Royal Caribbean Group Stock Price, News & Analysis

Richard Fain, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), will step down on January 3, 2022, after over 33 years in the role, having significantly influenced the cruise industry. Chief Financial Officer Jason Liberty will succeed him as CEO and join the Board of Directors while Fain will remain as Chair. Liberty, who has been with the company since 2005, has played a critical role in its financial and strategic operations. The transition comes as the company prepares for a full return to cruising, underscoring the leadership depth and positive business outlook.

Celebrity Cruises announced the return to service of two ships, Celebrity Reflection and Celebrity Constellation, with their first sailings on November 6 and November 7, 2021, after a 15-month hiatus. This marks a significant milestone for the cruise line as they celebrate 10 out of 14 ships now operational. The ships will offer voyages to destinations including the Caribbean and Europe. The return is positioned as a positive change amid recovery from the pandemic, promising high-end amenities and health safety measures.

On November 3, 2021, Celebrity Cruises celebrated the naming ceremony of its new ship, Celebrity Apex, in Fort Lauderdale, led by Godmother Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code. This event marked a significant milestone as the ship's launch was delayed since March 2020. Saujani praised Celebrity's commitment to diversity and women's empowerment in the maritime industry. The collaboration will enhance educational initiatives, including ‘Girls Who Code at Sea’. Celebrity Apex embarks on its inaugural Caribbean itineraries, promising exciting opportunities for young coders onboard.

Celebrity Apex, the luxurious new ship from Celebrity Cruises, commenced its inaugural Caribbean season from Ft. Lauderdale on November 2, 2021. The ship was officially named by Reshma Saujani, founder of Girls Who Code, during a grand ceremony. Originally scheduled for March 2020, the launch faced delays but marks a milestone for the brand. Celebrity Apex features innovative design, a variety of accommodations, 29 culinary venues, and enhanced wellness programs. The cruise itineraries include popular destinations like Puerto Rico and St. Thomas.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) reported a net loss of $1.4 billion for Q3 2021, slightly improved from $1.3 billion in Q3 2020. Despite the ongoing impact of COVID-19, the company is resuming operations aggressively, with two-thirds of its fleet sailing and over 500,000 guests served since the restart. The Group anticipates being cash flow positive by spring 2022, with 50 out of 61 ships expected to return to service by year-end. Booking volumes have risen significantly post-summer, and 2022 sailings are expected to be booked at higher prices than 2019.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) announced a major sustainability initiative called Destination Net Zero, aiming for net zero emissions by 2050. This strategy involves establishing Science-Based Targets in collaboration with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Key milestones include delivering a net zero cruise ship by 2035 and introducing 13 new energy-efficient vessels. The company aims to develop alternative fuels and enhance energy efficiency. Past efforts have involved partnerships with organizations like WWF, and the initiative builds on three decades of sustainability achievements.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) has announced a conference call scheduled for October 29, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time to discuss its third quarter financial results and provide a business update. Investors can join the call online or by phone, with replays available for one month post-call. Royal Caribbean Group operates a global fleet of 60 ships across three main brands, serving over 800 destinations. The company has additional ships on order, enhancing its market presence.

Royal Caribbean Group's new hybrid-powered ship, part of the Silversea Cruises brand, will debut in summer 2023. Named 'Project Evolution,' this innovative ship will utilize fuel cell technology, batteries, and dual fuel engines powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), achieving zero local emissions while at port. The ship aims for a 40% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and boasts an Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) rating 25% above IMO standards. This initiative underscores the company's commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Celebrity Cruises has appointed Captain Kate McCue, the first American female cruise ship captain, to lead the new Celebrity Beyond ship, debuting in spring 2022. This innovative vessel, designed by notable figures such as Kelly Hoppen and Daniel Boulud, emphasizes luxury and modern lifestyle. Exciting features include transformative accommodations and a fine-dining restaurant at sea. The inaugural cruise sets sail on April 27, 2022, from Southampton to various European destinations.