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SEAWORLD ENTERTAINMENT, INC. - 10-K - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
[March 21, 2014]

SEAWORLD ENTERTAINMENT, INC. - 10-K - Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations


(Edgar Glimpses Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) The following discussion contains management's discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations and should be read together with "Selected Financial Data" and the historical consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data".



This discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our plans, estimates and beliefs and involve numerous risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to those described in the "Risk Factors" section of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Actual results may differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should carefully read "Special Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors." Business Overview We are a leading theme park and entertainment company delivering personal, interactive and educational experiences that blend imagination with nature and enable our customers to celebrate, connect with and care for the natural world we share. We own or license a portfolio of globally recognized brands, including SeaWorld, Shamu and Busch Gardens. Over our more than 50 year history, we have built a diversified portfolio of 11 destination and regional theme parks that are grouped in key markets across the United States, many of which showcase our one-of-a-kind collection of approximately 86,000 marine and terrestrial animals.

Our theme parks feature a diverse array of rides, shows and other attractions with broad demographic appeal which deliver memorable experiences and a strong value proposition for our guests. In addition to our theme parks, we have recently begun to leverage our brands into media, entertainment and consumer products. During the year ended December 31, 2013, we hosted approximately 23.4 million guests, including approximately 3.7 million international guests.


In the years ended December 31, 2013, we had total revenues of $1,460.3 million and net income of $50.5 million.

Key Business Metrics Evaluated by Management Attendance We define attendance as the number of guest visits to our theme parks. Increased attendance drives increased admissions revenue to our theme parks as well as total in-park spending. The level of attendance at our theme parks is a function of many factors, including the opening of new attractions and shows, weather, global and regional economic conditions, competitive offerings and overall consumer confidence in the economy.

Total Revenue Per Capita Total revenue per capita, defined as total revenue divided by total attendance, consists of admission per capita and in-park per capita spending: • Admission Per Capita. We calculate admission per capita for any period as total admissions revenue divided by total attendance. Theme park admissions accounted for approximately 63% of our total revenue for the year ended December 31, 2013. Over the same period of time, we reported $39.37 in admission per capita, representing an increase of 8.6% from $36.26 for the year ended December 31, 2012. Admission per capita is driven by ticket pricing, the mix of tickets purchased (such as single day, multi-day and annual pass) and the mix of attendance by theme parks visited.

• In-Park Per Capita Spending. We calculate in-park per capita spending for any period as total food, merchandise and other revenue divided by total attendance. For the year ended December 31, 2013, food, merchandise and other revenue accounted for approximately 37% of our total revenue. Over the same time period, we reported $23.05 of in-park per capita spending, representing an increase of 4.3% from $22.11 for the year ended December 31, 2012. In-park per capita spending is driven by pricing changes, penetration levels (percentage of guests purchasing), new product offerings, the mix of guests and the mix of in-park spending.

39 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Trends Affecting Our Results of Operations Our success depends to a significant extent on discretionary consumer spending, which is heavily influenced by general economic conditions and the availability of discretionary income. The recent severe economic downturn, coupled with high volatility and uncertainty as to the future global economic landscape, has had and continues to have an adverse effect on consumers' discretionary income and consumer confidence. Difficult economic conditions and recessionary periods may adversely impact attendance figures, the frequency with which guests choose to visit our theme parks and guest spending patterns at our theme parks.

Historically, our revenue and attendance growth have been highly correlated with domestic economic growth, as reflected in the gross domestic product ("GDP") and the overall level of growth in domestic consumer spending. For example, in 2009 and 2010, we experienced a decline in attendance as a result of the global economic crisis, which in turn adversely affected our revenue and profitability.

We expect that forecasted moderate improvements in GDP and growth in domestic consumer spending will have a positive impact on our future performance. Both attendance and total revenue per capita at our theme parks are key drivers of our revenue and profitability, and reductions in either can materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Seasonality The theme park industry is seasonal in nature. Based upon historical results, we generate the highest revenues in the second and third quarters of each year, in part because six of our theme parks are only open for a portion of the year.

Approximately two-thirds of our attendance and revenues are generated in the second and third quarters of the year and we typically incur a net loss in the first and fourth quarters. The mix of revenues by quarter is relatively constant, but revenues can shift between the first and second quarters due to the timing of Easter or between the first and fourth quarters due to the timing of Christmas and New Year's. Even for our five theme parks open year-round, attendance patterns have significant seasonality, driven by holidays, school vacations and weather conditions. One of our goals in managing our business is to continue to generate cash flow throughout the year and minimize the effects of seasonality. In recent years, we have begun to encourage attendance during non-peak times by offering a variety of seasonal programs and events, such as kids festivals, special concert series, and Halloween and Christmas events. In addition, during seasonally slow times, operating costs are controlled by reducing operating hours and show schedules. Employment levels required for peak operations are met largely through part-time and seasonal hiring.

Principal Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations Revenues Our revenues are driven primarily by attendance in our theme parks and the level of per capita spending for admission to the theme parks and per capita spending inside the theme parks for culinary, merchandise and other in-park experiences.

The level of attendance in our theme parks is a function of many factors, including the opening of new attractions and shows, weather, global and regional economic conditions, competitive offerings and consumer confidence. Admission per capita is driven by ticket pricing, the mix of ticket type purchased (such as single day, multi-day and annual pass) and the mix of attendance by theme parks visited. In-park per capita spending is driven by pricing changes, penetration levels (percentage of guests purchasing), new product offerings, the mix of guests and the mix of in-park spending. For other factors affecting our revenues, see "Risk Factors-Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry." In addition to the theme parks, we are also involved in entertainment, media and consumer product businesses that leverage our intellectual property. While these businesses currently do not represent a material percentage of our revenue, they are important strategic drivers in terms of consumer awareness and brand building. We aim to expand these businesses into a greater source of revenue in the future.

Costs and Expenses The principal costs of our operations are employee salaries, employee benefits, advertising, maintenance, animal care, utilities and insurance. Factors that affect our costs and expenses include commodity prices, costs 40-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents for construction, repairs and maintenance, other inflationary pressures and attendance levels. A large portion of our expenses is relatively fixed because the costs for full-time employees, maintenance, animal care, utilities, advertising and insurance do not vary significantly with attendance. For factors affecting our costs and expenses, see "Risk Factors-Risks Related to Our Business and Our Industry." We barter theme park admission products for advertising and various other products and services. The fair value of the admission products is recognized into revenue and related expenses at the time of the exchange and approximates the fair value of the goods or services received.

Results of Operations The following discussion provides an analysis of our audited consolidated financial data for the years ended December 31, 2013, 2012 and 2011. This data should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 The following table presents key operating and financial information for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012: For the Year Ended December 31, 2013 2012 (In thousands, except per capita data) Statement of comprehensive income data: Net revenues: Admissions $ 921,016 $ 884,407 Food, merchandise and other 539,234 539,345 Total revenues 1,460,250 1,423,752 Costs and expenses: Cost of food, merchandise and other revenues 114,192 118,559 Operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below) 739,989 726,509 Selling, general and administrative 187,298 184,920 Termination of advisory agreement 50,072 - Secondary offering costs 1,407 - Depreciation and amortization 166,086 166,975 Total costs and expenses 1,259,044 1,196,963 Operating income 201,206 226,789 Other income, net 241 1,563 Interest expense 93,536 111,426Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and deferred financing costs 32,429 - Income before income taxes 75,482 116,926 Provision for income taxes 25,004 39,482 Net income $ 50,478 $ 77,444 Other data: Attendance 23,391 24,391 Total revenue per capita $ 62.43 $ 58.37 41 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Admissions revenue. Admissions revenue for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased $36.6 million (4.1%) to $921.0 million as compared to $884.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase in revenue was a result of an 8.6% increase in admission per capita from $36.26 in 2012 to $39.37 in 2013 offset by a 4.1% decrease in total attendance. The improvement in admission per capita was primarily a result of higher ticket pricing and yield management strategies implemented at the beginning of 2013. Attendance for 2013 declined primarily due to the anticipated impact of these new pricing and yield management strategies, which increased revenue but reduced low yielding and free attendance. Also contributing to the decline was unexpected adverse weather conditions, particularly during the second quarter and in July of 2013. The unfavorable timing of Easter on March 31 in 2013 also contributed to the attendance decline as it caused an overlap with the spring break holiday period for schools in many of our key markets.

Food, merchandise and other revenue. Food, merchandise and other revenue for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased slightly by $0.1 million (less than 0.1%) to $539.2 million as compared to $539.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This decrease was a result of the decrease in attendance offset by a 4.3% increase in in-park per capita spending from $22.11 in 2012 to $23.05 in 2013.

The increase in in-park per capita spending was primarily due to targeted price increases and increased in-park offerings reflecting our continued efforts to provide incremental and enhanced service offerings.

Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues. Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased $4.4 million (3.7%) to $114.2 million as compared to $118.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, due primarily to improved culinary margins from leveraged purchasing efforts and operational efficiencies. These costs represent 21.2% of related revenue earned for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 21.9% of related revenue earned for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Operating expenses. Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased by $13.5 million (1.9%) to $740.0 million as compared to $726.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. The increase was primarily a result of increased direct labor costs, additional operating costs to support new attractions and our new Aquatica San Diego park which opened in 2013, partially offset by decreased miscellaneous asset write-offs and successful expense reductions implemented during the year. Operating expenses reflected 50.7% of total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2013 and 51.0% for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2013 increased by $2.4 million (1.3%) to $187.3 million as compared to $184.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. This increase was primarily a result of additional equity compensation expense primarily related to a new restricted stock grant in April 2013 as well as an increase in corporate salaries due to planned additions to our corporate structure as a result of our initial public offering and the related increased public company requirements offset by the elimination of the 2009 Advisory Agreement fees due to the termination of this agreement in April 2013 and expense savings from utilizing more efficient marketing channels and consolidating our media buying. As a percentage of total revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses were 12.8% for the year ended December 31, 2013 compared to 13.0% for the year ended December 31, 2012.

Termination of advisory agreement. In connection with the completion of our initial public offering on April 24, 2013, the 2009 Advisory Agreement was terminated. In connection with such termination, we paid a termination fee of $46.3 million to an affiliate of Blackstone and recorded a write-off of $3.8 million in 2013 prepaid advisory fees.

Secondary offering costs. On December 17, 2013, the selling stockholders completed an underwritten secondary offering of our common stock. The selling stockholders received all of the net proceeds from the offering and no shares were sold by us. In connection with this secondary offering, we incurred fees and expenses of $1.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased by $0.9 million (0.5%) to $166.1 million as compared to $167.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2012 due to the impact of fully depreciated assets offset by new asset additions.

42-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Interest expense. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2013 decreased $17.9 million (16.1%) to $93.5 million as compared to $111.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2012, primarily reflecting the effects of our March 2012 and May 2013 amendments to the terms of our Senior Secured Credit Facilities, which reduced our interest rates as well as the redemption of $140.0 million of our Senior Notes and the repayment of $37.0 million under our Term B Loan in April 2013 with a portion of the net proceeds from our initial public offering.

Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and deferred financing costs . Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and deferred financing costs of $32.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013 relates to a $15.4 million premium paid for the early redemption of $140.0 million of our Senior Notes with a portion of the net proceeds from our initial public offering in April 2013, along with a write-off of approximately $5.5 million in related discounts and deferred financing costs and the write-off of approximately $11.5 million of certain debt issuance costs in connection with Amendment No. 5 to our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

Provision for income taxes. The provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2013 was $25.0 million compared to $39.5 million in the year ended December 31, 2012. The decrease primarily results from the decrease in pretax income in the year ended 2013 compared to the year ended 2012, along with a decrease in our effective income tax rate (from 33.8% to 33.1%). Our effective income tax rate decreased due to a benefit arising from certain federal tax credits and prior year true-ups offset by the impact of non-deductible costs, including non-deductible offering costs, certain officer compensation and certain equity compensation awards.

Comparison of the Years Ended December 31, 2012 and 2011 The following table presents key operating and financial information for the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011: For the Year Ended December 31, 2012 2011 (In thousands, except per capita data) Statement of comprehensive income data: Net revenues: Admissions $ 884,407 $ 824,937 Food, merchandise and other 539,345 505,837 Total revenues 1,423,752 1,330,774 Costs and expenses: Cost of food, merchandise and other revenues 118,559 112,498 Operating expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization shown separately below) 726,509 687,999 Selling, general and administrative 184,920 172,368 Depreciation and amortization 166,975 213,592 Total costs and expenses 1,196,963 1,186,457 Operating income 226,789 144,317 Other income (expense), net 1,563 (1,679 ) Interest expense 111,426 110,097 Income before income taxes 116,926 32,541 Provision for income taxes 39,482 13,428 Net income $ 77,444 $ 19,113 Other data: Attendance 24,391 23,631 Total revenue per capita $ 58.37 $ 56.31 43 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Admissions revenue. Admissions revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $59.5 million (7%) to $884.4 million as compared to $824.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in revenue was a result of a 4% increase in admission per capita from $34.91 in 2011 to $36.26 in 2012 and a 3% increase in total attendance. The increase in admission per capita was primarily a result of higher ticket pricing and reduced discounts corresponding with the opening of the Manta rollercoaster at SeaWorld San Diego and the Aquatica attraction at SeaWorld San Antonio, as well as increased real consumer spending growth from improved macroeconomic conditions. Increased attendance was primarily driven by increased real consumer spending, as well as the opening of the Manta rollercoaster at SeaWorld San Diego, the Aquatica attraction at SeaWorld San Antonio, the TurtleTrek attraction at SeaWorld Orlando and the Verbolten rollercoaster at Busch Gardens Williamsburg.

Food, merchandise and other revenue. Food, merchandise and other revenue for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $33.5 million (7%) to $539.3 million as compared to $505.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase in revenue was a result of a 3% increase in in-park per capita spending from $21.41 in 2011 to $22.11 in 2012 and a 3% increase in total attendance. The increase in in-park per capita spending was driven primarily by price increases and product promotion.

Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues. Costs of food, merchandise and other revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $6.1 million (5%) to $118.6 million as compared to $112.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. These costs represent 21.9% of related revenue earned for the year ended December 31, 2012 and 22.2% of related revenue earned for the year ended December 31, 2011.

Operating expenses. Operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $38.5 million (6%) to $726.5 million as compared to $688.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The increase was primarily driven by increased operating costs relating to new attractions and increased variable costs due to our higher sales volume. These expenses reflected 51.0% of total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2012 and 51.7% for the year ended December 31, 2011.

Selling, general and administrative. Selling, general and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $12.5 million (7%) to $184.9 million as compared to $172.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. This increase primarily reflects an increase in marketing expenditures and higher corporate expenses resulting from the build-out of our corporate office staff.

Depreciation and amortization. Depreciation and amortization expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 decreased $46.6 million (22%) to $167.0 million as compared to $213.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2011. The decrease was primarily attributable to the partial year impact of assets designated with two-year lives at the December 1, 2009 transaction date, which are now fully depreciated, partially offset by asset additions.

Interest expense. Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $1.3 million (1%) to $111.4 million as compared to $110.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, primarily reflecting the effects of our March 2012 debt refinancing, which increased the amount of our outstanding principal balance of our long-term debt and reduced the interest rates on our long-term debt. See our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a further description of the terms of the refinancing.

Provision for income taxes. Provision for income taxes for the year ended December 31, 2012 increased $26.1 million (194%) to $39.5 million as compared to $13.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2011, which primarily reflects an increase in taxable earnings and was partially offset by a decrease in our effective income tax rate (from 41.3% to 33.8%). Our effective income tax rate decreased due to changes in our state tax planning structure along with certain non-recurring tax credits.

44 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Liquidity and Capital Resources Overview Our principal sources of liquidity are cash generated from operations, funds from borrowings and existing cash on hand. Our principal uses of cash include the funding of working capital obligations, debt service, investments in theme parks (including capital projects), and common stock dividends. As of December 31, 2013, we had a working capital deficit of approximately $9.6 million. We typically operate with a working capital deficit and we expect that we will continue to have working capital deficits in the future. The working capital deficits are due in part to a significant deferred revenue balance from revenues paid in advance for our theme park admissions products and high turnover of in-park products that results in a limited inventory balance. Our cash flow from operations, along with our revolving credit facilities, have allowed us to meet our liquidity needs while maintaining a working capital deficit.

As market conditions warrant and subject to our contractual restrictions and liquidity position, we, our affiliates and/or our major stockholders, including Blackstone and its affiliates, may from time to time repurchase our outstanding equity and/or debt securities, including the Senior Notes and/or our outstanding bank loans in privately negotiated or open market transactions, by tender offer or otherwise. Any such repurchases may be funded by incurring new debt, including additional borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Any new debt may also be secured debt. We may also use available cash on our balance sheet. The amounts involved in any such transactions, individually or in the aggregate, may be material. Further, since some of our debt may trade at a discount to the face amount, any such purchases may result in our acquiring and retiring a substantial amount of any particular series, with the attendant reduction in the trading liquidity of any such series.

In June 2013, our Board of Directors adopted a policy to pay quarterly dividends. As a result, we declared quarterly cash dividends of $0.20 per share to all common stockholders of record at the close of business on June 20, September 20 and December 20, 2013, which were paid on July 1, 2013, October 1, 2013 and January 3, 2014, respectively. On March 4, 2014, we declared a cash dividend of $0.20 per share to all common stockholders of record at the close of business on March 20, 2014, payable on April 1, 2014.

As of December 31, 2013, we had $17.9 million of cash dividends payable, of which $17.7 million was paid on January 3, 2014, the remainder relates to unvested restricted shares which carry dividend rights and therefore the dividends are payable as the shares vest in accordance with the underlying stock compensation grants. Accumulated dividends on certain performance restricted shares were approximately $1.8 million and will accumulate and be paid only if and to the extent the shares vest in accordance with their terms. We have not recorded a payable related to these dividends as the vesting of the performance restricted shares is not probable. See Note 19-Stockholders' Equity in the notes to the consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In March 2012 and September 2011, respectively, our Board of Directors declared a $500.0 million and $110.1 million cash dividend to our common stockholders, which at that time consisted of entities controlled by certain affiliates of Blackstone. Approximately $503.0 million and $106.9 million was paid in the years ended December 31, 2012 and 2011, respectively, related to these dividend declarations.

The amount and timing of any future dividends payable on our common stock is within the sole discretion of our Board of Directors. See "Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities-Dividends." Concurrently with the closing of the secondary offering on December 17, 2013, we repurchased 1.5 million shares of our common stock directly from the selling stockholders in a private, non-underwritten transaction. The repurchase was approved by a special committee comprised of two of our independent, disinterested directors as being in the best interests of the Company and our stockholders other than the selling stockholders. All repurchased shares are recorded as treasury stock at a cost of $44.2 million and reflected as a reduction to stockholders' equity at December 31, 2013.

45-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents In March 2014, we executed a new interest rate swap agreement to effectively fix the interest rate on $450.0 million of the Term B-2 Loans. The interest rates swap has an effective date of March 31, 2014, has a notional amount of $450.0 million and is scheduled to mature on September 30, 2016.

We believe that existing cash and cash equivalents, cash flow from operations, and available borrowings under the Senior Secured Credit Facilities will be adequate to meet the capital expenditures, dividends and working capital requirements of our operations for at least the next 12 months.

The following table presents a summary of our cash flows provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activities for the periods indicated: For the Year Ended December 31, 2013 2012 2011 (Amounts in thousands)Net cash provided by operating activities $ 289,794 $ 303,513 $ 268,249 Net cash used in investing activities (166,376 ) (204,318 ) (225,316 ) Net cash used in financing activities (52,252 ) (120,183 ) (99,967 ) Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents $ 71,166 $ (20,988 ) $ (57,034 ) Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities was $289.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2013 as compared to $303.5 million during the year ended December 31, 2012. Cash provided by operating activities decreased primarily as a result of the cash payment of $46.3 million for the 2009 Advisory Agreement termination fee in conjunction with our initial public offering in April 2013, offset by additional cash generated from theme park operations due to an increase in total revenue primarily related to higher admissions revenue.

Net cash provided by operating activities increased during the year ended December 31, 2012 as compared to the year ended December 31, 2011 primarily as a result of the following: (i) an increase in cash generated from theme park operations due to increased theme park attendance, increased theme park admission fees and higher in-park per capita spending on food, merchandise and other in-park spending and (ii) lower costs and expenses as a percentage of sales due to our labor efficiency initiatives and greater economies of scale.

The increase in net cash provided by operating activities was partially offset by unfavorable changes in our working capital accounts.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities Investing activities consist principally of capital investments we make in our theme parks for future attractions and infrastructure. Net cash used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2013 consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $166.3 million largely related to future attractions.

Net cash used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2012 consisted primarily of capital expenditures of $191.7 million, as well as $12.0 million for the purchase of Knott's Soak City Chula Vista water park in November 2012. The capital expenditures were largely related to new attractions and zoological safety infrastructure.

Net cash used in investing activities during the year ended December 31, 2011 consisted of capital expenditures of $225.3 million. The level of capital expenditures in 2011 and 2012 was elevated as a result of costs related to building out our corporate infrastructure as a stand-alone company following our separation from ABI, zoological safety infrastructure investments, and catch-up spending due to under-investment in our theme parks prior to the acquisition by Blackstone on December 1, 2009.

Excluding the impact of the remaining 2014 zoological safety infrastructure investment of approximately $5.1 million and potential investments for new theme parks, we plan to reduce the level of capital expenditures to 46-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents an average of approximately 10% of total revenue per year ,with 2014 expected to be approximately 11%. The amount of our capital expenditures may be affected by general economic and financial conditions, among other things, including restrictions imposed by our borrowing arrangements. We generally expect to fund our 2014 capital expenditures through our operating cash flow.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net cash provided by financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2013 was primarily attributable to the receipt of $253.8 million proceeds from our initial public offering, net of underwriter discounts and commissions, offset by the following: (i) repayments of $189.3 million of debt which consisted primarily of the redemption of $140.0 million of our Senior Notes and a repayment of $37.0 million of indebtedness under our Term B Loan, (ii) $44.2 million used to repurchase 1.5 million shares of our stock, (iii) payments of $36.2 million in cash dividends, (iv) $15.4 million paid in a redemption premium for the Senior Notes, (v) $14.0 million paid in debt issuance costs, (vi) $4.7 million in costs incurred in connection with our initial public offering and (vii) $3.0 million related to a note payable which was due on September 1, 2013 for the November 2012 acquisition of Knott's Soak City from an affiliate of Cedar Fair L.P.

Net cash used in financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2012 was primarily attributable to the following: (i) the payment of a $503.0 million portion of our dividends described above (net of required withholdings), (ii) repayment of $93.7 million of debt under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities and (iii) costs of $7.0 million related to an amendment to the indenture governing our Senior Notes and an amendment to our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. This was partially offset by proceeds of $487.2 million from the term loan borrowings under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Net cash used in financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2011 was primarily attributable to the following: (i) repayment of $586.2 million of our long-term debt in connection with a refinancing of our Senior Secured Credit Facilities, (ii) the payment of a $106.9 million portion of our $110.1 million dividend (net of required withholdings) and (iii) debt issuance costs of $5.9 million related to an amendment to the indenture governing our Senior Notes and an amendment to our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. This was partially offset by the proceeds of $550.3 million from the term loan borrowings under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities, a draw on our revolving credit facility of $36.0 million and $12.8 million of proceeds (net of issuance costs) from the issuance of common stock to the Partnerships described above.

In 2011 and 2012, we declared special dividends of $110.1 million and $500.0 million, respectively, to our stockholders.

Our Indebtedness The Company is a holding company and conducts its operations through its subsidiaries, which have incurred or guaranteed indebtedness as described below.

Senior Secured Credit Facilities SEA is the borrower under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities pursuant to a credit agreement dated as of December 1, 2009, by and among SEA, as borrower, Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, collateral agent, letter of credit issuer and swing line lender and the other agents and lenders party thereto, as the same may be amended, restated, supplemented or modified from time to time. As of December 31, 2013, our Senior Secured Credit Facilities consisted of a $1,398.0 million senior secured term loan facility (the "Term B-2 Loans"), which will mature on May 14, 2020 and a $192.5 million senior secured revolving credit facility (the "Revolving Credit Facility"), which was not drawn upon at December 31, 2013. The Revolving Credit Facility will mature on the earlier of (a) April 24, 2018 or (b) the 91st day prior to the earlier of (1) the maturity date of Senior Notes with an aggregate principal amount greater than $50.0 million outstanding and (2) the maturity date of any indebtedness incurred to refinance the Term B-2 Loans or the Senior Notes, and includes borrowing capacity available for letters of credit and for short-term borrowings referred to as the swing line borrowings. As of December 31, 2013, we had approximately $23.5 million of outstanding letters of credit.

47-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Borrowings under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities bear interest, at SEA's option, at a rate equal to a margin over either (a) a base rate determined by reference to the higher of (1) Bank of America's prime lending rate and (2) the federal funds effective rate plus 1/2 of 1% or (b) a LIBOR rate determined by reference to the British Bankers Association LIBOR rate for the interest period relevant to such borrowing. The applicable margin for the Term B-2 Loans is 1.25%, in the case of base rate loans and 2.25%, in the case of LIBOR rate loans, subject to a base rate floor of 1.75% and a LIBOR floor of 0.75%. The applicable margin for the Term B-2 Loans is subject to one 25 basis point step-down upon achievement by SEA of a certain total net leverage ratio. At December 31, 2013, we selected the LIBOR rate (interest rate of 3.00% at December 31, 2013). The applicable margin for borrowings under the Revolving Credit Facility is 1.75%, in the case of base rate loans and 2.75%, in the case of LIBOR rate loans, subject to one 25 basis point step-down based on SEA's corporate credit ratings.

In addition to paying interest on outstanding principal under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities, SEA is required to pay a commitment fee to the lenders under the Revolving Credit Facility in respect of the unutilized commitments thereunder at a rate of 0.50% per annum. SEA is also required to pay customary letter of credit fees.

SEA is required to prepay outstanding term loans, subject to certain exceptions, with (i) 50% of SEA's annual "excess cash flow" (with step-downs to 25% and 0%, as applicable, based upon achievement by SEA of a certain total net leverage ratio), subject to certain exceptions; (ii) 100% of the net cash proceeds of certain non-ordinary course asset sales or other dispositions subject to reinvestment rights and certain exceptions; and (iii) 100% of the net cash proceeds of any incurrence of debt by SEA or any of its restricted subsidiaries, other than debt permitted to be incurred or issued under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

Term B-2 Loans will amortize in equal quarterly installments in an aggregate annual amount equal to 1.0% per annum of the original principal amount of the Term B-2 Loans, with the balance due on the final maturity date. SEA may voluntarily repay amounts outstanding under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities at any time without premium or penalty, other than prepayment premium on voluntary prepayment of Term B-2 Loans on or prior to May 14, 2014 and customary "breakage" costs with respect to LIBOR loans.

The obligations under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities are fully, unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed by each of the Company, any subsidiary of the Company that directly or indirectly owns 100% of the issued and outstanding equity interests of SEA, and, subject to certain exceptions, each of SEA's existing and future material domestic wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the "Guarantors"). Our Senior Secured Credit Facilities are collateralized by first priority or equivalent security interests in (i) all the capital stock of, or other equity interests in, substantially all SEA's direct or indirect material domestic subsidiaries (subject to certain exceptions and qualifications) and 65% of the capital stock of, or other equity interests in, any of SEA's first tier foreign subsidiaries and (ii) certain tangible and intangible assets of SEA and those of the Guarantors (subject to certain exceptions and qualifications).

Our Senior Secured Credit Facilities contain a number of customary negative covenants. Such covenants, among other things, restrict, subject to certain exceptions, the ability of SEA and its restricted subsidiaries to incur additional indebtedness, make guarantees; create liens on assets; enter into sale and leaseback transactions, engage in mergers or consolidations; sell assets; make fundamental changes; pay dividends and distributions or repurchase SEA's capital stock; make investments, loans and advances, including acquisitions; engage in certain transactions with affiliates; make changes in nature of the business; and make prepayments of junior debt.

Our Senior Secured Credit Facilities also contain covenants requiring SEA to maintain specified maximum annual capital expenditures, a maximum total net leverage ratio and a minimum interest coverage ratio. In addition, our Senior Secured Credit Facilities contain certain customary representations and warranties, affirmative covenants and events of default.

As of December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with all covenants in the provisions contained in the documents governing our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

48 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents The Senior Notes On December 1, 2009, SEA issued $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 13.5% Senior Notes due 2016. On March 30, 2012, pursuant to an amendment to the indenture governing the Senior Notes, the interest rate was reduced from 13.5% to 11.0%. Interest on the Senior Notes is payable semi-annually in arrears. The obligations under the Senior Notes are guaranteed by the same entities as those that guarantee our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. As of December 31, 2013, we had $260.0 million aggregate principal amount of the Senior Notes outstanding.

The Senior Notes are senior unsecured obligations and: • rank senior in right of payment to all existing and future debt and other obligations that are, by their terms, expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Senior Notes; • rank equally in right of payment to all existing and future senior debt and other obligations that are not, by their terms, expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Senior Notes; and • are effectively subordinated in right of payment to all existing and future secured debt (including obligations under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities), to the extent of the value of the assets securing such debt, and are structurally subordinated to all obligations of each of our subsidiaries that is not a guarantor of the Senior Notes.

We may redeem some or all of the Senior Notes at any time prior to December 1, 2014, at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Senior Notes redeemed plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest to, the redemption date, subject to the right of the holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date. The "Applicable Premium" is defined as the greater of (1) 1.0% of the principal amount of the Senior Notes and (2) the excess, if any, of (a) the present value at such redemption date of (i) the redemption price of the Senior Notes at December 1, 2014 plus (ii) all required interest payments due on the Senior Notes through December 1, 2014 (excluding accrued but unpaid interest to the redemption date), computed using a discount rate equal to the Treasury Rate plus 50 basis points over (b) the principal amount of the Senior Notes. On or after December 1, 2014, the Senior Notes may be redeemed at 105.5% and 102.75% of the principal amount beginning on December 1, 2014 and 2015, respectively.

We used a portion of the net proceeds received by us in our initial public offering to redeem $140.0 million in aggregate principal amount of the Senior Notes in April 2013 at a redemption price of 111.0% pursuant to a provision in the indenture governing the Senior Notes that permitted us to redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Senior Notes with the net cash proceeds of certain equity offerings and to pay estimated premiums and accrued interest thereon. The redemption premium of $15.4 million, along with a write-off of approximately $5.5 million in related discounts and deferred financing costs is included as loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and deferred financing costs on our consolidated statements of comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2013.

The indenture governing the Senior Notes contains a number of covenants that, among other things, restrict SEA's ability and the ability of its restricted subsidiaries to, among other things: • dispose of certain assets; • incur additional indebtedness; • pay dividends; • prepay subordinated indebtedness; • incur liens; • make capital expenditures; • make investments or acquisitions; • engage in mergers or consolidations; and • engage in certain types of transactions with affiliates.

49 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents These covenants are subject to a number of important limitations and exceptions.

The indenture governing the Senior Notes provides for certain events of default which, if any of them were to occur, would permit or require the principal of and accrued interest, if any, on the Senior Notes to become or be declared due and payable (subject, in some cases, to specified grace periods).

As of December 31, 2013, we were in compliance with all covenants and the provisions contained in the indenture governing the Senior Notes.

Covenant Compliance Under the indenture governing the Senior Notes and under our Senior Secured Credit Facilities, our ability to engage in activities such as incurring additional indebtedness, making investments, refinancing certain indebtedness, paying dividends and entering into certain merger transactions is governed, in part, by our ability to satisfy tests based on covenant Adjusted EBITDA.

The Senior Notes and our Senior Secured Credit Facilities generally define "Adjusted EBITDA" as net income (loss) before interest expense, income tax expense (benefit), depreciation and amortization, as further adjusted to exclude certain unusual, non-cash, and other items permitted in calculating covenant compliance under the indenture governing the Senior Notes and our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

We believe that the presentation of Adjusted EBITDA is appropriate to provide additional information to investors about the calculation of, and compliance with, certain financial covenants in the indenture governing the Senior Notes and in our Senior Secured Credit Facilities. Adjusted EBITDA is a material component of these covenants. In addition, investors, lenders, financial analysts and rating agencies have historically used EBITDA related measures in our industry, along with other measures, to evaluate a company's ability to meet its debt service requirements, to estimate the value of a company and to make informed investment decisions. We also use Adjusted EBITDA in connection with certain components of our executive compensation program. Adjusted EBITDA eliminates the effect of certain non-cash depreciation of tangible assets and amortization of intangible assets, along with the effects of interest rates and changes in capitalization which management believes may not necessarily be indicative of a company's underlying operating performance.

Adjusted EBITDA is not a recognized term under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("GAAP"), and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for a measure of our liquidity or performance prepared in accordance with GAAP and is not indicative of income from operations as determined under GAAP. Adjusted EBITDA and other non-GAAP financial measures have limitations which should be considered before using these measures to evaluate our liquidity or financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA, as presented by us, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies due to varying methods of calculation.

50-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents We believe that the most directly comparable GAAP measure to Adjusted EBITDA is net income (loss). The following table reconciles net income to Adjusted EBITDA: For the Year Ended December 31, 2013 2012 2011 (Amounts in thousands) Net income $ 50,478 $ 77,444 $ 19,113 Provision for income taxes 25,004 39,482 13,428 Loss on early extinguishment of debt and write-off of discounts and deferred financing costs (a) 32,429 - - Interest expense 93,536 111,426 110,097 Depreciation and amortization 166,086 166,975 213,592 Secondary offering costs (b) 1,407 - - Termination of advisory agreement (c) 50,072 - - Advisory fees (d) 2,799 6,201 6,012 Equity-based compensation expense (e) 6,026 1,681 823 Debt refinancing costs (f) 892 1,000 441 Other adjusting items (g) 843 630 - Other non-cash expenses (h) 9,556 10,367 12,468 Carve-out costs (i) - - 6,085 Adjusted EBITDA $ 439,128 $ 415,206 $ 382,059 (a) Reflects a $15.4 million premium paid for the early redemption of $140.0 million of our Senior Notes using net proceeds from our initial public offering in April 2013, along with a write-off of approximately $5.5 million in related discounts and deferred financing costs and a write-off of approximately $11.5 million of certain capitalized debt issuance costs in connection with Amendment No. 5 to our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

(b) Reflects fees and expenses incurred in connection with the secondary offering of our common stock in December 2013. The selling stockholders received all of the net proceeds from the offering and we paid all expenses related to the offering, other than underwriting discounts and commissions. No shares were sold by us in the secondary offering.

(c) Reflects a one-time fee of $46.3 million paid to an affiliate of Blackstone in connection with the termination of the 2009 Advisory Agreement, and a related write-off of prepaid advisory fees of $3.8 million. In connection with our initial public offering, the 2009 Advisory Agreement was terminated on April 24, 2013 in accordance with its terms.

(d) Reflects historical fees paid to an affiliate of Blackstone under the 2009 Advisory Agreement.

(e) Reflects non-cash compensation expenses associated with the grants of equity compensation.

(f) Reflects costs which were expensed related to the amendments to our Senior Secured Credit Facilities.

(g) Reflects costs related to our acquisition of the Knott's Soak City Chula Vista water park and pre-opening costs related to Aquatica San Diego.

(h) Reflects non-cash expenses related to miscellaneous asset write-offs and non-cash gains/losses on foreign currencies which were expensed.

(i) Reflects certain carve-out costs and savings related to our separation from ABI and the establishment of certain operations at the Company on a stand-alone basis. These amounts primarily consist of the cost of third-party professional services, relocation expenses, severance costs and cost savings related to the termination of certain employees.

51 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Contractual Obligations The following table summarizes our principal contractual obligations as of December 31, 2013: Less than 1 More than 5 Total Year 1-3 Years 3-5 Years Years (Amounts in thousands) Long-term debt (including current portion) $ 1,657,975 $ 14,050 $ 288,100 $ 28,100 $ 1,327,725 Operating leases (1) 380,455 14,403 27,938 26,876 311,238 Purchase obligations (2) 59,884 58,458 1,426 - - Total contractual obligations $ 2,098,314 $ 86,911 $ 317,464 $ 54,976 $ 1,638,963 (1) Represents commitments under long-term operating leases, primarily consisting of the lease for the land of our SeaWorld theme park in San Diego, California, requiring annual minimum lease payments.

(2) We have minimum purchase commitments with various vendors through April 2015.

Outstanding minimum purchase commitments consist primarily of capital expenditures related to future attractions, infrastructure enhancements for existing facilities and information technology products and services.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements We had no off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2013.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of certain assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses, and disclosure of contingencies during the reporting period. Significant estimates and assumptions include the valuation and useful lives of long-lived tangible and intangible assets, the valuation of goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets, the accounting for income taxes, the accounting for self-insurance, revenue recognition and equity-based compensation. Actual results could differ from those estimates. We believe that the following discussion addresses our critical accounting policies which require management's most difficult, subjective and complex judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.

Property and Equipment Property and equipment additions are recorded at cost and the carrying value is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of those assets. Development costs associated with new attractions, rides and products are capitalized after necessary feasibility studies have been completed and final concept or contracts have been approved. Interest is capitalized on all construction projects. It is possible that changes in circumstances such as technological advances, changes to our business model or changes in capital strategy could result in the actual useful lives differing from estimates. In those cases in which we determine that the useful life of property and equipment should be shortened, we depreciate the remaining net book value in excess of the salvage value over the revised remaining useful life, thereby increasing depreciation expense evenly through the remaining expected life.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets All long-lived assets, including property and equipment and finite-lived intangible assets, are reviewed for impairment upon the occurrence of events or changes in circumstances that would indicate that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. The impairment indicators considered important that may trigger an impairment review, if significant, include the following: • underperformance relative to historical or projected future operating results; • changes in the manner of use of the assets; 52 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents • changes in management, strategy or customers; • negative industry or economic trends; and • macroeconomic conditions.

An impairment loss may be recognized when estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the asset, including disposition, are less than the carrying value of the asset. The measurement of the impairment loss to be recognized is based upon the difference between the fair value and the carrying amounts of the assets. Fair value is generally determined based upon a discounted cash flow analysis. In order to determine if an asset has been impaired, assets are grouped and tested at the lowest level for which identifiable, independent cash flows are available.

The determination of both undiscounted and discounted future cash flows requires management to make significant estimates and consider an anticipated course of action as of the balance sheet date. Subsequent changes in estimated undiscounted and discounted future cash flows arising from changes in anticipated actions could impact the determination of whether impairment exists.

There was no impairment of any long-lived assets in 2013, 2012 or 2011.

Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible assets are reviewed for impairment annually for ongoing recoverability based on applicable reporting unit performance and consideration of significant events or changes in the overall business environment.

In assessing goodwill for impairment, we initially evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. We consider several factors, including macroeconomic conditions, industry and market conditions, overall financial performance of the reporting unit, changes in management, strategy or customers, and relevant reporting unit specific events such as a change in the carrying amount of net assets, a more-likely-than-not expectation of selling or disposing all, or a portion, of a reporting unit, and the testing of recoverability of a significant asset group within a reporting unit. If the qualitative assessment is not conclusive, then the recorded value of the reporting unit is compared to the fair value of the reporting unit, which is determined using a discounted future cash flow analysis. If the recorded amount exceeds the fair value, the impairment write-down is quantified by comparing the current implied value of goodwill to the recorded goodwill balance.

Significant judgments required in this testing process may include projecting future cash flows, determining appropriate discount rates and other assumptions.

Projections are based on management's best estimates given recent financial performance, market trends, strategic plans and other available information which in recent years have been materially accurate. Although not currently anticipated, changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the determination of fair value or impairment. It is possible that our assumptions about future performance, as well as the economic outlook and related conclusions regarding the valuation of our assets, could change adversely, which may result in impairment that would have a material effect on our financial position and results of operations in future periods. At December 1, 2012, a quantitative assessment was performed and we determined that we had no reporting units that were considered impaired as a result of this goodwill impairment test. During this quantitative assessment, we calculated that the fair value of the reporting units exceeded their respective carrying values by 71% to 122%. Key assumptions utilized in the goodwill analysis were a weighted average cost of capital of 9%.

At December 1, 2013 and 2011, a qualitative assessment was performed and we determined, after assessing the totality of relevant events and circumstances, that it was not more likely than not that the carrying value exceeded the fair value of the reporting units. Accordingly, based upon the qualitative assessment tests that were performed in 2013 and 2011, and the quantitative assessment that was performed as of December 1, 2012, we had no reporting units that were considered at risk of failing step one of the goodwill impairment test.

53-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Our indefinite-lived intangible assets consist of certain trade names which, after considering legal, regulatory, contractual, and other competitive and economic factors, are determined to have indefinite lives and are valued annually using the relief from royalty method. Significant estimates required in this valuation method include estimated future revenues impacted by the trade names, royalty rate by park, appropriate discount rates, remaining useful life, and other assumptions. Projections are based on management's best estimates given recent financial performance, market trends, strategic plans, brand awareness, operating characteristics by park, and other available information which in recent years have been materially accurate. Changes in these estimates and assumptions could materially affect the fair value determination used in the assessment of impairment. Based on qualitative assessments performed at December 1, 2013 and 2011, and a quantitative assessment performed at December 1, 2012, there was no impairment as the fair value of trade names was substantially in excess of their carrying values. For the December 1, 2012 quantitative assessment of indefinite lived intangible assets, we calculated that the fair value of these assets exceeded their carrying values by 40% to 68%. Key assumptions utilized in the indefinite lived intangible asset analysis were a discount rate of 14% and an estimated royalty rate ranging from 2% to 3%.

Accounting for Income Taxes We are required to estimate income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate. This process involves estimating actual current tax exposure together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items, such as depreciation periods for property and equipment and deferred revenue, for tax and financial accounting purposes. These differences result in deferred tax assets and liabilities, which are included within our consolidated balance sheet. We must then assess the likelihood that deferred tax assets (primarily net operating and capital loss carryforwards) will be recovered from future taxable income. To the extent that we believe that recovery is not likely, a valuation allowance against those amounts is recognized. To the extent that we recognize a valuation allowance or an increase in the valuation allowance during a period, we recognize these amounts as income tax expense in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income. Section 382 of the Code contains rules that limit the ability of a company that undergoes an ownership change, which is generally any change in ownership of more than 50% of its stock over a rolling three-year period, to utilize its net operating loss carryforwards in years after the ownership change. These rules generally operate by focusing on ownership shifts among stockholders owning directly or indirectly 5% or more of the stock of a company and any change in ownership arising from shares of stock sold by these same stockholders.

Although the secondary offering that was completed in December 2013 gave rise to an ownership change under Section 382, we believe that the resulting limitations imposed by Section 382 will not affect our ability to use our existing net operating loss carryforwards. Any future ownership change (including as a result of future sales by Blackstone) may, however, result in further limitations imposed by Section 382. Any such limitation may have the effect of reducing our after-tax cash flow in future years and may affect our need for a valuation allowance on our deferred tax assets.

Significant management judgment is required in determining our provision or benefit for income taxes, deferred tax assets and liabilities and any valuation allowance recorded against net deferred tax assets. Management has analyzed the positive and negative evidence and has determined that it is more likely than not that our deferred tax assets will be realized, and, therefore, no valuation allowances are needed.

Self-Insurance Reserves Reserves are recorded for the estimated amounts of guest and employee claims and expenses incurred each period that are not covered by insurance. Reserves are established for both identified claims and incurred but not reported ("IBNR") claims. Such amounts are accrued for when claim amounts become probable and estimable. Reserves for identified claims are based upon our own historical claims experience and third-party estimates of settlement costs. Reserves for IBNR claims are based upon our own claims data history, as well as industry averages. All reserves are periodically reviewed for changes in facts and circumstances and adjustments are made as necessary.

54-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Table of Contents Revenue Recognition We recognize revenue upon admission into a theme park or when products are delivered to customers. For season passes and other multiuse admissions, revenue is deferred and recognized based on the terms of the admission product and the estimated number of visits expected and is adjusted periodically.

We have entered into agreements with certain external theme park, zoo and other attraction operators, to jointly market and sell admission products. These joint products allow admission to both a Company park and an external park, zoo or other attraction. The agreements with the external parks specify the allocation of revenue to us from any jointly sold products. Deferred revenue is recorded based on the terms of the respective agreement and the related revenue is recognized over its related use.

Recently Issued Financial Accounting Standards In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2013-02, "Reporting Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income," which amends Accounting Standards Codification Topic ("ASC") 220, Comprehensive Income. The amended guidance requires entities to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component. Additionally, entities are required to present, either on the face of the financial statements or in the notes, significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by the respective line items of net income. The amended guidance does not change the current requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income. The amendments are effective prospectively for reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU No. 2013-02 did not have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

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