On March 7, 2022, SeaWorld announced the successful rehabilitation and return of 10 critically endangered Kemp's ridley sea turtles to the ocean. This brings the total number of sea turtles rescued since 1980 to over 2,500. The juvenile turtles were initially rescued in November 2021 and underwent treatment at the SeaWorld Orlando facility. SeaWorld's proactive rescue operations are crucial, particularly during cold weather, which increases the number of stranded animals. The SeaWorld Conservation Fund has also provided over $100,000 to support various turtle conservation projects across the Americas and Africa.
Busch Gardens Tampa has announced a conservation partnership with Wilderness Foundation Africa coinciding with the opening of Iron Gwazi, expected to be the world's fastest and steepest hybrid coaster. A portion of Iron Gwazi merchandise proceeds will support WFA's conservation efforts. The ride opens to the public on March 11, 2022. Busch Gardens emphasizes guest education on wildlife conservation, featuring over 200 animal species. The park's conservation fund has supported numerous wildlife projects since 2003, showcasing its commitment to protecting animal habitats.
SeaWorld Entertainment (SEAS) reported record financial results for Q4 and FY 2021. Q4 attendance reached 5.0 million, up 2.7 million year-over-year, with total revenue hitting $370.8 million, an increase of $216.7 million from Q4 2020. Net income rose to $71.5 million, a jump of $117.1 million. Full-year revenue recorded at $1,503.7 million, a $1,072.0 million increase from FY 2020, but down 10.7% from 2019. The company repurchased 2.2 million shares for $133 million. It ended 2021 with over $800 million in liquidity and a net leverage ratio below 2.50x, indicating strong financial health.
SeaWorld Orlando has officially opened its highly anticipated coaster, Ice Breaker, on February 18, 2022. This ride features four launches, both backward and forward, and culminates in Florida's steepest beyond-vertical drop at 93 feet. The park, recognized as the best amusement park by USA Today in 2021, now boasts the most coasters in a single theme park in Orlando. The opening ceremony included a special ice ribbon breaking and a collaboration with the Alaska SeaLife Center to enhance conservation efforts.
SeaWorld has announced partnerships with Alaska SeaLife Center and Penguins International to promote marine conservation through its new thrill rides, Ice Breaker and Emperor. Ice Breaker, opening February 18, aims to raise awareness of Alaskan marine animals, while Emperor, debuting March 12, focuses on global penguin conservation. A portion of merchandise sales will support these organizations, and educational programming will be provided to guests. CEO Marc Swanson emphasized that park visits contribute to wildlife conservation efforts.
SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS) announced that its proposal to acquire Cedar Fair has been rejected, stating that they do not foresee a path to completing a transaction. The company, known for its diverse theme parks and strong commitment to animal welfare, has a history of rescuing over 39,500 animals. SeaWorld operates various renowned brands, including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens, and Aquatica, and features a wide range of attractions appealing to diverse demographics.
SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment (NYSE: SEAS) and Sesame Workshop announced the opening of the all-new Sesame Place San Diego, set to welcome guests starting March 26, 2022. This 17-acre park, the only Sesame Place on the West Coast, features 18 Sesame Street-themed rides, water attractions, and character experiences. Special Season Pass pricing is currently available for pre-opening. The park aims to be a premier family destination and celebrates an important milestone as SeaWorld's first new theme park since 2013.
On February 3, 2022, SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: SEAS) announced that its fourth quarter and fiscal 2021 financial results will be released before the market opens on February 24, 2022. A live conference call is scheduled for 9 a.m. Eastern Time on the same day, available via the company's website. For those unable to attend, a replay will be accessible after 12 p.m. Eastern Time on February 24. SeaWorld operates multiple theme parks across the United States and is recognized for its commitment to animal welfare and conservation.
The SeaWorld Conservation Fund announced a significant achievement, surpassing $19 million in grants dedicated to animal and ecosystem conservation. In 2021, it awarded 10 new grants for marine conservation efforts, benefiting various species including penguins, dolphins, porpoises, and whales. Since its inception in 2003, the Fund has supported over 541 projects worldwide. The funding supports critical initiatives like the conservation of Southern African Penguins and marine habitat protection.
SeaWorld, DHL Express, and the Columbus Zoo have collaborated to rehabilitate four rescued manatees. The manatees were transported from SeaWorld's facility in Orlando to the Columbus Zoo in Ohio, providing space for new critical care intakes at SeaWorld amid a record number of manatee rescues. This partnership highlights the importance of animal welfare and the logistics involved in animal transport. Since 1976, SeaWorld has rehabilitated over 1,300 manatees, addressing the challenges posed by the Unusual Mortality Event affecting the species.