Thanks to a global talent pool, Royal Caribbean CEO Richard Fain told CNBC that his company did not suffer much from staffing challenges.

While other hospitality-related industries struggled to recruit during the pandemic, Fain had no trouble as jobs at cruise ships are attractive to many overseas workers, hence the ongoing operation of his company. “The people that provide service are what makes the company so successful. They are the ones that the guests love,” he says, explaining the value that these overseas workers are adding to his business.

Recruiting was no challenge for Fain, but staying afloat was. His company as well as other cruise ship operators accumulated debt throughout the period of the pandemic. Royal Caribbean has been reported to have $19.88 billion in long-term debt.

Despite such challenges, Fain is confident that said debt will reduce within two years of operation. He forecasts that bookings next year will be remarkably strong.