Record In‑Park Per Capita Spending
In‑park per capita spending increased 5.3% year‑over‑year to a record $40.62, contributing to a 2.1% increase in total revenue per capita.
Strong Pass Sales Momentum
Paid pass sales were up ~10% during the quarter and ~12% through April 30, 2026; paid pass base was up through April versus prior year, supporting forward visitation and deferred revenue.
Deferred Revenue Growth
Deferred revenue balance was $203.8 million as of March, up ~4.1% year‑over‑year, indicating healthier advanced bookings for tickets, passes, group business and ancillary products.
Aggressive Share Repurchases
Repurchased ~2.6 million shares for ~$92.7 million in Q1 and an additional ~1.8 million shares for ~$64.8 million subsequent to quarter end; approximately $198 million of a $500 million authorization remains.
Sponsorship and Partnership Pipeline
Signed two sponsorships in Q1 and expects to realize >$15 million in sponsorship revenue in 2026 with a long‑term target of at least ~$30 million annually; active discussions on international and IP partnerships.
Capital Investment and Technology Initiatives
Q1 CapEx of $69.6 million ($62.7M core, $7.0M expansion/ROI); full‑year core CapEx guidance $105M–$200M plus ~$50M growth/ROI; pursuing tech initiatives (AI cameras, autonomous cleaning robots, digital ordering kiosks, automated turnstiles/parking) to drive revenue and reduce costs.
Operational and Marketing Improvements Planned
Company pursuing $50 million gross cost savings for 2026, launching a national SeaWorld marketing campaign, and preparing a strong 2026 lineup of new rides, shows, events and expanded food/retail to drive visitation and spending.
Brand Recognition and Rescue Efforts
Discovery Cove named Newsweek's #1 best theme park for 2026 (Reader's Choice); the company reported aiding 211 animals in 2026 and over 43,000 animals historically, supporting brand goodwill.