Royal Caribbean Sails Past Expectations With Record Q3 Earnings
MIAMI, October 28, 2026 — Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) delivered a blockbuster third quarter, reporting revenue of $5.6 billion, up 9% year over year, and adjusted earnings per share of $6.57, above Wall Street’s $6.38 forecast.
- Guests carried: 2.7 million, up 9% year over year
- Load factor: 112%
- Adjusted EBITDA: $2.5 billion, with a 45% margin
- Net income: $1.7 billion
Buoyed by strong close-in demand in Europe and the Caribbean, the company raised its full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $17.85–$17.95, up from its July forecast of $17.73–$17.87.
Adding to investor excitement, Royal Caribbean revealed a strategic partnership to acquire a 50% stake in Sandals and Beaches Resorts for $3 billion, expanding its presence in the $16 billion Caribbean all-inclusive market. Bookings for 2027 are already up in the high teens compared with a year ago, signaling robust consumer confidence in cruise vacations heading into next year.
Source: Baird Maritime – Royal Caribbean raises 2026 earnings outlook as Q3 revenue climbs