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 . The estimated future amortization for finite-life intangible assets for each of the next five years is as follows (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 13,959 2020 $ 12,995 2021 $ 8,179 2022 $ 8,179 2023 $ 8,179

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands): As of December 31, 2018 2017 Ships $ 27,209,553 $ 23,714,745 Ship improvements 2,965,634 2,410,525 Ships under construction 817,800 642,235 Land, buildings and improvements, including leasehold improvements and port facilities 321,136 250,079 Computer hardware and software, transportation equipment and other 1,120,988 762,512 Total property and equipment 32,435,111 27,780,096 Less—accumulated depreciation and amortization (1) (8,968,948 ) (8,044,916 ) $ 23,466,163 $ 19,735,180 (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 $49.6 million , $24.2 million and $25.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. 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. Upon our acquisition of Silversea Cruises, we added to our fleet nine ships, two of which are under capital lease agreements. 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 2018 , Silversea Cruises entered into an agreement with Shipyard De Hoop to build a ship designed for the Galapagos Islands. Refer to Note 18 . Commitments and Contingencie s for further information on the aggregate costs of our ships on order. During 2017, we sold our three 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, we extended two loans to Wamos Air, S.A. totaling €17.3 million . The loans accrue interest at rates ranging from 4.78% to 5.35% per annum, amortize through maturity of October 2019 and July 2021, respectively, and are 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 recognized in earnings during the year ended December 31, 2017 . Post-sale, we retained a 13% interest in Wamos Air, S.A. During the year ended December 31, 2018 , we received principal and interest payments of $4.0 million . As of December 31, 2018 , a receivable of €14.1 million , or approximately $16.1 million , based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 , was outstanding related to the principal amount of these loans. During 2017, we sold Legend of the Seas to an affiliate of TUI AG, our joint venture partner in TUI Cruises. The sale resulted in a gain of $30.9 million and was reported within Other operating within Cruise operating expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2017 . During 2016, we sold our 51% interest in Pullmantur Holdings. We retained 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. In April 2016, we sold Splendour of the Seas to TUI Cruises. Concurrent with the acquisition, TUI Cruises leased the ship to an affiliate of TUI AG, our joint venture partner in TUI Cruises, which now operates the ship. The gain recognized did not have a material effect to our consolidated financial statements.

Other Assets

Other Assets	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Assets [Abstract]
Other Assets	Other Assets A Variable 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, 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 . As of December 31, 2017 , the net book value of our investment in TUI Cruises was $624.5 million , primarily consisting of $422.8 million in equity and a loan of €166.5 million , or approximately $199.8 million , based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2017 . The loan, which was made in connection with the sale of Splendour of the Seas in April 2016, accrues interest at a rate of 6.25% per annum and is payable over 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 7 . Property and Equipment for further information. The majority of these amounts were included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. In addition, we and TUI AG have each guaranteed the repayment by TUI Cruises of 50% of a bank loan. As of December 31, 2018 , the outstanding principal amount of the loan was €37.0 million , or approximately $42.3 million , based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . In April 2018, Mein Schiff 1 was sold to an affiliate of TUI AG. The proceeds were used to repay €44.2 million of the bank loan and secure the release of the first mortgage on Mein Schiff 1 . 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 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 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 for €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 the 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 23 years. As mentioned above, in April 2018, TUI Cruises sold 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 our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018 . We have determined that Pullmantur Holdings S.L. ("Pullmantur Holdings"), in which we have a 49% noncontrolling 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, we do not consolidate this entity and we account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. As of December 31, 2018 and December 31, 2017 , our maximum exposure to loss in Pullmantur Holdings was $58.5 million and $53.7 million , respectively, consisting of loans and other receivables. These amounts were included within Trade and other receivables, net and Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. Refer to Note 7 . Property and Equipment for further information on the our vessels currently operated by the Pullmantur brand under bareboat charter arrangements. We have provided a working capital facility to a Pullmantur Holdings subsidiary in the amount of up to €15.0 million or approximately $17.2 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . Proceeds of the facility, which were drawn through December 2018 at an interest rate of 6.5% per annum, are payable through 2022. Springwater Capital LLC, 51% owner of Pullmantur Holdings, has guaranteed repayment of 51% of the outstanding amounts under the facility. As of December 31, 2018 , €14.0 million , or approximately $16.0 million , based on the 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 and certain emergency repairs as may be required. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we made payments of $44.7 million and $16.0 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, 2018 , the net book value of our investment in Grand Bahama was $56.1 million , consisting of $41.4 million in equity and a loan of $14.6 million . As of December 31, 2017 , the net book value of our investment in Grand Bahama was approximately $49.4 million , consisting of $32.4 million in equity and a loan of $17.0 million . These amounts represent our maximum exposure to loss related to our investment in Grand Bahama. Our loan to Grand Bahama matures in March 2025 and bears interest at the lower of (i) LIBOR plus 3.50% and (ii) 5.50% . Interest payable on the loan is due on a semi-annual basis. We have experienced strong payment performance on the loan since its amendment, in 2016, and as a result completed an evaluation and review of the loan resulting in a reclassification of the loan to accrual status as of October 2017. During the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we received principal and interest payments of $16.4 million and $15.7 million , respectively. The loan balance is included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. The loan is currently accruing interest under the effective yield method, which includes the recognition of previously unrecognized interest that accumulated while the loan was in non-accrual status. 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, 2018 . In March 2018, Skysea Holding's board of directors agreed to exit the business given the increasing challenges faced by the brand. Skysea Holding ceased cruising operations in September 2018. We have determined that Skysea Holding, in which we have a 36% ownership 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, we do not consolidate this entity and we account for this investment under the equity method of accounting. In December 2014, we and Ctrip, which also owns 36% of Skysea Holding, each provided a debt facility to a wholly owned subsidiary of Skysea Holding in the amount of $80.0 million , with an applicable interest rate of 6.5% per annum, which originally matured in January 2030. The facilities, which were pari passu to each other, were each 100% guaranteed by Skysea Holding and were secured by first priority mortgages on the ship, Golden Era. Due to payment performance, the loans were classified to non-accrual status in 2017. We review our equity method investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the investment may not be recoverable. During 2018, given SkySea Holding’s dissolution and sale of the Golden Era , we reviewed the recoverability of our investment, debt facility and other receivables due from the brand. As a result of this analysis, we determined that our investment in SkySea Holding and the carrying value of our debt facility and other receivables due from the brand were impaired and recognized an impairment charge of $23.3 million during the year ended December 31, 2018 . The charge reflected a full impairment of our investment in SkySea Holding and reduced the debt facility and other receivables due to us to their net realizable value. This impairment charge was recognized in Other income (expense) within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2018 . In December 2018, the Golden Era was sold to an affiliate of TUI AG, our joint venture partner in TUI Cruises. Proceeds from the sale were distributed to the existing shareholders which eliminated our net receivable balance due from Skysea Holding, resulting in no further impairment charges. As of December 31, 2018 , we do not have any exposures to loss related to our investment in Skysea Holding. As of December 31, 2017 , the net book value of our investment in Skysea Holding and its subsidiaries was $96.0 million , which consisted of $4.4 million in equity and loans and other receivables of $91.6 million . The majority of these amounts were included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets and represented our maximum exposure to loss related to our investment in Skysea Holding as of December 31, 2017 . The following tables 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, 2018 2017 2016 Share of equity income from investments $ 210,756 $ 156,247 $ 128,350 Dividends received $ 243,101 $ 109,677 $ 75,942 As of December 31, 2018 2017 Total notes receivable due from equity investments $ 201,979 $ 314,323 Less-current portion (1) 19,075 38,658 Long-term portion (2) $ 182,904 $ 275,665 ___________________________________________________________________ (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 (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 following the sale of our 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): Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Revenues $ 54,705 $ 53,532 $ 30,517 Expenses $ 11,531 $ 15,176 $ 12,795 Summarized financial information for our affiliates accounted for under the equity method of accounting was as follows (in thousands): As of December 31, 2018 2017 Current assets $ 471,428 $ 532,330 Non-current assets 3,826,018 3,673,613 Total assets $ 4,297,446 $ 4,205,943 Current liabilities $ 1,064,741 $ 1,152,193 Non- current liabilities 2,217,909 1,974,166 Total liabilities $ 3,282,650 $ 3,126,359 Equity attributable to: Noncontrolling interest $ 1,672 $ 1,753 Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Total revenues $ 2,255,352 $ 1,994,014 $ 1,340,662 Total expenses (1,779,160 ) (1,684,276 ) (1,078,470 ) Net income $ 476,192 $ 309,738 $ 262,192

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt Debt consists of the following (in thousands): As of December 31, Interest Rate Maturities Through 2018 2017 Fixed rate debt: Senior notes 2.65% to 7.50% 2020 - 2028 $ 1,724,194 $ 1,866,359 Secured senior notes 7.25% 2025 670,437 — Unsecured term loans 2.53% to 5.41% 2021 - 2030 2,148,351 333,351 Total fixed rate debt 4,542,982 2,199,710 Variable rate debt (1) : Unsecured revolving credit facilities (2) 3.54% to 3.61% 2020 - 2022 795,000 580,000 Commercial paper 3.19% 2019 775,488 — USD unsecured term loan 2.92% to 6.52% 2019 - 2028 4,005,848 4,079,670 Euro unsecured term loan 1.15% to 1.58% 2021 - 2028 734,176 814,085 Total variable rate debt 6,310,512 5,473,755 Capital lease obligations 130,944 33,139 Total debt (3) 10,984,438 7,706,604 Less: unamortized debt issuance costs (206,739 ) (167,153 ) Total debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs 10,777,699 7,539,451 Less—current portion including commercial paper (2,422,329 ) (1,188,514 ) Long-term portion $ 8,355,370 $ 6,350,937 (1) Calculation based on outstanding loan balance and interest rate as of December 31, 2018 . For variable rate debt, interest rate includes either LIBOR or EURIBOR plus the applicable margin. (2) Includes $1.4 billion facility due in 2020 and $1.2 billion due in 2022 , each of which accrue interest at LIBOR plus 1.10% , currently 3.91% , and are subject to a facility fee of 0.15% . (3) At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the weighted average interest rate for total debt was 4.14% and 3.92% , respectively. In October 2018, we took delivery of Celebrity Edge . Through a novation agreement we put in place in June 2016, we had the right, but not the obligation, to finance the final installment payable to the shipyard by assuming upon our delivery and acceptance of the ship the debt indirectly incurred by the shipbuilder during the construction of the ship. We borrowed a total of $729.0 million (inclusive of the amount novated to us). The loan, which is unsecured, amortizes semi-annually over 12 years and bears interest at a fixed rate of 3.23% . In our consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2018 , the acceptance of the ship and satisfaction of our obligation under the shipbuilding contract was classified as an outflow and constructive disbursement within Investing Activities while the amounts novated and effectively advanced from our lenders under our previously committed financing arrangements were classified as an inflow and constructive receipt within Financing Activities . On July 31, 2018, we closed on the Silversea Cruises acquisition and subsequently drew in full on an unsecured credit agreement in the amount of $700 million due July 2019. We are required to prepay the loan with the proceeds of certain debt issuances prior to maturity. Interest on the loan accrues at a floating rate based on LIBOR plus a margin that varies with our credit rating and which is currently 1.00% . Upon our acquisition of Silversea Cruises, we recorded, at a fair value of $672.0 million , 7.25% senior secured notes with a principal amount of $620 million due February 2025, in accordance with ASC 805. The notes were previously issued by Silversea Cruise Finance Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Silversea Cruises, and are guaranteed and secured by substantially all of the assets of Silversea Cruises and a number of its subsidiaries, subject to certain exceptions. Refer to Note 3 . Business Combination for further information on the Silversea Cruises acquisition . 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 . The interest rate for the commercial paper notes varies based on duration, market conditions and our credit ratings. The maturities of the commercial paper notes can vary, but cannot exceed 397 days from the date of issuance. We use the proceeds from our commercial paper notes for general corporate purposes. The commercial paper issued is backstopped by our revolving credit facilities. As of December 31, 2018 , we had $777.0 million of commercial paper notes outstanding with a weighted average interest rate of 3.19% and a weighted average maturity of approximately 23 days. In March 2018, we took delivery of Symphony of the Seas . Through a novation agreement we put in place in January 2015, we had the right, but not the obligation, to finance the final installment payable to the shipyard by assuming upon our delivery and acceptance of this ship the debt indirectly incurred by the shipbuilder during the construction of the ship. We borrowed a total of $1.2 billion (inclusive of the amount novated to us). The loan, which is unsecured, amortizes semi-annually over 12 years and bears interest at a fixed rate of 3.82% . In our consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2018 , the acceptance of the ship and satisfaction of our obligation under the shipbuilding contract was classified as an outflow and constructive disbursement within Investing Activities while the amounts novated and effectively advanced from our lender under our previously committed financing arrangements were classified as an inflow and constructive receipt within Financing Activities . In March 2018, we entered into and drew in full on a credit agreement in the amount of $130.0 million due February 2023. The loan accrues interest at a floating rate of LIBOR plus an applicable margin. The applicable margin varies with our debt rating and was 1.195% as of December 31, 2018 . Amounts from the issuance of this loan were used for capital expenditures. Except for Celebrity 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) a fee of 0.77% per annum based on the outstanding loan balance semi-annually over the term of the loan (subject to adjustment 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. Prior to the loan being drawn, we present these fees within Other 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, we classify these fees within 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. Capital Leases Silversea Cruises operates two ships, the Silver Whisper and Silver Explorer, under capital leases . The capital lease for the Silver Whisper will expire in 2022, subject to an option to purchase the ship, and the capital 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 finance lease obligations 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. 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, 2018 for each of the next five years (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 2,422,329 2020 1,681,978 2021 843,976 2022 1,607,975 2023 664,025 Thereafter 3,557,416 $ 10,777,699

Redeemable Non-controlling Inte

Redeemable Non-controlling Interest	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Redeemable Non-controlling Interest	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 SCG. The put options may require us to purchase SCG'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. At the acquisition date, the estimated fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interest was based on 33.3% of Silversea Cruises' equity value, which was determined based on the transaction price paid for 66.7% of Silversea Cruises. As of December 31, 2018 , SCG'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 our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). The following table presents changes in the redeemable noncontrolling interest as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands): Balance as at January 1, 2018 $ — Additions (Silversea Cruises acquisition) 537,770 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, including the contractual accretion of the put options 4,750 Other (500 ) Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 542,020

Shareholders' Equity

Shareholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Shareholders' Equity	Shareholders' Equity 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 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 second and third quarters of 2017 , respectively. During the first quarter of 2017 , we also paid a cash dividend on our common stock of $0.48 per share which was declared during the fourth quarter of 2016 . In May 2018, our board of directors authorized a 24 -month common stock repurchase program for up to $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, 2018 , we repurchased 2.8 million shares of our common stock under this program, for a total of $300.0 million , in open market transactions that were recorded within Treasury stock in our consolidated balance sheets. As of December 31, 2018 , we have $700.0 million that remains available for future stock repurchase transactions under our Board authorized program. In April 2017, our board of directors authorized a 12 -month common stock repurchase program for up to $500.0 million that was completed in February 2018. During 2018 and 2017 , we repurchased 2.1 million and 1.8 million shares of our common stock for a total of $275.0 million and $225.0 million , respectively, totaling $500.0 million in open market transactions that were recorded within Treasury stock in our consolidated balance sheets.

Stock-Based Employee Compensati

Stock-Based Employee Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-Based Employee Compensation	Stock-Based Employee Compensation We currently have awards outstanding under one stock-based compensation plan, our 2008 Equity Plan, which provides for awards to our officers, directors and key employees. 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 board of directors) may be granted awards of more than 500,000 shares and no non-employee member of our board of directors 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, 2018 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. 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 2018 , we issued a target number of 184,550 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 earnings per share (“EPS”) for the year ended December 31, 2020, as may be adjusted by the Talent and Compensation Committee of our board of directors in early 2021 for events that are outside of management's control. 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 2018 , we issued 120,022 restricted stock awards, representing 200% (1) 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 2018 awards will be based on ROIC and EPS for the year ended December 31, 2020, as may be adjusted by the Talent and Compensation Committee of our board of directors in early 2021 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 the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 74,100 , 51,989 and 42,347 shares of our common stock were purchased under the ESPP at a weighted-average price of $97.50 , $93.15 and $65.48 , respectively. Total compensation expense recognized for employee stock-based compensation for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was as follows (in thousands): Employee Stock-Based Compensation Classification of expense 2018 2017 2016 Marketing, selling and administrative expenses $ 46,061 $ 69,459 $ 32,659 Total compensation expense $ 46,061 $ 69,459 $ 32,659 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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 . Stock option activity and information about stock options outstanding are summarized in the following table: Stock Option Activity Number of Weighted- Weighted- Aggregate (1) (years) (in thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2018 272,724 $ 32.15 1.41 $ 24,053 Granted — — Exercised (117,977 ) $ 36.14 Canceled (1,654 ) $ 32.49 Outstanding at December 31, 2018 153,093 $ 29.06 1.23 $ 10,399 Vested at December 31, 2018 153,093 $ 29.06 1.23 $ 10,399 Options Exercisable at December 31, 2018 153,093 $ 29.06 1.23 $ 10,399 ___________________________________________________________________ (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, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $11.1 million , $4.5 million and $2.3 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2018 , there was no 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-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 Activity Number of Weighted- Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2018 737,899 $ 83.78 Granted 392,427 $ 122.12 Vested (276,059 ) $ 78.09 Canceled (53,682 ) $ 101.82 Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2018 800,585 $ 103.32 The weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock units granted during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $99.03 and $64.51 , respectively. The total fair value of shares released on the vesting of restricted stock units during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $33.9 million , $38.7 million and $23.2 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2018 , we had $43.1 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 1.68 years . Performance share units are converted into shares of common stock upon vesting on a one -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 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: Performance Share Units Activity Number of Weighted- Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2018 353,150 $ 74.87 Granted 184,550 $ 97.98 Vested (218,568 ) $ 72.79 Canceled (16,571 ) $ 109.46 Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2018 302,561 $ 88.57 The weighted-average estimated fair value of performance share units granted during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $84.16 and $65.83 , respectively. The total fair value of shares released on the vesting of performance share units during the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $27.3 million , $10.0 million and $16.9 million , respectively. As of December 31, 2018 , we had $7.7 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 1.00 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 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 Activity Number of Weighted- Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2018 270,176 $ 81.28 Granted 120,022 $ 129.23 Vested — — Canceled — — Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2018 390,198 $ 96.03 The weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2017 and 2016 was $95.04 and $66.93 , respectively. As of December 31, 2018 , we had $1.6 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 1.08 years .

Earnings Per Share

Earnings Per Share	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	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, 2018 2017 2016 Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for basic and diluted earnings per share $ 1,811,042 $ 1,625,133 $ 1,283,388 Weighted-average common shares outstanding 210,570 214,617 215,393 Dilutive effect of stock-based awards 984 1,077 923 Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 211,554 215,694 216,316 Basic earnings per share $ 8.60 $ 7.57 $ 5.96 Diluted earnings per share $ 8.56 $ 7.53 $ 5.93 There were no antidilutive shares for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .

Retirement Plan

Retirement Plan	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Retirement Plan	Retirement Plan We maintain a defined contribution plan covering shoreside employees. Effective January 1, 2016, we commenced annual, non-elective contributions to the plan on behalf of all 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 $18.9 million , $17.4 million and $16.7 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	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 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, one of our ship-operating subsidiaries is subject to tax under the tonnage tax regime of the United Kingdom. Under 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 United-Kingdom corporate income tax. Income tax expense for items not qualifying under Section 883, tonnage tax and income taxes for the remainder of our subsidiaries was approximately $20.9 million , $18.3 million and $20.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 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. 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, 2018 , the Company had deferred tax assets, including net operating losses (“NOLs”) in foreign jurisdictions of $24.8 million . If not utilized, $14.0 million of the NOLs are subject to expiration between 2019 and 2025. The Company has recognized $0.4 million of benefit related to these NOLs, as the remaining NOLs have full valuation allowances. Net deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities and corresponding valuation allowances related to our operations were not material as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 . 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.

Changes in Accumulated Other Co

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) The following table presents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges Changes in defined Foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2016 $ (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 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 January 1, 2017 (820,850 ) (28,083 ) (67,551 ) (916,484 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 381,865 (6,755 ) 17,307 392,417 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 188,630 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 (loss) income before reclassifications (297,994 ) 6,156 (14,251 ) (306,089 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 11,133 1,487 — 12,620 Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income (286,861 ) 7,643 (14,251 ) (293,469 ) Accumulated comprehensive loss at December 31, 2018 $ (537,216 ) $ (26,023 ) $ (64,495 ) $ (627,734 ) The following table presents reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Affected Line Item in Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: Interest rate swaps (10,931 ) (31,603 ) (41,480 ) Interest expense, net of interest capitalized Foreign currency forward contracts (12,843 ) (10,840 ) (8,114 ) Depreciation and amortization expenses Foreign currency forward contracts 12,855 (9,472 ) (14,342 ) Other income (expense) Foreign currency forward contracts — — (207 ) Other indirect operating expenses Foreign currency collar options — (2,408 ) (2,408 ) Depreciation and amortization expenses Fuel swaps (1,580 ) 7,382 13,685 Other income (expense) Fuel swaps 1,366 (141,689 ) (284,384 ) Fuel (11,133 ) (188,630 ) (337,250 ) Amortization of defined benefit plans: Actuarial loss (1,487 ) (1,172 ) (1,141 ) Payroll and related (1,487 ) (1,172 ) (1,141 ) Total reclassifications for the period $ (12,620 ) $ (189,802 ) $ (338,391 )

Fair Value Measurements and Der

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments	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, 2018 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Description Total 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) Assets: Cash and cash equivalents (4) $ 287,852 $ 287,852 $ 287,852 — — $ 120,112 $ 120,112 $ 120,112 — — Total Assets $ 287,852 $ 287,852 $ 287,852 $ — $ — $ 120,112 $ 120,112 $ 120,112 $ — $ — Liabilities: Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt) (5) $ 9,871,267 $ 10,244,214 — $ 10,244,214 — $ 7,506,312 $ 8,038,092 — $ 8,038,092 — Total Liabilities $ 9,871,267 $ 10,244,214 $ — $ 10,244,214 $ — $ 7,506,312 $ 8,038,092 $ — $ 8,038,092 $ — ___________________________________________________________________ (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, 2018 and 2017 . (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, accrued expenses and commercial paper approximate fair value as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 . 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, 2018 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Description Total Fair Value Level 1 (1) Level 2 (2) Level 3 (3) Total Fair Value Level 1 (1) Level 2 (2) Level 3 (3) Assets: Derivative financial instruments (4) $ 65,297 $ — $ 65,297 $ — $ 320,385 $ — $ 320,385 $ — Investments (5) — — — — 3,340 3,340 — — Total Assets $ 65,297 $ — $ 65,297 $ — $ 323,725 $ 3,340 $ 320,385 $ — Liabilities: Derivative financial instruments (6) $ 201,812 $ — $ 201,812 $ — $ 115,961 $ — $ 115,961 $ — Contingent consideration (7) 44,000 — — 44,000 — — — — Total Liabilities $ 245,812 $ — $ 201,812 $ 44,000 $ 115,961 $ — $ 115,961 $ — ___________________________________________________________________ (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. The Company did not use any Level 3 inputs as of December 31, 2017 . (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 exchange-traded equity securities and mutual funds reported within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. (6) 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. (7) The contingent consideration related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition was 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. 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, 2018 or 2017 , or that will be realized in the future, and do not include expenses that could be incurred in an actual sale or settlement. 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 (in thousands): Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Derivatives subject to master netting agreements $ 65,297 $ (60,303 ) $ — $ 4,994 $ 320,385 $ (104,751 ) $ — $ 215,634 Total $ 65,297 $ (60,303 ) $ — $ 4,994 $ 320,385 $ (104,751 ) $ — $ 215,634 The following table presents information about the Company’s offsetting of financial liabilities under master netting agreements with derivative counterparties (in thousands): Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Derivatives subject to master netting agreements $ (201,812 ) $ 60,303 $ — $ (141,509 ) $ (115,961 ) $ 104,751 $ — $ (11,210 ) Total $ (201,812 ) $ 60,303 $ — $ (141,509 ) $ (115,961 ) $ 104,751 $ — $ (11,210 ) Derivative Instruments We are exposed to market risk attributable to changes in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and fuel prices. We try 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, our objective is not to hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes. 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 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 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. 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 same methodology on a consistent basis for assessing hedge effectiveness to all hedges within each hedging program (i.e., interest rate, foreign currency and fuel). We perform regression analyses over 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. 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. 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. Interest Rate Risk Our exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates primarily relates to our debt obligations including future interest payments. At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , approximately 59.1% and 57.4% , respectively, of our long-term debt was effectively fixed. 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 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, 2018 and 2017 , we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following fixed-rate debt instruments: Debt Instrument Swap Notional as of December 31, 2018 (In thousands) Maturity Debt Fixed Rate Swap Floating Rate: LIBOR plus All-in Swap Floating Rate as of December 31, 2018 Oasis of the Seas term loan $ 105,000 October 2021 5.41% 3.87% 6.63% Unsecured senior notes 650,000 November 2022 5.25% 3.63% 6.25% $ 755,000 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, 2018 and 2017 , we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following floating-rate debt instruments: Debt Instrument Swap Notional as of December 31, 2018 (In thousands) Maturity Debt Floating Rate All-in Swap Fixed Rate Celebrity Reflection term loan $ 327,250 October 2024 LIBOR plus 0.40% 2.85% Quantum of the Seas term loan 490,000 October 2026 LIBOR plus 1.30% 3.74% Anthem of the Seas term loan 513,542 April 2027 LIBOR plus 1.30% 3.86% Ovation of the Seas term loan 657,083 April 2028 LIBOR plus 1.00% 3.16% Harmony of the Seas term loan (1) 627,660 May 2028 EURIBOR plus 1.15% 2.26% $ 2,615,535 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) Interest rate swap agreements hedging the Euro-denominated term loan for Harmony of the Seas include a EURIBOR zero-floor matching the hedged debt EURIBOR zero-floor. Amount presented is based on the exchange rate as of December 31, 2018 . These interest rate swap agreements are accounted for as cash flow hedges. The notional amount of interest rate swap agreements related to outstanding debt as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $3.4 billion and $3.8 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 to manage portions of the exposure to movements in foreign currency exchange rates. As of December 31, 2018 , the aggregate cost of our ships on order, not including any ships on order by our Partner Brands and the Silversea Cruises ships that remain contingent upon final documentation and financing, was approximately $11.4 billion , of which we had deposited $651.7 million as of such date. At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , approximately 53.5% and 54.0% , respectively, of the aggregate cost of the ships under construction was exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate. Our foreign currency forward contract agreements are accounted for as cash flow 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 currencies of our foreign subsidiaries. During the year ended December 31, 2018 , we maintained an average of approximately $741.5 million of these foreign currency forward contracts. These instruments are not designated as hedging instruments. For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , changes in the fair value of the foreign currency forward contracts resulted in (losses) gains of approximately $(62.4) million , $62.0 million and $(51.1) million , respectively, which offset gains (losses) arising from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies in those same years of $57.6 million , $(75.6) million and $39.8 million , respectively. These amounts 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, 2018 , we maintained foreign currency forward contracts and designated them as hedges of a portion of our net investments primarily in TUI cruises of €101.0 million , or approximately $115.5 million based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . These forward currency contracts mature in October 2021 . The notional amount of outstanding foreign exchange contracts, excluding the forward contracts entered into to minimize remeasurement volatility, as of December 31, 2018 and 2017 was $3.7 billion and $4.6 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 €280.0 million , or approximately $320.2 million , through December 31, 2018 . As of December 31, 2017 , we had designated debt as a hedge of our net investments primarily in TUI Cruises of approximately €246.0 million , or approximately $295.3 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 accounted for as cash flow hedges. At December 31, 2018 , we have hedged the variability in future cash flows for certain forecasted fuel transactions occurring through 2022 . As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we had the following outstanding fuel swap agreements: Fuel Swap Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 (metric tons) 2018 — 673,700 2019 856,800 668,500 2020 830,500 531,200 2021 488,900 224,900 2022 322,900 — Fuel Swap Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 (% hedged) Projected fuel purchases for year: 2018 — 50 % 2019 58 % 46 % 2020 54 % 36 % 2021 28 % 14 % 2022 19 % — At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , $26.8 million and $23.7 million , respectively, of 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 loss within the next twelve months. Reclassification is expected to occur as the result of fuel consumption associated with our hedged forecasted fuel purchases. The fair value and line item caption of derivative instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets were as follows (in thousands): Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Fair Value Fair Value Fair Value Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 (1) Interest rate swaps Other assets $ 23,518 $ 7,330 Other long-term liabilities $ 40,467 $ 46,509 Foreign currency forward contracts Derivative financial instruments 4,044 68,352 Derivative financial instruments 39,665 — Foreign currency forward contracts Other assets 10,844 158,879 Other long-term liabilities 16,854 6,625 Fuel swaps Derivative financial instruments 10,966 13,137 Derivative financial instruments 37,627 38,488 Fuel swaps Other assets 9,204 51,265 Other long-term liabilities 65,182 13,411 Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 58,576 298,963 199,795 105,033 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 Foreign currency forward contracts Derivative financial Instruments 1,751 9,945 Derivative financial instruments 808 2,933 Foreign currency forward contracts Other assets 1,579 2,793 Other long-term liabilities 833 1,139 Fuel swaps Derivative financial instruments 2,804 7,886 Derivative financial instruments 376 6,043 Fuel swaps Other assets 587 798 Other long-term liabilities — 813 Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 6,721 21,422 2,017 10,928 Total derivatives $ 65,297 $ 320,385 $ 201,812 $ 115,961 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) Accounting Standard Codification 815-20 " Derivatives and Hedging." The location and amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income on fair value and cash flow hedging relationships were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Fuel Expense Depreciation and Amortization Expenses Interest Income (Expense) Other Income (Expense) Fuel Expense Depreciation and Amortization Expenses Interest 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 $710,617 $1,033,697 $(300,872) $ 11,107 $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 items n/a n/a $ 4,673 — n/a n/a — $ 6,065 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments n/a n/a $ (8,854 ) — n/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 income n/a n/a $ (10,931 ) n/a n/a n/a $ (31,603 ) n/a Commodity contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income $ 1,366 n/a n/a $ (1,580 ) $ (141,689 ) n/a n/a $ 7,382 Foreign exchange contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income n/a $ (12,843 ) n/a $ 12,855 n/a $ (13,248 ) n/a $ (9,472 ) Year Ended December 31, 2016 Fuel Expense Depreciation and Amortization Expenses Interest 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 $ 713,676 $ 894,915 $ (286,514 ) $ (35,653 ) The effects of fair value and cash flow hedging: Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20 Interest contracts Hedged items n/a n/a $ 7,203 $ 5,072 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments n/a n/a $ 7,488 $ (3,625 ) 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 income n/a n/a $ (41,480 ) n/a Commodity contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income $ (284,384 ) n/a n/a $ 13,685 Foreign exchange contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income n/a $ (10,522 ) n/a $ (14,342 ) The carrying value and line item caption of non-derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets were as follows (in thousands): Carrying Value Non-derivative instrument designated as Balance Sheet Location As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Foreign currency debt Current portion of long-term debt $ 38,168 $ 70,097 Foreign currency debt Long-term debt 281,984 225,226 $ 320,152 $ 295,323 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 (in thousands): 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, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Interest rate swaps Interest expense, net of interest capitalized $ (8,854 ) $ 3,007 $ 7,488 $ 4,673 $ — $ 7,203 Interest rate swaps Other income (expense) — (3,139 ) (3,625 ) — 6,065 5,072 $ (8,854 ) $ (132 ) $ 3,863 $ 4,673 $ 6,065 $ 12,275 The fair value and line item caption of derivative instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets for the cumulative basis adjustment for fair value hedges were as follows (in thousands): Line Item in the Statement of Financial Position Where the Hedged Item is Included Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities Cumulative amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Current portion of long-term debt and Long-term debt $ 725,486 $ 749,155 $ (24,766 ) $ (34,813 ) $ 725,486 $ 749,155 $ (24,766 ) $ (34,813 ) The effect of derivative instruments qualifying and designated as cash flow hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on Derivative Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Income Derivatives under ASC 815-20 Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Interest rate swaps $ 18,578 $ (13,312 ) $ (31,049 ) Interest expense $ (10,931 ) $ (31,603 ) $ (41,480 ) Foreign currency forward contracts (222,645 ) 276,573 (51,092 ) Depreciation and amortization expenses (12,843 ) (10,840 ) (8,114 ) Foreign currency forward contracts — — — Other income (expense) 12,855 (9,472 ) (14,342 ) Foreign currency forward contracts — — — Other indirect operating expenses — — (207 ) Foreign currency collar options — — — Depreciation and amortization expenses — (2,408 ) (2,408 ) Fuel swaps — — — Other income (expense) (1,580 ) 7,382 13,685 Fuel swaps (93,927 ) 118,604 156,139 Fuel 1,366 (141,689 ) (284,384 ) $ (297,994 ) $ 381,865 $ 73,998 $ (11,133 ) $ (188,630 ) $ (337,250 ) 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, 2018 Net inception fair value at January 1, 2018 $ (11,335 ) Amount of gain recognized in income on derivatives for the year ended December 31, 2018 2,976 Amount of loss remaining to be amortized in accumulated other comprehensive loss as of December 31, 2018 (1,339 ) Fair value at December 31, 2018 (9,698 ) The effect of non-derivative instruments qualifying and designated as net investment hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Non-derivative instruments under ASC 815-20 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Foreign Currency Debt $ 13,210 $ (38,971 ) $ 20,295 $ 13,210 $ (38,971 ) $ 20,295 The effect of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Location of Gain (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Foreign currency forward contracts Other income (expense) $ (62,423 ) $ 61,952 $ (51,029 ) Fuel swaps Fuel 1,161 — — Fuel swaps Other income (expense) 114 (1,133 ) (1,000 ) $ (61,148 ) $ 60,819 $ (52,029 ) 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 are below specified levels. Specifically, 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 at the next fifth-year anniversary. At December 31, 2018 , five of our interest rate derivative instruments had reached their fifth anniversary; however, our senior unsecured debt credit rating was Baa2 by Moody's and BBB- by Standard & Poor's and, accordingly, we were not required to post any collateral as of such date.

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies Ship Purchase Obligations Our future capital commitments consist primarily of new ship orders. As of December 31, 2018 , we had two Quantum -class ships, one Oasis -class ship and two ships of a new generation of ships, known as our Icon -class, on order for our Royal Caribbean International brand with an aggregate capacity of approximately 25,300 berths. As of December 31, 2018 , we have three Edge-class ships and a ship designed for the Galapagos Islands on order for our Celebrity brand with an aggregate capacity of approximately 9,400 berths. Additionally as December 31, 2018 , we have three ships on order with an aggregate capacity of approximately 1,200 berths for our Silversea Cruises brand. The following provides further information on recent developments with respect to our ship orders. During 2017, we entered into credit agreements for the unsecured financing of the two 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, 2018 . Interest on approximately 75% of each loan will accrue at a fixed rate of 3.56% and 3.76% for the first 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 5,650 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 Bpifrance Assurance Export, the official export credit agency of France. 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 ship 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 €714.6 million and €1.1 billion in the case of the fourth Edge-class ship and fifth Oasis-class ship, or approximately $817.1 million and $1.3 billion , respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . 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 1.28% 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. The third and fourth Edge-class ships, each of which will have a capacity of approximately 3,200 , are expected to enter service in the fourth quarters of 2021 and 2022, respectively. The fifth Oasis-class ship will have a capacity of approximately 5,500 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 two Edge-class ships for up to 80% of each ship’s contract price through facilities to be guaranteed 100% by COFACE, 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 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 each 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 €627.1 million , or approximately $717.0 million , respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . 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 3.23% . During 2015, we entered into credit agreements for the unsecured financing of the fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships for up to 80% of each of the ship’s contract price. Hermes has agreed to guarantee to the lenders payment of 95% of the financing. The ships will each have a capacity of approximately 4,250 berths and are expected to enter service in the second quarter of 2019 and the fourth quarter of 2020, respectively. These credit agreements make available to us unsecured term loans in an amount up to the United States dollar equivalent of €762.9 million and €777.5 million , or approximately $872.3 million and $889.0 million , respectively, based on the exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . The loan will amortize semi-annually and will mature 12 years following delivery of each ship. At our election, prior to delivery of each ship, 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% . In September 2018, Silversea Cruises signed a memorandum of understanding with Meyer Werft to build two ships of a new generation of ships. The ships are expected to have an aggregate capacity of approximately 1,200 berths and are expected to enter service in 2022 and 2023, respectively. The memorandum of understanding with Meyer Werft is contingent upon the completion of final documentation and financing, which are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2019. In February 2019, we entered into an agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique to build the sixth Oasis-class ship for Royal Caribbean International. The ship is expected to have an aggregate capacity of approximately 5,700 berths and is expected to enter service in the fourth quarter of 2023. The order with Chantiers de l’Atlantique is contingent upon completion of conditions precedent and financing, which is expected to be completed in 2019. As of December 31, 2018 , the aggregate cost of our ships on order, not including any ships on order by our Partner Brands and the Silversea Cruises ships that remain contingent upon final documentation and financing, was approximately $11.4 billion , of which we had deposited $651.7 million as of such date. Approximately 53.5% of the aggregate cost was exposed to fluctuations in the Euro exchange rate at December 31, 2018 . Refer to Note 17 . Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for further information. Litigation On September 24, 2018, a proposed class-action lawsuit was filed by Roger and Maureen Carretta against Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. d/b/a Royal Caribbean International in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida relating to the marketing and sales of our Travel Protection Program. The plaintiffs purported to represent an alleged class of passengers who purchased the Travel Protection Program. The complaint alleged that the Company concealed that it received "kickbacks," in the form of undisclosed commissions on the sale of the travel insurance portion of the product from an underwriter, and allegedly improperly bundled Travel Insurance Policies with non-insurance products. The complaint sought damages in an indeterminate amount. On November 26, 2018, the Court dismissed the entire action with prejudice on the grounds that, among others, the claim was filed beyond the time limitations contained in the passenger ticket contract. Plaintiffs did not appeal the decision and the time period for filing an appeal has lapsed. We are routinely involved in other claims typical within the cruise vacation 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, 2018 , future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases were as follows (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 67,682 2020 64,237 2021 56,142 2022 52,759 2023 52,522 Thereafter 383,974 $ 677,316 Total expense for all operating leases amounted to $32.2 million , $29.3 million and $29.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 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 and is included in the table above. 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 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 our board of directors is no longer comprised of individuals who were members of our 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, 2018 , we have future commitments to pay for our usage of certain port facilities, marine consumables, services and maintenance contracts as follows (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 224,253 2020 184,308 2021 136,917 2022 79,401 2023 45,266 Thereafter 149,696 $ 819,841

Quarterly Selected Financial Da

Quarterly Selected Financial Data (Unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Selected Financial Data (Unaudited)	Quarterly Selected Financial Data (Unaudited) (In thousands, except per share data) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Total revenues (1) $ 2,027,756 $ 2,008,560 $ 2,337,605 $ 2,195,274 $ 2,796,187 $ 2,569,544 $ 2,332,301 $ 2,004,467 Operating income $ 274,146 $ 279,522 $ 456,895 $ 419,697 $ 799,733 $ 737,488 $ 364,027 $ 307,349 Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. $ 218,653 $ 214,726 $ 466,295 $ 369,526 $ 810,391 $ 752,842 $ 315,703 $ 288,039 Earnings per share Basic $ 1.03 $ 1.00 $ 2.20 $ 1.72 $ 3.88 $ 3.51 $ 1.51 $ 1.35 Diluted $ 1.02 $ 0.99 $ 2.19 $ 1.71 $ 3.86 $ 3.49 $ 1.50 $ 1.34 Dividends declared per share $ 0.60 $ 0.480 $ 0.60 $ 0.480 $ 0.70 $ 0.60 $ 0.70 $ 0.60 ___________________________________________________________________ (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.

Summary of Significant Accoun_2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis for Preparation of Consolidated Financial Statements	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.
Revenues and Expenses	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.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents include cash and marketable securities with original maturities of less than 90 days.
Inventories	Inventories Inventories consist of provisions, supplies and fuel carried at the lower of cost (weighted-average) or net realizable value.
Property and Equipment	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 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 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 30 years , net of a 15% projected residual value. The 30 -year useful life of our newly constructed ships and 15% associated 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. 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 Ships generally 30 Ship improvements 3-20 Buildings and improvements 10-40 Computer hardware and software 3-10 Transportation equipment and other 3-30 Leasehold improvements Shorter of remaining lease term or useful life 3-30 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. 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 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.
Intangible Assets	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 indefinite-life intangible asset impairment test consists of a comparison of the fair value of the indefinite-life intangible 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	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 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.
Derivative Instruments	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, our 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 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. 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. 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 same methodology on a consistent basis for assessing hedge effectiveness to all hedges within each hedging program (i.e., interest rate, foreign currency and fuel). We perform regression analyses over 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. 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. 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.
Foreign Currency Translations and Transactions	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 $57.6 million , $(75.6) million and $39.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , 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	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, 2018 and 2017 , we had counterparty credit risk exposure under our derivative instruments of approximately $5.6 million and $212.8 million , respectively, which were limited to the cost of replacing the contracts in the event of non-performance by the counterparties to the contracts, the majority of which are currently our lending banks. 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	Earnings Per Share Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing 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.
Stock-Based Employee Compensation	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	Segment Reporting We control and operate four global cruise brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Club Cruises and most recently, Silversea Cruises. We also own a 50% joint venture interest in the German brand TUI Cruises, a 49% interest in the Spanish brand Pullmantur and a 36% interest in the Chinese brand SkySea Cruises, which ceased cruising operations in September 2018. We believe our brands possess the versatility to enter multiple cruise market segments within the cruise vacation industry. Although each of these brands have 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 one segment. Refer to Note 4 . Revenues for passenger ticket revenue information by geographic area.
Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements	Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance codified in Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , and applied the guidance to all contracts using the modified retrospective method. The new standard converged wide-ranging revenue recognition concepts and requirements that lead to diversity in application for particular industries and transactions into a single revenue standard containing comprehensive principles for recognizing revenue. The cumulative effect of applying the newly issued guidance was not material and accordingly there was no adjustment made to our retained earnings upon adoption on January 1, 2018. The newly adopted guidance has not had a material impact on our consolidated financial statements on an ongoing basis. Due to the adoption of ASC 606, we currently present prepaid commissions as an asset within Prepaid expenses and other assets . In addition, we have 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. Refer to Note 4 . Revenues for disclosures with respect to our revenue recognition policies. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance in Accounting Standard Update ("ASU") 2016-16, Income Taxes 740: Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory , which requires the income tax consequences of an intra-entity transfer of an asset, other than inventory, to be recognized at the time that the transfer occurs, rather than when the asset is sold to an outside party. We adopted the standard using the modified retrospective method and recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment to reduce retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 by $6.6 million , which reflects the elimination of the deferred tax asset related to intercompany asset transfers. On January 1, 2018, we adopted the guidance in ASU 2017-12, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities , which was issued to simplify and align the financial reporting of hedging relationships to the economic results of an entity’s risk management activities. We adopted the amended guidance using the modified retrospective approach. Adoption of the guidance allowed us to modify the designated risk in our fair value interest rate hedges to the benchmark interest rate component, resulting in changes to the cumulative and ongoing fair value measurement for the hedged debt. Upon adoption, we also elected to hedge the contractually specified components of our commodities purchase contracts. For our cash flow hedges, there will be no periodic measurement or recognition of ineffectiveness. For all hedges, the earnings effect of the hedging instrument will be reported in the same period and in the same income statement line item in which the earnings effect of the hedged item is reported. As a result of the adoption of this guidance, we recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment to reduce retained earnings as of January 1, 2018 by $16.9 million . The cumulative-effect adjustment includes an increase to the debt carrying value of $14.4 million for our fair value interest rate hedges as of January 1, 2018, which reflects the cumulative fair value measurement change to debt at adoption resulting from the modified designated risk, and an increase to other comprehensive income (loss) of $2.5 million , which represents an increase to the deferred gain on active cash flow hedges at adoption. Additionally, the new standard requires modifications to existing presentation and disclosure requirements on a prospective basis. As such, disclosures for the year ended December 31, 2018 conform to these disclosure requirements. Refer to Note 16 . Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) and Note 17 . Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments for additional information. Recent Accounting Pronouncements 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 require the lease rights and obligations arising from the leasing arrangements, including operating leases, to be recognized as assets and liabilities on the balance sheet. The amendments also expand the required disclosures surrounding leasing arrangements. The guidance will be effective for our annual reporting period beginning after December 15, 2018, including interim periods therein. The amended guidance requires the use of a modified retrospective approach in applying the new lease accounting standard. We elected the optional transition method, which allows entities to initially apply the standard at the adoption date and recognize a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings in the period of adoption. The standard will have a material effect on our consolidated balance sheets due to the recognition of operating lease assets and operating lease liabilities primarily related to real estate, shipboard equipment and preferred berthing arrangements. Upon adoption, we expect that there will be no cumulative-effect adjustment of initially applying the guidance to our opening balance of retained earnings. We do not expect this amended guidance to have a material impact to our consolidated statements of comprehensive income, consolidated statements of cash flows and our debt-covenant compliance under our current agreements on an ongoing basis. Derivatives and Hedging In October 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-16, Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Inclusion of the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) Overnight Index Swap (OIS) Rate as a Benchmark Interest Rate for Hedge Accounting Purposes , which permits use of the OIS rate based on SOFR as a U.S. benchmark interest rate for purposes of applying hedge accounting. SOFR is a new index calculated by short-term repurchase agreements backed by U.S Treasury securities. The guidance is required to be adopted on a prospective basis for qualifying new or redesignated hedging relationships entered into on or after the adoption date. This ASU will be effective for our annual reporting period beginning January 1, 2019. The adoption of this newly issued guidance is not expected to have a material impact to our consolidated financial statements.
Change in Accounting Principle - Stock-based Compensation	Change in Accounting Principle - Stock-based Compensation In January 2018, we elected to change our accounting policy for recognizing stock-based compensation expense from the graded attribution method to the straight-line attribution method for time-based stock awards. The adoption of the straight-line attribution method for time-based stock awards represents a change in accounting principle which we believe to be preferable because it is the predominant method used in our industry. A change in accounting principle requires retrospective application, if material. The impact of the adoption of the straight-line attribution method to our time-based awards was immaterial to prior periods and to our year ended December 31, 2018. As a result, we have accounted for this change in accounting principle in our consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2018. The effect of this change was an increase to Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. of $9.2 million , or $0.04 per share for each of basic and diluted earnings per share, for year ended December 31, 2018, which is reported within Marketing, selling and administrative expenses in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss). Reclassifications For the year ended December 31, 2018, we separately presented Cash received on settlement of derivative financial instruments and Cash paid on settlement of derivative financial instruments in our consolidated statements of cash flows. As a result, prior years amounts were reclassified within Investing Activities to conform to current year presentation. Additionally, we have 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 to conform with current year presentation. Refer to the Adoption of Accounting Pronouncements presented above for further information on this reclassification .
Consolidation	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 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, 2018 through December 31, 2018 that would require further disclosure or adjustment to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2018 . 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. Effective July 31, 2016, we sold 51% of our interest in Pullmantur Holdings, the parent company of the Pullmantur brand. We retained 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. 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") and accounted for this change in accounting principle in our consolidated results for the year ended December 31, 2016. The impact of the elimination of the reporting lag was immaterial for our fiscal year ended December 31, 2016. Accordingly, the results of Pullmantur Holdings for November and December 2015 were 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 (expense) in our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) for the year ended December 31, 2016.

Summary of Significant Accoun_3

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Useful Lives of Property and Equipment Used in Computation of Depreciation	Depreciation of property and equipment is computed utilizing the following useful lives: Years Ships generally 30 Ship improvements 3-20 Buildings and improvements 10-40 Computer hardware and software 3-10 Transportation equipment and other 3-30 Leasehold improvements Shorter of remaining lease term or useful life 3-30

Business Combination (Tables)

Business Combination (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions	The following table summarizes the purchase price allocation based on preliminary estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition as of July 31, 2018. We have not finalized the allocation of the purchase price as it requires extensive use of accounting estimates and valuation methodologies in the determination of such fair values. (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, net 5,640 1,523 7,163 Inventories 19,004 (673 ) 18,331 Prepaid expenses and other assets (2) 119,920 576 120,496 Derivative financial instruments 2,886 — 2,886 Property and equipment, net (3) 1,109,467 4,803 1,114,270 Goodwill 1,086,539 3,471 1,090,010 Other assets (4) 494,657 3,800 498,457 Total assets acquired 2,941,978 13,500 2,955,478 Liabilities Current portion of long-term debt (5) 26,851 — 26,851 Accounts payable 36,960 — 36,960 Accrued interest 1,773 — 1,773 Accrued expenses and other liabilities 80,571 1,960 82,531 Customer deposits 453,798 — 453,798 Long-term debt (5) 727,935 — 727,935 Other long-term liabilities 12,320 11,540 23,860 Total liabilities assumed 1,340,208 13,500 1,353,708 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 the fourth quarter of 2018, which resulted in a net increase to Goodwill of $3.5 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 two 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. (6) Refer to Note 10 . Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest for further information on the redeemable noncontrolling interest recorde

Revenues (Tables)

Revenues (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Disaggregation of Revenue	The following table disaggregates our total revenues by geographic regions where we provide cruise itineraries (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Revenues by itinerary North America (1) $ 5,399,951 $ 5,062,305 $ 4,606,875 Asia/Pacific (2) 1,463,083 1,588,802 1,536,799 Europe (3) 1,914,549 1,509,586 1,711,496 Other regions 348,145 285,954 354,529 Total revenues by itinerary 9,125,728 8,446,647 8,209,699 Other revenues (4) 368,121 331,198 286,702 Total revenues $ 9,493,849 $ 8,777,845 $ 8,496,401 (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. 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. For the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , our guests were sourced from the following areas: Year Ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Passenger ticket revenues: United States 61 % 59 % 55 % United Kingdom 10 % 9 % 10 % All other countries (1) 29 % 32 % 35 % (1) No other individual country's revenue exceeded 10% for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 .

Goodwill (Tables)

Goodwill (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Carrying Amount of Goodwill	The carrying amount of goodwill attributable to our Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises reporting units and the changes in such balances during the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows (in thousands): Royal Caribbean International Celebrity Cruises Silversea Cruises Total Balance at December 31, 2016 $ 286,754 $ 1,632 $ — $ 288,386 Foreign currency translation adjustment 126 — — 126 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, 2018 $ 286,711 $ 1,632 $ 1,090,010 $ 1,378,353 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) In 2018, we purchased Silversea Cruises. Refer to Note 3 . Business Combination for further information.

Intangible Assets (Tables)

Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
Schedule of Intangible Assets	The following is a summary of our intangible assets as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands, except weighted average amortization period): As of December 31, 2018 Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years) Gross Carrying Value Accumulated Amortization Net Carrying Value Finite-life intangible assets: Customer relationships 14.8 $ 97,400 $ 1,082 $ 96,318 Galapagos operating licenses 25.8 47,669 4,206 43,463 Other finite-life intangible assets 1.8 11,560 963 10,597 Total finite-life intangible assets 156,629 6,251 150,378 Indefinite-life intangible assets 351,725 — 351,725 Total intangible assets, net $ 508,354 $ 6,251 $ 502,103
Schedule of Acquired Intangible Assets	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 relationships 97,400 15 Galapagos operating license 36,100 26 Other finite-life intangible assets 11,560 2 Total intangible assets $ 494,560
Schedule of Future Amortization Expense	The estimated future amortization for finite-life intangible assets for each of the next five years is as follows (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 13,959 2020 $ 12,995 2021 $ 8,179 2022 $ 8,179 2023 $ 8,179

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and equipment	Property and equipment consists of the following (in thousands): As of December 31, 2018 2017 Ships $ 27,209,553 $ 23,714,745 Ship improvements 2,965,634 2,410,525 Ships under construction 817,800 642,235 Land, buildings and improvements, including leasehold improvements and port facilities 321,136 250,079 Computer hardware and software, transportation equipment and other 1,120,988 762,512 Total property and equipment 32,435,111 27,780,096 Less—accumulated depreciation and amortization (1) (8,968,948 ) (8,044,916 ) $ 23,466,163 $ 19,735,180 (1) Amount includes accumulated depreciation and amortization for assets in service.

Other Assets Other Assets (Tabl

Other Assets Other Assets (Table)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Assets [Abstract]
Schedule of other non-operating income	The following tables 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, 2018 2017 2016 Share of equity income from investments $ 210,756 $ 156,247 $ 128,350 Dividends received $ 243,101 $ 109,677 $ 75,942
Related party transactions	We recorded the following as it relates to these services in our operating results within our consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss) (in thousands): Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Revenues $ 54,705 $ 53,532 $ 30,517 Expenses $ 11,531 $ 15,176 $ 12,795 As of December 31, 2018 2017 Total notes receivable due from equity investments $ 201,979 $ 314,323 Less-current portion (1) 19,075 38,658 Long-term portion (2) $ 182,904 $ 275,665 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) Included within Trade and other receivables, net in our consolidated balance sheets. (2) Included within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets.
Summarized balance sheet information of affiliates accounted for under the equity method of accounting	Summarized financial information for our affiliates accounted for under the equity method of accounting was as follows (in thousands): As of December 31, 2018 2017 Current assets $ 471,428 $ 532,330 Non-current assets 3,826,018 3,673,613 Total assets $ 4,297,446 $ 4,205,943 Current liabilities $ 1,064,741 $ 1,152,193 Non- current liabilities 2,217,909 1,974,166 Total liabilities $ 3,282,650 $ 3,126,359 Equity attributable to: Noncontrolling interest $ 1,672 $ 1,753
Summarized income statement sheet information of affiliates accounted for under the equity method of accounting	Year ended December 31, 2018 2017 2016 Total revenues $ 2,255,352 $ 1,994,014 $ 1,340,662 Total expenses (1,779,160 ) (1,684,276 ) (1,078,470 ) Net income $ 476,192 $ 309,738 $ 262,192

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Long Term Debt	Debt consists of the following (in thousands): As of December 31, Interest Rate Maturities Through 2018 2017 Fixed rate debt: Senior notes 2.65% to 7.50% 2020 - 2028 $ 1,724,194 $ 1,866,359 Secured senior notes 7.25% 2025 670,437 — Unsecured term loans 2.53% to 5.41% 2021 - 2030 2,148,351 333,351 Total fixed rate debt 4,542,982 2,199,710 Variable rate debt (1) : Unsecured revolving credit facilities (2) 3.54% to 3.61% 2020 - 2022 795,000 580,000 Commercial paper 3.19% 2019 775,488 — USD unsecured term loan 2.92% to 6.52% 2019 - 2028 4,005,848 4,079,670 Euro unsecured term loan 1.15% to 1.58% 2021 - 2028 734,176 814,085 Total variable rate debt 6,310,512 5,473,755 Capital lease obligations 130,944 33,139 Total debt (3) 10,984,438 7,706,604 Less: unamortized debt issuance costs (206,739 ) (167,153 ) Total debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs 10,777,699 7,539,451 Less—current portion including commercial paper (2,422,329 ) (1,188,514 ) Long-term portion $ 8,355,370 $ 6,350,937 (1) Calculation based on outstanding loan balance and interest rate as of December 31, 2018 . For variable rate debt, interest rate includes either LIBOR or EURIBOR plus the applicable margin. (2) Includes $1.4 billion facility due in 2020 and $1.2 billion due in 2022 , each of which accrue interest at LIBOR plus 1.10% , currently 3.91% , and are subject to a facility fee of 0.15% . (3) At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , the weighted average interest rate for total debt was 4.14% and 3.92% , respectively.
Schedule of Annual Maturities on Long-Term Debt Including Capital Leases	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, 2018 for each of the next five years (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 2,422,329 2020 1,681,978 2021 843,976 2022 1,607,975 2023 664,025 Thereafter 3,557,416 $ 10,777,699

Redeemable Non-controlling In_2

Redeemable Non-controlling Interest (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Schedule of Redeemable Non-controlling Interest	The following table presents changes in the redeemable noncontrolling interest as of December 31, 2018 (in thousands): Balance as at January 1, 2018 $ — Additions (Silversea Cruises acquisition) 537,770 Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, including the contractual accretion of the put options 4,750 Other (500 ) Balance at December 31, 2018 $ 542,020

Stock-Based Employee Compensa_2

Stock-Based Employee Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total Compensation Expense Recognized for Employee Stock-based Compensation	Total compensation expense recognized for employee stock-based compensation for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was as follows (in thousands): Employee Stock-Based Compensation Classification of expense 2018 2017 2016 Marketing, selling and administrative expenses $ 46,061 $ 69,459 $ 32,659 Total compensation expense $ 46,061 $ 69,459 $ 32,659
Summary Stock Option Activity	Stock option activity and information about stock options outstanding are summarized in the following table: Stock Option Activity Number of Weighted- Weighted- Aggregate (1) (years) (in thousands) Outstanding at January 1, 2018 272,724 $ 32.15 1.41 $ 24,053 Granted — — Exercised (117,977 ) $ 36.14 Canceled (1,654 ) $ 32.49 Outstanding at December 31, 2018 153,093 $ 29.06 1.23 $ 10,399 Vested at December 31, 2018 153,093 $ 29.06 1.23 $ 10,399 Options Exercisable at December 31, 2018 153,093 $ 29.06 1.23 $ 10,399 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) The intrinsic value represents the amount by which the fair value of stock exceeds the option exercise price.
Summary of Restricted Stock Activity	Restricted stock activity is summarized in the following table: Restricted Stock Units Activity Number of Weighted- Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2018 737,899 $ 83.78 Granted 392,427 $ 122.12 Vested (276,059 ) $ 78.09 Canceled (53,682 ) $ 101.82 Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2018 800,585 $ 103.32
Summary of Performance share activity	Performance share units activity is summarized in the following table: Performance Share Units Activity Number of Weighted- Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2018 353,150 $ 74.87 Granted 184,550 $ 97.98 Vested (218,568 ) $ 72.79 Canceled (16,571 ) $ 109.46 Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2018 302,561 $ 88.57
Senior Officers
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Summary of Restricted Stock Activity	Restricted stock awards activity is summarized in the following table: Restricted Stock Awards Activity Number of Weighted- Non-vested share units as of January 1, 2018 270,176 $ 81.28 Granted 120,022 $ 129.23 Vested — — Canceled — — Non-vested share units as of December 31, 2018 390,198 $ 96.03

Earnings Per Share (Tables)

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Reconciliation Between Basic and Diluted 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, 2018 2017 2016 Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for basic and diluted earnings per share $ 1,811,042 $ 1,625,133 $ 1,283,388 Weighted-average common shares outstanding 210,570 214,617 215,393 Dilutive effect of stock-based awards 984 1,077 923 Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding 211,554 215,694 216,316 Basic earnings per share $ 8.60 $ 7.57 $ 5.96 Diluted earnings per share $ 8.56 $ 7.53 $ 5.93

Changes in Accumulated Other _2

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	The following table presents the changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss by component for the years ended December 31, 2018 and 2017 (in thousands): Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges Changes in defined Foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income Accumulated comprehensive loss at January 1, 2016 $ (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 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 January 1, 2017 (820,850 ) (28,083 ) (67,551 ) (916,484 ) Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications 381,865 (6,755 ) 17,307 392,417 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 188,630 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 (loss) income before reclassifications (297,994 ) 6,156 (14,251 ) (306,089 ) Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss 11,133 1,487 — 12,620 Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income (286,861 ) 7,643 (14,251 ) (293,469 ) Accumulated comprehensive loss at December 31, 2018 $ (537,216 ) $ (26,023 ) $ (64,495 ) $ (627,734 )
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	The following table presents reclassifications out of accumulated other comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31, 2018 , 2017 and 2016 (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Affected Line Item in Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: Interest rate swaps (10,931 ) (31,603 ) (41,480 ) Interest expense, net of interest capitalized Foreign currency forward contracts (12,843 ) (10,840 ) (8,114 ) Depreciation and amortization expenses Foreign currency forward contracts 12,855 (9,472 ) (14,342 ) Other income (expense) Foreign currency forward contracts — — (207 ) Other indirect operating expenses Foreign currency collar options — (2,408 ) (2,408 ) Depreciation and amortization expenses Fuel swaps (1,580 ) 7,382 13,685 Other income (expense) Fuel swaps 1,366 (141,689 ) (284,384 ) Fuel (11,133 ) (188,630 ) (337,250 ) Amortization of defined benefit plans: Actuarial loss (1,487 ) (1,172 ) (1,141 ) Payroll and related (1,487 ) (1,172 ) (1,141 ) Total reclassifications for the period $ (12,620 ) $ (189,802 ) $ (338,391 )

Fair Value Measurements and D_2

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Derivative instruments disclosure
Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments that are not Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	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, 2018 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Description Total 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) Assets: Cash and cash equivalents (4) $ 287,852 $ 287,852 $ 287,852 — — $ 120,112 $ 120,112 $ 120,112 — — Total Assets $ 287,852 $ 287,852 $ 287,852 $ — $ — $ 120,112 $ 120,112 $ 120,112 $ — $ — Liabilities: Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt) (5) $ 9,871,267 $ 10,244,214 — $ 10,244,214 — $ 7,506,312 $ 8,038,092 — $ 8,038,092 — Total Liabilities $ 9,871,267 $ 10,244,214 $ — $ 10,244,214 $ — $ 7,506,312 $ 8,038,092 $ — $ 8,038,092 $ — ___________________________________________________________________ (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, 2018 and 2017 . (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.
Company's Financial Instruments Recorded at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	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, 2018 Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2017 Description Total Fair Value Level 1 (1) Level 2 (2) Level 3 (3) Total Fair Value Level 1 (1) Level 2 (2) Level 3 (3) Assets: Derivative financial instruments (4) $ 65,297 $ — $ 65,297 $ — $ 320,385 $ — $ 320,385 $ — Investments (5) — — — — 3,340 3,340 — — Total Assets $ 65,297 $ — $ 65,297 $ — $ 323,725 $ 3,340 $ 320,385 $ — Liabilities: Derivative financial instruments (6) $ 201,812 $ — $ 201,812 $ — $ 115,961 $ — $ 115,961 $ — Contingent consideration (7) 44,000 — — 44,000 — — — — Total Liabilities $ 245,812 $ — $ 201,812 $ 44,000 $ 115,961 $ — $ 115,961 $ — ___________________________________________________________________ (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. The Company did not use any Level 3 inputs as of December 31, 2017 . (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 exchange-traded equity securities and mutual funds reported within Other assets in our consolidated balance sheets. (6) 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. (7) The contingent consideration related to the Silversea Cruises acquisition was 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.
Offsetting Assets	The following table presents information about the Company’s offsetting of financial assets under master netting agreements with derivative counterparties (in thousands): Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Derivatives subject to master netting agreements $ 65,297 $ (60,303 ) $ — $ 4,994 $ 320,385 $ (104,751 ) $ — $ 215,634 Total $ 65,297 $ (60,303 ) $ — $ 4,994 $ 320,385 $ (104,751 ) $ — $ 215,634
Offsetting Liabilities	The following table presents information about the Company’s offsetting of financial liabilities under master netting agreements with derivative counterparties (in thousands): Gross Amounts not Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheet that are Subject to Master Netting Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Cash Collateral Net Amount of Derivatives subject to master netting agreements $ (201,812 ) $ 60,303 $ — $ (141,509 ) $ (115,961 ) $ 104,751 $ — $ (11,210 ) Total $ (201,812 ) $ 60,303 $ — $ (141,509 ) $ (115,961 ) $ 104,751 $ — $ (11,210 )
Fuel Swap Agreements	As of December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we had the following outstanding fuel swap agreements: Fuel Swap Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 (metric tons) 2018 — 673,700 2019 856,800 668,500 2020 830,500 531,200 2021 488,900 224,900 2022 322,900 — Fuel Swap Agreements As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 (% hedged) Projected fuel purchases for year: 2018 — 50 % 2019 58 % 46 % 2020 54 % 36 % 2021 28 % 14 % 2022 19 % —
Fair Value And Line item Caption of Derivative Instruments	The fair value and line item caption of derivative instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets for the cumulative basis adjustment for fair value hedges were as follows (in thousands): Line Item in the Statement of Financial Position Where the Hedged Item is Included Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities Cumulative amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Current portion of long-term debt and Long-term debt $ 725,486 $ 749,155 $ (24,766 ) $ (34,813 ) $ 725,486 $ 749,155 $ (24,766 ) $ (34,813 ) The fair value and line item caption of derivative instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets were as follows (in thousands): Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Asset Derivatives Liability Derivatives Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Balance Sheet As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Fair Value Fair Value Fair Value Fair Value Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 (1) Interest rate swaps Other assets $ 23,518 $ 7,330 Other long-term liabilities $ 40,467 $ 46,509 Foreign currency forward contracts Derivative financial instruments 4,044 68,352 Derivative financial instruments 39,665 — Foreign currency forward contracts Other assets 10,844 158,879 Other long-term liabilities 16,854 6,625 Fuel swaps Derivative financial instruments 10,966 13,137 Derivative financial instruments 37,627 38,488 Fuel swaps Other assets 9,204 51,265 Other long-term liabilities 65,182 13,411 Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 58,576 298,963 199,795 105,033 Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 Foreign currency forward contracts Derivative financial Instruments 1,751 9,945 Derivative financial instruments 808 2,933 Foreign currency forward contracts Other assets 1,579 2,793 Other long-term liabilities 833 1,139 Fuel swaps Derivative financial instruments 2,804 7,886 Derivative financial instruments 376 6,043 Fuel swaps Other assets 587 798 Other long-term liabilities — 813 Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20 6,721 21,422 2,017 10,928 Total derivatives $ 65,297 $ 320,385 $ 201,812 $ 115,961 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) Accounting Standard Codification 815-20 " Derivatives and Hedging."
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	The location and amount of gain or (loss) recognized in income on fair value and cash flow hedging relationships were as follows (in thousands): Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Fuel Expense Depreciation and Amortization Expenses Interest Income (Expense) Other Income (Expense) Fuel Expense Depreciation and Amortization Expenses Interest 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 $710,617 $1,033,697 $(300,872) $ 11,107 $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 items n/a n/a $ 4,673 — n/a n/a — $ 6,065 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments n/a n/a $ (8,854 ) — n/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 income n/a n/a $ (10,931 ) n/a n/a n/a $ (31,603 ) n/a Commodity contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income $ 1,366 n/a n/a $ (1,580 ) $ (141,689 ) n/a n/a $ 7,382 Foreign exchange contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income n/a $ (12,843 ) n/a $ 12,855 n/a $ (13,248 ) n/a $ (9,472 ) Year Ended December 31, 2016 Fuel Expense Depreciation and Amortization Expenses Interest 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 $ 713,676 $ 894,915 $ (286,514 ) $ (35,653 ) The effects of fair value and cash flow hedging: Gain or (loss) on fair value hedging relationships in Subtopic 815-20 Interest contracts Hedged items n/a n/a $ 7,203 $ 5,072 Derivatives designated as hedging instruments n/a n/a $ 7,488 $ (3,625 ) 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 income n/a n/a $ (41,480 ) n/a Commodity contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income $ (284,384 ) n/a n/a $ 13,685 Foreign exchange contracts Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income n/a $ (10,522 ) n/a $ (14,342 )
Fair Value and Line Item Caption of Non-derivative Instruments	The carrying value and line item caption of non-derivative instruments designated as hedging instruments recorded within our consolidated balance sheets were as follows (in thousands): Carrying Value Non-derivative instrument designated as Balance Sheet Location As of December 31, 2018 As of December 31, 2017 Foreign currency debt Current portion of long-term debt $ 38,168 $ 70,097 Foreign currency debt Long-term debt 281,984 225,226 $ 320,152 $ 295,323
Effect of Non-derivative Instruments Qualifying and Designated as Hedging Instruments in Net Investment Hedges on Consolidated Financial Statements	The effect of non-derivative instruments qualifying and designated as net investment hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Non-derivative instruments under ASC 815-20 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Foreign Currency Debt $ 13,210 $ (38,971 ) $ 20,295 $ 13,210 $ (38,971 ) $ 20,295
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative instruments disclosure
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	The effect of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Location of Gain (Loss) Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Foreign currency forward contracts Other income (expense) $ (62,423 ) $ 61,952 $ (51,029 ) Fuel swaps Fuel 1,161 — — Fuel swaps Other income (expense) 114 (1,133 ) (1,000 ) $ (61,148 ) $ 60,819 $ (52,029 )
Fair value hedging
Derivative instruments disclosure
Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives	At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following fixed-rate debt instruments: Debt Instrument Swap Notional as of December 31, 2018 (In thousands) Maturity Debt Fixed Rate Swap Floating Rate: LIBOR plus All-in Swap Floating Rate as of December 31, 2018 Oasis of the Seas term loan $ 105,000 October 2021 5.41% 3.87% 6.63% Unsecured senior notes 650,000 November 2022 5.25% 3.63% 6.25% $ 755,000
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	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 (in thousands): 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, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Interest rate swaps Interest expense, net of interest capitalized $ (8,854 ) $ 3,007 $ 7,488 $ 4,673 $ — $ 7,203 Interest rate swaps Other income (expense) — (3,139 ) (3,625 ) — 6,065 5,072 $ (8,854 ) $ (132 ) $ 3,863 $ 4,673 $ 6,065 $ 12,275
Cash flow hedge
Derivative instruments disclosure
Schedule of Interest Rate Derivatives	At December 31, 2018 and 2017 , we maintained interest rate swap agreements on the following floating-rate debt instruments: Debt Instrument Swap Notional as of December 31, 2018 (In thousands) Maturity Debt Floating Rate All-in Swap Fixed Rate Celebrity Reflection term loan $ 327,250 October 2024 LIBOR plus 0.40% 2.85% Quantum of the Seas term loan 490,000 October 2026 LIBOR plus 1.30% 3.74% Anthem of the Seas term loan 513,542 April 2027 LIBOR plus 1.30% 3.86% Ovation of the Seas term loan 657,083 April 2028 LIBOR plus 1.00% 3.16% Harmony of the Seas term loan (1) 627,660 May 2028 EURIBOR plus 1.15% 2.26% $ 2,615,535 ___________________________________________________________________ (1) Interest rate swap agreements hedging the Euro-denominated term loan for Harmony of the Seas include a EURIBOR zero-floor matching the hedged debt EURIBOR zero-floor. Amount presented is based on the exchange rate as of December 31, 2018 .
Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance	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, 2018 Net inception fair value at January 1, 2018 $ (11,335 ) Amount of gain recognized in income on derivatives for the year ended December 31, 2018 2,976 Amount of loss remaining to be amortized in accumulated other comprehensive loss as of December 31, 2018 (1,339 ) Fair value at December 31, 2018 (9,698 ) The effect of derivative instruments qualifying and designated as cash flow hedging instruments on the consolidated financial statements was as follows (in thousands): Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) on Derivative Location of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income into Income Derivatives under ASC 815-20 Cash Flow Hedging Relationships Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Year Ended December 31, 2018 Year Ended December 31, 2017 Year Ended December 31, 2016 Interest rate swaps $ 18,578 $ (13,312 ) $ (31,049 ) Interest expense $ (10,931 ) $ (31,603 ) $ (41,480 ) Foreign currency forward contracts (222,645 ) 276,573 (51,092 ) Depreciation and amortization expenses (12,843 ) (10,840 ) (8,114 ) Foreign currency forward contracts — — — Other income (expense) 12,855 (9,472 ) (14,342 ) Foreign currency forward contracts — — — Other indirect operating expenses — — (207 ) Foreign currency collar options — — — Depreciation and amortization expenses — (2,408 ) (2,408 ) Fuel swaps — — — Other income (expense) (1,580 ) 7,382 13,685 Fuel swaps (93,927 ) 118,604 156,139 Fuel 1,366 (141,689 ) (284,384 ) $ (297,994 ) $ 381,865 $ 73,998 $ (11,133 ) $ (188,630 ) $ (337,250 )

Commitments and Contingencies (

Commitments and Contingencies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases	As of December 31, 2018 , future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases were as follows (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 67,682 2020 64,237 2021 56,142 2022 52,759 2023 52,522 Thereafter 383,974 $ 677,316
Schedule of future commitments to pay for usage of port facilities, marine consumables, services and maintenance contracts	At December 31, 2018 , we have future commitments to pay for our usage of certain port facilities, marine consumables, services and maintenance contracts as follows (in thousands): Year 2019 $ 224,253 2020 184,308 2021 136,917 2022 79,401 2023 45,266 Thereafter 149,696 $ 819,841

Quarterly Selected Financial _2

Quarterly Selected Financial Data (Unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Selected Financial Data	(In thousands, except per share data) First Quarter Second Quarter Third Quarter Fourth Quarter 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 Total revenues (1) $ 2,027,756 $ 2,008,560 $ 2,337,605 $ 2,195,274 $ 2,796,187 $ 2,569,544 $ 2,332,301 $ 2,004,467 Operating income $ 274,146 $ 279,522 $ 456,895 $ 419,697 $ 799,733 $ 737,488 $ 364,027 $ 307,349 Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. $ 218,653 $ 214,726 $ 466,295 $ 369,526 $ 810,391 $ 752,842 $ 315,703 $ 288,039 Earnings per share Basic $ 1.03 $ 1.00 $ 2.20 $ 1.72 $ 3.88 $ 3.51 $ 1.51 $ 1.35 Diluted $ 1.02 $ 0.99 $ 2.19 $ 1.71 $ 3.86 $ 3.49 $ 1.50 $ 1.34 Dividends declared per share $ 0.60 $ 0.480 $ 0.60 $ 0.480 $ 0.70 $ 0.60 $ 0.70 $ 0.60 ___________________________________________________________________ (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.

General (Details)

General (Details) destination in Thousands, $ in Millions	Jul. 31, 2018USD ($)shipcontinent	Dec. 31, 2018shipdestinationbrand	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)ship	Jul. 31, 2016
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of cruise brands | brand		4
Number of ships in operation | ship		60
Number of destinations | destination		1
Loss from subsidiaries | $			$ 21.7
Minimum
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest		20.00%
Maximum
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest		50.00%
TUI Cruises
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest		50.00%
Pullmantur
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest		49.00%
Number of ships in operation | ship		4	4
Percentage of subsidiary which has been sold		51.00%	51.00%	51.00%
Retained ownership percentage of subsidiary after sale		49.00%
Consolidation time lag		2 months
SkySea Cruises
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest		36.00%
Other income (expense) | Pullmantur
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss from subsidiaries | $			$ 21.7
Silversea Cruises
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Number of continents | continent	7
Percentage of business acquired	66.70%
Payments to acquire business | $	$ 1,020
Number of ships acquired | ship	9	9

Summary of Significant Accoun_4

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Narrative) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)brandsegment$ / shares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Jan. 01, 2018USD ($)
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Exchange gains (losses) recorded in other income (expense)	$ 57,600	$ (75,600)	$ 39,800
Exposure under foreign currency forward contracts, foreign currency collar options, fuel call options, interest rate and fuel swap agreements	$ 5,600	212,800
Number of cruise brands | brand	4
Number of operating segments | segment	1
Decrease to customer deposits	$ (1,900,000)	(1,400,000)
Cumulative effect of accounting changes				$ (23,476)
Change in net income	$ 9,200
Change in accounting principle, effect on basic earnings per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 0.04
Change in accounting principle, effect on diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 0.04
Lower Limit
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest	20.00%
Upper Limit
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest	50.00%
Ships
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	30 years
Projected residual value	15.00%
Ships | Lower Limit
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Drydock services period	30 months
Ships | Upper Limit
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Drydock services period	60 months
Media advertising
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Advertising costs	$ 255,700	233,500	240,300
Brochure, production and direct mail costs
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Advertising costs	$ 133,400	$ 126,700	$ 120,800
Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 | Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Prepaid expenses and other assets				64,600
Decrease to customer deposits				64,600
Retained Earnings
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of accounting changes				(23,476)
Retained Earnings | Accounting Standards Update 2016-16
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of accounting changes				(6,600)
Retained Earnings | Accounting Standards Update 2017-12
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of accounting changes				(16,900)
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) | Accounting Standards Update 2017-12
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of accounting changes				2,500
Debt | Accounting Standards Update 2017-12
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Cumulative effect of accounting changes				$ 14,400
TUI Cruises
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest	50.00%
Pullmantur
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest	49.00%
SkySea Cruises
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest	36.00%

Summary of Significant Accoun_5

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Useful Lives of Property and Equipment) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018
Ships
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	30 years
Ship improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Ship improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	20 years
Buildings and improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	10 years
Buildings and improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	40 years
Computer hardware and software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Computer hardware and software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	10 years
Transportation equipment and other | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Transportation equipment and other | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	30 years
Leasehold improvements | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	3 years
Leasehold improvements | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, plant and equipment, useful life	30 years

Business Combination (Narrative

Business Combination (Narrative) (Details) - Silversea Cruises - USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Percentage of business acquired	66.70%	66.70%
Payments to acquire business	$ 1,020,000,000
Contingent consideration	44,000,000	$ 44,000,000
Revenue since acquisition			$ 130,100,000
Net income since acquisition			3,300,000
Transaction costs			$ 31,800,000
Silversea Cruises
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Long-term debt	$ 700,000,000	$ 700,000,000		$ 700,000,000
Minimum
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Contingent consideration, shares (in shares)		0
Maximum
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Contingent consideration, shares (in shares)		472,000

Business Combination (Schedule

Business Combination (Schedule of Assets and Liabilities) (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)ship	Jul. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)
Assets
Goodwill	$ 1,378,353		$ 288,512	$ 288,386
Liabilities
Cash held as collateral		$ 32,000
Number of ships under capital leases | ship	2
Intangible assets	$ 494,560
Silversea Cruises
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents	103,865	103,865
Cash and cash equivalents, measurement period adjustments	0
Trade and other receivables, net	7,163	5,640
Trade and other receivables, net, measurement period adjustments	1,523
Inventories	18,331	19,004
Inventories, measurement period adjustments	(673)
Prepaid expenses and other assets	120,496	119,920
Prepaid expenses and other assets, measurement period adjustments	576
Derivative financial instruments	2,886	2,886
Derivative financial instruments, measurement period adjustments	0
Property and equipment, net	1,114,270	1,109,467
Property and equipment, net, measurement period adjustments	4,803
Goodwill	1,090,010	1,086,539
Goodwill, measurement period adjustments	3,471
Other assets	498,457	494,657
Other assets, measurement period adjustments	3,800
Total assets acquired	2,955,478	2,941,978
Total assets acquired, measurement period adjustments	13,500
Liabilities
Current portion of long-term debt	26,851	26,851
Current portion of long-term debt, measurement period adjustments	0
Accounts payable	36,960	36,960
Accounts payable, measurement period adjustments	0
Customer deposits	453,798	453,798
Customer deposits, measurement period adjustments	0
Long-term debt	727,935	727,935
Long-term debt, measurement period adjustments	0
Other long-term liabilities	23,860	12,320
Other long-term liabilities, measurement period adjustments	11,540
Total liabilities assumed	1,353,708	1,340,208
Total liabilities assumed, measurement period adjustments	13,500
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	537,770	537,770
Redeemable noncontrolling interest, measurement period adjustments	0
Total purchase price	1,064,000	1,064,000
Total purchase price, measurement period adjustments	$ 0
Number of ships under capital leases | ship	2
Capital leases assets		156,000
Accrued interest | Silversea Cruises
Liabilities
Current liabilities, other	$ 1,773	1,773
Current liabilities, other, measurement period adjustments	0
Accrued expenses and other liabilities | Silversea Cruises
Liabilities
Current liabilities, other	82,531	$ 80,571
Current liabilities, other, measurement period adjustments	$ 1,960

Revenues (Narrative) (Details)

Revenues (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 9,493,849	$ 8,777,845	$ 8,496,401
Contract liabilities	1,900,000	1,400,000
Contract assets	57,800	60,100
Commissions, transportation and other
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Capitalized contract costs	$ 153,500	64,600
Minimum
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Duration of cruises	2 days
Maximum
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Duration of cruises	25 days
Port Costs
Capitalized Contract Cost [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 611,400	$ 569,500	$ 570,300

Revenues (Disaggregation of Rev

Revenues (Disaggregation of Revenue) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 9,493,849	$ 8,777,845	$ 8,496,401
Passenger ticket | Other regions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues by country	29.00%	32.00%	35.00%
Passenger ticket | United States
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues by country	61.00%	59.00%	55.00%
Passenger ticket | United Kingdom
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Percentage of revenues by country	10.00%	9.00%	10.00%
Cruise itinerary
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 9,125,728	$ 8,446,647	$ 8,209,699
Cruise itinerary | North America
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	5,399,951	5,062,305	4,606,875
Cruise itinerary | Asia/Pacific
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	1,463,083	1,588,802	1,536,799
Cruise itinerary | Europe
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	1,914,549	1,509,586	1,711,496
Cruise itinerary | Other regions
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	348,145	285,954	354,529
Other revenues
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues	$ 368,121	$ 331,198	$ 286,702

Goodwill (Details)

Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 288,512	$ 288,386
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(169)	126
Goodwill attributable to the acquisition of Silversea Cruises	1,090,010
Ending balance	1,378,353	288,512
Royal Caribbean International
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	286,880	286,754
Foreign currency translation adjustment	(169)	126
Goodwill attributable to the acquisition of Silversea Cruises	0
Ending balance	286,711	286,880
Celebrity Cruises
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	1,632	1,632
Foreign currency translation adjustment	0	0
Goodwill attributable to the acquisition of Silversea Cruises	0
Ending balance	1,632	1,632
Silversea Cruises
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0	0
Foreign currency translation adjustment	0	0
Goodwill attributable to the acquisition of Silversea Cruises	1,090,010
Ending balance	$ 1,090,010	$ 0

Goodwill Narrative (Details)

Goodwill Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Impairment charge	$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Intangible Assets (Schedule of

Intangible Assets (Schedule of Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-life intangible assets, gross carrying value	$ 156,629
Finite-life intangible assets, accumulated amortization	6,251
Finite-life intangible assets, net carrying value	150,378
Indefinite-life intangible assets	351,725
Gross Carrying Value	508,354
Net Carrying Value	502,103
Customer relationships
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-life intangible assets, gross carrying value	97,400
Finite-life intangible assets, accumulated amortization	1,082
Finite-life intangible assets, net carrying value	$ 96,318
Customer relationships | Weighted Average
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	14 years 9 months 18 days
Galapagos operating licenses
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-life intangible assets, gross carrying value	$ 47,669	$ 11,600
Finite-life intangible assets, accumulated amortization	4,206	$ 3,700
Finite-life intangible assets, net carrying value	$ 43,463
Galapagos operating licenses | Weighted Average
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	25 years 9 months 7 days
Other finite-life intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-life intangible assets, gross carrying value	$ 11,560
Finite-life intangible assets, accumulated amortization	963
Finite-life intangible assets, net carrying value	$ 10,597
Other finite-life intangible assets | Weighted Average
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Remaining Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	1 year 9 months 18 days

Intangible Assets (Narrative) (

Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	$ 156,629
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	6,251
Galapagos operating licenses
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross	47,669	$ 11,600
Finite-lived intangible assets, accumulated amortization	$ 4,206	$ 3,700
Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	26 years	26 years 7 months 6 days

Intangible Assets (Acquired Int

Intangible Assets (Acquired Intangible Assets) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Intangible assets	$ 494,560
Customer relationships
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets	$ 97,400
Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	15 years
Galapagos operating licenses
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets	$ 36,100
Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	26 years	26 years 7 months 6 days
Other finite-life intangible assets
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-lived intangible assets	$ 11,560
Weighted Average Amortization Period (Years)	2 years
Silversea Cruises trade name
Acquired Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Indefinite-lived intangible assets	$ 349,500

Intangible Assets (Future Amort

Intangible Assets (Future Amortization Expense) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) [Abstract]
2,019	$ 13,959
2,020	12,995
2,021	8,179
2,022	8,179
2,023	$ 8,179

Property and Equipment (Schedul

Property and Equipment (Schedule of Property and Equipment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Ships	$ 27,209,553	$ 23,714,745
Ship improvements	2,965,634	2,410,525
Ships under construction	817,800	642,235
Land, buildings and improvements, including leasehold improvements and port facilities	321,136	250,079
Computer hardware and software, transportation equipment and other	1,120,988	762,512
Total property and equipment	32,435,111	27,780,096
Less-accumulated depreciation and amortization	(8,968,948)	(8,044,916)
Property and equipment, net	$ 23,466,163	$ 19,735,180

Property and Equipment (Narrati

Property and Equipment (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)ship	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)loanaircraft	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)ship	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)ship	Jul. 31, 2018ship	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Jul. 31, 2016
Property and Equipment
Capitalized interest cost | $	$ 49,600	$ 24,200	$ 25,300
Number of ships under capital leases | ship	2			2
Principal and Interest payments received | $	$ 124,238	62,303	38,213
Gain on sale of equipment | $	$ 21,794	0	$ 0
Number of cruise ships | ship	60			60
Pullmantur
Property and Equipment
Percentage of subsidiary which has been sold	51.00%		51.00%	51.00%			51.00%
Number of cruise ships | ship	4		4	4
Maritime Equipment
Property and Equipment
Gain on sale of equipment | $		$ 30,900
Wamos Air, S.A.
Property and Equipment
Number of aircraft sold | aircraft		3
Percentage of ownership stake sold		6.00%
Number of loans extended | loan		2
Notes receivable obtained from divestiture | €						€ 17.3
Wamos Air, S.A.
Property and Equipment
Ownership percentage	13.00%			13.00%
Principal and Interest payments received | $	$ 4,000
Receivable, related party	$ 16,100			€ 14.1
Minimum | Wamos Air, S.A.
Property and Equipment
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)	4.78%			4.78%
Maximum | Wamos Air, S.A.
Property and Equipment
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)	5.35%			5.35%
Silversea Cruises
Property and Equipment
Number of ships acquired | ship	9			9	9
Number of ships under capital leases | ship	2			2

Other Assets (Narrative) (Detai

Other Assets (Narrative) (Details) $ in Thousands, € in Millions	1 Months Ended			12 Months Ended
	Apr. 30, 2016	Mar. 31, 2009USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2009EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)	Jul. 31, 2016
Other Assets
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment				$ 0		$ 230,000	$ 0
Gain on sale of equipment				21,794		0	0
Principal and Interest payments received				$ 124,238		62,303	$ 38,213
TUI Cruises GmbH joint venture
Other Assets
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest				50.00%				50.00%
Equity and loans due from equity method investee				$ 578,100		624,500
Equity investment				403,000		422,800
Loan investment				$ 172,200		199,800		€ 150.6	€ 166.5
Related party guarantor obligation percentage				50.00%	50.00%
Amount outstanding under line of credit provided to TUI Cruises				$ 42,300				€ 37
Repayments of related party debt | €					€ 44.2
Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment		$ 290,900	€ 224.4
Deferred gain on sale		$ 35,900
Gain on sale of equipment				$ 21,800
Pullmantur
Other Assets
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest				49.00%				49.00%
Loan investment				$ 17,200				€ 15
Interest rate on debt facility provided to related party (as a percent)				6.50%				6.50%
Related party guarantor obligation percentage				51.00%	51.00%
Retained ownership percentage of subsidiary after sale				49.00%	49.00%
Maximum loss exposure				$ 58,500		53,700
Line of credit outstanding				$ 16,000				€ 14
Percentage of subsidiary which has been sold				51.00%			51.00%	51.00%		51.00%
Grand Bahamas Shipyard Ltd. | Not Primary Beneficiary
Other Assets
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest				40.00%				40.00%
Payments to related parties for services provided				$ 44,700		16,000
Net book value of equity method investment				56,100		49,400
Principal and Interest payments received				$ 16,400
Grand Bahamas Shipyard Ltd. | Not Primary Beneficiary | Non-accrual status of advances to affiliates
Other Assets
Interest rate on debt facility provided to related party (as a percent)				5.50%				5.50%
Principal and Interest payments received						15,700
Grand Bahamas Shipyard Ltd. | Not Primary Beneficiary | Equity
Other Assets
Equity investment				$ 41,400		32,400
Grand Bahamas Shipyard Ltd. | Not Primary Beneficiary | Loans Receivable
Other Assets
Loan investment				14,600		17,000
Skysea Holding
Other Assets
Equity method investment impairment				$ 23,300
Skysea Holding | Not Primary Beneficiary
Other Assets
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest				36.00%				36.00%
Equity investment						4,400
Loan investment						91,600
Interest rate on debt facility provided to related party (as a percent)				6.50%				6.50%
Net book value of equity method investment						$ 96,000
Debt facility due from subsidiary				$ 80,000
Conditional guarantee commitment percentage				100.00%	100.00%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Grand Bahamas Shipyard Ltd. | Not Primary Beneficiary | Non-accrual status of advances to affiliates
Other Assets
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)				3.50%	3.50%
Splendor of the Seas | TUI Cruises GmbH joint venture
Other Assets
Interest rate on debt facility provided to related party (as a percent)	6.25%
Debt instrument, term	10 years
Related party guarantor obligation percentage	50.00%
Springwater Capital LLC | Pullmantur
Other Assets
Investment in a joint venture, percentage of interest				51.00%				51.00%
TUI cruise ships | TUI Cruises GmbH joint venture
Other Assets
Reduction of current ownership interest, minimum allowed (as a percent)				37.55%				37.55%
Mein Schiff 1
Other Assets
Property, plant and equipment, useful life		23 years	23 years

Other Assets (Share of equity i

Other Assets (Share of equity income from investments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Assets [Abstract]
Share of equity income from investments	$ 210,756	$ 156,247	$ 128,350
Dividends received	$ 243,101	$ 109,677	$ 75,942

Other Assets (Notes Receivable

Other Assets (Notes Receivable Due From Equity Investments) (Details) - Equity Investment - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total notes receivable due from equity investments	$ 201,979	$ 314,323
Less-current portion	19,075	38,658
Long-term portion	$ 182,904	$ 275,665

Other Assets (Related party tra

Other Assets (Related party transactions) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Other Assets [Abstract]
Revenues	$ 54,705	$ 53,532	$ 30,517
Expenses	$ 11,531	$ 15,176	$ 12,795

Other Assets (Equity Method Inv

Other Assets (Equity Method Investee) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Assets [Abstract]
Current assets	$ 471,428	$ 532,330
Non-current assets	3,826,018	3,673,613
Total assets	4,297,446	4,205,943
Liabilities [Abstract]
Current liabilities	1,064,741	1,152,193
Non- current liabilities	2,217,909	1,974,166
Total liabilities	3,282,650	3,126,359
Equity attributable to:
Noncontrolling interest	1,672	1,753
Income Statement [Abstract]
Total revenues	2,255,352	1,994,014	$ 1,340,662
Total expenses	(1,779,160)	(1,684,276)	(1,078,470)
Net income	$ 476,192	$ 309,738	$ 262,192

Debt (Schedule of Long-Term Deb

Debt (Schedule of Long-Term Debt) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Long-Term Debt
Total debt (3)	$ 10,984,438		$ 7,706,604
Less: unamortized debt issuance costs	(206,739)		(167,153)
Total debt, net of unamortized debt issuance costs	10,777,699		7,539,451
Less—current portion including commercial paper	(2,422,329)		(1,188,514)
Long-term portion	$ 8,355,370		$ 6,350,937
Weighted average interest rate	4.14%		3.92%
Commercial paper
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	3.19%
Long-term debt	$ 775,488		$ 0
Total fixed rate debt
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt	4,542,982		2,199,710
Senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Debt Fixed Rate		7.25%
Long-term debt	$ 1,724,194		1,866,359
Secured senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Debt Fixed Rate	7.25%
Long-term debt	$ 670,437		0
Unsecured term loans
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt	2,148,351		333,351
Total variable rate debt
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt	$ 6,310,512		5,473,755
Unsecured revolving credit facilities
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	3.91%
Long-term debt	$ 795,000		580,000
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)	1.10%
Long term debt, facility fee (as a percent)	0.15%
Unsecured revolving credit facilities | $1.4 billion unsecured revolving credit facility
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, principal amount	$ 1,400,000
Unsecured revolving credit facilities | $1.2 billion unsecured revolving credit facility
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, principal amount	1,200,000
USD unsecured term loan
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt	4,005,848		4,079,670
Euro unsecured term loan
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt	734,176		814,085
Capital lease obligations
Long-Term Debt
Long-term debt	$ 130,944		$ 33,139
Minimum | Senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Debt Fixed Rate	2.65%
Minimum | Unsecured term loans
Long-Term Debt
Debt Fixed Rate	2.53%
Minimum | Unsecured revolving credit facilities
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	3.54%
Minimum | USD unsecured term loan
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	2.92%
Minimum | Euro unsecured term loan
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	1.15%
Maximum | Senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Debt Fixed Rate	7.50%
Maximum | Unsecured term loans
Long-Term Debt
Debt Fixed Rate	5.41%
Maximum | Unsecured revolving credit facilities
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	3.61%
Maximum | USD unsecured term loan
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	6.52%
Maximum | Euro unsecured term loan
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, current interest rate (as a percent)	1.58%

Debt (Narrative) (Details)

Debt (Narrative) (Details)	1 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2018USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)ship	Oct. 31, 2018USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2018USD ($)
Long-Term Debt
Short-term debt amount outstanding	$ 1,200,000,000
Number of ships under capital leases | ship			2
Symphony of the Seas
Long-Term Debt
Debt instrument, term		12 years
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)		3.82%
Long term debt, principal amount		$ 1,200,000,000
Credit Agreement
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, principal amount		$ 130,000,000
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)			1.195%
Unsecured Term Loans Guaranteed by Export Credit Agencies | Maximum
Long-Term Debt
Credit agency fees, percentage of outstanding loan balance			0.77%
Unsecured term loans | Minimum
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)			2.53%
Unsecured term loans | Maximum
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)			5.41%
Unsecured term loans | Novation Agreement
Long-Term Debt
Maximum borrowing capacity				$ 729,000,000
Debt instrument, term			12 years
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)				3.23%
Senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)					7.25%
Debt fair value					$ 672,000,000
Senior notes | Minimum
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)			2.65%
Senior notes | Maximum
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)			7.50%
Up-front payment arrangement | Minimum
Long-Term Debt
Credit agency fees, percentage of loan amount payable			2.35%
Up-front payment arrangement | Maximum
Long-Term Debt
Credit agency fees, percentage of loan amount payable			2.37%
Silversea Cruises
Long-Term Debt
Number of ships under capital leases | ship			2
Capital lease obligation					82,800,000
Silversea Cruises | Silversea Cruises
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, principal amount	$ 700,000,000				700,000,000
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)			1.00%
Silversea Cruises | Senior notes
Long-Term Debt
Long term debt, principal amount					$ 620,000,000
Commercial paper
Long-Term Debt
Debt instrument, term			23 days
Borrowings outstanding			$ 777,000,000
Weighted average interest rate			3.19%
Silver Explorer | Capital lease obligations
Long-Term Debt
Debt instrument, term			6 years

Debt (Debt Maturities) (Details

Debt (Debt Maturities) (Details) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2,019	$ 2,422,329
2,020	1,681,978
2,021	843,976
2,022	1,607,975
2,023	664,025
Thereafter	3,557,416
Long Term Debt and Capital lease obligations	$ 10,777,699

Redeemable Non-controlling In_3

Redeemable Non-controlling Interest (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Jul. 31, 2018
Royal Caribbean International | Silversea Cruises Group
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Ownership percentage by noncontrolling owners	33.30%
Silversea Cruises
Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items]
Redeemable noncontrolling interest	$ 537,770	$ 537,770
Percentage of business acquired		66.70%

Redeemable Non-controlling In_4

Redeemable Non-controlling Interest (Schedule of Redeemable Non-controlling Interest) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Balance as at January 1, 2018	$ 0
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest, including the contractual accretion of the put options	4,750	$ 0	$ 0
Other	(500)
Balance at December 31, 2018	542,020	$ 0
Silversea Cruises
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward]
Additions (Silversea Cruises acquisition)	$ 537,770

Shareholders' Equity (Details)

Shareholders' Equity (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended		3 Months Ended										11 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	May 31, 2018	Apr. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2019	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Feb. 28, 2018	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Shareholders' Equity
Common stock dividends declared (in dollars per share)				$ 0.7	$ 0.7	$ 0.60	$ 0.60	$ 0.6	$ 0.6	$ 0.48	$ 0.48	$ 0.48		$ 2.60	$ 2.16	$ 1.71
Dividend declared and paid in same quarter (in dollars per share)										$ 0.48
Cash paid for dividends declared in prior period (in dollars per share)				$ 0.7	$ 0.6	$ 0.6	$ 0.6	$ 0.6	$ 0.48		$ 0.48
Term of stock repurchase program	24 months	12 months
Stock repurchase program, authorized amount	$ 1,000,000,000	$ 500,000,000
Total cost of treasury stock, acquired during the period													$ 500,000,000	$ 575,039,000	$ 224,998,000	$ 299,960,000
Subsequent event
Shareholders' Equity
Cash paid for dividends declared in prior period (in dollars per share)			$ 0.7
May 2018 Share Repurchase Program
Shareholders' Equity
Treasury stock, shares acquired (in shares)														2,800,000
Total cost of treasury stock, acquired during the period														$ 300,000,000
Remaining authorized repurchase amount				$ 700,000,000										$ 700,000,000
April 2017 Share Repurchase Program
Shareholders' Equity
Treasury stock, shares acquired (in shares)														2,100,000	1,800,000
Total cost of treasury stock, acquired during the period														$ 275,000,000	$ 225,000,000

Stock-Based Employee Compensa_3

Stock-Based Employee Compensation (Narrative) (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)plan$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2017$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016$ / sharesshares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of stock-based compensation plans | plan	1
Maximum number of award to be granted per individual (in shares)	500,000
Maximum aggregate number of shares available under the employee stock purchase plan (in shares)	1,300,000
Purchase price for each share of common stock as percentage of the average of the market price	85.00%
Shares of common stock issued under the ESPP plan (in shares)	74,100	51,989	42,347
Weighted-average price of shares of common stock issued under the ESPP plan (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 97.50	$ 93.15	$ 65.48
Director
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum value of awards that can be granted to participant in any fiscal year | $	$ 500,000
Stock Option | Lower Limit
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	4 years
Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Maximum actual number of shares underlying each performance share award as a percentage of target performance shares	200.00%
Number of target performance shares issued (in shares)	184,550
Restricted Stock
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years
Maximum actual number of shares underlying each performance share award as a percentage of target performance shares	200.00%
Number of target performance shares issued (in shares)	120,022
2008 Equity Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Maximum number of shares authorized for issuance under stock-based compensation plans (in shares)	14,000,000

Stock-Based Employee Compensa_4

Stock-Based Employee Compensation (Expense Recognized) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs
Employee stock-base compensation expense	$ 46,061	$ 69,459	$ 32,659
Marketing, selling and administrative expenses
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs
Employee stock-base compensation expense	$ 46,061	$ 69,459	$ 32,659

Stock-Based Employee Compensa_5

Stock-Based Employee Compensation (Options Activity) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Number of Options
Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares)	272,724
Granted (in shares)	0
Exercised (in shares)	(117,977)
Canceled (in shares)	(1,654)
Outstanding, ending balance (in shares)	153,093	272,724
Vested and expected to vest (in shares)	153,093
Options Exercisable (in shares)	153,093
Weighted-Average Exercise Price
Outstanding, beginning balance (in dollars per share)	$ 32.15
Granted (in dollars per share)	0
Exercised (in dollars per share)	36.14
Canceled (in dollars per share)	32.49
Outstanding, ending balance (in dollars per share)	29.06	$ 32.15
Vested and expected to vest (in dollars per share)	29.06
Options Exercisable (in dollars per share)	$ 29.06
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term
Outstanding, beginning balance (Years)	1 year 2 months 23 days	1 year 4 months 28 days
Outstanding, ending balance (Years)	1 year 2 months 23 days	1 year 4 months 28 days
Vested and expected to vest (Years)	1 year 2 months 23 days
Options Exercisable (Years)	1 year 2 months 23 days
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Outstanding, beginning balance	$ 10,399	$ 24,053
Outstanding, ending balance	10,399	24,053
Vested and expected to vest	10,399
Options Exercisable	10,399
Total intrinsic value of stock options exercised	$ 11,100	$ 4,500	$ 2,300

Stock-Based Employee Compensa_6

Stock-Based Employee Compensation (Other Equity) (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)$ / sharesshares	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)$ / shares
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based awards conversion ratio	1
Number of Awards
Non-vested share units, beginning balance (in shares) | shares	737,899
Granted (in shares) | shares	392,427
Vested (in shares) | shares	(276,059)
Canceled (in shares) | shares	(53,682)
Non-vested share units, ending balance (in shares) | shares	800,585	737,899
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested share units, beginning balance (in dollars per share)	$ 83.78
Granted (in dollars per share)	122.12	$ 99.03	$ 64.51
Vested (in dollars per share)	78.09
Canceled (in dollars per share)	101.82
Non-vested share units, ending balance (in dollars per share)	103.32	83.78
Weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock units granted (in dollars per share)	$ 122.12	$ 99.03	$ 64.51
Fair value of shares released on vesting of restricted stock units | $	$ 33.9	$ 38.7	$ 23.2
Total unrecognized compensation cost | $	$ 43.1
Weighted-average period of unrecognized compensation cost to be recognized (Years)	1 year 8 months 5 days
Performance Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Stock-based awards conversion ratio	1
Number of Awards
Non-vested share units, beginning balance (in shares) | shares	353,150
Granted (in shares) | shares	184,550
Vested (in shares) | shares	(218,568)
Canceled (in shares) | shares	(16,571)
Non-vested share units, ending balance (in shares) | shares	302,561	353,150
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested share units, beginning balance (in dollars per share)	$ 74.87
Granted (in dollars per share)	97.98	$ 84.16	$ 65.83
Vested (in dollars per share)	72.79
Canceled (in dollars per share)	109.46
Non-vested share units, ending balance (in dollars per share)	88.57	74.87
Weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock units granted (in dollars per share)	$ 97.98	$ 84.16	$ 65.83
Fair value of shares released on vesting of restricted stock units | $	$ 27.3	$ 10	$ 16.9
Total unrecognized compensation cost | $	$ 7.7
Weighted-average period of unrecognized compensation cost to be recognized (Years)	1 year
Maximum actual number of shares underlying each performance share award as a percentage of target performance shares	200.00%
Restricted Stock
Number of Awards
Granted (in shares) | shares	120,022
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Maximum actual number of shares underlying each performance share award as a percentage of target performance shares	200.00%
Senior Officers | Restricted Stock
Number of Awards
Non-vested share units, beginning balance (in shares) | shares	270,176
Granted (in shares) | shares	120,022
Vested (in shares) | shares	0
Canceled (in shares) | shares	0
Non-vested share units, ending balance (in shares) | shares	390,198	270,176
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested share units, beginning balance (in dollars per share)	$ 81.28
Granted (in dollars per share)	129.23	$ 95.04	$ 66.93
Vested (in dollars per share)	0
Canceled (in dollars per share)	0
Non-vested share units, ending balance (in dollars per share)	96.03	81.28
Weighted-average estimated fair value of restricted stock units granted (in dollars per share)	$ 129.23	$ 95.04	$ 66.93
Total unrecognized compensation cost | $	$ 1.6
Weighted-average period of unrecognized compensation cost to be recognized (Years)	1 year 29 days

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliat

Earnings Per Share (Reconciliation of Earnings Per Share) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. for basic and diluted earnings per share	$ 315,703	$ 810,391	$ 466,295	$ 218,653	$ 288,039	$ 752,842	$ 369,526	$ 214,726	$ 1,811,042	$ 1,625,133	$ 1,283,388
Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)									210,570	214,617	215,393
Dilutive effect of stock-based awards (in shares)									984	1,077	923
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding									211,554	215,694	216,316
Basic earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.51	$ 3.88	$ 2.20	$ 1.03	$ 1.35	$ 3.51	$ 1.72	$ 1	$ 8.60	$ 7.57	$ 5.96
Diluted earnings per share (in dollars per share)	$ 1.50	$ 3.86	$ 2.19	$ 1.02	$ 1.34	$ 3.49	$ 1.71	$ 0.99	$ 8.56	$ 7.53	$ 5.93

Earnings Per Share (Antidilutiv

Earnings Per Share (Antidilutive Shares) (Details) - shares	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Antidilutive shares (in shares)	0	0	0

Retirement Plan (Details)

Retirement Plan (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Non-elective annual employer contribution, percentage of participants' eligible earnings	3.00%
Pension expenses	$ 18.9	$ 17.4	$ 16.7

Income Taxes (Details)

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Income Taxes
Foreign operating loss carryforwards	$ 24.8
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Net of Valuation Allowance	0.4
Other income (expense)
Income Taxes
Income tax expense (benefit)	20.9	$ 18.3	$ 20.1
Tax years between 2018 and 2024
Income Taxes
Operating loss carryforwards	$ 14

Changes in Accumulated Other _3

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Changes by Component) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	$ (306,089)	$ 392,417	$ 73,558
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	12,620	189,802	338,391
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(293,469)	582,219	411,949
Changes related to cash flow derivative hedges
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(250,355)	(820,850)	(1,232,073)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(297,994)	381,865	73,973
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	11,133	188,630	337,250
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(286,861)	570,495	411,223
Ending balance	(537,216)	(250,355)	(820,850)
Changes in defined benefit plans
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(33,666)	(28,083)	(26,447)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	6,156	(6,755)	(2,777)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	1,487	1,172	1,141
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	7,643	(5,583)	(1,636)
Ending balance	(26,023)	(33,666)	(28,083)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(50,244)	(67,551)	(69,913)
Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications	(14,251)	17,307	2,362
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss	0	0	0
Total other comprehensive (loss) income	(14,251)	17,307	2,362
Ending balance	(64,495)	(50,244)	(67,551)
Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	(334,265)	(916,484)	(1,328,433)
Ending balance	$ (627,734)	$ (334,265)	$ (916,484)

Changes in Accumulated Other _4

Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Reclassifications) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017		Dec. 31, 2016
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized		$ (333,672)		$ (299,982)		$ (307,370)
Depreciation and amortization expenses	$ (894,915)	(1,033,697)		(951,194)		(894,915)
Other income (Expense)	(35,653)	11,107	[1]	(5,289)	[1]	(35,653)	[1]
Fuel	(713,676)	(710,617)		(681,118)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from AOCI		(12,620)		(189,802)		(338,391)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from AOCI		(11,133)		(188,630)		(337,250)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Interest rate swaps
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Interest expense, net of interest capitalized	(41,480)	(10,931)		(31,603)		(41,480)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency forward contracts
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expenses	(8,114)	(12,843)		(10,840)		(8,114)
Other income (Expense)		12,855		(9,472)		(14,342)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency forward contracts
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other indirect operating expenses	(207)	0		0		(207)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency collar options
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Depreciation and amortization expenses	(2,408)	0		(2,408)		(2,408)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Fuel contracts
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Other income (Expense)	$ 13,685	(1,580)		7,382		13,685
Fuel		1,366		(141,689)		(284,384)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Actuarial loss
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Payroll and related		(1,487)		(1,172)		(1,141)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Amortization of defined benefit plans:
Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]
Reclassification from AOCI		$ (1,487)		$ (1,172)		$ (1,141)
[1]	For the year ended December 31, 2016, Other income (expense) included a $21.7 million loss related to the 2016 elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag.

Fair Value Measurements and D_3

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Nonrecurring) (Details) - Fair Value, Measurements, Nonrecurring - USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Level 1
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 287,852,000	$ 120,112,000
Total Assets	287,852,000	120,112,000
Liabilities:
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Level 2
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liabilities:
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)	10,244,214,000	8,038,092,000
Total Liabilities	10,244,214,000	8,038,092,000
Level 3
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liabilities:
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Total Carrying Amount
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	287,852,000	120,112,000
Total Assets	287,852,000	120,112,000
Liabilities:
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)	9,871,267,000	7,506,312,000
Total Liabilities	9,871,267,000	7,506,312,000
Equity-method investment - SkySea Holding	0
Total Fair Value
Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	287,852,000	120,112,000
Total Assets	287,852,000	120,112,000
Liabilities:
Long-term debt (including current portion of long-term debt)	10,244,214,000	8,038,092,000
Total Liabilities	$ 10,244,214,000	$ 8,038,092,000

Fair Value Measurements and D_4

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Recurring) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Assets:
Derivative financial instruments	$ 4,994	$ 215,634
Liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments	141,509	11,210
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Total Fair Value
Assets:
Derivative financial instruments	65,297	320,385
Investments	0	3,340
Total Assets	65,297	323,725
Liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments	201,812	115,961
Contingent consideration	44,000	0
Total Liabilities	245,812	115,961
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 1
Assets:
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Investments	0	3,340
Total Assets	0	3,340
Liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Contingent consideration	0	0
Total Liabilities	0	0
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 2
Assets:
Derivative financial instruments	65,297	320,385
Investments	0	0
Total Assets	65,297	320,385
Liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments	201,812	115,961
Contingent consideration	0	0
Total Liabilities	201,812	115,961
Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring | Level 3
Assets:
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Investments	0	0
Total Assets	0	0
Liabilities:
Derivative financial instruments	0	0
Contingent consideration	44,000	0
Total Liabilities	$ 44,000	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements and D_5

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Offsetting of Derivative Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Offsetting of Financial Assets under Master Netting Agreements [Abstract]
Gross Amount of Derivative Assets Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet	$ 65,297	$ 320,385
Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Recognized Derivative Liabilities	(60,303)	(104,751)
Cash Collateral Received	0	0
Net Amount of Derivative Assets	4,994	215,634
Offsetting of Financial Liabilities under Master Netting Agreements [Abstract]
Gross Amount of Derivative Liabilities Presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet	(201,812)	(115,961)
Gross Amount of Eligible Offsetting Recognized Derivative Assets	60,303	104,751
Cash Collateral Pledged	0	0
Net Amount of Derivative Liabilities	$ (141,509)	$ (11,210)

Fair Value Measurements and D_6

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Interest Rate Risk) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Percentage of long-term debt with fixed interest rate	59.10%	57.40%
Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional amount	$ 3,400,000	$ 3,800,000
Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional Amount	2,615,535
Fair value hedging | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Fair Value Hedges [Abstract]
Long-term debt	755,000
Oasis of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Fair value hedging | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Fair Value Hedges [Abstract]
Long-term debt	$ 105,000
Debt Fixed Rate	5.41%
Fixed Rate 5.25% Debt | Fair value hedging | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Fair Value Hedges [Abstract]
Long-term debt	$ 650,000
Debt Fixed Rate	5.25%
Floating Rate Celebrity Reflection Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional Amount	$ 327,250
All-in Swap Fixed Rate	2.85%
Quantum of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional Amount	$ 490,000
All-in Swap Fixed Rate	3.74%
Anthem of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional Amount	$ 513,542
All-in Swap Fixed Rate	3.86%
Ovation of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional Amount	$ 657,083
All-in Swap Fixed Rate	3.16%
Harmony of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Notional Amount	$ 627,660
All-in Swap Fixed Rate	2.26%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Oasis of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Fair value hedging | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Fair Value Hedges [Abstract]
Swap Floating Rate: LIBOR plus	3.87%
All-in Swap Floating Rate	6.63%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Fixed Rate 5.25% Debt | Fair value hedging | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Fair Value Hedges [Abstract]
Swap Floating Rate: LIBOR plus	3.63%
All-in Swap Floating Rate	6.25%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Floating Rate Celebrity Reflection Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Debt Floating Rate	0.40%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Quantum of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Debt Floating Rate	1.30%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Anthem of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Debt Floating Rate	1.30%
London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) | Ovation of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Debt Floating Rate	1.00%
Euro Interbank Offered Rate (EURIBOR) | Harmony of the Seas Unsecured Term Loan | Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges [Abstract]
Debt Floating Rate	1.15%

Fair Value Measurements and D_7

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Derivative Instruments) (Details) € in Millions, $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)
Derivative instruments disclosure
Aggregate cost of ships on order	$ 11,400
Amount deposited for cost of ships on order	$ 651.7
Percentage of aggregate cost exposed to fluctuations in the euro exchange rate	53.50%	54.00%		53.50%
Exchange gains (losses) recorded in other income (expense)	$ 57.6	$ (75.6)	$ 39.8
Foreign currency forward | Not Designated
Derivative instruments disclosure
Notional amount	741.5
Change in fair value of foreign currency forward contracts recognized in earnings	(62.4)	62	(51.1)
Exchange gains (losses) recorded in other income (expense)	57.6	(75.6)	$ 39.8
Foreign currency forward | Designated as Hedging Instrument
Derivative instruments disclosure
Notional amount	115.5			€ 101
Foreign exchange contracts
Derivative instruments disclosure
Notional amount	$ 3,700	$ 4,600

Fair Value Measurements and D_8

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Non-Derivative Instruments) (Details) - Foreign currency debt $ in Thousands, € in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018EUR (€)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)
Net investment hedge
Carrying Value of Non-derivative instrument Designated as hedging instrument	$ 320,152		$ 295,323
Pullmantur and TUI Cruises
Net investment hedge
Carrying Value of Non-derivative instrument Designated as hedging instrument	320,200	€ 280	295,300	€ 246
Current portion of long-term debt
Net investment hedge
Carrying Value of Non-derivative instrument Designated as hedging instrument	38,168		70,097
Long-term debt
Net investment hedge
Carrying Value of Non-derivative instrument Designated as hedging instrument	$ 281,984		$ 225,226

Fair Value Measurements and D_9

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Fuel Price Risk) (Details) - Fuel Price Risk $ in Millions	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)T	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)T
Derivative instruments disclosure
Estimated unrealized net losses associated with cash flow hedges pertaining to fuel swap agreements expected to be reclassified to earnings from other accumulated comprehensive income (loss) | $	$ 26.8	$ 23.7
2,018
Derivative instruments disclosure
Fuel Swap Agreements (metric tons)	0	673,700,000
Percentage of projected requirements	0.00%	50.00%
2,019
Derivative instruments disclosure
Fuel Swap Agreements (metric tons)	856,800,000	668,500,000
Percentage of projected requirements	58.00%	46.00%
2,020
Derivative instruments disclosure
Fuel Swap Agreements (metric tons)	830,500,000	531,200,000
Percentage of projected requirements	54.00%	36.00%
2,021
Derivative instruments disclosure
Fuel Swap Agreements (metric tons)	488,900,000	224,900,000
Percentage of projected requirements	28.00%	14.00%
2,022
Derivative instruments disclosure
Fuel Swap Agreements (metric tons)	322,900,000	0
Percentage of projected requirements	19.00%	0.00%

Fair Value Measurements and _10

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Balance Sheet) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	$ 65,297	$ 320,385
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	201,812	115,961
Designated as Hedging Instrument
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	58,576	298,963
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	199,795	105,033
Not Designated as Hedging Instrument
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	6,721	21,422
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	2,017	10,928
Interest rate swaps | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other Assets
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	23,518	7,330
Interest rate swaps | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other long-term Liabilities
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	40,467	46,509
Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other Assets
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	10,844	158,879
Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Derivative Financial Instruments
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	4,044	68,352
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	39,665	0
Foreign currency forward contracts | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other long-term Liabilities
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	16,854	6,625
Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other Assets
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	1,579	2,793
Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Derivative Financial Instruments
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	1,751	9,945
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	808	2,933
Foreign currency forward contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other long-term Liabilities
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	833	1,139
Fuel contracts | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other Assets
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	9,204	51,265
Fuel contracts | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Derivative Financial Instruments
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	10,966	13,137
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	37,627	38,488
Fuel contracts | Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other long-term Liabilities
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	65,182	13,411
Fuel contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other Assets
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	587	798
Fuel contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Derivative Financial Instruments
Asset Derivatives
Asset Derivatives	2,804	7,886
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	376	6,043
Fuel contracts | Not Designated as Hedging Instrument | Other long-term Liabilities
Liability Derivatives
Liability Derivatives	$ 0	$ 813

Fair Value Measurements and _11

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Income Statement) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017		Dec. 31, 2016
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Fuel Expense	$ 713,676	$ 710,617		$ 681,118
Depreciation and amortization expenses	894,915	1,033,697		951,194		$ 894,915
Interest Income (Expense)	(286,514)	(300,872)		(269,881)
Other Income (Expense)	(35,653)	11,107	[1]	(5,289)	[1]	$ (35,653)	[1]
Fair value hedging
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on fair value hedge	12,275	4,673		6,065
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on fair value hedging instruments	3,863	(8,854)		(132)
Fair value hedging | Interest Rate Contract | Interest Expense
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on fair value hedge	7,203	4,673
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on fair value hedging instruments	7,488	(8,854)		3,007
Fair value hedging | Interest Rate Contract | Other income (expense)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Gain (loss) on fair value hedge	5,072			6,065
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on fair value hedging instruments	(3,625)			(3,139)
Cash flow hedge | Interest Rate Contract | Interest Expense
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income	(41,480)	(10,931)		(31,603)
Cash flow hedge | Fuel contracts | Other income (expense)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income	13,685	(1,580)		7,382
Cash flow hedge | Fuel contracts | Fuel cost
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income	(284,384)	1,366		(141,689)
Cash flow hedge | Foreign exchange contracts | Depreciation and amortization expenses
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income	(10,522)	(12,843)		(13,248)
Cash flow hedge | Foreign currency forward | Other income (expense)
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Amount of gain or (loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss into income	$ (14,342)	$ 12,855		$ (9,472)
[1]	For the year ended December 31, 2016, Other income (expense) included a $21.7 million loss related to the 2016 elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag.

Fair Value Measurements and _12

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Income Statement Hedging Instruments) (Details) - Fair value hedging - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative	$ 3,863	$ (8,854)	$ (132)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Hedged Item	12,275	4,673	6,065
Interest rate swaps | Interest expense, net of interest capitalized
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative	7,488	(8,854)	3,007
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Hedged Item	7,203	4,673	0
Interest rate swaps | Other income (expense)
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative	(3,625)	0	(3,139)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Hedged Item	$ 5,072	$ 0	$ 6,065

Fair Value Measurements and _13

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Long-term debt) (Details) - Designated as Hedging Instrument - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities	$ 725,486	$ 749,155
Cumulative amount of Fair Value Hedging Adjustment Included in the Carrying Amount of the Hedged Liabilities	$ (24,766)	$ (34,813)

Fair Value Measurements and _14

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Designated Cash Flow Hedges) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018		Dec. 31, 2017		Dec. 31, 2016
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Interest Expense										$ (333,672)		$ (299,982)		$ (307,370)
Depreciation and amortization expenses									$ (894,915)	(1,033,697)		(951,194)		(894,915)
Other Income (Expense)									(35,653)	11,107	[1]	(5,289)	[1]	(35,653)	[1]
Fuel									(713,676)	(710,617)		(681,118)
Net Income	$ 315,703	$ 810,391	$ 466,295	$ 218,653	$ 288,039	$ 752,842	$ 369,526	$ 214,726		1,811,042		1,625,133		1,283,388
Cash flow hedge
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									73,998	(297,994)		381,865
Cash flow hedge | Interest rate swaps
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									(31,049)	18,578		(13,312)
Cash flow hedge | Foreign currency forward contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									(51,092)	(222,645)		276,573
Cash flow hedge | Foreign currency forward contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									0	0		0
Cash flow hedge | Foreign currency forward contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									0	0		0
Cash flow hedge | Foreign currency collar options
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									0	0		0
Cash flow hedge | Fuel contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									0	0		0
Cash flow hedge | Fuel swaps
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax									156,139	(93,927)		118,604
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges:
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Net Income									(337,250)	(11,133)		(188,630)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Interest rate swaps
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Interest Expense									(41,480)	(10,931)		(31,603)		(41,480)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency forward contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Depreciation and amortization expenses									(8,114)	(12,843)		(10,840)		(8,114)
Other Income (Expense)										12,855		(9,472)		(14,342)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency forward contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Other Income (Expense)									(14,342)	12,855		(9,472)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency forward contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Other indirect operating expenses									(207)	0		0		(207)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Foreign currency collar options
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Depreciation and amortization expenses									(2,408)	0		(2,408)		(2,408)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Fuel contracts
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Other Income (Expense)									13,685	(1,580)		7,382		13,685
Fuel										1,366		(141,689)		$ (284,384)
Reclassification out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) | Gain (loss) on cash flow derivative hedges: | Fuel swaps
Effect of derivative instruments involved in fair value hedging on the consolidated financial statements
Fuel									$ (284,384)	$ 1,366		$ (141,689)
[1]	For the year ended December 31, 2016, Other income (expense) included a $21.7 million loss related to the 2016 elimination of the Pullmantur reporting lag.

Fair Value Measurements and _15

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Net Investment Excluded) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net [Abstract]
Net inception fair value at January 1, 2018		$ (11,335)
Amount of gain recognized in income on derivatives for the year ended December 31, 2018	$ 2,976
Amount of loss remaining to be amortized in accumulated other comprehensive loss as of December 31, 2018	(1,339)
Fair value at December 31, 2018	$ (9,698)

Fair Value Measurements and _16

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Non-Derivative Net Investment) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017
Foreign currency debt
Net investment hedge
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	$ 20,295	$ 13,210	$ (38,971)

Fair Value Measurements and _17

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Derivative instruments disclosure
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative		$ (61,148)	$ 61,704	$ (45,670)
Foreign exchange contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative instruments disclosure
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative	$ (51,029)	(62,423)	61,952
Fuel contracts | Other income (expense)
Derivative instruments disclosure
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative	(1,000)	114	(1,133)
Fuel contracts | Fuel
Derivative instruments disclosure
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative	$ 0	$ 1,161	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements and _18

Fair Value Measurements and Derivative Instruments (Credit Features) (Details)	Dec. 31, 2018derivative
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Number of derivatives, matured	5

Commitments and Contingencies_2

Commitments and Contingencies (Narrative) (Details)	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Oct. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)shipberth	Dec. 31, 2017EUR (€)shipberth	Dec. 31, 2016EUR (€)shipberth	Dec. 31, 2015EUR (€)berth	Feb. 28, 2019berth	Sep. 30, 2018shipberth	Oct. 31, 2017EUR (€)
Commitments and Contingencies
Percentage of long-term debt with fixed interest rate		59.10%	57.40%
Aggregate cost of ships expected to enter service | $		$ 11,400,000,000
Deposit for the purchase of ships expected to enter service | $		$ 651,700,000
Percentage of aggregate cost exposed to fluctuations in the euro exchange rate		53.50%	54.00%
Project edge class ship term loans | Project edge ship II
Commitments and Contingencies
Unsecured term loan, construction financing commitment per ship		$ 717,000,000		€ 627,100,000
Project edge class ship term loans | Project edge-class ship
Commitments and Contingencies
Bank financing commitment percentage				80.00%
Percentage of unsecured term loan guaranteed by an export credit agency				100.00%
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)				3.23%
Unsecured term loan, amortization period				12 years
Royal Caribbean International | Cruise ships on order | Quantum-class ship
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of ships under construction | ship		2
Royal Caribbean International | Cruise ships on order | Oasis-class ship
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of ships under construction | ship		1
Royal Caribbean International | Cruise ships on order | Icon-class ships
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of ships under construction | ship		2	2
Approximate berths		25,300
Royal Caribbean International | Cruise ships on order | Silversea Cruises
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of ships under construction | ship		3					2
Approximate berths		1,200					1,200
Celebrity Cruise Ships | Project edge-class ship
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of ships under construction | ship				2
Approximate berths				2,900
Celebrity Cruise Ships | Cruise ships on order | Two project edge class ships
Commitments and Contingencies
Number of ships under construction | ship		3
Approximate berths		9,400
Project Icon | Royal Caribbean International
Commitments and Contingencies
Approximate berths		5,650
Bank financing commitment percentage	80.00%							80.00%
Project Icon | Euler Hermes
Commitments and Contingencies
Percentage of unsecured term loan guaranteed by an export credit agency	95.00%
Third and Fourth Edge Class Ships and Fifth Oasis Class Ship
Commitments and Contingencies
Bank financing commitment percentage			80.00%
Percentage of unsecured term loan guaranteed by an export credit agency	100.00%		100.00%
Third Edge Class Ship | Celebrity Cruise Ships
Commitments and Contingencies
Approximate berths			3,200
Fifth Oasis Class Ship | Royal Caribbean International
Commitments and Contingencies
Approximate berths			5,500
Fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships
Commitments and Contingencies
Approximate berths					4,250
Fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)		3.45%
Fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships | Quantum of the Seas unsecured term loans
Commitments and Contingencies
Bank financing commitment percentage					80.00%
Fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships | LIBOR | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)		0.95%
Fourth and fifth Quantum-class ships | Euler Hermes | Quantum of the Seas unsecured term loans
Commitments and Contingencies
Percentage of unsecured term loan guaranteed by an export credit agency					95.00%
Quantum Class Fourth Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Unsecured term loan, construction financing commitment per ship		$ 872,300,000			€ 762,900,000
Quantum Class Fifth Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Unsecured term loan, construction financing commitment per ship		889,000,000			€ 777,500,000
Unsecured term loans | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Unsecured term loan, amortization period			12 years
Unsecured term loans | Project Icon | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Maximum borrowing capacity	$ 1,600,000,000							€ 1,400,000,000
Percentage of long-term debt with fixed interest rate	75.00%							75.00%
Unsecured term loan, amortization period	12 years
Unsecured term loans | First Project Icon Class Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.56%							3.56%
Unsecured term loans | Second Project Icon Class Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)	3.76%							3.76%
Unsecured term loans | Third Edge Class Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Maximum borrowing capacity | €			€ 684,200,000
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)			1.28%
Unsecured term loans | Fourth Edge Class Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Maximum borrowing capacity		817,100,000	€ 714,600,000
Unsecured term loans | Fifth Oasis Class Ship | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Maximum borrowing capacity		$ 1,300,000,000	€ 1,100,000,000
Unsecured term loans | Fourth Edge and Fifth Oasis Class Ships | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)			3.18%
Unsecured term loans | Minimum
Commitments and Contingencies
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)		2.53%
Unsecured term loans | Minimum | First Project Icon Class Ship | LIBOR | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)	1.10%
Unsecured term loans | Minimum | Second Project Icon Class Ship | LIBOR | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)	1.15%
Unsecured term loans | Maximum
Commitments and Contingencies
Long term debt, stated interest rate (as a percent)		5.41%
Unsecured term loans | Maximum | First Project Icon Class Ship | LIBOR | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)	1.15%
Unsecured term loans | Maximum | Second Project Icon Class Ship | LIBOR | Unsecured term loan maturing twelve years after ship delivery
Commitments and Contingencies
Margin on floating rate base (as a percent)	1.20%
Scenario, Forecast | Royal Caribbean International | Cruise ships on order | Oasis-class ship
Commitments and Contingencies
Approximate berths						5,700

Commitments and Contingencies_3

Commitments and Contingencies (Future Payments) (Details) ft² in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2017USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2016USD ($)	Jul. 31, 2016ft²
Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases
2,019	$ 67,682
2,020	64,237
2,021	56,142
2,022	52,759
2,023	52,522
Thereafter	383,974
Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases, Total	677,316
Change of control provisions in debt covenants
Expenses related to operating leases	32,200	$ 29,300	$ 29,000
Future noncancelable purchase commitments
2,019	224,253
2,020	184,308
2,021	136,917
2,022	79,401
2,023	45,266
Thereafter	149,696
Future noncancelable purchase commitments, Total	$ 819,841
Credit agreement
Change of control provisions in debt covenants
Number of months considered to determine requirement of prepayment of debts	24 months
Lower Limit | Credit agreement
Change of control provisions in debt covenants
Debt instrument covenant, minimum percentage of ownership by a person	50.00%
Lower Limit | Debt Securities
Change of control provisions in debt covenants
Debt instrument covenant, minimum percentage of ownership by a person	50.00%
Port of Miami Terminal
Change of control provisions in debt covenants
Expected size of terminal | ft²				170
Terminal lease term, term of contract				5 years

Quarterly Selected Financial _3

Quarterly Selected Financial Data (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Jun. 30, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Sep. 30, 2017	Jun. 30, 2017	Mar. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2018	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Total revenues	$ 2,332,301	$ 2,796,187	$ 2,337,605	$ 2,027,756	$ 2,004,467	$ 2,569,544	$ 2,195,274	$ 2,008,560
Operating income	364,027	799,733	456,895	274,146	307,349	737,488	419,697	279,522		$ 1,894,801	$ 1,744,056	$ 1,477,205
Net Income attributable to Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.	$ 315,703	$ 810,391	$ 466,295	$ 218,653	$ 288,039	$ 752,842	$ 369,526	$ 214,726		$ 1,811,042	$ 1,625,133	$ 1,283,388
Earnings per share:
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 1.51	$ 3.88	$ 2.20	$ 1.03	$ 1.35	$ 3.51	$ 1.72	$ 1		$ 8.60	$ 7.57	$ 5.96
Diluted (in dollars per share)	1.50	3.86	2.19	1.02	1.34	3.49	1.71	0.99		8.56	7.53	5.93
Dividends declared per share (in dollars per share)	$ 0.7	$ 0.7	$ 0.60	$ 0.60	$ 0.6	$ 0.6	$ 0.48	$ 0.48	$ 0.48	$ 2.60	$ 2.16	$ 1.71