Annual Financial Report

RNS Number : 2974A
Carnival PLC
28 January 2011
 



JANUARY 31, 2011

 

RELEASE OF CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K

FOR THE YEAR ENDED NOVEMBER 30, 2010

 

Carnival Corporation & plc announced its fourth quarter and annual results of operations in its earnings release issued on December 21, 2010.  Carnival Corporation & plc is hereby announcing that today it has filed its joint Annual Report on Form 10-K ("Form 10-K") with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") containing the Carnival Corporation & plc 2010 annual financial statements, which reported results are unchanged from those previously announced on December 21, 2010. 

 

The information included in the attached Schedules A, B and C is extracted from the Form 10-K and has been prepared in accordance with SEC rules and regulations.  Schedules A and B contain the audited consolidated financial statements for Carnival Corporation & plc as of and for the year ended November 30, 2010, together with management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations.  These Carnival Corporation & plc consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP").  Within the Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc dual listed company structure the Directors consider the most appropriate presentation of Carnival plc's results and financial position is by reference to the U.S. GAAP consolidated financial statements of Carnival Corporation & plc.  Schedule C contains information on Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc's sales and purchases of their equity securities and use of proceeds from such sales.

 

The Directors intend to approve the Carnival plc 2010 IFRS Financial Statements on February 17, 2011, and these statements will be submitted to the National Storage Mechanism ("NSM") in early March 2011.  The Carnival plc financial information will exclude the consolidated results of Carnival Corporation and will be prepared under International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union. 

 

                                      MEDIA CONTACT                                       INVESTOR RELATIONS CONTACT

                                      Tim Gallagher                                                  Beth Roberts

                                      001 305 599 2600, ext. 16000                          001 305 406 4832         

 

The Form 10-K, including the portions extracted for this announcement, is available for viewing on the SEC website at www.sec.gov under Carnival Corporation or Carnival plc or the Carnival Corporation & plc website at www.carnivalcorp.com or www.carnivalplc.com.  A copy of the Form 10-K will be available shortly on the NSM.

 

Carnival Corporation & plc is the largest cruise vacation group in the world, with a portfolio of cruise brands in North America, Europe, Australia and Asia, comprised of Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Seabourn, AIDA Cruises, Costa Cruises, Cunard, Ibero Cruises, P&O Cruises (UK) and P&O Cruises (Australia).

 

Together, these brands operate 98 ships totaling more than 191,000 lower berths with 10 new ships scheduled to be delivered between March 2011 and May 2014.  Carnival Corporation & plc also operates Holland America Princess Alaska Tours, the leading tour company in Alaska and the Canadian Yukon.  Traded on both the New York and London Stock Exchanges, Carnival Corporation & plc is the only group in the world to be included in both the S&P 500 and the FTSE 100 indices.

 

Additional information can be obtained via Carnival Corporation & plc's website at www.carnivalcorp.com or www.carnivalplc.com or by writing to Carnival plc at Carnival House, 5 Gainsford Street, London SE1 2NE, United Kingdom.

 

SCHEDULE A

 

Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

Cautionary Note Concerning Factors That May Affect Future Results

Some of the statements, estimates or projections contained in this 2010 Annual Report are "forward-looking statements" that involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions with respect to us, including some statements concerning future results, outlooks, plans, goals and other events which have not yet occurred. These statements are intended to qualify for the safe harbors from liability provided by Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We have tried, whenever possible, to identify these statements by using words like "will," "may," "could," "should," "would," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "forecast," "future," "intend," "plan," "estimate" and similar expressions of future intent or the negative of such terms.

Because forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, there are many factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied in this 2010 Annual Report. Forward-looking statements include those statements which may impact, among other things, the forecasting of our earnings per share, net revenue yields, booking levels, pricing, occupancy, operating, financing and tax costs, fuel expenses, costs per available lower berth day ("ALBDs"), estimates of ship depreciable lives and residual values, liquidity, goodwill and trademark fair values and outlook. These factors include, but are not limited to, the following:

 

 



general economic and business conditions;



fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates;



the international political climate, armed conflicts, terrorist and pirate attacks, vessel seizures, and threats thereof, and other world events affecting the safety and security of travel;



competition from and overcapacity in the cruise ship or land-based vacation industries;



accidents, the spread of contagious diseases and threats thereof, adverse weather conditions or natural disasters and other incidents affecting the health, safety, security and satisfaction of guests and crew;



adverse publicity concerning the cruise industry in general, or us in particular, including any adverse impact that cruising may have on the marine environment;



changes in and compliance with laws and regulations relating to the protection of persons with disabilities, employment, environment, health, safety, security, tax and other regulations under which we operate;



economic, market and political factors that are beyond our control, which could increase our operating, financing and other costs;



our ability to implement our shipbuilding programs and ship repairs, maintenance and refurbishments on terms that are favorable or consistent with our expectations;



increases to our repairs and maintenance expenses and refurbishment costs as our fleet ages;



the continued strength of our cruise brands and our ability to implement our brand strategies;



our international operations are subject to additional risks not generally applicable to our U.S. operations;



geographic regions in which we try to expand our business may be slow to develop and ultimately not develop how we expect;



whether our future operating cash flow will be sufficient to fund future obligations and whether we will be able to obtain financing, if necessary, in sufficient amounts and on terms that are favorable or consistent with our expectations;



our counterparties' abilities to perform;



continuing financial viability of our travel agent distribution system, air service providers and other key vendors in our supply chain and reductions in the availability of, and increases in the pricing for, the services and products provided by these vendors;



our decisions to self-insure against various risks or our inability to obtain insurance for certain risks at reasonable rates;



disruptions and other damages to our information technology and other networks and operations and breaches in data security;



loss of key personnel or our ability to recruit or retain qualified personnel;



union disputes and other employee relation issues;



lack of continuing availability of attractive, convenient and safe port destinations; and



risks associated with the DLC structure.

Forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. Subject to any continuing obligations under applicable law or any relevant stock exchange rules, we expressly disclaim any obligation to disseminate, after the date of this 2010 Annual Report, any updates or revisions to any such forward-looking statements to reflect any change in expectations or events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements are based.

 

Executive Overview

 

We generated $2.0 billion of net income and $3.8 billion of cash from operations in fiscal 2010 ("2010") as business trends improved from a gradually recovering economy. Overall, 2010 was an encouraging year, as revenue yields increased, in comparison to fiscal 2009 ("2009"), which was the most challenging economic environment in our history. We believe that our improved revenue performance in 2010 was due, in part, to our guests' understanding of the exceptional value proposition of a cruise vacation and other favorable characteristics of the cruise industry. During 2010 we took delivery of six ships, which increased our passenger capacity 7.1%. We had a 14.0% increase in our Europe, Australia & Asia ("EAA") cruise segment passenger capacity, while our North America cruise segment passenger capacity grew by 3.4%.

Our net income increased $188 million in 2010 compared to 2009. This increase was caused by a 2.7% increase in net revenue yields measured on a constant dollar basis, which accounted for $308 million, a 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $155 million, and a 3.1% reduction in constant dollar net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD, which accounted for $196 million. These favorable impacts were partially offset by higher fuel prices, which accounted for $417 million and the strengthening of the U.S. dollar compared to other currencies, which accounted for $79 million. As always, we worked diligently throughout 2010 to improve our cost structure benefitting from our ongoing cost containment programs and leveraging our size to reduce costs. In addition, our focus on reducing fuel consumption continued, and we achieved a 2.7% reduction in fuel consumption per ALBD.

The cruise industry is characterized by relatively low market penetration levels and other favorable characteristics and, accordingly, we believe it still has growth potential. As of January 31, 2011 we have contracts with three shipyards providing for the construction of 10 additional cruise ships (see Note 6 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements). These new ships, together with future newbuilds and the continuing investments we make in our existing fleet, will strengthen the leadership position of each of our cruise brands as well as our overall industry leadership position. Our current intention is to have an average of two to three cruise ships enter service annually in 2012 and beyond. Since we have slowed down the pace of our newbuilding program, we currently believe this will lead to increasing free cash flows in 2011 and beyond. These and other factors were considered at the January 2011 Boards of Directors meetings and it was decided to increase our March 2011 quarterly dividend to $0.25 per share from $0.10 per share.

Based primarily on these contracted new ships, the year-over-year percentage increase in our ALBD capacity for fiscal 2011, 2012 and 2013 is currently expected to be 5.3%, 4.7% and 3.9%, respectively. These percentages exclude any unannounced future ship orders, acquisitions, retirements, charters and sales. However, the announced withdrawal from service of P&O Cruises' Artemis in April 2011 has been reflected in these percentages.

Outlook For Fiscal 2011

 

On December 21, 2010, we said that we expected our fully diluted earnings per share for the 2011 full year and first quarter would be in the ranges of $2.90 to $3.10 and $0.15 to $0.19, respectively. Our guidance was based on fuel prices of $527 per metric ton and $526 per metric ton for the 2011 full year and first quarter, respectively. In addition, this guidance was based on 2011 full year and first quarter currency rates of $1.32 to the euro, $1.58 to sterling and $0.99 to the Australian dollar. The currency and fuel assumptions used in our guidance change daily and, accordingly, our forecasts change daily based on the changes in these assumptions.

The above forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions with respect to us. There are many factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those expressed above including, but not limited to, economic and business conditions, foreign currency exchange rates, fuel prices, ship incidents, adverse weather conditions, spread of contagious diseases, regulatory changes, geopolitical and other factors that could adversely impact our revenues, costs and expenses. You should read the above forward-looking statement together with the discussion of these and other risks under "Cautionary Note Concerning Factors That May Affect Future Results."

 

Critical Accounting Estimates

 

Our critical accounting estimates are those which we believe require our most significant judgments about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain. A discussion of our critical accounting estimates, the underlying judgments and uncertainties used to make them and the likelihood that materially different estimates would be reported under different conditions or using different assumptions is as follows:

Ship Accounting

 

Our most significant assets are our ships and ships under construction, which represent 80% of our total assets. We make several critical accounting estimates with respect to our ship accounting. First, in order to compute our ships' depreciation expense, which represented 12% of our cruise costs and expenses in fiscal 2010, we have to estimate the average useful life of each of our ships as well as their residual values. Secondly, we account for ship improvement costs by capitalizing those costs that we believe will add value to our ships and depreciate those improvements over their or the ships' estimated remaining useful life, whichever is shorter, while the costs of repairs and maintenance, including minor improvement costs and dry-dock expenses, are charged to expense as they are incurred. Finally, when we record the retirement of a ship component that is included within the ship's cost basis, we may have to estimate the net book value of the asset being retired in order to remove it from the ship's cost basis.

We determine the average useful life of our ships and their residual values based primarily on our estimates of the weighted-average useful lives and residual values of the ships' major component systems, such as cabins, engines and hull. In addition, we consider, among other things, long-term vacation market conditions, competition and historical useful lives of similarly-built ships. We have estimated our ships' weighted-average useful lives at 30 years and their average residual values at 15% of our original ship cost.

Given the size and complexity of our ships, ship accounting estimates require considerable judgment and are inherently uncertain. We do not have cost segregation studies performed to specifically componentize our ships. In addition, since we do not separately componentize our ships, we do not identify and track depreciation of specific original ship components. Therefore, we typically have to estimate the net book value of components that are retired, based primarily upon their replacement cost, their age and their original estimated useful lives.

If materially different conditions existed, or if we materially changed our assumptions of ship lives and residual values, our depreciation expense or loss on retirement of ship components and net book value of our ships would be materially different. In addition, if we change our assumptions in making our determinations as to whether improvements to a ship add value, the amounts we expense each year as repair and maintenance expense could increase, which would be partially offset by a decrease in depreciation expense, resulting from a reduction in capitalized costs. Our fiscal 2010 ship depreciation expense would increase by an estimated $35 million for every year we reduce our estimated average 30 year ship useful life. In addition, if our ships were estimated to have no residual value, our fiscal 2010 depreciation expense would increase by approximately $175 million.

We believe that the estimates we made for ship accounting purposes are reasonable and our methods are consistently applied in all material respects and, accordingly, result in depreciation expense that is based on a rational and systematic method to equitably allocate the costs of our ships to the periods during which they are used. In addition, we believe that the estimates we made are reasonable and our methods consistently applied in all material respects (1) in determining the average useful life and average residual values of our ships; (2) in determining which ship improvement costs add value to our ships; and (3) in determining the net book value of ship component assets being retired. Finally, we believe our critical ship accounting estimates are generally comparable with those of other major cruise companies.

Asset Impairments

 

Impairment reviews of our cruise ships, goodwill and trademarks require us to make significant estimates to determine the fair values of these assets or cruise brands. We believe the estimated fair value of each of our cruise brands that carry goodwill significantly exceeds the carrying value of their allocated assets, except for Ibero. See Note 10 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional discussion of our goodwill and trademark impairment tests and further details related to Ibero's goodwill.

The determination of fair value includes numerous uncertainties, unless a comparable, viable actively-traded market exists, which is usually not the case for cruise ships, cruise brands and trademarks. Our ship fair values are typically estimated based on comparable ship sale prices and other comparable ship values in inactive markets. In determining fair values of cruise brands utilizing discounted future cash flow analysis, significant judgments are made related to forecasting future operating results, including net revenue yields, net cruise costs including fuel prices, capacity changes, including the expected deployment of vessels into, or out of, the cruise brand, weighted-average cost of capital for comparable publicly-traded companies, terminal values, cruise itineraries, technological changes, consumer demand, governmental regulations and the effects of competition, among others. In addition, third party appraisers are sometimes used to help determine fair values of cruise ships, cruise brands and trademarks, and their valuation methodologies are also typically subject to uncertainties similar to those discussed above.

In addition, in determining our trademark fair values we also use discounted future cash flow analysis, which requires some of the same significant judgments discussed above. Specifically, determining the estimated amount of royalties avoided by our ownership of the trademark is based on forecasted cruise revenues and royalty rates estimated primarily using comparable royalty agreements for similar industries.

 

We believe that we have made reasonable estimates and judgments in determining whether our cruise ships, goodwill and trademarks have been impaired. However, if there is a material change in assumptions used in our determination of fair values, or if there is a material change in the conditions or circumstances influencing fair values, then we may need to recognize a material impairment.

Contingencies

 

We periodically assess the potential liabilities related to any lawsuits or claims brought against us, as well as for other known unasserted claims, including environmental, legal, guest and crew, and tax matters. While it is typically very difficult to determine the timing and ultimate outcome of these matters, we use our best judgment to determine if it is probable, or more likely than not ("MLTN") for income tax matters, that we will incur an expense related to the settlement or final adjudication of such matters and whether a reasonable estimation of such probable or MLTN loss, if any, can be made. In assessing probable losses, we make estimates of the amount of probable insurance recoveries, if any, which are recorded as assets. We accrue a liability when we believe a loss is probable or MLTN for income tax matters, and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Such accruals are typically based on developments to date, management's estimates of the outcomes of these matters, our experience in contesting, litigating and settling other similar non-income tax matters, historical claims experience, actuarially determined assumptions of liabilities and any related insurance coverages. See Notes 7 and 8 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information concerning our contingencies.

Given the inherent uncertainty related to the eventual outcome of these matters and potential insurance recoveries, it is possible that all or some of these matters may be resolved for amounts materially different from any provisions or disclosures that we may have made with respect to their resolution. In addition, as new information becomes available, we may need to reassess the amount of asset or liability that needs to be accrued related to our contingencies. All such revisions in our estimates could materially impact our results of operations and financial position.

Results of Operations

 

We earn our cruise revenues primarily from the following:

 

 



sales of passenger cruise tickets and, in some cases, the sale of air and other transportation to and from our ships and cancellation fees. The cruise ticket price includes accommodation, most meals, some non-alcoholic beverages, most onboard entertainment and many onboard activities, and



sales of goods and services primarily onboard our ships not included in the cruise ticket price including, among other things, bar and some beverage sales, shore excursions, casino gaming, gift shop sales, photo sales, spa services, internet and phone services and cruise vacation protection programs. These goods and services are provided either directly by us or by independent concessionaires, from which we receive either a percentage of their revenues or a fee.

We incur cruise operating costs and expenses for the following:

 

 



the costs of passenger cruise bookings, which represent costs that are directly associated with passenger cruise ticket revenues, and include travel agent commissions, air and other transportation related costs, port costs that vary with guest head counts and related credit card fees,



onboard and other cruise costs, which represent costs that are directly associated with onboard and other revenues, and include the costs of liquor and some beverages, costs of tangible goods sold by us from our gift shop and photo sales, communication costs, costs of pre and post-cruise land packages and related credit card fees. Concession revenues do not have significant associated expenses because the costs and services incurred for concession revenues are borne by our concessionaires,



payroll and related costs, which represent all costs related to our shipboard personnel, including deck and engine crew, including officers, and hotel and administrative employees,



fuel costs, which include fuel delivery costs,



food costs, which include both our guest and crew food costs, and



other ship operating costs, which include port costs that do not vary with guest head counts, repairs and maintenance, including minor improvements and dry-dock expenses, hotel supplies, entertainment, freight and logistics and all other ship operating costs and expenses.

For segment information related to our North America and Europe, Australia & Asia ("EAA") cruise brands' revenues, expenses, operating income and other financial information see Note 11 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

Selected Cruise and Other Information

 

Selected cruise and other information was as follows:

 















  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010



2009



2008


Passengers carried (in thousands)

  


9,147

  



8,519

  



8,183

  

Occupancy percentage (a)

  


105.6



105.5



105.7

Fuel consumption (metric tons in thousands)

  


3,319

  



3,184

  



3,179

  

Fuel cost per metric ton (b)

  

$

489

  


$

363

  


$

558

  

Currencies

  












U.S. dollar to €1

  

$

1.33

  


$

1.39

  


$

1.49

  

U.S. dollar to £1

  

$

1.55

  


$

1.56

  


$

1.90

  

U.S. dollar to Australian dollar

  

$

0.91

  


$

0.77

  


$

0.87

  

 

(a)

In accordance with cruise industry practice, occupancy is calculated using a denominator of two passengers per cabin even though some cabins can accommodate three or more passengers.  Percentages in excess of 100% indicate that on average more than two passengers occupied some cabins.

 

(b)

Fuel cost per metric ton is calculated by dividing the cost of fuel by the number of metric tons consumed.

Fiscal 2010 ("2010") Compared to Fiscal 2009 ("2009")

 

Revenues

 

Consolidated

 

Approximately 77% of 2010 total revenues are comprised of cruise passenger ticket revenues. Cruise passenger ticket revenues increased by $796 million, or 7.7%, to $11.1 billion in 2010 from $10.3 billion in 2009. This increase was caused by our 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $735 million, and a recovery in overall cruise ticket pricing, which accounted for $324 million. Our 2010 cruise passenger ticket revenue increase was partially offset by the impacts of lower air transportation revenues due to fewer guests purchasing their air travel through us, and a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro and sterling compared to 2009 (see "Key Performance Non-GAAP Financial Indicators").

The remaining 23% of 2010 total revenues is principally comprised of onboard and other cruise revenues, which increased by $219 million, or 7.6%, to $3.1 billion in 2010 from $2.9 billion in 2009. This increase was driven by our 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $206 million. Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $958 million in 2010 and $881 million in 2009.

North America Brands

 

Approximately 75% of 2010 total revenues are comprised of cruise passenger ticket revenues. Cruise passenger ticket revenues increased by $458 million, or 7.8%, to $6.3 billion in 2010 from $5.9 billion in 2009. This increase was caused by a significant recovery in cruise ticket pricing, which accounted for $338 million and our 3.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $197 million. Our 2010 cruise passenger ticket revenue increase was partially offset by lower air transportation revenues from fewer guests purchasing their air travel through us.

The remaining 25% of 2010 total revenues is comprised of onboard and other cruise revenues, which increased $106 million, or 5.4%, to $2.1 billion in 2010 from $2.0 billion in 2009. This increase was primarily driven by our 3.4% capacity increase in ALBDs. Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $628 million in 2010 and $589 million in 2009.

 

EAA Brands

 

Approximately 83% of 2010 total revenues are comprised of cruise passenger ticket revenues. Cruise passenger ticket revenues increased $338 million, or 7.7%, to $4.8 billion in 2010 from $4.4 billion in 2009. This increase was caused by our 14.0% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $622 million. This increase was partially offset by the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro and sterling compared to 2009, which accounted for $111 million, the impact of lower air transportation revenues from fewer guests purchasing their air travel through us and a decrease in cruise ticket pricing primarily caused by the challenging winter season in the Brazilian market, which had significant increases in industry capacity.

The remaining 17% of 2010 total revenues is comprised of onboard and other cruise revenues, which increased $112 million, or 13.1%, to $965 million in 2010 from $853 million in 2009. This increase was caused by our 14.0% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $120 million. Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $330 million in 2010 and $291 million in 2009.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Consolidated

 

Operating costs and expenses increased $685 million, or 8.1%, to $9.1 billion in 2010 from $8.4 billion in 2009. This increase was caused by our 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $584 million and higher fuel prices, which accounted for $417 million. These increases were partially offset by the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale, lower air transportation costs due to fewer guests purchasing their air travel through us and $61 million of gains recognized from the sale of P&O Cruises (UK)'s Artemis and Cunard's litigation settlement with Converteam related to Queen Mary 2's pod propulsion system ("Cunard's litigation settlement").

Selling and administrative expenses of $1.6 billion were flat in 2010 compared to 2009 despite our 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs. The impact from the increase in capacity, which accounted for $111 million, was offset by the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $107 million, or 8.2%, to $1.4 billion in 2010 from $1.3 billion in 2009 caused by $91 million from our 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs through the addition of new ships, and additional ship and other improvement expenditures, net of disposals.

Our total costs and expenses as a percentage of revenues decreased slightly to 83.8% in 2010 from 84.0% in 2009.

North America Brands

 

Operating costs and expenses increased $350 million, or 7.1%, to $5.3 billion in 2010 from $4.9 billion in 2009. This increase was caused by higher fuel prices, which accounted for $260 million and our 3.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $167 million. These increases were partially offset by the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale and lower air transportation costs due to fewer guests purchasing air travel through us.

Selling and administrative expenses of $902 million were flat in 2010 compared to 2009 despite our 3.4% capacity increase in ALBDs. The impact from the increase in capacity, which accounted for $30 million, was offset by the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $52 million, or 6.6%, to $843 million in 2010 from $791 million in 2009, caused by $27 million from our 3.4% capacity increase in ALBDs through the addition of new ships, and additional ship and other improvement expenditures.

Our total costs and expenses as a percentage of total revenues decreased to 84.0% in 2010 from 84.8% in 2009.

 

EAA Brands

 

Operating costs and expenses increased $357 million, or 11.1%, to $3.6 billion in 2010 from $3.2 billion in 2009. This increase was caused by our 14.0% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $451 million and higher fuel prices, which accounted for $157 million. These increases were partially offset by the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale, lower air transportation costs due to fewer guests purchasing their air travel through us and $61 million of gains recognized from the sale of P&O Cruises (UK)'s Artemis and Cunard's litigation settlement.

Selling and administrative expenses of $584 million were flat in 2010 compared to 2009 despite our 14.0% capacity increase in ALBDs. The impact from the increase in capacity, which accounted for $80 million was offset by the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $47 million, or 10.3%, to $505 million in 2010 from $458 million in 2009, caused by $64 million from our 14.0% capacity increase in ALBDs through the addition of new ships, and additional ship and other improvement expenditures, net of disposals.

Our total costs and expenses as a percentage of total revenues increased to 81.3% in 2010 from 80.4% in 2009.

Operating Income

 

Our consolidated operating income increased $193 million, or 9.0%, to $2.3 billion in 2010 from $2.2 billion in 2009. Our North America brands' operating income increased $156 million, or 13.2%, to $1.3 billion in 2010 from $1.2 billion in 2009, and our EAA brands' operating income increased $35 million, or 3.4%, to $1.1 billion in 2010 from $1.0 billion in 2009. These increases were primarily due to the reasons discussed above.

 

Key Performance Non-GAAP Financial Indicators

 

ALBDs is a standard measure of passenger capacity for the period, which we use to perform rate and capacity variance analyses to determine the main non-capacity driven factors that cause our cruise revenues and expenses to vary. ALBDs assume that each cabin we offer for sale accommodates two passengers and is computed by multiplying passenger capacity by revenue-producing ship operating days in the period.

We use net cruise revenues per ALBD ("net revenue yields"), net cruise costs per ALBD and net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD as significant non-GAAP financial measures of our cruise segment financial performance. These measures enable us to separate the impact of predictable capacity changes from the more unpredictable rate changes that affect our business. We believe these non-GAAP measures provide an expanded insight to measure our revenue and cost performance in addition to the standard U.S. GAAP-based financial measures.

Net revenue yields are commonly used in the cruise industry to measure a company's cruise segment revenue performance and for revenue management purposes. We use "net cruise revenues" rather than "gross cruise revenues" to calculate net revenue yields. We believe that net cruise revenues is a more meaningful measure in determining revenue yield than gross cruise revenues because it reflects the cruise revenues earned net of our most significant variable costs, which are travel agent commissions, cost of air and other transportation, certain other costs that are directly associated with onboard and other revenues and credit card fees. Substantially all of our remaining cruise costs are largely fixed, except for the impact of changing prices, once our ship capacity levels have been determined.

Net passenger ticket revenues reflect gross cruise revenues, net of (1) onboard and other revenues, (2) commissions, transportation and other costs and (3) onboard and other cruise costs. Net onboard and other revenues reflect gross cruise revenues, net of (1) passenger ticket revenues, (2) commissions, transportation and other costs and (3) onboard and other cruise costs. Net passenger ticket revenue yields and net onboard and other revenue yields are computed by dividing net passenger ticket revenues and net onboard and other revenues by ALBDs.

Net cruise costs per ALBD and net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD are the most significant measures we use to monitor our ability to control our cruise segment costs rather than gross cruise costs per ALBD. We exclude the same variable costs that are included in the calculation of net cruise revenues to calculate net cruise costs with and without fuel to avoid duplicating these variable costs in our non-GAAP financial measures.

In addition, because our EAA cruise brands utilize the euro, sterling and Australian dollar to measure their results and financial condition, the translation of those operations to our U.S. dollar reporting currency results in decreases in reported U.S. dollar revenues and expenses if the U.S. dollar strengthens against these foreign currencies, and increases in reported U.S. dollar revenues and expenses if the U.S. dollar weakens against these foreign currencies. Accordingly, we also monitor and report our non-GAAP financial measures assuming the 2010 and 2009 periods' currency exchange rates have remained constant with the 2009 and 2008 periods' rates, respectively, or on a "constant dollar basis," in order to remove the impact of changes in exchange rates on our non-U.S. dollar cruise operations. We believe that this is a useful measure since it facilitates a comparative view of the growth of our business in a fluctuating currency exchange rate environment.

There are no specific rules for determining our non-GAAP current and constant dollar financial measures and, accordingly, it is possible that they may not be exactly comparable to the like-kind information presented by other cruise companies, which is a potential risk associated with using these measures to compare us to other cruise companies.

 

Consolidated gross and net revenue yields were computed by dividing the gross and net cruise revenues, without rounding, by ALBDs as follows (dollars in millions, except yields):

 























  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010



2010
Constant
Dollar



2009



2009
Constant
Dollar



2008


Passenger ticket revenues

  

$

11,084

  


$

11,194

  


$

10,288

  


$

10,818

  


$

11,511

  

Onboard and other revenues

  


3,104

  



3,117

  



2,885

  



2,979

  



3,044

  


  




















Gross cruise revenues

  


14,188

  



14,311

  



13,173

  



13,797

  



14,555

  


  




















Less cruise costs

  




















Commissions, transportation and other

  


(2,272



(2,287



(2,220



(2,361



(2,533

Onboard and other

  


(474



(474



(461



(481



(501


  





















  


(2,746



(2,761



(2,681



(2,842



(3,034


  




















Net passenger ticket revenues

  


8,812

  



8,907

  



8,068

  



8,457

  



8,978

  

Net onboard and other revenues

  


2,630

  



2,643

  



2,424

  



2,498

  



2,543

  


  




















Net cruise revenues

  

$

11,442

  


$

11,550

  


$

10,492

  


$

10,955

  


$

11,521

  


  




















ALBDs

  


66,545,164

  



66,545,164

  



62,105,916

  



62,105,916

  



58,942,864

  


  




















Gross revenue yields

  

$

213.21

  


$

215.06

  


$

212.10

  


$

222.15

  


$

246.93

  

% increase (decrease) vs. prior year

  


0.5



1.4



(14.1

)% 



(10.0

)% 





Net revenue yields

  

$

171.94

  


$

173.57

  


$

168.94

  


$

176.38

  


$

195.46

  

% increase (decrease) vs. prior year

  


1.8



2.7



(13.6

)% 



(9.8

)% 





Net passenger ticket revenue yields

  

$

132.41

  


$

133.86

  


$

129.91

  


$

136.17

  


$

152.31

  

% increase (decrease) vs. prior year

  


1.9



3.0



(14.7

)% 



(10.6

)% 





Net onboard and other revenue yields

  

$

39.52

  


$

39.72

  


$

39.03

  


$

40.21

  


$

43.16

  

% increase (decrease) vs. prior year

  


1.3



1.8



(9.6

)% 



(6.8

)% 





Consolidated gross and net cruise costs and net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD were computed by dividing the gross and net cruise costs and net cruise costs excluding fuel, without rounding, by ALBDs as follows (dollars in millions, except costs per ALBD):

 























  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010



2010
Constant
Dollar



2009



2009
Constant
Dollar



2008


Cruise operating expenses

  

$

8,880

  


$

8,911

  


$

8,171

  


$

8,512

  


$

9,047

  

Cruise selling and administrative expenses

  


1,583

  



1,587

  



1,558

  



1,624

  



1,594

  


  




















Gross cruise costs

  


10,463

  



10,498

  



9,729

  



10,136

  



10,641

  

Less cruise costs included in net cruise revenues

  




















Commissions, transportation and other

  


(2,272



(2,287



(2,220



(2,361



(2,533

Onboard and other

  


(474



(474



(461



(481



(501


  




















Net cruise costs

  


7,717

  



7,737

  



7,048

  



7,294

  



7,607

  

Less fuel

  


(1,622



(1,622



(1,156



(1,156



(1,774


  




















Net cruise costs excluding fuel

  

$

6,095

  


$

6,115

  


$

5,892

  


$

6,138

  


$

5,833

  


  




















ALBDs

  


66,545,164

  



66,545,164

  



62,105,916

  



62,105,916

  



58,942,864

  


  




















Gross cruise costs per ALBD

  

$

157.23

  


$

157.77

  


$

156.64

  


$

163.21

  


$

180.53

  

% increase (decrease) vs. prior year

  


0.4



0.7



(13.2

)% 



(9.6

)% 





Net cruise costs per ALBD

  

$

115.96

  


$

116.28

  


$

113.48

  


$

117.45

  


$

129.06

  

% increase (decrease) vs. prior year

  


2.2



2.5



(12.1

)% 



(9.0

)% 





Net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD

  

$

91.59

  


$

91.91

  


$

94.86

  


$

98.83

  


$

98.96

  

% (decrease) vs. prior year

  


(3.4

)% 



(3.1

)% 



(4.1

)% 



(0.1

)% 





 

Net cruise revenues increased $950 million, or 9.1%, to $11.4 billion in 2010 from $10.5 billion in 2009. This was caused by a 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $750 million, and a 2.7% increase in constant dollar net revenue yields, which accounted for $308 million, partially offset by the impact of a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro and sterling, which accounted for $108 million. The 2.7% increase in net revenue yields on a constant dollar basis was comprised of a 3.0% increase in net passenger ticket revenue yields and a 1.8% increase in net onboard and other revenue yields. The 3.0% increase in net passenger ticket revenue yields was driven by stronger North American brand yields as business trends improved from a gradually recovering economy, partially offset by slightly weaker EAA brand yields that were primarily caused by the challenging winter season in the Brazilian market, which had significant increases in industry capacity. Net onboard and other revenue yields increased 1.8% on a constant dollar basis due to higher onboard spending by our guests. Gross cruise revenues increased $1.0 billion, or 7.7%, to $14.2 billion in 2010 from $13.2 billion in 2009 for largely the same reasons as discussed above.

Net cruise costs excluding fuel increased $203 million, or 3.4%, to $6.1 billion in 2010 from $5.9 billion in 2009. This was caused by a 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $421 million, partially offset by a 3.1% decrease in constant dollar net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD, which accounted for $196 million. The 3.1% decrease in constant dollar net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD was primarily due to the benefits from cost reduction programs and economies of scale and $61 million of gains recognized from the sale of P&O Cruises (UK)'s Artemis and Cunard's litigation settlement. On a constant dollar basis, net cruise costs per ALBD excluding fuel and the gains recognized from the sale of P&O Cruises (UK)'s Artemis and Cunard's litigation settlement decreased 2.2% in 2010 compared to 2009.

Fuel costs increased $466 million, or 40.3%, to $1.6 billion in 2010 from $1.2 billion in 2009. This was driven by higher fuel prices, which accounted for $417 million, a 7.1% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $83 million and was partially offset by lower fuel consumption per ALBD. Gross cruise costs increased $734 million, or 7.5% in 2010 to $10.5 billion from $9.7 billion in 2009 for largely the same reasons as discussed above.

Fiscal 2009 ("2009") Compared to Fiscal 2008 ("2008")

 

Revenues

 

Consolidated

 

Approximately 76% of 2009 total revenues are comprised of cruise passenger ticket revenues. Cruise passenger ticket revenues decreased by $1.2 billion, or 10.6%, to $10.3 billion in 2009 from $11.5 billion in 2008. This decrease was caused by lower pricing due to the impact of the economic downturn, as well as a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar compared to 2008, which accounted for $530 million. In addition, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention's ("CDC's") recommendations against non-essential travel to Mexico as a result of the flu virus also adversely impacted our revenues because we had to alter several of our cruise ships' itineraries. This revenue decrease was partially offset by our 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $618 million (see "Key Performance Non-GAAP Financial Indicators" below).

The remaining 24% of 2009 total revenues is principally comprised of onboard and other cruise revenues, which decreased by $159 million, or 5.2%, to $2.9 billion in 2009 from $3.0 billion in 2008. This decrease was caused by lower onboard spending by our guests primarily as a result of the impacts of the economic downturn, as well as the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar compared to 2008, which accounted for $94 million. The lower onboard and other spending was partially offset by our 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $163 million. Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $881 million in 2009 and $924 million in 2008.

 

North America Brands

 

Approximately 75% of 2009 total revenues are comprised of cruise passenger ticket revenues. Cruise passenger ticket revenues decreased by $825 million, or 12.3%, to $5.9 billion in 2009 from $6.7 billion in 2008. This decrease was caused by lower pricing due to the impact of the economic downturn partially offset by our 3.9% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $258 million. In addition, the CDC's recommendations against non-essential travel to Mexico as a result of the flu virus also adversely impacted our revenues because we had to alter several of our cruise ships' itineraries.

The remaining 25% of 2009 total revenues is principally comprised of onboard and other cruise revenues, which decreased $126 million, or 6.1%, to $2.0 billion in 2009 from $2.1 billion in 2008. This decrease was driven by lower onboard spending by our guests primarily as a result of the impact of the economic downturn. Our onboard and other revenue decrease was partially offset by our 3.9% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $80 million. Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $589 million in 2009 and $619 million in 2008.

 

EAA Brands

 

Approximately 84% of 2009 total revenues are comprised of cruise passenger ticket revenues. Cruise passenger ticket revenues decreased $398 million, or 8.3%, to $4.4 billion in 2009 from $4.8 billion in 2008. This decrease was caused by the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar compared to 2008, which accounted for $530 million and lower pricing primarily due to the impact of the economic downturn, which were partially offset by our 8.2% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $397 million.

The remaining 16% of 2009 total revenues is comprised of onboard and other cruise revenues, which decreased $35 million or 3.9%, to $853 million in 2009 from $888 million in 2008. This decrease was primarily because of the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar, which was partially offset by our 8.2% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $73 million. Onboard and other revenues included concession revenues of $291 million in 2009 and $304 million in 2008.

 

Costs and Expenses

 

Consolidated

 

Operating costs and expenses decreased $933 million, or 10.0%, to $8.4 billion in 2009 from $9.3 billion in 2008. This decrease was primarily due to lower fuel prices of $621 million, the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar, decreased commissions as a result of our lower ticket revenues and lower fuel consumption, resulting from fuel saving initiatives. This decrease was partially offset by our 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $485 million.

Selling and administrative expenses decreased $39 million, or 2.4%, to $1.6 billion in 2009. The decrease was primarily caused by the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar and the impact of cost containment initiatives, partially offset by our 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $86 million.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $60 million, or 4.8%, to $1.3 billion in 2009 from $1.2 billion in 2008, caused by $67 million from our 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs through the addition of new ships, and additional ship and other improvement expenditures, partially offset by the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar and disposals.

 

Our total costs and expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 84.0% in 2009 from 81.7% in 2008.

 

North America Brands

 

Operating costs and expenses decreased $566 million, or 10.3%, to $4.9 billion in 2009 from $5.5 billion in 2008. This decrease was primarily due to lower fuel prices, which accounted for $409 million, decreased commissions as a result of our lower ticket revenues and lower fuel consumption, as a result of fuel saving initiatives compared to 2008. This decrease was partially offset by our 3.9% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $213 million.

Selling and administrative expenses decreased $9 million, or 1.0%, to $896 million in 2009 from $905 million in 2008. The decrease was primarily caused by the impact of cost containment initiatives, partially offset by our 3.9% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $35 million.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $68 million, or 9.4%, to $791 million in 2009 from $723 million in 2008, caused by $28 million from our 3.9% capacity increase in ALBDs through the addition of new ships, and additional ship and other improvement expenditures.

 

Our total costs and expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 84.8% in 2009 from 81.4% in 2008.

 

EAA Brands

 

Operating costs and expenses decreased $288 million, or 8.2%, to $3.2 billion in 2009 from $3.5 billion in 2008. This decrease was primarily due to lower fuel prices, which accounted for $212 million, the impact of the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar, decreased commissions as a result of our lower ticket revenues and lower fuel consumption, resulting from fuel saving initiatives. This decrease was partially offset by our 8.2% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $288 million.

Selling and administrative expenses decreased $39 million, or 6.4%, to $573 million in 2009 from $612 million in 2008. The decrease was primarily caused by the stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar and the impact of cost containment initiatives, partially offset by our 8.2% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $50 million.

Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $4 million to $458 million in 2009 from $462 million in 2008. This decrease was caused by a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar compared to 2008, which accounted for $52 million and disposals, partially offset by our 8.2% capacity increase in ALBDs.

 

Our total costs and expenses as a percentage of revenues increased to 80.4% in 2009 from 80.1% in 2008.

 

Operating Income

 

Our consolidated operating income decreased $575 million, or 21.1% to $2.2 billion in 2009 from $2.7 billion in 2008. Our North America brands' operating income decreased $444 million, or 27.3%, to $1.2 billion in 2009 from $1.6 billion in 2008, and our EAA brands' operating income decreased $102 million, or 9.0%, to $1.0 billion in 2009 from $1.1 billion in 2008. These increases were primarily due to the reasons discussed above.

 

Key Performance Non-GAAP Financial Indicators

 

Net cruise revenues decreased $1.0 billion, or 8.9%, to $10.5 billion in 2009 from $11.5 billion in 2008. This was caused by a 9.8% decrease in constant dollar net revenue yields, which accounted for $1.2 billion and the impact of a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar, which accounted for $462 million (gross revenue yields decreased by 14.1%). This decrease was partially offset by our 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $618 million. The 9.8% decrease in net revenue yields on a constant dollar basis was comprised of a 10.6% decrease in net passenger ticket revenue yields and a 6.8% decrease in net onboard and other revenue yields. The 10.6% decrease in net passenger ticket revenue yields was due to the impact of the economic downturn on our cruise ticket pricing. In addition the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendation against non-essential travel to Mexico as a result of a flu virus also impacted our net revenue yields as previously discussed. Net onboard and other revenue yields decreased primarily due to the impact of the economic downturn on guest onboard spending across all revenue-producing activities. Gross cruise revenues decreased $1.4 billion, or 9.5%, to $13.2 billion in 2009 from $14.6 billion in 2009 for largely the same reasons as discussed above.

Net cruise costs excluding fuel increased $59 million, or 1.0%, to $5.9 billion in 2009 from $5.8 billion in 2008. This was caused by a 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $313 million, partially offset by the impact of a stronger U.S. dollar against the euro, sterling and Australian dollar, which accounted for $246 million. Net cruise costs excluding fuel per ALBD as measured on a constant dollar basis were flat in 2009 compared to 2008 primarily due to the impact of cost containment initiatives (gross cruise costs per ALBD decreased 13.2%).

 

Fuel costs decreased $618 million, or 34.8%, to $1.2 billion in 2009 from $1.8 billion in 2008. This was caused by lower fuel prices, which accounted for $621 million and lower fuel consumption per ALBD, which accounted for $92 million and was partially offset by a 5.4% capacity increase in ALBDs, which accounted for $95 million. Gross cruise costs decreased $912 million, or 8.6%, in 2009 to $9.7 billion from $10.6 billion in 2008 for largely the same reasons as discussed above, as well as the reduction in travel agent commissions as a result of lower cruise ticket prices.

 

Liquidity, Financial Condition and Capital Resources

 

Maintenance of a strong balance sheet, which enhances our financial flexibility and allows us to return free cash flow to shareholders, is the primary objective of our capital structure policy. Our current intention is to have an average of two to three new cruise ships enter service annually in 2012 and beyond. Since we have slowed down the pace of our newbuilding program, we currently believe this will lead to increasing free cash flows in 2011 and beyond. Other objectives of our capital structure policy are to maintain an acceptable level of liquidity with our available cash and cash equivalents and committed financings for immediate and future liquidity needs, and a reasonable debt maturity profile that is spread out over a number of years.

We continue to generate substantial cash from operations and have investment grade credit ratings, which provide us with financial flexibility in most financial credit market environments to obtain debt funding, as required. If our long-term credit rating were to be downgraded or assigned a negative outlook, our access to, and cost of, financing may be negatively impacted. Based on our historical results, current forecast and financial condition, we believe that our existing liquidity (assuming we can refinance our principal revolver before its October 2012 maturity) and cash flow from future operations will be sufficient to fund all of our expected capital projects (including shipbuilding commitments), debt service requirements, working capital needs and other firm commitments over the next several years. Our forecasted cash flow from operations and access to the capital markets can be adversely impacted by numerous factors outside our control including, but not limited to, those noted under "Cautionary Note Concerning Factors That May Affect Future Results." Although we do not believe we will be required to obtain additional new financings during 2011, we may choose to do so if favorable opportunities arise.

At November 30, 2009, the U.S. dollar was $1.65 to sterling, $1.50 to the euro and $0.91 to the Australian dollar. Had these November 30, 2009 currency exchange rates been used to translate our November 30, 2010 non-U.S. dollar functional currency operations' assets and liabilities instead of the November 30, 2010 U.S. dollar exchange rates of $1.56 to sterling, $1.32 to the euro and $0.96 to the Australian dollar, our total assets and liabilities would have been higher by $1.5 billion and $690 million, respectively.

 

Sources and Uses of Cash

 

Our business provided $3.8 billion of net cash from operations during fiscal 2010, an increase of $476 million, or 14.2%, compared to $3.3 billion in fiscal 2009. This increase was caused by an increase in customer deposits and more cash provided by our results of operations.

At November 30, 2010 and 2009, we had working capital deficits of $4.5 billion and $3.4 billion, respectively. Our November 30, 2010 deficit included $2.8 billion of customer deposits, which represent the passenger revenues we collect in advance of sailing dates and, accordingly, are substantially more like deferred revenue transactions rather than actual current cash liabilities. We use our long-term ship assets to realize a portion of this deferred revenue in addition to consuming current assets. In addition, our November 30, 2010 working capital deficit included $1.4 billion of current debt obligations, which included $696 million outstanding under our commercial paper programs and $657 million outstanding under our export credit facilities, bank loans and other debt. We continue to generate substantial cash from operations and have a strong balance sheet. This strong balance sheet provides us with financial flexibility to meet our current debt obligations as they become due in most financial credit market environments. We also have our principal revolver available to provide long-term rollover financing should the need arise, or we choose to do so. After excluding customer deposits and current debt obligations from our November 30, 2010 working capital deficit balance, our non-GAAP adjusted working capital deficit is only $353 million. As explained above, our business model allows us to operate with a significant working capital deficit and, accordingly, we believe we will continue to have a working capital deficit for the foreseeable future.

During fiscal 2010, our expenditures for capital projects were $3.6 billion, of which $2.9 billion was spent on our ongoing new shipbuilding program, including $2.5 billion for the final delivery payments for AIDAblu, Azura, Costa Deliziosa, Nieuw Amsterdam, Queen Elizabeth and Seabourn Sojourn. In addition to our new shipbuilding program, we had capital expenditures of $544 million for ship improvements and replacements and $115 million for cruise port facilities, information technology and other assets.

During 2010, we borrowed a net $626 million of short-term borrowings in connection with our needs for, and availability of, cash at various times throughout the year. In addition, during fiscal 2010, we repaid $350 million and borrowed $94 million under our revolving credit facilities, which was also in connection with our needs for, and availability of, cash at various times throughout the year. We also borrowed $1.3 billion of new other long-term debt during fiscal 2010, under three export credit financing facilities and two bank loans. In addition, we also repaid $1.8 billion of other long-term debt in fiscal 2010 for scheduled payments on export credit facilities and a bank loan, redemption of our 2% Notes and early repayment of two export credit facilities and a bank loan. Finally, we paid cash dividends of $237 million in fiscal 2010.

 

Future Commitments and Funding Sources

 

At November 30, 2010, our contractual cash obligations were as follows (in millions):

 































  

Payments Due by Fiscal



  

2011


  

2012


  

2013


  

2014


  

2015


  

There-
After


  

Total


Recorded Contractual Cash Obligations

  




  




  




  




  




  




  




Short-term borrowings (a)

  

$

740

  

  




  




  




  




  




  

$

740

  

Long-term debt (a)

  


613

  

  

$

1,159

  

  

$

1,715

  

  

$

1,006

  

  

$

1,128

  

  

$

3,003

  

  


8,624

  

Other long-term liabilities reflected on the balance sheet (b)

  


74

  

  


121

  

  


106

  

  


85

  

  


56

  

  


216

  

  


658

  

Unrecorded Contractual Cash Obligations

  




  




  




  




  




  




  




Shipbuilding (c)

  


2,076

  

  


1,773

  

  


1,032

  

  


625

  

  


-


  


-


  


5,506

  

Operating leases (c)

  


44

  

  


39

  

  


34

  

  


25

  

  


23

  

  


108

  

  


273

  

Port facilities and other (c)

  


120

  

  


114

  

  


107

  

  


100

  

  


98

  

  


811

  

  


1,350

  

Purchase obligations (d)

  


694

  

  


58

  

  


36

  

  


24

  

  


20

  

  


25

  

  


857

  

Fixed rate interest payments (e)

  


304

  

  


287

  

  


259

  

  


197

  

  


175

  

  


691

  

  


1,913

  

Floating rate interest payments (e)

  


61

  

  


57

  

  


33

  

  


31

  

  


24

  

  


82

  

  


288

  


  




  




  




  




  




  




  




Total Contractual Cash Obligations (f)

  

$

4,726

  

  

$

3,608

  

  

$

3,322

  

  

$

2,093

  

  

$

1,524

  

  

$

4,936

  

  

$

20,209

  


  




  




  




  




  




  




  




 

(a)

Our debt, excluding short-term borrowings, has a weighted-average maturity of five years. See Note 5 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding these debt obligations.

 

(b)

Represents cash outflows for certain of our long-term liabilities, including their current portion, that could be reasonably estimated. The primary outflows are for estimates of our employee benefit plan obligations, crew and guest claims, uncertain income tax position liabilities and certain deferred income taxes. Deferred income and certain deferred income taxes have been excluded from the table because they do not require a cash settlement in the future.

(c)

Represents cash outflows for our shipbuilding contractual obligations, including the impact of foreign currency options as discussed below in "Newbuild Currency Risk." These obligations are legal commitments and, accordingly, cannot be cancelled without cause by the shipyards or us, and such cancellation will subject the defaulting party to significant contractual liquidating damage payments. See Note 6 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements for additional information regarding these contractual cash obligations.

 

(d)

Represents legally-binding commitments to purchase inventory and other goods and services made in the normal course of business to meet operational requirements. Many of our contracts contain clauses that allow us to terminate the contract with notice, either with or without a termination penalty. Termination penalties are generally an amount less than the original obligation. Historically, we have not had any significant defaults of our contractual obligations or incurred significant penalties for termination of our contractual obligations.

 

(e)

Fixed rate interest payments represent cash outflows for fixed interest payments, including interest swapped from a floating rate to a fixed rate and excluding the reverse of such a swap. Floating rate interest payments represent forecasted cash outflows for interest payments on floating rate debt, including interest swapped from a fixed rate to a floating rate, and excluding the reverse of such a swap, using the November 30, 2010 forward interest rates for the remaining terms of the loans.

 

(f)

Amounts payable in foreign currencies, which are principally the euro, sterling and Australian dollars, are based on the November 30, 2010 exchange rates.

In June 2006, the Boards of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an aggregate of $1 billion of Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ordinary shares subject to certain restrictions. On September 19, 2007, the Boards of Directors increased the remaining $578 million general repurchase authorization back to $1 billion (the "Repurchase Program"). During fiscal 2010 and 2009, there were no repurchases of Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ordinary shares under the Repurchase Program. At January 31, 2011, the remaining availability pursuant to our Repurchase Program was $787 million. The Repurchase Program does not have an expiration date and may be discontinued by our Boards of Directors at any time.

In addition to the Repurchase Program, the Boards of Directors have authorized the repurchase of up to 19.2 million Carnival plc ordinary shares and up to 31.5 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock under the "Stock Swap" programs. We use these "Stock Swap" programs in situations where we can obtain an economic benefit because either Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ordinary shares are trading at a price that is at a premium or discount to the price of Carnival plc ordinary shares or Carnival Corporation common stock, as the case may be. This economic benefit is used for general corporate purposes, which could include repurchasing treasury stock under the Repurchase Program. Carnival plc ordinary share repurchases under both the Repurchase Program and the "Stock Swap" authorizations require annual shareholder approval. Finally, under the "Stock Swap" programs, the sales of the Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ordinary shares have been or will be registered under the Securities Act.

At November 30, 2010, as adjusted for the $549 million of export credit facilities for two AIDA ship financings committed to us in December 2010, we had liquidity of $5.6 billion. Our liquidity consisted of $148 million of cash and cash equivalents, excluding cash on hand of $281 million used for current operations, $1.8 billion available for borrowing under our revolving credit facilities and $3.7 billion under committed financings. Of this $3.7 billion of committed facilities, $1.4 billion, $947 million, $851 million and $535 million are scheduled to be funded in 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively. Almost 90% of our revolving credit facilities are scheduled to mature in 2012, while almost 10% mature in 2011. We rely on, and have banking relationships with, numerous large, well-established banks, which we believe will assist us in accessing multiple sources of funding in the event that some lenders are unwilling or unable to lend to us. However, we believe that our revolving credit facilities and committed financings will be honored as required pursuant to their contractual terms.

Substantially all of our debt agreements contain financial covenants as described in Note 5 in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. At November 30, 2010, we believe we were in compliance with all of our debt covenants. In addition, based on our forecasted operating results, financial condition and cash flows, we expect to be in compliance with our debt covenants over the next several years. Generally, if an event of default under any debt agreement occurs, then pursuant to cross default acceleration clauses, substantially all of our outstanding debt and derivative contract payables could become due, and all debt and derivative contracts could be terminated.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

We are not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements, including guarantee contracts, retained or contingent interests, certain derivative instruments and variable interest entities that either have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on our financial statements.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

For a discussion of our hedging strategies and market risks see the discussion below and "Note 10-Fair Value Measurements, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities," in the accompanying consolidated financial statements.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risks

 

Operational and Investment Currency Risks

 

We have $352 million of foreign currency forwards that are designated as hedges of our net investments in foreign operations, which have a euro-denominated functional currency, thus partially offsetting this foreign currency exchange rate risk. Based upon a 10% hypothetical change in the U.S. dollar compared to the euro as of November 30, 2010, assuming no changes in comparative interest rates, we estimate that these foreign currency forwards' fair values would change by $35 million, which would be offset by a corresponding change of $35 million in the U.S. dollar value of our net investments. In addition, based upon a 10% hypothetical change in the U.S. dollar compared to the euro, sterling and Australian dollar, which are the functional currencies that we translate into our U.S. dollar reporting currency, assuming no changes in comparable interest rates, we estimate that our 2011 full year December 21, 2010 guidance would change by approximately $195 million.

 

Newbuild Currency Risk

 

During May 2010, we entered into foreign currency options that are designated as cash flow hedges of the remaining Carnival Magic euro-denominated shipyard payments. The options mature in April 2011, at a weighted-average ceiling rate of $1.36 to the euro, or $593 million, and a floor of $1.26 to the euro, or $548 million. If the spot rate is in between these two amounts on the date of delivery, then we would not owe or receive any payments under any of these options.

During June 2010, we entered into foreign currency options that are designated as a cash flow hedge of the final Seabourn Quest euro-denominated shipyard payment that matures in May 2011 at a ceiling of $1.23 to the euro, or $192 million, and a floor of $1.18 to the euro, or $185 million. If the spot rate is in between these two amounts on the date of delivery, then we would not owe or receive any payments under these options.

Based upon a 10% hypothetical change in the U.S. dollar compared to the euro as of November 30, 2010, assuming no changes in comparative interest rates, the estimated fair value of all these foreign currency options would change by approximately $59 million, which would be offset by a corresponding change of approximately $59 million in the U.S. dollar value of the related foreign currency ship construction contracts and result in no net impact to us.

 

At November 30, 2010, we have two 3,560-passenger capacity ships with a total euro-denominated aggregate remaining cost of approximately $1.3 billion and contracted for delivery in May 2013 and May 2014. We have not entered into any foreign currency contracts to hedge these ships' currency risk. Therefore, the cost of each of these ships will increase or decrease based upon changes in the exchange rate until the payments are made under the shipbuilding contract or we enter into a foreign currency hedge. Based on a 10% hypothetical change in the U.S. dollar compared to the euro as of November 30, 2010, assuming no changes in comparative interest rates, the unpaid cost of these ships would have a corresponding change of approximately $130 million.

 

Interest Rate Risks

 

At November 30, 2010, we have interest rate swaps that effectively changed (1) $512 million of fixed rate debt to U.S. dollar LIBOR and GBP LIBOR-based floating rate debt and (2) $333 million of EURIBOR-based floating rate euro debt to fixed rate euro debt. Based upon a hypothetical 10% change in the November 30, 2010 market interest rates, assuming no change in currency exchange rates, the fair value of all our debt and related interest rate swaps would change by approximately $140 million. In addition, based upon a hypothetical 10% change in the November 30, 2010 interest rates, our annual interest expense on floating rate debt, including the effect of our interest rate swaps, would change by an insignificant amount.

These amounts are determined by considering the impact of the hypothetical market interest rates on our existing debt and interest rate swaps. This analysis does not consider the effects of the changes in the level of overall economic activity that could exist in such environments. Currently, substantially all of our fixed rate debt can only be called or prepaid by incurring significant break fees, therefore it is unlikely we will be able to take any significant steps in the short-term to mitigate our exposure in the event of a significant decrease in market interest rates.

 

Fuel Price Risks

 

We do not use financial instruments to hedge our exposure to fuel price market risk. We estimate that our fiscal 2011 fuel expense would change by approximately $3.5 million for each $1 per metric ton change in our average fuel price.

 

Selected Financial Data

 

The selected consolidated financial data presented below for fiscal 2006 through 2010 and as of the end of each such year, except for the other operating data, are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with those consolidated financial statements and the related notes.

 






















Years Ended November 30,



2010



2009



2008



2007



2006



(dollars in millions, except per share, per ton and currency data)


Statements of Income and Cash Flow Data




















Revenues

$

14,469

  


$

13,460

 (a) 


$

14,947

 (a) 


$

13,306

 (a) 


$

12,061

 (a) 

Operating income

$

2,347

  


$

2,154

  


$

2,729

  


$

2,725

  


$

2,613

  

Net income

$

1,978

  


$

1,790

  


$

2,324

 (b) 


$

2,395

 (b) 


$

2,260

 (b) 

Earnings per share




















Basic

$

2.51

  


$

2.27

  


$

2.96

  


$

3.04

  


$

2.85

  

Diluted

$

2.47

  


$

2.24

  


$

2.90

  


$

2.95

  


$

2.77

  

Dividends declared per share

$

0.40

  


$

-  

  


$

1.60

  


$

1.375

  


$

1.025

  

Cash provided by operating activities

$

3,818

  


$

3,342

  


$

3,391

  


$

4,069

  


$

3,633

  

Cash used in investing activities

$

3,501

  


$

3,384

  


$

3,255

  


$

3,746

  


$

2,443

  

Capital expenditures

$

3,579

  


$

3,380

  


$

3,353

  


$

3,312

  


$

2,480

  

Cash used in financing activities

$

404

  


$

93

  


$

315

  


$

604

  


$

1,212

  

Dividends paid

$

237

  


$

314

  


$

1,261

  


$

990

  


$

803

  






Other Operating Data




















ALBDs (in thousands)


66,545

  



62,106

  



58,943

  



54,133

  



49,945

  

Passengers carried (in thousands)


9,147

  



8,519

  



8,183

  



7,672

  



7,008

  

Occupancy percentage


105.6



105.5



105.7



105.6



106.0

Fuel consumption (metric tons in thousands)


3,319

  



3,184

  



3,179

  



3,033

  



2,783

  

Fuel cost per metric ton

$

489

  


$

363

  


$

558

  


$

361

  


$

334

  

Currencies




















U.S. dollar to €1

$

1.33

  


$

1.39

  


$

1.49

  


$

1.36

  


$

1.25

  

U.S. dollar to £1

$

1.55

  


$

1.56

  


$

1.90

  


$

2.00

  


$

1.83

  

U.S. dollar to Australian dollar

$

0.91

  


$

0.77

  


$

0.87

  


$

0.83

  


$

0.75

  


 


                                                   As of November 30,



2010



2009



2008



2007



2006



(dollars in millions)


Balance Sheet and Other Data




















Total assets

$

37,490

  


$

36,835

  


$

33,400

  


$

34,181

  


$

30,552

  

Total debt

$

9,364

  


$

10,047

  


$

9,343

  


$

8,846

 (b) 


$

7,828

 (b) 

Total shareholders' equity

$

23,031

  


$

22,039

 (c) 


$

19,137

 (c) 


$

20,023

 (b)(c) 


$

18,231

 (b)(c) 

Total debt to capital (d)


28.9



31.3



32.9



30.6



30.0

 

 

(a)

We changed the classification of our port costs that vary with guest head counts to a gross presentation from a net presentation, which resulted in an increase in both revenues and costs for the same amounts. The amounts now included on a gross basis in revenues are $303 million, $301 million, $273 million and $222 million for 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

 

(b)

The 2006 net income was reduced by $57 million of share-based compensation expense related to the expensing of stock options and RSUs as a result of our adoption of a new accounting standard in 2006. Net income was reduced by $6 million, $13 million and $19 million for additional interest expense in 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively, as a result of our adoption of a new accounting pronouncement in 2010 that changed the amount of interest expense for certain convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash. In addition, total debt and total shareholders' equity were both reduced by $6 million and $19 million at November 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, as a result of adopting this 2010 accounting pronouncement.

 

(c)

Total shareholders' equity was increased by $4 million, $39 million, $54 million and $2 million at November 30, 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively, as a result of our adoption of a new accounting standard, which required us to include our noncontrolling interests within shareholders' equity.

 

(d)

Percentage of total debt to the sum of total debt and shareholders' equity.

 

Market Price for Common Stock and Ordinary Shares

 

Carnival Corporation's common stock, together with paired trust shares of beneficial interest in the P&O Princess Special Voting Trust (which holds a Special Voting Share of Carnival plc) is traded on the NYSE under the symbol "CCL." Carnival plc's ordinary shares trade on the London Stock Exchange under the symbol "CCL." Carnival plc's American Depository Shares ("ADSs"), each one of which represents one Carnival plc ordinary share, are traded on the NYSE under the symbol "CUK." The depository for the ADSs is JPMorgan Chase Bank. The daily high and low stock sales price for the periods indicated on their primary exchange was as follows:

 



























  



  

Carnival plc



  

Carnival
Corporation


  

Per Ordinary
Share


  

Per ADS



  

High


  

Low


  

High


  

Low


  

High


  

Low


Fiscal 2010

  




  




  




  




  




  




Fourth Quarter

  

$

44.90

  

  

$

31.74

  

  

£

27.92

  

  

£

21.10

  

  

$

45.48

  

  

$

33.24

  

Third Quarter

  

$

37.53

  

  

$

29.68

  

  

£

27.12

  

  

£

20.29

  

  

$

39.94

  

  

$

31.49

  

Second Quarter

  

$

44.21

  

  

$

34.07

  

  

£

29.37

  

  

£

24.70

  

  

$

45.78

  

  

$

35.56

  

First Quarter

  

$

36.16

  

  

$

31.14

  

  

£

24.85

  

  

£

20.40

  

  

$

38.33

  

  

$

33.14

  








Fiscal 2009

  




  




  




  




  




  




Fourth Quarter

  

$

34.94

  

  

$

28.26

  

  

£

22.18

  

  

£

18.07

  

  

$

36.09

  

  

$

29.36

  

Third Quarter

  

$

31.64

  

  

$

22.18

  

  

£

19.72

  

  

£

14.31

  

  

$

32.02

  

  

$

23.46

  

Second Quarter

  

$

29.76

  

  

$

16.80

  

  

£

20.22

  

  

£

12.58

  

  

$

29.72

  

  

$

17.61

  

First Quarter

  

$

25.76

  

  

$

17.60

  

  

£

16.74

  

  

£

12.24

  

  

$

24.71

  

  

$

17.37

  

As of January 24, 2011, there were 3,606 holders of record of Carnival Corporation common stock and 37,208 holders of record of Carnival plc ordinary shares and 91 holders of record of Carnival plc ADSs. The past performance of our stock prices cannot be relied on as a guide to their future performance.

All dividends for both Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc are declared in U.S. dollars. If declared, holders of Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ADSs receive a dividend payable in U.S. dollars. The dividends payable for Carnival plc ordinary shares are payable in sterling, unless the shareholders elect to receive the dividends in U.S. dollars. Dividends payable in sterling will be converted from U.S. dollars into sterling at the U.S. dollar to sterling exchange rate quoted by the Bank of England in London at 12:00 p.m. on the next combined U.S. and UK business day that follows the quarter end. At the January 2011 Boards of Directors meetings it was decided to increase our March 2011 quarterly dividend to $0.25 per share from $0.10 per share.

The payment and amount of any future dividend is within the discretion of the Boards of Directors. Our dividends were and will be based on a number of factors, including our earnings, liquidity position, financial condition, tone of business, capital requirements, credit ratings, availability and cost of obtaining new debt and future debt and equity market conditions. We cannot be certain that Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc will continue their dividend in the future, and if so, the amount and timing of such future dividends are not determinable and may be different than prior declarations.

 

Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

 

Our revenues from the sale of passenger tickets are seasonal. Historically, demand for cruises has been greatest during our third fiscal quarter, which includes the Northern Hemisphere summer months. This higher demand during the third quarter results in higher net revenue yields and, accordingly, the largest share of our operating income is earned during this period. The seasonality of our results also increases due to ships being taken out of service for maintenance, which we schedule during non-peak demand periods. In addition, substantially all of Holland America Princess Alaska Tours' revenue and net income is generated from May through September in conjunction with the Alaska cruise season. The seasonality of our results will continue to increase as we expand our EAA brands, which tend to be more seasonal than our North America brands. Finally, our North America brands have recently been trending towards an increasing level of seasonality.

Quarterly financial results for fiscal 2010 were as follows (in millions, except per share data):

 



















  

Quarters Ended



  

February 28



May 31


  

August 31



November 30


Revenues (a)

  

$

3,178

  


$

3,267

  

  

$

4,527

  


$

3,497

  

Operating income

  

$

255

  


$

349

  

  

$

1,402

  


$

341

  

Net income

  

$

175

 (b) 


$

252

  

  

$

1,303

 (c) 


$

248

  

Earnings per share

  








  








Basic

  

$

0.22

  


$

0.32

  

  

$

1.65

  


$

0.31

  

Diluted

  

$

0.22

  


$

0.32

  

  

$

1.62

  


$

0.31

  

Dividends declared per share

  

$

0.10

  


$

0.10

  

  

$

0.10

  


$

0.10

  

 

 

(a)

During the fourth quarter of 2010, we changed the classification of our port costs that vary with guest head counts to a gross presentation from a net presentation, which resulted in an increase in both revenues and costs in the same amounts. This change had no impact on our operating income or net income. The amounts now included on a gross basis in revenues are $83 million, $72 million and $101 million in the February 28, May 31 and August 31 quarters, respectively.

 

(b)

Includes $19 million of income from minimum guarantees and a litigation settlement, a $44 million gain recognized from the sale of P&O Cruises (UK)'s Artemis and an $18 million Italian investment income tax benefit.

 

(c)

Includes a $41 million expense related to the British Merchant Navy Officers Pension Fund, a $17 million gain from Cunard's litigation settlement and a $12 million Italian investment income tax benefit.

Quarterly financial results for fiscal 2009 were as follows (in millions, except per share data):

 



















  

Quarters Ended



  

February 28



May 31


  

August 31


  

November 30


Revenues (a)

  

$

2,935

  


$

3,013

  

  

$

4,230

  

  

$

3,282

  

Operating income

  

$

311

  


$

353

  

  

$

1,196

  

  

$

294

  

Net income

  

$

260

 (b) 


$

264

  

  

$

1,073

  

  

$

193

  

Earnings per share

  








  




  




Basic

  

$

0.33

  


$

0.34

  

  

$

1.36

  

  

$

0.25

  

Diluted

  

$

0.33

  


$

0.33

  

  

$

1.33

  

  

$

0.24

  

 

 

(a)

The amount of port costs that vary with guest head counts that are now included in gross revenues as described above are $71 million, $65 million, $91 million and $76 million in the February 28, May 31, August 31 and November 30 quarters, respectively.

 

(b)

Includes a $15 million gain from the unwinding of a lease out and lease back type transaction and a $17 million gain from changes in uncertain income tax position liabilities.

 

SCHEDULE B

 

CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(in millions, except per share data)

 















  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010



2009



2008


Revenues

  












Cruise

  












Passenger tickets

  

$

11,084

  


$

10,288

  


$

11,511

  

Onboard and other

  


3,104

  



2,885

  



3,044

  

Tour and other

  


281

  



287

  



392

  


  













  


14,469

  



13,460

  



14,947

  


  












Costs and Expenses

  












Operating

  












Cruise

  












Commissions, transportation and other

  


2,272

  



2,220

  



2,533

  

Onboard and other

  


474

  



461

  



501

  

Payroll and related

  


1,611

  



1,498

  



1,470

  

Fuel

  


1,622

  



1,156

  



1,774

  

Food

  


869

  



839

  



856

  

Other ship operating

  


2,032

  



1,997

  



1,913

  

Tour and other

  


212

  



236

  



293

  


  












Total

  


9,092

  



8,407

  



9,340

  

Selling and administrative

  


1,614

  



1,590

  



1,629

  

Depreciation and amortization

  


1,416

  



1,309

  



1,249

  


  













  


12,122

  



11,306

  



12,218

  


  












Operating Income

  


2,347

  



2,154

  



2,729

  


  












Nonoperating (Expense) Income

  












Interest income

  


12

  



14

  



35

  

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest

  


(378



(380



(420

Other (expense) income, net

  


(2



18

  



27

  


  













  


(368



(348



(358


  












Income Before Income Taxes

  


1,979

  



1,806

  



2,371

  

Income Tax Expense, Net

  


(1



(16



(47


  












Net Income

  

$

1,978

  


$

1,790

  


$

2,324

  


  












Earnings Per Share

  












Basic

  

$

2.51

  


$

2.27

  


$

2.96

  


  












Diluted

  

$

2.47

  


$

2.24

  


$

2.90

  


  












Dividends Declared Per Share

  

$

0.40

  






$

1.60

  


  












 

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

 

CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in millions, except par values)

 











  

November 30,



  

2010



2009


ASSETS

  








Current Assets

  








Cash and cash equivalents

  

$

429

  


$

538

  

Trade and other receivables, net

  


248

  



362

  

Inventories

  


320

  



320

  

Prepaid expenses and other

  


247

  



298

  


  








Total current assets

  


1,244

  



1,518

  


  








Property and Equipment, Net

  


30,967

  



29,870

  

Goodwill

  


3,320

  



3,451

  

Other Intangibles

  


1,320

  



1,346

  

Other Assets

  


639

  



650

  


  









  

$

37,490

  


$

36,835

  


  








LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

  








Current Liabilities

  








Short-term borrowings

  

$

740

  


$

135

  

Current portion of long-term debt

  


613

  



815

  

Accounts payable

  


503

  



568

  

Accrued liabilities and other

  


1,094

  



874

  

Customer deposits

  


2,805

  



2,575

  


  








Total current liabilities

  


5,755

  



4,967

  


  








Long-Term Debt

  


8,011

  



9,097

  

Other Long-Term Liabilities and Deferred Income

  


693

  



732

  

Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 6 and 7)

  








Shareholders' Equity

  








Common stock of Carnival Corporation, $0.01 par value; 1,960 shares authorized; 646 shares at 2010 and 644 shares at 2009 issued

  


6

  



6

  

Ordinary shares of Carnival plc, $1.66 par value; 214 shares at 2010 and 213 shares at 2009 issued

  


355

  



354

  

Additional paid-in capital

  


8,094

  



7,920

  

Retained earnings

  


17,224

  



15,561

  

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income

  


(254



462

  

Treasury stock, 39 shares at 2010 and 24 shares at 2009 of Carnival Corporation and 31 shares at 2010 and 46 shares at 2009 of Carnival plc, at cost

  


(2,394



(2,264


  








Total shareholders' equity

  


23,031

  



22,039

  


  









  

$

37,490

  


$

36,835

  


  








 

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

 

CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in millions)

 















  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010



2009



2008


OPERATING ACTIVITIES

  












Net income

  

$

1,978

  


$

1,790

  


$

2,324

  

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities

  












Depreciation and amortization

  


1,416

  



1,309

  



1,249

  

Share-based compensation

  


43

  



50

  



50

  

Other

  


(15



37

  



(31

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

  












Receivables

  


106

  



81

  



(70

Inventories

  


(12



10

  



(8

Prepaid expenses and other

  


(14



7

  



(18

Accounts payable

  


(36



74

  



(66

Accrued and other liabilities

  


81

  



29

  



37

  

Customer deposits

  


271

  



(45



(76


  












Net cash provided by operating activities

  


3,818

  



3,342

  



3,391

  


  












INVESTING ACTIVITIES

  












Additions to property and equipment

  


(3,579



(3,380



(3,353

Other, net

  


78

  



(4



98

  


  












Net cash used in investing activities

  


(3,501



(3,384



(3,255


  












FINANCING ACTIVITIES

  












Proceeds from (repayments of) short-term borrowings, net

  


626

  



(288



138

  

Principal repayments of revolvers

  


(350



(1,749



(3,314

Proceeds from revolvers

  


94

  



1,166

  



3,186

  

Principal repayments of other long-term debt

  


(1,842



(1,273



(1,211

Proceeds from issuance of other long-term debt

  


1,280

  



2,299

  



2,243

  

Dividends paid

  


(237



(314



(1,261

Purchases of treasury stock

  


(524



(188



(98

Sales of treasury stock

  


545

  



196

  



15

  

Proceeds from settlement of foreign currency swaps

  


-

  



113

  



-

  

Other, net

  


4

  



(55



(13


  












Net cash used in financing activities

  


(404



(93



(315


  












Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

  


(22



23

  



(114


  












Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

  


(109



(112



(293

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

  


538

  



650

  



943

  


  












Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  

$

429

  


$

538

  


$

650

  


  












 

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

 

CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

(in millions)

 































  

Common
stock


  

Ordinary
shares


  

Additional
paid-in
capital



Retained
earnings



Accumulated
other comprehensive
(loss) income



Treasury
stock



Total
shareholders'
equity


Balances at November 30, 2007, as previously reported

  

$

6

  

  

$

354

  

  

$

7,599

  


$

12,921

  


$

1,296

  


$

(2,213


$

19,963

  

Adoption of convertible debt and noncontrolling interest accounting pronouncements (Note 2)

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


263

  



(203



-

  



-

  



60

  


  




  




  




















Balances at November 30, 2007, as adjusted

  


6

  

  


354

  

  


7,862

  



12,718

  



1,296

  



(2,213



20,023

  

Adoption of tax accounting interpretation (Note 8)

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



(11



-

  



-

  



(11

Comprehensive income:

  




  




  




















Net income

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



2,324

  



-

  



-

  



2,324

  

Foreign currency translation

adjustment

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



(1,816



-

  



(1,816

Other

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



(103



-

  



(103


  




  




  




















Total comprehensive income

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



-

  



-

  



405

  

Cash dividends declared

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



(1,260



-

  



-

  



(1,260

Purchases and sales under the Stock Swap program and other (Note 2)

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


63

  



-

  



-

  



(83



(20


  




  




  




















Balances at November 30, 2008

  


6

  

  


354

  

  


7,925

  



13,771

  



(623



(2,296



19,137

  

Comprehensive income:

  




  




  




















Net income

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-




1,790

  



-

  



-

  



1,790

  

Foreign currency translation adjustment                         

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



1,043

  



-

  



1,043

  

Other

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



42

  



-

  



42

  


  




  




  




















Total comprehensive income

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



-

  



-

  



2,875

  

Purchases and sales under the Stock Swap programs and other (Note 2)

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


(5



-

  



-

  



32

  



27

  


  




  




  




















Balances at November 30, 2009

  


6

  

  


354

  

  


7,920

  



15,561

  



462

  



(2,264



22,039

  

Comprehensive income:

  




  




  




















Net income

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



1,978

  



-

  



-

  



1,978

  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



(664



-

  



(664

Other

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



(52



-

  



(52


  




  




  




















Total comprehensive income

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  



-

  



-

  



1,262

  

Cash dividends declared

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



(315



-

  



-

  



(315

Purchases and sales under the Stock Swap program and other (Note 5)

  


-

  

  


1

  

  


174

  



-

  



-

  



(130



45

  


  




  




  




















Balances at November 30, 2010

  

$

6

  

  

$

355

  

  

$

8,094

  


$

17,224

  


$

(254


$

(2,394


$

23,031

  


  




  




  




















 

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

 

CARNIVAL CORPORATION & PLC

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

NOTE 1 - General

 

Description of Business

 

Carnival Corporation is incorporated in Panama, and Carnival plc is incorporated in England and Wales. Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc operate a dual listed company ("DLC"), whereby the businesses of Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc are combined through a number of contracts and through provisions in Carnival Corporation's Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws and Carnival plc's Articles of Association. The two companies operate as if they are a single economic enterprise, but each has retained its separate legal identity. Each company's shares are publicly traded; on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") for Carnival Corporation and the London Stock Exchange for Carnival plc. In addition, Carnival plc American Depository Shares are traded on the NYSE. See Note 3.

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc and their respective subsidiaries. Together with their consolidated subsidiaries they are referred to collectively in these consolidated financial statements and elsewhere in this 2010 Annual Report as "Carnival Corporation & plc," "our," "us," and "we."

 

We are the largest cruise company and among the largest vacation companies in the world. Each of our cruise brands is an operating segment that we aggregate into either the (1) North America or (2) Europe, Australia & Asia reportable cruise segments (see Note 11). As of November 30, 2010, the summary by cruise brand of our passenger capacity, the number of cruise ships we operate and the primary areas or countries in which they are marketed are as follows:

 

 












Cruise Brands

  

Passenger
Capacity  (a)


  

Number of
Cruise  Ships


  

Primary Markets





North America

  




  




  


Carnival Cruise Lines

  


54,480

  

  


22

  

  

North America

Princess Cruises ("Princess")

  


37,608

  

  


17

  

  

North America

Holland America Line

  


23,492

  

  


15

  

  

North America

Seabourn

  


1,524

  

  


5

  

  

North America


  




  




  


North America Cruise Brands

  


117,104

  

  


59

  

  



  




  




  






Europe, Australia & Asia ("EAA")

  




  




  


Costa Cruises ("Costa")

  


29,202

  

  


14

  

  

Italy, France and Germany

P&O Cruises (UK) (b)

  


15,098

  

  


7

  

  

United Kingdom ("UK")

AIDA Cruises ("AIDA")

  


12,054

  

  


7

  

  

Germany

Cunard

  


6,676

  

  


3

  

  

UK and North America

P&O Cruises (Australia)

  


6,322

  

  


4

  

  

Australia

Ibero Cruises ("Ibero")

  


5,008

  

  


4

  

  

Spain and South America


  




  




  


EAA Cruise Brands

  


74,360

  

  


39

  

  



  




  




  



  


191,464

  

  


98

  

  



  




  




  


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(a)

In accordance with cruise industry practice, passenger capacity is calculated based on two passengers per cabin even though some cabins can accommodate three or more passengers.

 

(b)

Includes the 1,200-passenger capacity Artemis, which was sold in October 2009 to an unrelated entity and is being operated by P&O Cruises (UK) under a bareboat charter agreement until April 2011.

 

Preparation of Financial Statements

 

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported and disclosed in our financial statements. Actual results could differ from these estimates. All significant intercompany balances and transactions are eliminated in consolidation.

 

NOTE 2 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

Basis of Presentation

 

We consolidate entities over which we have control, as typically evidenced by a direct ownership interest of greater than 50%, or for which we are the primary beneficiary (see Note 3). For affiliates where significant influence over financial and operating policies exists, as typically evidenced by a direct ownership interest from 20% to 50%, the investment is accounted for using the equity method. In July 2009, we purchased the remaining 25% interest in Ibero that we did not own for $33 million, which approximated this noncontrolling interests' carrying value, and recorded this payment as a reduction to noncontrolling interests that is included within additional paid-in capital.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2010, we changed the classification of our port costs that vary with guest head counts to a gross presentation from a net presentation, which resulted in an increase in both passenger ticket revenues and commissions, transportation and other costs. This change had no impact on our operating or net income. We adjusted all prior period amounts to conform with this new classification. The amounts reclassified and now included on a gross basis in passenger ticket revenues and commissions, transportation and other costs were $346 million, $303 million and $301 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

On December 1, 2009, we adopted a new accounting pronouncement on a retrospective basis that requires the issuer of certain convertible debt instruments that may be settled in cash, or other assets, on conversion to separately account for the debt and equity components in a manner that reflects the issuer's non-convertible debt borrowing rate. The impact of adopting this pronouncement had no effect on our previously reported diluted earnings per share. However, at November 30, 2007 we recorded an adjustment to reduce retained earnings by $203 million and increase additional paid-in capital by $209 million. For the year ended November 30, 2008, the impact of adopting this pronouncement was an additional $6 million of non-cash interest expense.

 

On December 1, 2009, we also adopted another new accounting pronouncement on a retrospective basis related to the presentation of our noncontrolling interests, which resulted in the reclassification of $54 million to additional paid-in capital from other long-term liabilities at November 30, 2007. In addition, we reclassified $35 million and $15 million as a reduction to additional paid-in capital instead of against other long-term liabilities during fiscal 2009 and 2008, respectively, related to the net reduction attributable to our noncontrolling interests. We did not separately present our noncontrolling interests in the consolidated financial statements for all periods presented since the amounts are insignificant.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include investments with maturities of three months or less at acquisition, which are stated at cost. At November 30, 2010 and 2009, cash and cash equivalents are comprised of cash on hand, money market funds and time deposits.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories consist primarily of food and beverage provisions, hotel and restaurant products and supplies, gift shop and art merchandise held for resale and fuel, which are all carried at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the weighted-average or first-in, first-out methods.

 

Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation and amortization were computed using the straight-line method over our estimates of average useful lives and residual values, as a percentage of original cost, as follows:

 

 







  

Years

  

Residual

Values

Ships

  

30

  

15%

Ship improvements

  

3-28

  

0% or 15%

Buildings and improvements

  

5-35

  

0-10%

Computer hardware and software

  

3-7

  

0-10%

Transportation equipment and other

  

2-20

  

0-10%

Leasehold improvements, including port facilities

  

Shorter of lease term
or related asset life

  

-






Ship improvement costs that we believe add value to our ships, such as those incurred for major refurbishments, are capitalized to the ships and depreciated over their or the ships' estimated remaining useful life, whichever is shorter, while costs of repairs and maintenance, including minor improvement costs, are charged to expense as incurred. We capitalize interest as part of acquiring ships and other capital projects during their construction period. The specifically identified or estimated cost and accumulated depreciation of previously capitalized ship components are written-off upon retirement, which may result in a loss on disposal that is classified within other ship operating expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

Dry-dock costs primarily represent planned major maintenance activities that are incurred when a ship is taken out of service for scheduled maintenance. These costs are expensed as incurred and included within other ship operating expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

We review our long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of these assets may not be fully recoverable. The assessment of possible impairment is based on our ability to recover the carrying value of our asset based on our estimate of its undiscounted future cash flows. If these estimated undiscounted future cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, an impairment charge is recognized for the excess, if any, of the asset's carrying value over its estimated fair value.

 

Intangibles

 

We review our goodwill for impairment annually and, when events or circumstances dictate, more frequently. All of our goodwill has been allocated to our reporting units, also referred to as "cruise brands". Our goodwill impairment reviews consist of a two-step process. The first step is to determine the fair value of the cruise brand and compare it to the carrying value of the net assets allocated to the cruise brand. If this fair value exceeds the carrying value no further analysis or goodwill write-down is required. The second step is required if the fair value of the cruise brand is less than the carrying value of the net assets. In this step the estimated fair value of the cruise brand is allocated to all the underlying assets and liabilities, including both recognized and unrecognized tangible and intangible assets, based on their relative fair values. If necessary, goodwill is then written-down to its implied fair value.

 

The costs of developing and maintaining our trademarks are expensed as incurred. Trademarks represent substantially all of our other intangibles. For certain of our acquisitions we have allocated a portion of the purchase prices to the acquiree's identified trademarks. Trademarks are estimated to have an indefinite useful life and, therefore, are not amortizable, but are reviewed for impairment annually and, when events or circumstances dictate, more frequently. Our trademarks would be considered impaired if their carrying value exceeds their estimated fair value.

 

Revenue and Expense Recognition

 

Guest cruise deposits represent unearned revenues and are initially recorded as customer deposit liabilities generally when received. Customer deposits are subsequently recognized as cruise revenues, together with revenues from onboard and other activities, and all associated direct costs and expenses of a voyage are recognized as cruise costs and expenses, upon completion of voyages with durations of ten nights or less and on a pro rata basis for voyages in excess of ten nights. The impact of recognizing these shorter duration cruise revenues and expenses on a completed voyage basis versus on a pro rata basis is not material. Future travel discount vouchers issued to guests are recorded as a reduction of cruise passenger ticket revenues when such vouchers are utilized. Cancellation fees are recognized in cruise passenger ticket revenues at the time of the cancellation.

 

Our sale to guests of air and other transportation to and from our ships and the related cost of purchasing this service are recorded as cruise passenger ticket revenues and cruise transportation costs, respectively. The proceeds that we collect from the sale of third party shore excursions and on behalf of onboard concessionaires, net of the amounts remitted to them, are recorded as concession revenues, on a net basis, in onboard and other cruise revenues. These amounts are recognized on a completed voyage or pro rata basis as discussed above.

 

Cruise passenger ticket revenues include port charges collected from our guests that vary with guest head counts. As previously discussed, these same amounts are also expensed within commissions, transportation and other costs in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income when the corresponding revenues are recognized.

 

Revenues and expenses from our tour and travel services are recognized at the time the services are performed or expenses are incurred. Revenues from the leasing of our owned ships to unaffiliated parties are recognized ratably over the term of the charter agreement using the straight-line method.

 

Insurance and Self-Insurance

 

We use a combination of insurance and self-insurance to address a number of risks including, among others, injuries related to crew and guests, hull and machinery, war risk, workers' compensation, employee health, property damage and general liability. Liabilities associated with certain of these risks, principally crew medical and crew and guest injury claims, are estimated actuarially based on historical claims experience, loss development factors and other assumptions. While we believe the estimated loss amounts accrued are adequate, the ultimate loss may differ from the amounts provided.

 

Selling and Administrative Expenses

 

Selling expenses include a broad range of advertising, such as marketing and promotional expenses. Advertising is charged to expense as incurred, except for media production costs. Media production costs are recorded as prepaid expenses and charged to expense upon the first airing of the advertisement. Advertising expenses totaled $507 million, $508 million and $524 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Administrative expenses represent the costs of our shoreside ship support, reservations and other administrative functions, and include salaries and related benefits, professional fees and occupancy costs, which are typically expensed as incurred.

 

Foreign Currency Translations and Transactions

 

We translate the assets and liabilities of our foreign operations that have functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar at exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses of these foreign operations are translated at weighted-average exchange rates for the reporting period. Their equity is translated at historical rates and the resulting cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments are included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income ("AOCI"). Therefore, the U.S. dollar value of these non-equity translated items in our consolidated financial statements will fluctuate from period to period, depending on the changing value of the dollar versus these currencies.

 

Exchange gains and losses arising from the remeasurement of monetary assets and liabilities and foreign currency transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the entity involved are immediately included in nonoperating earnings, unless such assets and liabilities have been designated to act as hedges of ship commitments or net investments in our foreign operations, respectively. These net gains or losses included in nonoperating earnings were insignificant in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008. In addition, the unrealized exchange gains or losses on our long-term intercompany receivables denominated in a non-functional currency, which are not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future and are therefore considered to form part of our net investments, are recorded as foreign currency translation adjustments, which are included as a component of AOCI.

 

Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock and ordinary shares outstanding during each period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing adjusted net income by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock and ordinary shares, common stock equivalents and other potentially dilutive securities outstanding during each period. For earnings per share purposes, Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ordinary shares are considered a single class of shares since they have equivalent rights (see Note 3). All shares that are issuable under our outstanding convertible notes that have contingent share conversion features have been considered outstanding for our diluted earnings per share computations, if dilutive, using the "if converted" method of accounting from the date of issuance.

 

Share-Based Compensation

 

We recognize compensation expense for all share-based compensation awards using the fair value method. Share-based compensation cost is recognized ratably using the straight-line attribution method over the expected vesting period or to the retirement eligibility date, if less than the vesting period, when vesting is not contingent upon any future performance. In addition, we estimate the amount of expected forfeitures, based on historical forfeiture experience, when calculating compensation cost. If the actual forfeitures that occur are significantly different from the estimate, then we revise our estimates.

 

NOTE 3 - DLC Structure

 

In 2003, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc (formerly known as P&O Princess Cruises plc) completed a DLC transaction, which implemented Carnival Corporation & plc's DLC structure. The contracts governing the DLC structure provide that Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc each continue to have separate boards of directors, but the boards and senior executive management of both companies are identical. The constitutional documents of each of the companies also provide that, on most matters, the holders of the common equity of both companies effectively vote as a single body. On specified matters where the interests of Carnival Corporation's shareholders may differ from the interests of Carnival plc's shareholders (a "class rights action" such as transactions primarily designed to amend or unwind the DLC structure), each shareholder body will vote separately as a class. Generally, no class rights action will be implemented unless approved by both shareholder bodies.

 

Upon the closing of the DLC transaction, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc also executed the Equalization and Governance Agreement, which provides for the equalization of dividends and liquidation distributions based on an equalization ratio and contains provisions relating to the governance of the DLC structure. Because the current equalization ratio is 1 to 1, one Carnival plc ordinary share is entitled to the same distributions, subject to the terms of the Equalization and Governance Agreement, as one share of Carnival Corporation common stock. In a liquidation of either company or both companies, if the hypothetical potential per share liquidation distributions to each company's shareholders are not equivalent, taking into account the relative value of the two companies' assets and the indebtedness of each company, to the extent that one company has greater net assets so that any liquidation distribution to its shareholders would not be equivalent on a per share basis, the company with the ability to make a higher net distribution is required to make a payment to the other company to equalize the possible net distribution to shareholders, subject to certain exceptions.

 

At the closing of the DLC transaction, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc also executed deeds of guarantee. Under the terms of Carnival Corporation's deed of guarantee, Carnival Corporation has agreed to guarantee all indebtedness and certain other monetary obligations of Carnival plc that are incurred under agreements entered into on or after the closing date of the DLC transaction. The terms of Carnival plc's deed of guarantee mirror those of Carnival Corporation's. In addition, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc have each extended their respective deeds of guarantee to the other's pre-DLC indebtedness and certain other monetary obligations, or alternatively have provided standalone guarantees in lieu of utilization of these deeds of guarantee, thus effectively cross guaranteeing all Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc indebtedness and certain other monetary obligations. Each deed of guarantee provides that the creditors to whom the obligations are owed are intended third party beneficiaries of such deed of guarantee.

 

The deeds of guarantee are governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the Isle of Man. Subject to the terms of the deeds of guarantee, the holders of indebtedness and other obligations that are subject to the deeds of guarantee will have recourse to both Carnival plc and Carnival Corporation, though a Carnival plc creditor must first make written demand on Carnival plc and a Carnival Corporation creditor on Carnival Corporation. Once the written demand is made by letter or other form of notice, the holders of indebtedness or other obligations may immediately commence an action against the relevant guarantor. Accordingly, there is no requirement under the deeds of guarantee to obtain a judgment, take other enforcement actions or wait any period of time prior to taking steps against the relevant guarantor. All actions or proceedings arising out of or in connection with the deeds of guarantee must be exclusively brought in courts in England.

 

Under the terms of the DLC transaction documents, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc are permitted to transfer assets between the companies, make loans to or investments in each other and otherwise enter into intercompany transactions. The companies have entered into some of these types of transactions and may enter into additional transactions in the future to take advantage of the flexibility provided by the DLC structure and to operate both companies as a single unified economic enterprise in the most effective manner. In addition, under the terms of the Equalization and Governance Agreement and the deeds of guarantee, the cash flow and assets of one company are required to be used to pay the obligations of the other company, if necessary.

 

Given the DLC structure as described above, we believe that providing separate financial statements for each of Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc would not present a true and fair view of the economic realities of their operations. Accordingly, separate financial statements for both Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc have not been presented.

 

Simultaneously with the completion of the DLC transaction, a partial share offer ("PSO") for 20% of Carnival plc's shares was made and accepted, which enabled 20% of Carnival plc shares to be exchanged for 41.7 million Carnival Corporation shares. The shares of Carnival plc that are still held by us as a result of the PSO are accounted for as treasury stock in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

NOTE 4 - Property and Equipment

 

Property and equipment consisted of the following (in millions):

 











  

November 30,



  

2010



2009


Ships

  

$

37,348

  


$

35,187

  

Ships under construction

  


696

  



770

  


  









  


38,044

  



35,957

  

Land, buildings and improvements, including leasehold improvements and port facilities

  


858

  



864

  

Computer hardware and software, transportation equipment and other

  


934

  



913

  


  








Total property and equipment

  


39,836

  



37,734

  

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

  


(8,869



(7,864


  









  

$

30,967

  


$

29,870

  


  








 

Capitalized interest, primarily on our ships under construction, amounted to $26 million, $37 million and $52 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Ships under construction include progress payments for the construction of new ships, as well as design and engineering fees, capitalized interest, construction oversight costs and various owner supplied items. At November 30, 2010, two ships with an aggregate net book value of $802 million were pledged as collateral pursuant to mortgages related to $328 million of debt. See Note 5.

 

Repairs and maintenance expenses, including minor improvement costs and dry-dock expenses, were $797 million, $749 million and $661 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, and are substantially all included in other ship operating expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

In 2010, we recognized a $44 million gain on the sale of P&O Cruises (UK)'s Artemis as a reduction of other ship operating expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. We are operating Artemis under a bareboat charter agreement until April 2011.

 

NOTE 5 - Debt

 

Long-term debt and short-term borrowings consisted of the following (in millions):

 











  

November 30,



  

2010 (a)



2009 (a)


SECURED LONG-TERM DEBT

  








Fixed rate export credit facilities, collateralized by two ships, bearing interest at 5.4% and 5.5%, due through 2016

  

$

328

  


$

375

  

Floating rate export credit facilities collateralized by three ships, bearing interest at LIBOR plus 1.1% to 1.3% (1.7% to 2.6%), repaid or collateral released in 2010

  


-

  



325

  

Other

  


3

  



3

  


  








Total Secured Long-term Debt

  


331

  



703

  


  








UNSECURED LONG-TERM DEBT

  








Export Credit Facilities

  








Fixed rate export credit facilities, bearing interest at 4.2% to 5.0%, due through 2020 (b)

  


2,339

  



2,603

  

Euro fixed rate export credit facilities, bearing interest at 3.8% to 4.5%, due through 2025 (b)(c)

  


503

  



299

  

Floating rate export credit facilities, bearing interest at LIBOR plus 1.3% to 1.6% (1.9% to 2.0%), due through 2022 (d)(e)

  


688

  



83

  

Euro floating rate export credit facilities, bearing interest at EURIBOR plus 0.2% to 0.5% (1.1% to 1.6%), due through 2022 (f)(g)

  


824

  



1,111

  

Bank Loans

  








Fixed rate bank loans, bearing interest at 3.5% to 4.5%, due through 2015 (b)(h)(i)

  


851

  



850

  

Euro fixed rate bank loans, bearing interest at 3.9% to 4.7%, due through 2021 (b)

  


406

  



524

  

Floating rate bank loans, bearing interest at LIBOR plus 1.9% (2.2%), due in 2013 (i)(j)

  


150

  



200

  

Euro floating rate bank loans, bearing interest at EURIBOR plus 0.6% to 1.3% (1.6% to 2.3%), due in 2014 (b)(k)

  


262

  



152

  

Revolver (i)(l)

  








Loans, bearing interest at LIBOR plus 0.2% (0.6%)

  


5

  



212

  

Euro loans, bearing interest at EURIBOR plus 0.2% (0.6%)

  


-

  



52

  

Private Placement Notes

  








Fixed rate notes, bearing interest at 5.9% to 6.0%, due through 2016

  


123

  



224

  

Euro fixed rate notes, bearing interest at 6.7% to 7.3%, due through 2018 (b)

  


246

  



278

  

Publicly-Traded Notes

  








Fixed rate notes, bearing interest at 6.7% to 7.2%, due through 2028

  


529

  



530

  

Euro fixed rate notes, bearing interest at 4.3%, due in 2013

  


991

  



1,119

  

Sterling fixed rate notes, bearing interest at 5.6%, due in 2012

  


322

  



339

  

Publicly-Traded Convertible Notes

  








Notes, bearing interest at 2%, repaid in 2010

  


-

  



595

  

Notes, bearing interest at 1.75%, net of discount, due in 2013

  


6

  



9

  

Other

  


48

  



29

  


  








Total Unsecured Long-term Debt

  


8,293

  



9,209

  


  








UNSECURED SHORT-TERM BORROWINGS

  








Commercial paper, with aggregate weighted-average interest rate of 0.5%, repaid in December 2010 (l)

  


696

  



96

  

Euro bank loans, with aggregate weighted-average interest rate of 1.2%, repaid in December 2010

  


44

  



39

  


  








Total Unsecured Short-term Borrowings

  


740

  



135

  


  








Total Unsecured Debt

  


9,033

  



9,344

  


  








Total Debt

  


9,364

  



10,047

  


  








Less short-term borrowings

  


(740



(135

Less current portion of long-term debt

  


(613



(815


  








Total Long-term Debt

  

$

8,011

  


$

9,097

  


  








 

 (a)

All interest rates are as of the latest balance sheet date for which there is an outstanding debt balance. The debt table does not include the impact of our foreign currency and interest rate swaps. At November 30, 2010, 60%, 37% and 3% (59%, 38% and 3% at November 30, 2009) of our debt was U.S. dollar, euro and sterling-denominated, respectively, including the effect of foreign currency swaps. Substantially all of our debt agreements contain one or more financial covenants that require us, among other things, to maintain minimum debt service coverage and minimum shareholders' equity and to limit our debt to capital and debt to equity ratios and the amounts of our secured assets and secured and other indebtedness. Generally, if an event of default under any debt agreement occurs, then pursuant to cross default acceleration clauses, substantially all of our outstanding debt and derivative contract payables (see Note 10) could become due, and all debt and derivative contracts could be terminated. At November 30, 2010, we believe we were in compliance with all of our debt covenants.

 

(b)

Includes an aggregate $3.7 billion of debt whose interest rate will increase upon a reduction in the senior unsecured credit ratings of Carnival Corporation or Carnival plc from BBB+/A3 to BBB/Baa2 and will increase further upon additional credit rating reductions, exclusive of the amount shown in Note (i).

 

(c)

In 2010, Costa Cruises, one of our Italian subsidiaries, borrowed $246 million under an unsecured euro-denominated export credit facility, which bears interest at 3.75% and is due in semi-annual installments through 2025.

 

(d)

In 2010, we repaid $78 million of an unsecured floating rate export credit facility that was borrowed to pay for a portion of Seabourn Odyssey's purchase price prior to its maturity dates through 2014.

 

(e)

In 2010, we borrowed $445 million under an unsecured floating rate export credit facility, the proceeds of which were used to pay for a portion of Queen Elizabeth's purchase price. This facility bears interest at LIBOR plus 160 basis points ("bps") and is due in semi-annual installments through 2022.

 

(f)

In 2010, we borrowed $371 million under an unsecured euro-denominated export credit facility, the proceeds of which were used to pay for a portion of AIDAblu's purchase price. This facility bears interest at EURIBOR plus 50 bps and is due in semi-annual installments through 2022.

 

(g)

In 2010, we repaid $390 million of an unsecured floating rate euro-denominated export credit facility that was borrowed to pay for a portion of Costa Pacifica's purchase price prior to its maturity dates through 2019.

 

(h)

Includes two facilities that aggregate to $650 million, which currently carry fixed interest rates. However, each facility can be switched in the future to a floating interest rate at the option of the lenders.

 

(i)

Includes an aggregate $356 million of debt whose interest rate, and in the case of the revolver its commitment fees, will increase upon a reduction in the senior unsecured credit ratings of Carnival Corporation or Carnival plc from A3 to Baa1 and will increase further upon additional credit rating reductions.

 

(j)

In 2010, we repaid a $100 million unsecured floating rate bank loan prior to its maturity in 2012.

 

(k)

In 2010, we borrowed $132 million under an unsecured euro-denominated bank loan, which bears interest at EURIBOR plus 125 bps and is due in February 2014.

 

(l)

Carnival Corporation, Carnival plc and certain of Carnival plc's subsidiaries are parties to our principal revolver for $2.0 billion (comprised of $1.2 billion, €400 million and £200 million). Under this revolver, we can draw loans in U.S. dollars, euros and sterling. Its availability is reduced by the amount of our commercial paper, which was $696 million at November 30, 2010.

 

At November 30, 2010, the scheduled annual maturities of our debt were as follows (in millions):



























  

Fiscal


  




  

2011


  

2012


  

2013


  

2014


  

2015


  

Thereafter


Short-term borrowings

  

$

740

  

  




  




  




  




  




Long-term debt

  


613

  

  

$

1,159

  

  

$

1,715

  

  

$

1,006

  

  

$

1,128

  

  

$

3,003

  


  




  




  




  




  




  





  

$

1,353

  

  

$

1,159

  

  

$

1,715

  

  

$

1,006

  

  

$

1,128

  

  

$

3,003

  


  




  




  




  




  




  




 

Debt issuance costs are generally amortized to interest expense using the straight-line method, which approximates the effective interest method, over the term of the notes. In addition, all debt issue discounts are amortized to interest expense using the effective interest rate method over the term of the notes.

 

Committed Ship Financings

 

We have unsecured long-term export credit committed ship financings, for which we have the option to draw in euros and/or U.S. dollars depending on the facility, in order to pay for a portion of our ships' purchase prices. These commitments, if drawn, are generally repayable semi-annually over 12 years. We have the option to cancel each one until 60 days prior to the underlying ship's delivery date.

 

At January 31, 2011, our committed ship financings are as follows:

 














Cruise Brands and Ships

  

Month/Year
Committed


  

Fiscal Year
Scheduled  for
Funding


  

Amount



  



  



  

(in millions)


North America Brands

  




  




  




Carnival Cruise Lines

  




  




  




Carnival Magic

  


11/09

  

  


2011

  

  

$

544

  

Carnival Breeze

  


11/09

  

  


2012

  

  


560

  


  




  




  





  




  




  


1,104

  


  




  




  








Princess

  




  




  




Newbuild

  


04/10

  

  


2013

  

  


535

  

Newbuild

  


04/10

  

  


2014

  

  


535

  


  




  




  





  




  




  


1,070

  


  




  




  




North America Cruise Brands

  




  




  


2,174

  


  




  




  








Europe, Australia & Asia ("EAA") Brands

  




  




  




AIDA

  




  




  




AIDAbella

  


12/10

  

  


2011

  

  


233

  

AIDAsol

  


12/08

  

  


2011

  

  


381

  

AIDAmar

  


12/08

  

  


2012

  

  


387

  

Newbuild

  


12/10

  

  


2013

  

  


316

  


  




  




  





  




  




  


1,317

  


  




  




  




Costa

  




  




  




Costa Favolosa

  


06/09

  

  


2011

  

  


199

  


  




  




  




EAA Cruise Brands

  




  




  


1,516

  


  




  




  





  




  




  

$

3,690

  


  




  




  




 

Revolving Credit Facilities

 

Under our principal revolver, we are required to pay a commitment fee of 30% of the margin per annum on any undrawn portion. If more than 50% of this revolver is drawn, we will incur an additional 5 bps utilization fee on the total amount outstanding. This revolver matures in October 2012, except for $39 million which matures in October 2011. In addition, we had four other revolving credit facilities with an aggregate amount of $423 million available at November 30, 2010. These other facilities serve as back-up liquidity to our principal revolver and mature through 2014. At November 30, 2010, $1.8 billion was available under our revolvers. In January 2011, we cancelled one of these other revolving credit facilities in the amount of $100 million.

 

Convertible Notes

 

On September 24, 2010, we issued a notice of redemption to the noteholders of our 2% Convertible Notes ("2% Notes") that all of the outstanding 2% Notes would be redeemed by October 25, 2010 (the "Redemption Date"), for cash at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount outstanding plus unpaid accrued interest. As a result of the redemption, the 2% Notes became convertible into shares of Carnival Corporation common stock through the Redemption Date, for which we elected to deliver cash in lieu of common stock. All of the $595 million of outstanding 2% Notes were redeemed or converted for cash. The $52 million of cash paid upon conversion in excess of the 2% Notes carrying value was recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital.

 

NOTE 6 - Commitments

 

Ship Commitments

 

At November 30, 2010, we had 10 ships under contract for construction with an aggregate passenger capacity of 27,500. The estimated total cost of these ships is approximately $6.1 billion, which includes the contract price with the shipyard, design and engineering fees, capitalized interest, construction oversight costs and various owner supplied items. We have paid $603 million through November 30, 2010 and anticipate paying $2.1 billion, $1.8 billion, $1.0 billion and $625 million of the remaining estimated total costs in fiscal 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014, respectively.

 

Operating Leases, Port Facilities and Other Commitments

 

Rent expense under our operating leases, primarily for office and warehouse space, was $61 million, $54 million and $52 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. At November 30, 2010, minimum amounts payable for our operating leases, with initial or remaining terms in excess of one year, and for the annual usage of port facilities and other contractual commitments with remaining terms in excess of one year, were as follows (in millions):

 































  

Fiscal


  



  




  

2011


  

2012


  

2013


  

2014


  

2015


  

There-
after


  

Total


Operating leases

  

$

44

  

  

$

39

  

  

$

34

  

  

$

25

  

  

$

23

  

  

$

108

  

  

$

273

  

Port facilities and other

  


118

  

  


114

  

  


107

  

  


100

  

  


98

  

  


811

  

  


1,348

  


  




  




  




  




  




  




  





  

$

162

  

  

$

153

  

  

$

141

  

  

$

125

  

  

$

121

  

  

$

919

  

  

$

1,621

  


  




  




  




  




  




  




  




 

NOTE 7 - Contingencies

 

Litigation

 

In the normal course of our business, various claims and lawsuits have been filed or are pending against us. Most of these claims and lawsuits are covered by insurance and, accordingly, the maximum amount of our liability, net of any insurance recoverables, is typically limited to our self-insurance retention levels. However, the ultimate outcome of these claims and lawsuits which are not covered by insurance cannot be determined at this time.

 

Contingent Obligations - Lease Out and Lease Back Type ("LILO") Transactions

 

At November 30, 2010, Carnival Corporation had estimated contingent obligations totaling $551 million, excluding termination payments as discussed below, to participants in LILO transactions for two of its ships. At the inception of these leases, the aggregate of the net present value of these obligations was paid by Carnival Corporation to a group of major financial institutions, who agreed to act as payment undertakers and directly pay these obligations. Accordingly, these contingent obligations are considered extinguished, and neither the funds nor the contingent obligations have been included in our accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

In the event that Carnival Corporation were to default on its contingent obligations and assuming performance by all other participants, we estimate that we would, as of November 30, 2010, be responsible for a termination payment of approximately $106 million. In 2017, we have the right to exercise options that would terminate these two LILO transactions at no cost to us.

 

In certain cases, if the credit ratings of the financial institutions who are directly paying the contingent obligations fall below AA-, then Carnival Corporation will be required to replace these financial institutions with other financial institutions whose credit ratings are at least AA or meet other specified credit requirements. In such circumstances we would incur additional costs, although we estimate that they would be immaterial to our financial statements. All of the financial institution payment undertakers subject to this AA- credit rating threshold have credit ratings of AAA. If Carnival Corporation's credit rating, which is BBB+, falls below BBB, it will be required to provide a standby letter of credit for $63 million, or, alternatively, provide mortgages for this aggregate amount on these two ships.

 

As a result of the unwinding of our third LILO transaction, we recorded a $15 million gain in other nonoperating income in fiscal 2009, which had originally been deferred at the inception of the LILO transaction and was being amortized over its term.

 

Contingent Obligations - Indemnifications

 

Some of the debt agreements 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 and changes in laws that increase lender capital costs and other similar costs. The indemnification clauses are often standard contractual terms and were 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 material payments under such indemnification clauses in the past and, under current circumstances, we do not believe a request for material future indemnification payments is probable.

 

NOTE 8 - Income and Other Taxes

 

We are primarily foreign corporations engaged in the business of operating passenger vessels in international transportation. Generally, income from, or incidental to, the international operation of vessels is subject to preferential tax regimes in the countries where the vessel owning and operating companies are incorporated, and generally exempt from income tax in other countries where the vessels call due to the application of income tax treaties or domestic law which, in the U.S., is Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code. Income that we earn which is not associated with the international operation of ships or earned in countries without preferential tax regimes may be subject to income tax in the countries where such income is earned.

 

AIDA, Costa, Cunard, Ibero, P&O Cruises (UK) and P&O Cruises (Australia) are subject to income tax under the tonnage tax regimes of either Italy or the United Kingdom. Under both tonnage tax regimes, shipping profits, as defined under the applicable law, are subject to corporation tax by reference to the net tonnage of qualifying vessels. Income not considered to be shipping profits under tonnage tax rules is taxable under either the Italian tax regime applicable to Italian registered ships or the normal UK income tax rules. Ibero is also subject to a preferential Portuguese income tax applicable to international shipping operations. We believe that substantially all of the ordinary income attributable to these brands constitutes shipping profits and, accordingly, Italian, Portuguese and UK income tax expenses for these operations have been minimal under the existing tax regimes. In fiscal 2010, AIDA and Costa recognized a $30 million income tax benefit from an Italian investment incentive related to certain of their newbuild expenditures.

 

Carnival Cruise Lines, Princess, Holland America Line and Seabourn are primarily subject to the income tax laws of Panama, Bermuda, Curacao and Bermuda, respectively. As a general matter, the laws of Panama and Curacao exempt earnings derived from international ship operations and Bermuda does not have an income tax. With respect to the U.S. domestic law exemption, Section 883 regulations limit the types of income derived from the international operation of a ship that are exempt from income tax. Accordingly, our provision for U.S. federal and state income taxes includes taxes on a portion of our ship operations, in addition to the hotel, tour and transportation business of Holland America Princess Alaska Tours.

 

We do not expect to incur income taxes on future distributions of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and, accordingly, no deferred income taxes have been provided for the distribution of these earnings. All interest expense related to income tax liabilities is classified as income tax expense. In addition to or in place of income taxes, virtually all jurisdictions where our ships call impose taxes and/or fees based on guest counts, ship tonnage, ship capacity or some other measure.

 

On December 1, 2007, we changed the method for which we account for uncertain income tax positions. This method clarified, among other things, the accounting for uncertain income tax positions by prescribing a minimum probability threshold that a tax position must meet before a financial statement income tax benefit is recognized. The minimum threshold is defined as a tax position that, based solely on its technical merits, is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the relevant taxing authority. The tax benefit to be recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50% likely of being realized upon ultimate resolution. This accounting method was applied to all existing tax positions upon adoption. The change resulted in an $11 million reduction to our opening fiscal 2008 retained earnings. In addition, based on all known facts and circumstances and current tax law, we believe that the total amount of our uncertain income tax position liabilities and related accrued interest are not material to our financial position.

 

NOTE 9 - Shareholders' Equity

 

Carnival Corporation's Articles of Incorporation authorize its Board of Directors, at its discretion, to issue up to 40 million shares of preferred stock. At November 30, 2010 and 2009, no Carnival Corporation preferred stock had been issued and only a nominal amount of Carnival plc preference shares had been issued.

 

In June 2006, the Boards of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an aggregate of $1 billion of Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ordinary shares subject to certain restrictions. On September 19, 2007, the Boards of Directors increased the remaining $578 million general repurchase authorization back to $1 billion (the "Repurchase Program"). During fiscal 2008, we purchased 0.6 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock and 1.3 million ordinary shares of Carnival plc under the Repurchase Program. During 2010 and 2009, there were no repurchases of Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ordinary shares under the Repurchase Program. At January 28, 2011, the remaining availability under the Repurchase Program was $787 million. The Repurchase Program does not have an expiration date and may be discontinued by our Boards of Directors at any time.

 

In addition to the Repurchase Program, the Boards of Directors have authorized the repurchase of up to 19.2 million Carnival plc ordinary shares and up to 31.5 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock under the "Stock Swap" programs described below. We use the "Stock Swap" programs in situations where we can obtain an economic benefit because either Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ordinary shares are trading at a price that is at a premium or discount to the price of Carnival plc ordinary shares or Carnival

 

Corporation common stock, as the case may be. This economic benefit is used for general corporate purposes, which could include repurchasing additional treasury stock under the Repurchase Program. All Carnival plc share repurchases under both the Repurchase Program and the "Stock Swap" authorization require annual shareholder approval.

 

In fiscal 2009 and 2008, we sold 450,000 shares and 633,000 shares of Carnival Corporation common stock for $9 million and $15 million of net proceeds, respectively. In fiscal 2009 and 2008, substantially all of these net proceeds were used to fund the repurchase of 450,000 shares and 633,000 shares of Carnival plc ordinary shares, respectively. In these offerings, we sold Carnival Corporation common stock in the U.S., only to the extent we were able to purchase shares of Carnival plc in the UK on at least an equivalent basis under the "Stock Swap" program.

 

In fiscal 2010 and 2009, we also sold 14.8 million shares and 5.8 million shares of Carnival plc ordinary shares held as treasury stock for $545 million and $187 million of net proceeds, respectively. In fiscal 2010 and 2009, substantially all of these net proceeds were used to fund the repurchase of 14.8 million shares and 5.8 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock, respectively. In these UK offerings, we sold Carnival plc ordinary shares held in treasury, only to the extent we were able to purchase shares of Carnival Corporation in the U.S. on at least an equivalent basis under the "Stock Swap" program.

 

At November 30, 2010, there were 38.9 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock reserved for issuance substantially all pursuant to its employee benefit and dividend reinvestment plans. In addition, Carnival plc shareholders have authorized 18.6 million ordinary shares for future issuance under its employee benefit plans.

 

At November 30, 2010 and 2009, accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income was as follows (in millions):

 











  

November 30,



  

2010



2009


Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustments, net

  

$

(99


$

565

  

Unrecognized pension expenses

  


(91



(99

Unrealized loss on marketable security

  


(16



(16

Net (losses) gains on cash flow derivative hedges

  


(48



12

  


  









  

$

(254


$

462

  


  








 

NOTE 10 - Fair Value Measurements, Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

U.S. accounting standards establish a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). This hierarchy requires entities to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The three levels of inputs used to measure fair value are as follows:

 

 



Level 1 measurements are based on quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that we have the ability to access.

 



Level 2 measurements are based on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active or market data other than quoted prices that are observable for the assets or liabilities.

 



Level 3 measurements are based on unobservable data that are supported by little or no market activity and are significant to the fair value of the assets or liabilities.

 

Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, our own assumptions are set to reflect those that we believe market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date.

 

The fair value measurement of a financial asset or financial liability must reflect the nonperformance risk of the counterparty and us. Therefore, the impact of our counterparty's creditworthiness was considered when in an asset position, and our creditworthiness was considered when in a liability position in the fair value measurement of our financial instruments. Creditworthiness did not have a material impact on the fair values of our financial instruments at November 30, 2010 and 2009. Both the counterparties and we are expected to continue to perform under the contractual terms of the instruments.

 

Financial Instruments that are not Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

 

The estimated carrying and fair values of our financial instrument assets and (liabilities) that are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in millions):

 



















  

November 30, 2010



November 30, 2009



  

Carrying
Value



Fair Value



Carrying
Value



Fair Value


Cash and cash equivalents (a)

  

$

404

  


$

404

  


$

324

  


$

324

  

Long-term other assets (b)

  

$

191

  


$

178

  


$

187

  


$

181

  

Fixed rate, non-convertible debt (c)

  

$

(6,689


$

(7,076


$

(7,173


$

(7,194

Floating rate, non-convertible debt (c)

  

$

(2,669


$

(2,630


$

(2,270


$

(2,182

Publicly-traded convertible notes (d)

  

$

(6


$

(7


$

(604


$

(627

 



(a)

Cash and cash equivalents are comprised of cash on hand and time deposits and, due to their short maturities, the carrying values approximate their fair values.

 

(b)

At November 30, 2010 and 2009, substantially all of our long-term other assets were comprised of notes and other receivables. The fair values of notes and other receivables were based on estimated future cash flows discounted at appropriate market interest rates.

 

(c)

The net difference between the fair value of our fixed rate, non-convertible debt and its carrying value was due to the market interest rates in existence at November 30, 2010 and 2009 being lower than the fixed interest rates on these debt obligations, including the impact of changes in our credit ratings, if any. The net difference between the fair value of our floating rate, non- convertible debt and its carrying value was due to the market interest rates in existence at November 30, 2010 and 2009 being higher than the floating interest rates on these debt obligations, including the impact of changes in our credit ratings, if any. The fair values of our publicly-traded notes were based on their quoted market prices in active markets. The fair values of our other debt were estimated based on appropriate market interest rates being applied to this debt.

 

(d)

The net difference between the fair value of our publicly-traded convertible notes and their carrying value was primarily due to the impact of changes in the Carnival Corporation common stock price underlying the value of these convertible notes. The fair values were based on quoted market prices in active markets.

 

Financial Instruments that are Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

 

The estimated fair value and basis of valuation of our financial instrument assets and (liabilities) that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis were as follows (in millions):

 



















  

November 30, 2010


  

November 30, 2009



  

Level 1


  

Level 2


  

Level 1


  

Level 2


Cash equivalents (a)

  

$

25

  

  

$

-

  

  

$

214

  

  

$

-

  

Marketable securities held in rabbi trusts (b)

  

$

105

  

  

$

21

  

  

$

106

  

  

$

17

  

Derivatives:

  




  




  




  




Ship foreign currency forwards and options (c)

  

$

-

  

  

$

8

  

  

$

-

  

  

$

41

  

Net investment hedges (d)

  

$

-

  

  

$

12

  

  

$

-

  

  

$

(33

Interest rate swaps (e) (f)

  

$

-

  

  

$

1

  

  

$

-

  

  

$

3

  


















 

(a)

Cash equivalents are comprised of money market funds.

 

(b)

Level 1 and 2 marketable securities are held in rabbi trusts and are primarily comprised of mutual funds invested in common stocks and other investments, respectively. Their use is restricted to funding certain deferred compensation and non-qualified U.S. pension plans.

 

(c)

At November 30, 2010 and 2009, we have foreign currency forwards and options totaling $785 million and $887 million, respectively, that are designated as foreign currency cash flow hedges for certain of our euro and sterling-denominated shipbuilding contracts. These foreign currency forwards and options mature through May 2011.

 

(d)

At November 30, 2010 and 2009, we have foreign currency forwards and swaps totaling $352 million and $526 million, respectively, that are designated as hedges of our net investments in foreign operations, which have a euro-denominated functional currency and were principally entered into to convert U.S. dollar-denominated debt into euro debt. These foreign currency forwards mature through July 2017, and the swaps matured in March 2010.

 

(e)

We have both U.S. dollar and sterling interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges whereby we receive fixed interest rate payments in exchange for making floating interest rate payments. At November 30, 2010 and 2009, these interest rate swap agreements effectively changed $512 million and $625 million, respectively, of fixed rate debt to U.S. dollar LIBOR or GBP LIBOR-based floating rate debt. In addition, we have euro interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedges whereby we receive floating interest rate payments in exchange for making fixed interest rate payments. At November 30, 2010, these interest rate swap agreements effectively changed $333 million of EURIBOR-based floating rate euro debt to fixed rate debt. These interest rate swaps mature through February 2022.

 

(f)

In December 2008, we settled certain foreign currency swaps for $113 million that were designated as cash flow hedges that had effectively converted U.S. dollar fixed interest rate debt into sterling fixed interest rate debt. The settlement re-aligned the debt with the parent company's U.S. dollar functional currency.

 

We measure our derivatives using valuations that are calibrated to the initial trade prices. Subsequent valuations are based on observable inputs and other variables included in the valuation model such as interest rate yield curves, forward currency exchange rates, credit spreads, maturity dates, volatilities and netting arrangements. We use the income approach to value the derivatives, using observable market data for all significant inputs and standard valuation techniques to convert future amounts to a single present value amount, assuming that participants are motivated, but not compelled to transact.

 

Nonfinancial Instruments that are Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

 

As of July 31, 2010, we performed our annual goodwill impairment reviews by comparing the estimated fair value of the cruise brand to the carrying value of the net assets allocated to that cruise brand. All of our cruise brands carry goodwill, except for Ocean Village and Seabourn. No goodwill was considered to be impaired because the estimated fair value of each cruise brand exceeded its respective carrying value and, accordingly, we did not proceed to step two of the impairment analysis.

 

In determining the estimated cruise brand fair values, we considered both their (a) discounted future cash flow analysis and (b) market multiples of comparable publicly-traded companies. The principal assumptions used in our cash flow analysis related to forecasting future operating results, including net revenue yields, net cruise costs including fuel prices, capacity changes, including the expected deployment of vessels into, or out of, the cruise brand, weighted-average cost of capital for comparable publicly-traded companies, adjusted for the risk attributable to the cruise brand including the geographic region in which it operates, that ranged from 10% to 12%, and terminal values, which are all considered level 3 inputs.

 

We believe the estimated fair value for each of our cruise brands that carry goodwill significantly exceeds the carrying value of their allocated net assets, except for Ibero. At July 31, 2010, Ibero's estimated fair value only exceeded its carrying value by 24%, or $141 million. We performed a sensitivity analysis to identify the magnitude of the changes to Ibero's principal discounted cash flow assumptions that would eliminate this excess. Based on this analysis, relatively minor changes to these assumptions would lead to an Ibero impairment.

 

Given the weakness of the Spanish economy and its impact on the vacation industry, it is possible that Ibero's goodwill, which was $152 million at July 31, 2010, could become impaired in the future if the Spanish vacation industry does not recover enough to enable Ibero to increase its cruise pricing. The recoverability of Ibero's goodwill is not without doubt because it is difficult to predict the timing of the resurgence of the Spanish economy and its vacation industry.

 

As of July 31, 2010, we also performed our annual trademark impairment reviews by comparing the estimated fair values of our trademarks to their carrying values. The cruise brands that have trademark amounts recorded are AIDA, Ibero, P&O Cruises (UK), P&O Cruises (Australia) and Princess. The estimated fair value for each of our trademarks significantly exceeded its respective carrying value and, therefore, none of our trademarks were impaired. We estimated fair values based upon a discounted future cash flow analysis, which estimated the amount of royalties that we are relieved from having to pay for use of the associated trademarks, based upon forecasted cruise revenues and royalty rates that a market participant would forecast. The royalty rates are estimated primarily using comparable royalty agreements for similar industries.

 

There have not been any events or circumstances subsequent to July 31, 2010, which we believe would require us to perform interim goodwill or trademark impairment reviews.

 

The determination of our cruise brand fair values include numerous assumptions, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. We believe that we have made reasonable estimates and judgments in determining whether our goodwill and trademarks have been impaired. However, if there is a material change in assumptions used in our determination of fair values or if there is a material change in the conditions or circumstances influencing fair values, then we may need to recognize a material impairment.

 

Changes to our goodwill carrying amounts since November 30, 2008 were all due to changes resulting from using the different foreign currency translation rates in effect at each balance sheet date.

 

Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities

 

We utilize derivative and nonderivative financial instruments, such as foreign currency forwards, options and swaps, foreign currency debt obligations and foreign currency cash balances, to manage our exposure to fluctuations in certain foreign currency exchange rates, and interest rate swaps to manage our interest rate exposure in order to achieve a desired proportion of fixed and floating rate debt. Our policy is to not use any financial instruments for trading or other speculative purposes.

 

All derivatives are recorded at fair value, and the changes in fair value are immediately included in earnings if the derivatives do not qualify as effective hedges. If a derivative is designated as a fair value hedge, then changes in the fair value of the derivative are offset against the changes in the fair value of the underlying hedged item. If a derivative is designated as a cash flow hedge, then the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of the derivative is recognized as a component of AOCI until the underlying hedged item is recognized in earnings or the forecasted transaction is no longer probable. If a derivative or a nonderivative financial instrument is designated as a hedge of our net investment in a foreign operation, then changes in the fair value of the financial instrument are recognized as a component of AOCI to offset a portion of the change in the translated value of the net investment being hedged, until the investment is sold or liquidated. We formally document hedging relationships for all derivative and nonderivative hedges and the underlying hedged items, as well as our risk management objectives and strategies for undertaking the hedge transactions.

 

We classify the fair values of all our derivative contracts and the fair values of our hedged firm commitments as either current or long-term, which are included in prepaid expenses and other assets and accrued and other liabilities, depending on whether the maturity date of the derivative contract is within or beyond one year from the balance sheet date. The cash flows from derivatives treated as hedges are classified in our accompanying Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in the same category as the item being hedged.

 

The effective portions of our net foreign currency derivative (losses) and gains on cash flow hedges recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income in fiscal 2010 and 2009 totaled $(64) million and $101 million, respectively.

 

The effective portions of our net foreign currency derivative gains and (losses) on net investment hedges recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income in fiscal 2010 and 2009 totaled $84 million and $(49) million, respectively.

 

In fiscal 2010, we recognized a gain of $18 million on foreign currency forwards that are not designated as hedges, which we entered into for treasury management purposes. The gain on these foreign currency forwards included in nonoperating other income was offset by the loss incurred on the remeasurement of a non-functional currency monetary liability, which was also included in nonoperating other income in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income.

 

There are no amounts excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness, and there are no credit risk related contingent features in our derivative agreements. The amount of estimated cash flow hedges' unrealized gains and losses which are expected to be reclassified to earnings in the next twelve months is not significant. We have not provided additional disclosures of the impact that derivative instruments and hedging activities have on our financial statements as of November 30, 2010 and 2009 and for the years ended November 30, 2010, 2009 and 2008 where such impacts are not significant.

 

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

 

Overall Strategy

 

We manage our exposure to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates through our normal operating and financing activities, including netting certain exposures to take advantage of any natural offsets and, when considered appropriate, through the use of derivative and nonderivative financial instruments. Our primary focus is to manage the economic risks faced by our operations, which are the ultimate foreign currency exchange risks that would be realized by us if we exchanged one currency for another, and not the accounting risks. Accordingly, we do not currently hedge these accounting risks with derivative financial instruments. The financial impacts of the hedging instruments we do employ generally offset the changes in the underlying exposures being hedged.

 

Operational and Investment Currency Risk

 

The growth of our European and Australian cruise brands subjects us to an increasing level of foreign currency translation risk related to the euro, sterling and Australian dollar because these brands generate significant revenues and incur significant expenses in euro, sterling or the Australian dollar. Accordingly, exchange rate fluctuations of the euro, sterling and Australian dollar against the U.S. dollar will affect our reported financial results since the reporting currency for our consolidated financial statements is the U.S. dollar. Any strengthening of the U.S. dollar against these foreign currencies has the financial statement effect of decreasing the U.S. dollar values reported for cruise revenues and cruise expenses in our accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income. Weakening of the U.S. dollar has the opposite effect.

 

Most of our brands have non-functional currency risk related to their international sales operations, which has become an increasingly larger part of most of their businesses over time, and primarily includes the euro, sterling and Australian, Canadian and U.S. dollars. In addition, all of our brands have non-functional currency expenses for a portion of their operating expenses. Accordingly, a strengthening of the U.S. dollar against these non-U.S. dollar currencies results in both decreased revenues and expenses, and the weakening of the U.S. dollar against these non-U.S. dollar currencies has the opposite effect, resulting in some degree of natural offset due to currency exchange movements in our accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income for these transactional currency gains and losses.

 

We consider our investments in foreign operations to be denominated in relatively stable currencies and of a long-term nature. We partially address our net investment currency exposures by denominating a portion of our debt and other obligations, including the effect of foreign currency forwards and swaps, in our foreign operations' functional currencies, generally the euro or sterling. As of November 30, 2010 and 2009, we have designated $3.0 billion and $3.8 billion of our euro and sterling debt and other obligations, respectively, which debt matures through 2019, as nonderivative hedges of our net investments in foreign operations. Accordingly, we have included $519 million and $(88) million of cumulative foreign currency transaction gains and (losses) in the cumulative translation adjustment component of AOCI at November 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively, which offsets a portion of the losses and gains recorded in AOCI upon translating our foreign operations' net assets into U.S. dollars. During fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, we recognized foreign currency transaction gains and (losses) of $607 million, $(407) million and $691 million, respectively, in the cumulative translation adjustment component of AOCI.

 

Newbuild Currency Risk

 

At November 30, 2010, 25% of our newbuild passenger capacity under euro-denominated contracts are exposed to currency risk, which is comprised of two Princess newbuilds expected to be delivered in May 2013 and May 2014. At November 30, 2010, 62% of our newbuild passenger capacity under contract is for our European and North American cruise brands that do not have significant currency risk because all of these ships are contracted for in euros or U.S. dollars, which are the functional currencies of these brands, or the non-functional currency new ship progress payments have already been made. We also have U.S. dollar and sterling functional currency brands that could have newbuild contracts with foreign currency exchange rate risks related to our outstanding or possible future commitments under ship construction contracts denominated in euros. We use foreign currency derivative contracts and have used nonderivative financial instruments to manage foreign currency exchange rate risk for these types of ship construction contracts. At November 30, 2010, 13% of our newbuild passenger capacity under contract that would otherwise be exposed to currency risk is hedged and, accordingly, changes in the fair value of these foreign currency derivative contracts offset changes in the fair value of the foreign currency denominated ship construction commitments, thus resulting in the elimination of such risk.

 

Our decisions regarding whether or not to hedge a non-functional currency ship commitment for our cruise brands are made on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration the amount and duration of the exposure, market volatility, exchange rate correlation, economic trends, our overall expected net cash flows by currency and other offsetting risks.

 

The cost of shipbuilding orders that we may place in the future for our cruise brands that generate their cash flows in a currency that is different than the shipyard's operating currency, which is generally the euro, is expected to be affected by foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Given the movement in the U.S. dollar and sterling relative to the euro over the past several years, the U.S. dollar and sterling cost to order new cruise ships has been volatile. If the U.S. dollar or sterling declines against the euro, this may affect our desire to order future new cruise ships for U.S. dollar or sterling functional currency brands.

 

Interest Rate Risks

 

We manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates through our investment and debt portfolio management strategies. These strategies include purchasing high quality short-term investments with floating interest rates, and evaluating our debt portfolio to make periodic adjustments to the mix of fixed and floating rate debt through the use of interest rate swaps and the issuance of new debt or the early retirement of existing debt. At November 30, 2010, 69% and 31% (71% and 29% at November 30, 2009) of our debt bore fixed and floating interest rates, respectively, including the effect of interest rate swaps.

 

Fuel Price Risks

 

We do not use financial instruments to hedge our exposure to fuel price risks.

 

Concentrations of Credit Risk

 

As part of our ongoing control procedures, we monitor concentrations of credit risk associated with financial and other institutions with which we conduct significant business. Our maximum exposure under foreign currency derivative contracts and interest rate swap agreements that are in-the-money is the replacement cost, which includes the value of the contracts, in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties to the contracts, all of which are currently our lending banks. We seek to minimize credit risk exposure, including counterparty nonperformance primarily associated with our cash equivalents, investments, committed financing facilities, contingent obligations, derivative instruments, insurance contracts and new ship progress payment guarantees, by normally conducting business with large, well-established financial institutions and insurance companies, and by diversifying our counterparties. In addition, we have guidelines regarding credit ratings and investment maturities that we follow to help safeguard liquidity and minimize risk. We normally do require collateral and/or guarantees to support notes receivable on significant asset sales, long-term ship charters and new ship progress payments to shipyards. We currently believe the risk of nonperformance by any of our significant counterparties is remote.

 

We also monitor the creditworthiness of travel agencies and tour operators in Europe and credit card providers to which we extend credit in the normal course of our business. Concentrations of credit risk associated with these receivables are considered minimal, primarily due to their short maturities and the large number of unrelated accounts within our customer base. We have experienced only minimal credit losses on our trade receivables. We do not normally require collateral or other security to support normal credit sales.

 

Finally, if the shipyard with which we have contracts to build our ships is unable to perform, we would be required to perform under our foreign currency forwards and options related to these shipbuilding contracts. Accordingly, if the shipyard is unable to perform, we may have to discontinue accounting for these currency forwards and options as hedges. However, we believe that the risk of shipyard nonperformance is remote.

 

NOTE 11 - Segment Information

 

In order to provide a better understanding of our business' performance, we now separate our cruise brand operating segments into three reportable cruise segments. These three reportable cruise segments are comprised of our (1) North America cruise brands, (2) Europe, Australia & Asia ("EAA") cruise brands and (3) Cruise Support. We believe that the economic characteristics of our North America and EAA cruise brands are no longer similar enough to enable us to aggregate all of our cruise brands' operations into one reportable cruise segment. All prior period information has been restated to conform to this new cruise segment presentation. There were no changes made to our Tour and Other segment.

 

Our North America cruise segment includes Carnival Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Princess and Seabourn. Our EAA cruise segment includes AIDA, Costa, Cunard, Ibero, P&O Cruises (UK) and P&O Cruises (Australia). These individual cruise brand operating segments have been aggregated as two reportable segments based on the similarity of their economic and other characteristics, including the products and services they provide. Our Cruise Support segment represents certain of our port and related facilities and other corporate-wide services that are provided for the benefit of our cruise brands. Our Tour and Other segment represents the hotel, tour and transportation operations of Holland America Princess Alaska Tours and our two owned ships that we charter to an unaffiliated entity. The significant accounting policies of our segments are the same as those described in Note 2 - "Summary of Significant Accounting Policies." Information for our Cruise and Tour and Other segments as of and for the years ended November 30 was as follows (in millions):

 































  

Revenues (a)



Operating
expenses



Selling
and
administrative


  

Depreciation
and
amortization


  

Operating
income
(loss)



Capital
expenditures


  

Total
assets


2010

  









  



  






  



North America Cruise Brands

  

$

8,379

  


$

5,294

  


$

902

  

  

$

843

  

  

$

1,340

  


$

1,082

  

  

$

21,239

  

EAA Cruise Brands

  


5,730

  



3,572

  



584

  

  


505

  

  


1,069

  



2,260

  

  


14,849

  

Cruise Support

  


79

  



14

  



98

  

  


27

  

  


(60



218

  

  


802

  

Tour and Other

  


403

  



334

  



30

  

  


41

  

  


(2



19

  

  


600

(b) 

Intersegment elimination

  


(122



(122



-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  

  


-

  


  












  




  








  





  

$

14,469

  


$

9,092

  


$

1,614

  

  

$

1,416

  

  

$

2,347

  


$

3,579

  

  

$

37,490

  


  












  




  








  




2009

  









  



  






  



North America Cruise Brands

  

$

7,815

  


$

4,944

  


$

896

  

  

$

791

  

  

$

1,184

  


$

1,474

  

  

$

21,073

  

EAA Cruise Brands

  


5,280

  



3,215

  



573

  

  


458

  

  


1,034

  



1,823

  

  


14,659

  

Cruise Support

  


78

  



12

  



89

  

  


25

  

  


(48



58

  

  


593

  

Tour and Other

  


427

  



376

  



32

  

  


35

  

  


(16



25

  

  


510

(b) 

Intersegment elimination

  


(140



(140



-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  

  


-

  


  












  




  








  





  

$

13,460

  


$

8,407

  


$

1,590

  

  

$

1,309

  

  

$

2,154

  


$

3,380

  

  

$

36,835

  


  












  




  








  




2008

  









  



  






  



North America Cruise Brands

  

$

8,766

  


$

5,510

  


$

905

  

  

$

723

  

  

$

1,628

  


$

1,675

  

  

$

20,484

  

EAA Cruise Brands

  


5,713

  



3,503

  



612

  

  


462

  

  


1,136

  



1,597

  

  


11,579

  

Cruise Support

  


76

  



34

  



77

  

  


28

  

  


(63



49

  

  


770

  

Tour and Other

  


561

  



462

  



35

  

  


36

  

  


28

  



32

  

  


567

(b) 

Intersegment elimination

  


(169



(169



-

  

  


-

  

  


-

  



-

  

  


-

  


  












  




  








  





  

$

14,947

  


$

9,340

  


$

1,629

  

  

$

1,249

  

  

$

2,729

  


$

3,353

  

  

$

33,400

  


  












  




  








  




 



(a)

A portion of Tour and Other segment revenues include revenues for the cruise portion of a tour, when a cruise is sold along with a land tour package by Holland America Princess Alaska Tours, and shore excursion and port hospitality services provided to cruise guests by this tour company. These intersegment revenues, which are included in full in the cruise brand segments, are eliminated directly against the Tour and Other segment revenues and operating expenses in the line "Intersegment elimination."

 

(b)

Tour and Other segment assets primarily include hotels and lodges in the state of Alaska and the Canadian Yukon, motorcoaches used for sightseeing and charters, domed rail cars, which run on the Alaska Railroad, and our owned ships under long-term charter to an unaffiliated entity. At November 30, 2010, the former Costa Europa and Holland America Line's former Noordam are being chartered-out.

 

Non-U.S. revenues for our cruise brands represent sales generated from outside the U.S. primarily by non-U.S. tour operators and non-U.S. travel agencies. Substantially all of our long-lived assets are located outside of the U.S. and consist principally of our ships and ships under construction.

 

Revenues by geographic areas, which are based on where the guests are sourced and not the cruise brands on which they sailed, were as follows (in millions):

 















  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010


  

2009


  

2008


North America

  

$

7,467

  

  

$

7,085

  

  

$

8,320

  

Europe

  


5,574

  

  


5,190

  

  


5,513

  

Australia and Asia

  


1,063

  

  


790

  

  


780

  

Others

  


365

  

  


395

  

  


334

  


  




  




  





  

$

14,469

  

  

$

13,460

  

  

$

14,947

  


  




  




  




 

NOTE 12 - Benefit Plans

 

Equity Plans

 

We issue our share-based compensation awards under the Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc stock plans, which have an aggregate of 38.9 million shares available for future grant at November 30, 2010. These plans allow us to issue stock options, restricted stock awards and restricted stock units (collectively "equity awards"). Equity awards are primarily granted to management level employees and members of our Boards of Directors. The plans are administered by a committee of our independent directors (the "Committee") that determines which employees are eligible to participate, the monetary value or number of shares for which equity awards are to be granted and the amounts that may be exercised or sold within a specified term. These plans allow us to fulfill our equity award obligations using shares purchased in the open market or with unissued or treasury shares. Certain equity awards provide for accelerated vesting if we have a change in control, as defined.

 

Our total share-based compensation expense was $43 million in fiscal 2010 and $50 million in each of fiscal 2009 and 2008, of which $40 million, $46 million and $44 million has been included in our accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income as selling and administrative expenses and $3 million, $4 million and $6 million as cruise payroll and related expenses in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

Stock Option Plans

 

The Committee generally set stock option exercise prices at 100% or more of the fair market value of the underlying common stock/ordinary shares on the date the option was granted. Generally, employee options either vest evenly over five years or at the end of three years. Our employee options granted prior to October 2005 have a ten-year term and those options granted thereafter have a seven-year term. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007, the Committee decided to cease granting employee stock options, and to instead grant restricted stock awards ("RSAs") or restricted stock units ("RSUs") to our employee groups who were previously granted options. This change from options to RSAs or RSUs enables us to grant equity awards in a more uniform method to our employees. Since fiscal 2001, Carnival Corporation Board of Director options vest evenly over five years and have a ten-year term. In 2008, the Committee decided to also cease granting stock options to non-executive board members and will instead grant them RSAs and/or RSUs.

 

A combined summary of Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc stock option activity during the year ended November 30, 2010 was as follows:

 



















  

Shares



Weighted-
Average
Exercise

Price


  

Weighted-
Average
Remaining
Contractual

Term


  

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value (a)



  






  

(in years)


  

(in millions)


Outstanding at November 30, 2009

  


15,346,257

  


$

42.54

  

  




  




Exercised

  


(1,563,055


$

27.85

  

  




  




Forfeited or expired

  


(1,063,354


$

41.95

  

  




  





  








  




  




Outstanding at November 30, 2010

  


12,719,848

  


$

43.91

  

  


2.8

  

  

$

37

  


  








  




  




Exercisable at November 30, 2010

  


12,201,129

  


$

43.75

  

  


2.8

  

  

$

37

  


  








  




  




 



(a)

The aggregate intrinsic value represents the amount by which the fair value of underlying stock exceeds the option exercise price at November 30, 2010.

 

As of the dates of exercise, the total intrinsic value of options exercised in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $17 million, $1 million and $5 million, respectively. As of November 30, 2010, there was $2 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested stock options which will be recognized in 2011.

 

RSAs and RSUs

 

RSAs generally have the same rights as Carnival Corporation common stock, except for transfer restrictions and forfeiture provisions. RSAs have been granted to certain officers and non-executive board members and either have three or five-year cliff vesting or vest evenly over five years after the grant date. In addition, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc grant RSUs that vest evenly over five years or at the end of three or five years after the grant date and accrue dividend equivalents on each outstanding RSU, in the form of additional RSUs, based on dividends declared. The share-based compensation expense associated with RSAs and RSUs is based on the quoted market price of the Carnival Corporation or Carnival plc shares on the date of grant, and is amortized to expense using the straight-line method from the grant date through the earlier of the vesting date or the estimated retirement eligibility date.

 

During the year ended November 30, 2010, RSA and RSU activity was as follows:

 



















  

RSAs


  

RSUs



  

Shares



Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair
Value


  

Shares



Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair

Value


Outstanding at November 30, 2009

  


1,229,027

  


$

39.37

  

  


2,406,653

  


$

34.02

  

Granted

  


336,345

  


$

34.57

  

  


864,883

  


$

34.52

  

Vested

  


(239,046


$

49.77

  

  


(328,962


$

47.75

  

Forfeited

  


-

  


$

-

  

  


(115,773


$

39.44

  


  








  








Outstanding at November 30, 2010

  


1,326,326

  


$

36.28

  

  


2,826,801

  


$

32.35

  


  








  








 

The total grant date fair value of RSAs and RSUs vested was $28 million, $18 million and $11 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. As of November 30, 2010, there was $35 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to RSAs and RSUs. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.6 years.

 

Defined Benefit Pension Plans

 

We have several single-employer defined benefit pension plans, which cover some of our shipboard and shoreside employees. The U.S. and UK shoreside employee plans are closed to new membership and are funded at or above the level required by U.S. or UK regulations. The remaining defined benefit plans are primarily unfunded. In determining all of our plans' benefit obligations at November 30, 2010 and 2009, we assumed weighted-average discount rates of 5.0% and 5.4%, respectively. The net asset or net liability positions under these single-employer defined benefit pension plans are not material.

 

In addition, P&O Cruises (UK), Princess and Cunard participate in an industry-wide British Merchant Navy Officers Pension Fund ("MNOPF" or the "fund"), a defined benefit multiemployer pension plan available to certain of their British shipboard officers. The MNOPF is divided into two sections, the "New Section" and the "Old Section," each of which covers a different group of participants, with the Old Section closed to further benefit accrual and the New Section only closed to new membership. At November 30, 2010, the New Section was estimated to have a funding deficit.

 

The MNOPF trustee had previously determined that the MNOPF's New Section funding was inadequate based on its actuarially determined deficit. Substantially all of any MNOPF New Section deficit liability that we may have relates to the obligations of P&O Cruises (UK) and Princess, which existed prior to the formation of our DLC in 2003. We have not been able to record our estimated share of the ultimate fund deficit as of the DLC formation date or thereafter because our ultimate amount of the deficit was and remains uncertain. The amount of our share of the fund's ultimate deficit could vary considerably if different assumptions and estimates are used to estimate the fund deficit. Therefore, we expense our portion of any deficit as amounts are invoiced by, and become due and payable to, the fund's trustee. In 2010, we received a special assessment invoice from the fund's trustee for an amount the trustee calculated to be our additional share of the entire MNOPF New Section deficit. The calculation was based on the March 31, 2009 actuarial valuations, as adjusted for subsequent market value recoveries. Accordingly, we recorded the full invoiced liability of $41 million in cruise payroll and related expense in 2010. It is still possible that the fund's trustee may invoice us in the future for additional amounts.

 

As of the DLC formation date in April 2003 and through November 30, 2007, the MNOPF's Old Section had a funding surplus and, accordingly, no expenses had been recorded for this section of the plan in our financial statements. We believe that while the Old Section had a funding deficit at November 30, 2008, this deficit has reverted to a surplus at November 30, 2010 and 2009. If the Old Section has a funding deficit in the future, then it could result in the fund's trustee also invoicing us for amounts, if they believe the fund requires further contributions. We will record any required Old Section contributions in the same manner as the New Section. Our share of the Old Section deficit, if any, which covers predecessor employers' officers employed prior to 1978, is not currently known and, accordingly, our share of any such contribution is not currently determinable.

 

Total expense for all defined benefit pension plans, including multiemployer plans, was $85 million, $36 million and $42 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

Defined Contribution Plans

 

We have several defined contribution plans available to most of our employees. We contribute to these plans based on employee contributions, salary levels and length of service. Total expense for these plans was $20 million, $16 million and $22 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

NOTE 13 - Earnings Per Share

 

Our basic and diluted earnings per share were computed as follows (in millions, except per share data):

 















  

Years Ended November 30,



  

2010


  

2009


  

2008


Net income

  

$

1,978

  

  

$

1,790

  

  

$

2,324

  

Interest on dilutive convertible notes

  


11

  

  


12

  

  


40

  


  




  




  




Net income for diluted earnings per share

  

$

1,989

  

  

$

1,802

  

  

$

2,364

  


  




  




  




Weighted-average common and ordinary shares outstanding

  


788

  

  


787

  

  


786

  

Dilutive effect of convertible notes

  


14

  

  


15

  

  


28

  

Dilutive effect of equity plans

  


3

  

  


2

  

  


2

  


  




  




  




Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding

  


805

  

  


804

  

  


816

  


  




  




  




Basic earnings per share

  

$

2.51

  

  

$

2.27

  

  

$

2.96

  


  




  




  




Diluted earnings per share

  

$

2.47

  

  

$

2.24

  

  

$

2.90

  


  




  




  




Anti-dilutive stock options excluded from diluted earnings per share computations

  

$

10

  

  

$

14

  

  

$

12

  


  




  




  




 

NOTE 14 - Supplemental Cash Flow Information

 

Cash paid for interest was $387 million, $403 million and $449 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. In addition, cash paid for income taxes was $15 million, $27 million and $23 million in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

SCHEDULE C

 



Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities; Use of Proceeds from Registered Securities

 


I.

Repurchase Authorizations

In June 2006, the Boards of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to an aggregate of $1 billion of Carnival Corporation common stock and Carnival plc ordinary shares subject to certain restrictions. On September 19, 2007, the Boards of Directors increased the remaining $578 million general repurchase authorization back to $1 billion (the "Repurchase Program"). The Repurchase Program does not have an expiration date and may be discontinued by our Boards of Directors at any time. During 2010 and 2009, there were no repurchases of Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ordinary shares under the Repurchase Program.

In addition to the Repurchase Program, the Boards of Directors have authorized the repurchase of up to 19.2 million Carnival plc ordinary shares and up to 31.5 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock under the "Stock Swap" programs described below.

At January 31, 2011, the remaining availability under the Repurchase Program was $787 million and the remaining availability under the "Stock Swap" program repurchase authorizations were 18.1 million Carnival plc ordinary shares and 31.5 million Carnival Corporation shares. Carnival plc ordinary share repurchases under both the Repurchase Program and the "Stock Swap" authorizations require annual shareholder approval. The existing shareholder approval is limited to a maximum of 21.3 million ordinary shares and is valid until the earlier of the conclusion of the Carnival plc 2011 annual general meeting, or October 12, 2011.

 


II.

"Stock Swap" Programs

We use the "Stock Swap" programs in situations where we can obtain an economic benefit because either Carnival Corporation common stock or Carnival plc ordinary shares are trading at a price that is at a premium or discount to the price of Carnival plc ordinary shares or Carnival Corporation common stock, as the case may be. This economic benefit is used for general corporate purposes, which could include repurchasing additional treasury stock under the Repurchase Program.

In the event Carnival Corporation common stock trades at a premium to Carnival plc ordinary shares, we may elect to issue and sell Carnival Corporation common stock through a sales agent, and use the sale proceeds to repurchase Carnival plc ordinary shares in the UK market on at least an equivalent basis. In such an offering, Carnival Corporation may issue and sell up to 19.2 million of its common stock in the U.S. market, which shares are to be sold from time to time at prevailing market prices in ordinary brokers' transactions by a sales agent. Any sales of Carnival Corporation shares have been or will be registered under the Securities Act.

In the event Carnival Corporation common stock trades at a discount to Carnival plc ordinary shares, we may elect to sell existing ordinary shares of Carnival plc, with such sales made by Carnival Corporation or Carnival Investments Limited, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, and with a sales agent, from time to time in "at the market" transactions, and use the sale proceeds to repurchase Carnival Corporation common stock in the U.S. market on at least an equivalent basis. In the offering, Carnival Corporation or Carnival Investments Limited may sell up to 31.5 million Carnival plc ordinary shares in the UK market, which shares are to be sold from time to time at prevailing market prices in ordinary brokers' transactions by a sales agent. Any sales of Carnival plc shares have been or will be registered under the Securities Act.

Under the "Stock Swap" program, from December 1, 2009 through November 30, 2010 Carnival Investments Limited sold 14.8 million shares of Carnival plc ordinary shares, at an average price of $37.22 per share for gross proceeds of $549 million and paid a sales agent fees of $4 million and paid other expenses of $275 thousand for total net proceeds of $545 million. Substantially all of the net proceeds of these sales were used to purchase 14.8 million shares of Carnival Corporation common stock. During the year ended November 30, 2010, no Carnival Corporation common stock was sold and no Carnival plc ordinary shares were repurchased under the "Stock Swap" program.

The purchases of Carnival Corporation common stock during the three months ended November 30, 2010 pursuant to the "Stock Swap" program were as follows:

 














Period

  

Total Number  of
Carnival
Corporation Common
Stock Purchased


  

Average Price Paid
per Share of
Carnival Corporation
Common Stock


  

Maximum Number of
Carnival Corporation
Common Stock That May
Yet Be Purchased Under
the Carnival Corporation
Stock Swap Program


September 1, 2010 through September 30, 2010

  


325,000

  

  

$

31.04

  

  


4,445,000

  

October 1, 2010 through October 31, 2010

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


31,491,194

  

November 1, 2010 through November 30, 2010

  


-

  

  


-

  

  


31,491,194

  


  




  




  





  


325,000

  

  

$

31.04

  

  





  




  




  




 


This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
 
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