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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 

ý

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004

 

OR

 

o

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM              TO             

 

COMMISSION FILE NO. 001-31920

 


 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

 

20-0194477

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation)

 

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

3245 Richmond Terrace
Staten Island, New York 10303

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (718) 720-9306

 

Not Applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

 


 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  YES   ý   NO   o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  YES   o   NO   ý

 

At February 8, 2005, the number of the issuer’s outstanding common units was 4,165,000.

 

 



 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P.
FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTER ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements

 

 

Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2004 and June 30, 2004

 

 

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six-month periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003

 

 

Unaudited Consolidated Statement of Partners’ Capital for the six-month period ended December 31, 2004

 

 

Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six-month periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003

 

 

Notes to Unaudited Consolidated Financial Statements

 

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

 

 

 

PART II — OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings.

 

Item 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

 

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

 

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

 

Item 5.

Other Information.

 

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

 

References in this Form 10-Q to “K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P.,” the “Partnership,” “we,” “our,” “us” or like terms when used for periods prior to January 14, 2004 refer to the net assets of K-Sea Transportation LLC and its subsidiaries that were contributed to K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P. and its subsidiaries in connection with the initial public offering of common units representing limited partner interests in K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P.  When used for periods subsequent to that date, those terms refer to K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P.

 

i



 

PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.           Financial Statements.

 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P. (Notes 1 and 2)

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands)

 

 

 

December 31,
2004

 

June 30,
2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

57

 

$

379

 

Title XI escrow account

 

1,201

 

1,220

 

Accounts receivable, net

 

13,695

 

11,810

 

Deferred taxes

 

40

 

40

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

4,010

 

2,389

 

Total current assets

 

19,003

 

15,838

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vessels and equipment, net

 

235,421

 

193,646

 

Construction in progress

 

1,121

 

7,722

 

Title XI escrow account

 

1,570

 

1,570

 

Deferred financing costs, net

 

4,035

 

4,172

 

Other assets

 

4,626

 

5,196

 

Total assets

 

$

265,776

 

$

228,144

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS’ CAPITAL

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt and capital lease obligations

 

$

11,466

 

$

4,066

 

Accounts payable

 

8,439

 

6,811

 

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 

5,677

 

4,141

 

Total current liabilities

 

25,582

 

15,018

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title XI bonds

 

36,600

 

37,409

 

Term loans

 

40,006

 

32,942

 

Credit line borrowings

 

26,250

 

4,400

 

Capital lease obligations

 

3,250

 

 

Deferred taxes

 

2,936

 

2,677

 

Total liabilities

 

134,624

 

92,446

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Partners’ capital

 

131,152

 

135,698

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and partners’ capital

 

$

265,776

 

$

228,144

 

 

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

 

1



 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P. (Notes 1 and 2)

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per unit data)

 

 

 

For the Three Months Ended
December 31,

 

For the Six Months Ended
December 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2004

 

2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Voyage revenue

 

$

27,341

 

$

20,541

 

$

55,989

 

$

43,430

 

Bareboat charter and other revenue

 

477

 

530

 

882

 

1,072

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenues

 

27,818

 

21,071

 

56,871

 

44,502

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Voyage expenses

 

5,899

 

3,225

 

11,113

 

7,535

 

Vessel operating expenses

 

11,919

 

9,603

 

23,464

 

19,008

 

General and administrative expenses

 

2,117

 

1,798

 

4,546

 

3,787

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

4,951

 

4,226

 

10,320

 

8,280

 

Total operating expenses

 

24,886

 

18,852

 

49,443

 

38,610

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

2,932

 

2,219

 

7,428

 

5,892

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense, net

 

1,500

 

2,051

 

2,661

 

4,222

 

Other expense (income), net

 

(24

)

(73

)

(26

)

(106

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before provision for income taxes

 

1,456

 

241

 

4,793

 

1,776

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

87

 

36

 

287

 

266

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

1,369

 

$

205

 

$

4,506

 

$

1,510

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

General partner’s interest in net income

 

$

27

 

 

$

90

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Limited partners’ interest:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

1,342

 

$

205

 

$

4,416

 

$

1,510

 

Net income per unit (basic and diluted)

 

$

0.16

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.53

 

$

0.31

 

Weighted average units outstanding

- basic

 

8,330

 

4,830

 

8,330

 

4,830

 

 

- diluted

 

8,391

 

4,830

 

8,365

 

4,830

 

 

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

 

2



 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P. (Notes 1 and 2)

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PARTNERS’ CAPITAL

(in thousands)

 

 

 

Limited Partners

 

General Partner

 

TOTAL

 

 

 

Common

 

Subordinated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Units

 

$

 

Units

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at June 30, 2004

 

4,165

 

$

85,760

 

4,165

 

$

48,655

 

$

1,283

 

$

135,698

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

2,208

 

 

 

2,208

 

90

 

4,506

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash distributions

 

 

 

(4,436

)

 

 

(4,435

)

(181

)

(9,052

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2004

 

4,165

 

$

83,532

 

4,165

 

$

46,428

 

$

1,192

 

$

131,152

 

 

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

 

3



 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P. (Notes 1 and 2)

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

 

 

 

For the Six Months
Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

4,506

 

$

1,510

 

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

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

10,644

 

8,556

 

Payment of drydocking expenditures

 

(2,645

)

(3,448

)

Provision for doubtful accounts

 

94

 

56

 

Deferred income taxes

 

259

 

259

 

Accrued supplemental interest

 

 

360

 

Other

 

56

 

24

 

Changes in operating working capital:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

(1,979

)

(561

)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

(1,617

)

(249

)

Accounts payable

 

2,628

 

(802

)

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

 

1,536

 

989

 

Other assets

 

106

 

(149

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

13,588

 

6,545

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Vessel acquisitions

 

(20,755

)

 

Capital expenditures

 

(3,544

)

(3,227

)

Construction of tank vessels

 

(7,706

)

(10,847

)

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(32,005

)

(14,074

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase in credit line borrowings

 

21,850

 

9,618

 

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

 

9,101

 

7,300

 

Payments on term loans

 

(2,181

)

(8,259

)

Financing costs paid – equity offerings

 

 

(583

)

Financing costs paid – debt issuance

 

(186

)

(552

)

Decrease in book overdrafts

 

(1,437

)

(54

)

Collection of members’ notes receivable

 

 

49

 

Distributions to partners

 

(9,052

)

 

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

18,095

 

7,519

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

Net decrease

 

(322

)

(10

)

Balance at beginning of the period

 

379

 

26

 

Balance at end of the period

 

$

57

 

$

16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net of amounts capitalized

 

$

2,331

 

$

3,685

 

Income taxes

 

$

 

$

7

 

 

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

 

4



 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P.

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

1.                                      Basis of Presentation

 

On July 8, 2003, K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P. (the “Partnership”) was formed to own and operate the refined petroleum product marine transportation, distribution and logistics business conducted by K-Sea Transportation LLC (“K-Sea LLC”) and its subsidiaries K-Sea Acquisition Corp., EW Holding Corp. and K-Sea Transportation Corp. (collectively, the “Predecessor”).  K-Sea LLC and its predecessor companies have since 1959 engaged in the transportation of refined petroleum products in the northeastern United States and, more recently, the Gulf of Mexico.  On January 14, 2004, the Predecessor contributed assets and liabilities constituting its business to the Partnership in connection with the initial public offering of common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership (the “common units”).  In exchange for these assets and liabilities, the Predecessor received 665,000 common units (all of which were subsequently redeemed) and 4,165,000 subordinated units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership.  The Partnership’s general partner received a 2% general partner interest and certain incentive distribution rights in the Partnership.  Incentive distribution rights represent the right to receive an increasing percentage of cash distributions after the minimum quarterly distribution, any cumulative arrearages on common units, and certain target distribution levels, have been achieved.  The Partnership is required to distribute all of its available cash from operating surplus, as defined in the partnership agreement.  The target distribution levels entitle the general partner to receive 15% of quarterly cash distributions in excess of $0.55 per unit until all unitholders have received $0.625 per unit, 25% of quarterly cash distributions in excess of $0.625 per unit until all unitholders have received $0.75 per unit, and 50% of quarterly cash distributions in excess of $0.75 per unit.

 

The transfer to the Partnership of the assets and liabilities constituting the business of the Predecessor represented a reorganization of entities under common control and was recorded at historical cost.

 

The unaudited interim consolidated financial statements included in this report as of December 31, 2004, and for the three- and six-month periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, are for the Predecessor for all periods prior to January 14, 2004.  In the opinion of management, these financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring entries) necessary for a fair statement of the financial results for such interim periods.  The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be expected for a full year.  These financial statements should be read together with the consolidated financial statements, and notes thereto, included in the Partnership’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended June 30, 2004 (the “Form 10-K”).  The June 30, 2004 financial information included in this report has been derived from audited consolidated financial statements included in the Form 10-K.

 

All dollar amounts appearing in these consolidated financial statements, except for per unit amounts, are in thousands.

 

2.                                      Initial Public Offering

 

On January 14, 2004, the Partnership completed its initial public offering of 3,625,000 common units at a price of $23.50 per unit.  On January 21, 2004, the Partnership sold an additional 540,000 common units to the underwriters in connection with the exercise of their over-allotment option.  Total gross proceeds from these sales were $97,877, before offering costs and underwriting fees of $11,776.  Concurrent with these sales, the Partnership redeemed the 665,000 common units held by K-Sea LLC (see Note 1) at a cost of $14,592.  After the initial public offering and related redemption, there were 4,165,000 common units and 4,165,000 subordinated units outstanding.  As described in the partnership agreement, during the subordination period the subordinated units are not entitled to receive any distributions until the common units have received their minimum quarterly distribution plus any arrearages from prior quarters. The subordination period will end once the Partnership meets certain financial tests described in the partnership agreement, but it generally cannot end before December 31, 2008. When the subordination period ends, all subordinated units will convert into common units on a one-for-one basis, and the common units will no longer be entitled to arrearages.  If the Partnership meets certain financial tests described in the partnership agreement, 25% of the subordinated units can convert into common units on or after December 31, 2006, and an additional 25% can convert into common units on or after December 31, 2007.

 

5



 

The proceeds retained by the Partnership relating to the sale of the common units totaled $83,285.  These proceeds were used to repay $73,941 in outstanding term and revolving credit debt, including prepayment fees and make-whole amounts, and to pay $5,939 in underwriting fees and $3,405 in professional fees and other offering expenses.

 

3.                                      Acquisition of Mid-Atlantic Fleet

 

On December 8, 2004, the Partnership acquired ten tank barges and seven tugboats from Bay Gulf Trading Company, Ltd. of Norfolk, Virginia and its affiliates.  The addition of this capacity represented a 10.6% increase in the aggregate barrel-carrying capacity of the Partnership’s fleet.  The purchase price of $21,000 (excluding acquisition related costs) included a water treatment facility in Norfolk.  The transaction was financed using the Partnership’s available credit lines and the purchase price allocated to the individual assets acquired based on independent appraisals, which are included in vessels and equipment, net, in the consolidated balance sheet.  The Partnership expects the vessels to be fully integrated into its operations during the quarter ending March 31, 2005, after completion of certain required modifications.  This acquisition did not have a material impact on the Partnership’s results of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2004.

 

4.                                      Significant Accounting Policies

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents.  Cash equivalents include time deposits with maturities of three months or less when purchased and cash on deposit at a financial institution.

 

Vessels and Equipment.  Vessels and equipment are recorded at cost, including capitalized interest where appropriate, and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the individual assets as follows: tank vessels - five to twenty-five years; tugboats – twenty years; and pier and office equipment – five years.  For single-hull tank vessels, such useful lives are limited to the remaining period of operation prior to mandatory retirement as required by the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (“OPA 90”).  OPA 90 requires that 21 of the Partnership’s single-hull tank vessels, representing 29% of total barrel-carrying capacity, be retired or retrofitted by December 31, 2014.  This percentage reflects five single-hull tank barges acquired in December 2004, and also the phase-out of two single-hull tank barges on December 31, 2004.

 

Included in vessels and equipment are drydocking expenditures that are capitalized and amortized over three years.  Drydocking of vessels is required both by the United States Coast Guard and by the applicable classification society, which in the Partnership’s case is the American Bureau of Shipping.  Such drydocking activities include, but are not limited to, the inspection, refurbishment, and replacement of steel, engine components, tailshafts, mooring equipment and other parts of the vessel.

 

Major renewals and betterments of assets are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful lives of the assets.  Maintenance and repairs that do not improve or extend the useful lives of the assets are expensed.

 

The Partnership recognizes impairment on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairment are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than the assets’ carrying amounts.  An impairment loss would be recognized to the extent the carrying value exceeds fair value by appraisal.

 

When property items are retired, sold or otherwise disposed of, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts with any gain or loss on disposition included in income.  Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of their carrying amounts or fair values, less the estimated costs of disposal.

 

Fuel Supplies.  Fuel used to operate the Partnership’s vessels, and on hand at the end of the period, is recorded at cost. Such amounts totaled $1,684 and $1,170 as of December 31 and June 30, 2004, respectively, and are included in prepaid expenses and other current assets in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

Deferred Financing Costs.  Direct costs associated with obtaining long-term debt financing are deferred and amortized over the terms of the related financings.  Deferred financing costs are stated net of accumulated amortization which, at December 31 and June 30, 2004, amounted to $998 and $675, respectively.

 

6



 

Revenue Recognition.  The Partnership earns revenue under contracts of affreightment, voyage charters, time charters and bareboat charters.  For contracts of affreightment and voyage charters, revenue is recognized based upon the relative transit time in each period, with expenses recognized as incurred.  Although contracts of affreightment and certain contracts for voyage charters may be effective for periods in excess of one year, revenue is recognized on the basis of individual voyages, which are generally less than ten days in duration.  For time charters and bareboat charters, revenue is recognized ratably over the contract period, with expenses recognized as incurred.  Estimated losses on contracts of affreightment and charters are accrued when such losses become evident.

 

Use of Estimates.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  The most significant estimates relate to depreciation of the vessels, liabilities incurred from workers’ compensation, commercial and other claims, the allowance for doubtful accounts and deferred income taxes.  Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

Concentrations of Credit Risk.  Financial instruments that potentially subject the Partnership to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents and trade accounts receivable.  The Partnership maintains its cash and cash equivalents on deposit at a financial institution in amounts that, at times, may exceed insurable limits.

 

With respect to accounts receivable, the Partnership extends credit based upon an evaluation of a customer’s financial condition and generally does not require collateral.  The Partnership maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for potential losses totaling $659 and $571 at December 31 and June 30, 2004, respectively, and does not believe it is exposed to concentrations of credit risk that are likely to have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

Income Taxes.  The provisions for income taxes for the three- and six-month periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003 are based upon the estimated annual effective tax rates expected to be applicable to the Partnership and Predecessor, respectively, for the applicable periods.  The Partnership’s effective tax rate comprises the New York City Unincorporated Business Tax on its operating partnership, plus federal, state and local corporate income taxes on the taxable income of the operating partnership’s corporate subsidiary.  The Partnership’s effective tax rate for the six-month period ended December 31, 2004 was lower than the Predecessor’s for the comparable prior year period because a smaller portion of the Partnership’s pretax income related to the operating partnership’s corporate subsidiary.

 

Prior to the Partnership’s initial public offering, K-Sea LLC was a limited liability company and treated as a partnership for income tax purposes.  Accordingly, it was not responsible for federal, state and local income taxes, as its profits and losses were passed directly to its members for inclusion in their income tax returns.  K-Sea LLC was subject to the New York City Unincorporated Business Tax, and its subsidiaries were C Corporations that were subject to federal, state and local income taxes.

 

Deferred taxes represent the tax effects of differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of the Partnership’s and Predecessor’s assets and liabilities, as applicable, at enacted tax rates in effect for the years in which the differences are expected to reverse.  The recoverability of deferred tax assets is evaluated and a valuation allowance established when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized.

 

Unit Based Compensation.  Awards of unit options, phantom units and distribution equivalent rights under the Partnership’s Long-Term Incentive Plan are accounted for as compensation cost.  Compensation cost for unit options and phantom units is recognized using the intrinsic value method based on the market value of the common units over the vesting period, on a straight-line basis.  On October 1, 2004, 52,000 phantom units were awarded to employees and one non-employee director.  As of December 31, 2004, 61,000 phantom units were outstanding, and the related non-cash compensation expense for the six months ended December 31, 2004 totaled $153.

 

Net Income per Unit.  Basic net income per unit is determined by dividing net income, after deducting the amount of net income allocated to the general partner interest from its issuance date on January 14, 2004, by the weighted average number of units outstanding during the period.  Diluted net income per unit is calculated in the same manner as basic net income per unit, except that the weighted average number of outstanding units is increased to include the dilutive effect of outstanding unit options or phantom units.  For periods prior to January 14, 2004,

 

7



 

such units are equal to the common and subordinated units received by the Predecessor in exchange for the net assets contributed to the Partnership, or 4,830,000 units.

 

5.                                      Vessels and Equipment and Construction in Progress

 

 Vessels and equipment and construction in progress comprised the following:

 

 

 

December 31,
2004

 

June 30,
2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Vessels

 

$

302,234

 

$

251,295

 

Pier and office equipment

 

2,938

 

2,189

 

 

 

305,172

 

253,484

 

Less accumulated depreciation and amortization

 

(69,751

)

(59,838

)

Vessels and equipment, net

 

$

235,421

 

$

193,646

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Construction in progress

 

$

1,121

 

$

7,722

 

 

Depreciation and amortization of vessels and equipment was $4,747 and $9,913, respectively, for the three- and six-months ended December 31, 2004 and $4,226 and $8,232, respectively, for the three- and six-months ended December 31, 2003.  Such depreciation and amortization includes amortization of drydocking expenditures of $1,541 and $3,624 for the three- and six-months ended December 31, 2004 and $1,819 and $3,504, respectively, for the three- and six-months ended December 31, 2003.  Two single-hull tank vessels phased-out, as required by OPA 90, on December 31, 2004.

 

As described in note 3, the Partnership acquired ten tank barges and seven tugboats in December 2004.  The Partnership also signed an agreement with a shipyard in September 2004 to construct a new 100,000-barrel tank barge which is expected to be delivered during the fall of 2005. The contract cost, after addition of certain special equipment and integration with an existing tugboat, is expected to be in the range of $13,000 to $14,000.  This newbuilding will be financed using the Partnership’s credit lines and cash from operations.

 

Construction in progress at December 31, 2004 includes expenditures on the new 100,000-barrel tank barge and certain other projects.  Additionally, assets under capital lease totaling $10,000 are included in vessels.

 

6.                                      Financing

 

The Partnership’s outstanding debt balances were as follows:

 

 

December 31,
2004

 

June 30,
2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Title XI bonds, issued in four series and due in 2027-2029, and bearing interest at fixed rates averaging 6.21%

 

$

38,218

 

$

39,027

 

Term loans

 

43,104

 

35,390

 

Capital lease obligations

 

10,000

 

 

Credit line borrowings

 

26,250

 

4,400

 

 

 

117,572

 

78,817

 

Less current portion

 

(11,466

)

(4,066

)

 

 

$

106,106

 

$

74,751

 

 

In January 2004, the Partnership entered into a new, three-year $47,000 credit agreement, which comprises a $10,000 senior secured revolving working capital facility, a $30,000 senior secured revolving acquisition facility, and a $7,000 senior secured standby letter of credit facility.  Borrowings under the credit facilities bear interest, at

 

8



 

the option of the Partnership, at a rate equal to (a) the greater of the prime rate and the federal funds rate plus 0.5%, or (b) 30-day LIBOR plus 2.5%.  The Partnership also incurs commitment fees, payable quarterly, of 0.25% of the unused amount of the working capital and acquisition facilities.  The credit agreement is collateralized by vessels having an orderly liquidation value of at least $71,000.  As of December 31, 2004, the Partnership had drawn down $26,250 of the acquisition facility to finance the acquisition of the vessels and water treatment facility described in note 3, the construction of the new 100,000-barrel tank barge described in note 4, and certain other projects.  Borrowings under the acquisition facility are due in 18 months, or upon the earlier expiration of the credit agreement, at which time they must either be repaid or converted to a five-year term loan at the option of the Partnership.

 

In June 2002, the Partnership issued four series of bonds to provide long-term financing for the construction of four new double-hull tank barges.  The bonds are guaranteed by the Maritime Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation (“MARAD”) pursuant to Title XI of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 (the “Title XI bonds”), which guarantee is collateralized by, among other things, the newbuild vessels.  The related agreements require the Partnership to make available to MARAD additional collateral in the form of (a) a total of $8,000 in additional funds in the form of escrowed cash (a minimum of $1,519) and standby letters of credit, and (b) additional vessels having an orderly liquidation value of at least $10,000.  As of December 31, 2004, the Partnership had escrowed with MARAD $1,519 in cash and $6,485 in standby letters of credit, and has pledged the additional vessels.  In addition, the Partnership is obligated each month to place in escrow with MARAD one-sixth of the next semi-annual debt service payment due for each series of the Title XI bonds, which deposits are used to make such semi-annual payments.

 

In connection with the acquisition of an integrated tug-barge unit in January 2004, the Partnership entered into a seven-year, $25,048 term loan, at an interest rate of LIBOR plus 2.95%.  The loan is collateralized by the integrated tug-barge unit.  In May 2004, the Partnership entered into an agreement with a financial institution for $20,000 of loans to provide term financing for the DBL 105 and DBL 155 upon completion of their respective rebuilding and retrofitting projects.  These loans bear interest at LIBOR plus 2.40% and are also due in 2011.  Upon delivery of the DBL 105 in May 2004, the Partnership borrowed $10,899 under this agreement, which is collateralized by the tank vessel and a tugboat.  In September 2004, the Partnership borrowed the remaining $9,101 upon redelivery of the DBL 155, which loan is collateralized by the vessel.

 

The agreements governing the $47,000 credit facility, the Title XI borrowings and the term loans contain restrictive covenants that, among others, (a) prohibit distributions under defined events of default, (b) restrict investments and sales of assets, and (c) require the Partnership to adhere to certain financial covenants, including defined ratios of fixed charge coverage and funded debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as defined), and a minimum balance of partners’ capital.

 

7.                                      Contingencies

 

The Partnership is the subject of various claims and lawsuits in the ordinary course of business for monetary relief arising principally from personal injuries, collisions and other casualties.  Although the outcome of any individual claim or action cannot be predicted with certainty, the Partnership believes that any adverse outcome, individually or in the aggregate, would be substantially mitigated by applicable insurance or indemnification from previous owners of the Partnership’s assets, and would not have a material adverse effect on the Partnership’s financial position, results of operations or cash flows.  The Partnership is subject to deductibles with respect to its insurance coverage that range from $25 to $100 per incident and provides on a current basis for estimated payments there under.

 

EW Transportation Corp., a predecessor to the Partnership, has come under audit with respect to the New York State Petroleum Business Tax (“PBT”) which is a tax on vessel fuel consumed while operating in New York State territorial waters.  Because the boundaries of these waters have not been defined, EW Transportation Corp. has not been able to reasonably estimate the tax.  This matter is expected to be resolved as a result of the audit, which will establish a basis for future payment of the tax by the Partnership.  In accordance with the agreements entered into in connection with the initial public offering, any liability resulting from the PBT prior to January 14, 2004 (the date of the initial public offering) is a retained liability of the Predecessor.  Any liability for periods subsequent to January 14, 2004 will be recorded by the Partnership when such amounts can be reasonably estimated.

 

9



 

8.                                      New Accounting Pronouncements

 

On December 16, 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Statement No. 123(R),  Share-Based Payment (“FAS 123(R)”).  FAS 123(R) revises FASB Statement No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (“FAS 123”) and requires companies to expense the fair value of employee stock options and other forms of stock-based compensation.  In addition to revising FAS 123, FAS 123(R) supersedes Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and amends FASB Statement No. 95, Statement of Cash Flows.  The Partnership is required to adopt this new standard on July 1, 2005 and is in the process of determining which method of adoption it will elect as well as the potential impact the adoption will have on its consolidated financial statements.

 

Item 2.           Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

 

General

 

We are a leading provider of refined petroleum product marine transportation, distribution and logistics services in the northeastern United States and Gulf of Mexico.    Our fleet of 42 tank barges, 2 tankers and 26 tugboats serves a wide range of customers, including major oil companies, oil traders and refiners. With 2.5 million barrels of capacity at December 31, 2004, we believe we own and operate the third-largest ocean-going tank barge fleet in the United States as measured by barrel-carrying capacity.  We expect that the ten tank barges and seven tugboats acquired in December 2004 will be fully integrated into our operations during the quarter ending March 31, 2005, after completion of certain required modifications.

 

Demand for our services is driven primarily by demand for refined petroleum products in the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico regions of the United States.  We generate revenue by charging customers for the transportation and distribution of their products utilizing our tank vessels and tugboats. These services are generally provided under the following four basic types of contractual relationships:

 

                  time charters, which are contracts to charter a vessel for a fixed period of time, generally one year or more, at a set daily rate;

 

                  contracts of affreightment, which are contracts to provide transportation services for products over a specific trade route, generally for one or more years, at a negotiated per barrel rate;

 

                  voyage charters, which are charters for shorter intervals, usually a single round-trip, that are made on either a current market rate or advance contractual basis; and

 

                  bareboat charters, which are longer-term agreements that allow a customer to operate one of our vessels and utilize its own operating staff without taking ownership of the vessel.

 

In addition, a variation of a voyage charter is known as a “consecutive voyage charter.” Under this arrangement, voyage charters are continuously performed for a specified period of time.

 

The table below illustrates the primary distinctions among these types of contracts.

 

 

 

Time Charter

 

Contract of
Affreightment

 

Voyage
Charter(1)

 

Bareboat Charter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Typical contract length

 

One year or more

 

One year or more

 

Single voyage

 

Two years or more

 

Rate basis

 

Daily

 

Per barrel

 

Varies

 

Daily

 

Voyage expenses (2)

 

Customer pays

 

We pay

 

We pay

 

Customer pays

 

Vessel operating expenses (2)

 

We pay

 

We pay

 

We pay

 

Customer pays

 

Idle time

 

Customer pays as long as vessel is available for operations

 

Customer does not pay

 

Customer does not pay

 

Customer pays

 

 

10



 


(1)                                  Under a consecutive voyage charter, the customer pays for idle time.

 

(2)                                  See “Definitions” below.

 

For contracts of affreightment and voyage charters, revenue is recognized based upon the relative transit time in each period, with expenses recognized as incurred. Although contracts of affreightment and certain contracts for voyage charters may be effective for a period in excess of one year, revenue is recognized over the transit time of individual voyages, which are generally less than ten days in duration. For time charters and bareboat charters, revenue is recognized ratably over the contract period, with expenses recognized as incurred.

 

One of the principal distinctions among these types of contracts is whether the vessel operator or the customer pays for voyage expenses, which include fuel, port charges, pilot fees, tank cleaning costs and canal tolls. Some voyage expenses are fixed, and the remainder can be estimated. If we, as the vessel operator, pay the voyage expenses, we typically pass these expenses on to our customers by charging higher rates under the contract or re-billing such expenses to them. As a result, although voyage revenue from different types of contracts may vary, the net revenue that remains after subtracting voyage expenses, which we call net voyage revenue, is comparable across the different types of contracts. Therefore, we principally use net voyage revenue, rather than voyage revenue, when comparing performance between different periods. Since net voyage revenue is a non-GAAP measurement, it is reconciled to the nearest GAAP measurement, voyage revenue, under “Results of Operations” below.

 

Recent Events

 

On December 8, 2004, we acquired ten tank barges and seven tugboats from Bay Gulf Trading Company, Ltd. of Norfolk, Virginia and its affiliates.  The addition of this capacity represented a 10.6% increase in our aggregate barrel-carrying capacity.  The purchase price of $21 million (excluding acquisition related costs), included a water treatment facility.The transaction was financed using our available credit lines and the purchase price allocated to the individual assets acquired based on independent appraisals,which are included in vessels and equipment, net, in our consolidated balance sheets.  We expect that these vessels will be fully integrated into our operations during the quarter ending March 31, 2005, after completion of certain required modifications.  This acquisition did not have a material impact on our results of operations for the three months ended December 31, 2004.

 

Definitions

 

In order to understand our discussion of our results of operations, it is important to understand the meaning of the following terms used in our analysis and the factors that influence our results of operations:

 

                  Voyage revenue. Voyage revenue includes revenue from time charters, contracts of affreightment and voyage charters where we, as vessel operator, pay the vessel operating expenses. Voyage revenue is impacted by changes in charter and utilization rates and by the mix of business among the types of contracts described in the preceding sentence.

 

                  Voyage expenses. Voyage expenses include items such as fuel, port charges, pilot fees, tank cleaning costs and canal tolls, which are unique to a particular voyage. Depending on the form of contract and customer preference, voyage expenses may be paid directly by customers or by us. If we pay voyage expenses, they are included in our results of operations when they are incurred. Typically when we pay voyage expenses, we add them to our freight rates at an approximate cost.

 

                  Net voyage revenue. Net voyage revenue is equal to voyage revenue less voyage expenses. As explained above, the amount of voyage expenses we incur for a particular contract depends upon the form of the contract. Therefore, in comparing revenues between reporting periods, we use net voyage revenue to improve the comparability of reported revenues that are generated by the different forms of contracts.  Because net voyage revenue is a non-GAAP measurement, it is reconciled to the nearest GAAP measurement, voyage revenue, under “Results of Operations” below.

 

                  Bareboat charter and other revenue. Bareboat charter and other revenue include revenue from bareboat charters and from towing and other miscellaneous services.

 

11



 

                  Vessel operating expenses. The most significant direct vessel operating expenses are wages paid to vessel crews, routine maintenance and repairs and marine insurance.  We may also incur outside towing expenses during periods of peak demand and in order to maintain our operating capacity while our tugs are drydocked or otherwise out of service for scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.

 

                  Depreciation and amortization. We incur fixed charges related to the depreciation of the historical cost of our fleet and the amortization of expenditures for drydockings. The aggregate number of drydockings undertaken in a given period, the size of the vessels and the nature of the work performed determine the level of drydocking expenditures. We capitalize expenditures incurred for drydocking and amortize these expenditures over 36 months.

 

                  General and administrative expenses. General and administrative expenses consist of employment costs of shoreside staff and cost of facilities, as well as legal, audit and other administrative costs.

 

                  Total tank vessel days.  Total tank vessel days are equal to the number of calendar days in the period multiplied by the total number of tank vessels operating or in drydock during that period.

 

                  Scheduled drydocking days. Scheduled drydocking days are days designated for the inspection and survey of tank vessels, and resulting maintenance work, as required by the U.S. Coast Guard and the American Bureau of Shipping to maintain the vessels’ qualification to work in the U.S. coastwise trade. Generally, drydockings are required twice every five years and last between 30 and 60 days, based upon the size of the vessel and the type of work required.

 

                  Net utilization. Net utilization is a primary measure of operating performance in our business. Net utilization is a percentage equal to the total number of days worked by a tank vessel or group of tank vessels during a defined period, divided by total tank vessel days for that tank vessel or group of tank vessels. Net utilization is adversely impacted by scheduled drydocking, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance and idle time not paid for by the customer.

 

                  Average daily rate. Average daily rate, another key measure of our operating performance, is equal to the net voyage revenue earned by a tank vessel or group of tank vessels during a defined period, divided by the total number of days actually worked by that tank vessel or group of tank vessels during that period. Fluctuations in average daily rates result not only from changes in charter rates charged to our customers, but also from changes in vessel efficiency, which could result from internal factors, such as newer and more efficient tank vessels, and from external factors such as weather or other delays.

 

                  Coastwise and local trades. Our business is segregated into coastwise trade and local trade. Our coastwise trade generally comprises voyages of between 200 and 1,000 miles by vessels with greater than 40,000 barrels of barrel-carrying capacity. These voyages originate from the mid Atlantic states to points as far north as Canada and as far south as Cape Hatteras and from points within the Gulf Coast region to other points within that region or to the Northeast. We also have one tank barge that has transported agricultural products to international destinations. Our local trade generally comprises voyages by smaller vessels of less than 200 miles. The term U.S. coastwise trade, as used generally for Jones Act purposes, would include our coastwise and local trades.

 

12



 

Results Of Operations

 

The following table summarizes our results of operations (dollars in thousands, except average daily rates):

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
December 31,

 

Six Months Ended
December 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2004

 

2003

 

Voyage revenue

 

$

27,341

 

$

20,541

 

$

55,989

 

$

43,430

 

Voyage expenses

 

5,899

 

3,225

 

11,113

 

7,535

 

Net voyage revenue

 

21,442

 

17,316

 

44,876

 

35,895

 

Bareboat charter and other revenue

 

477

 

530

 

882

 

1,072

 

Vessel operating expenses

 

11,919

 

9,603

 

23,464

 

19,008

 

% of net voyage revenue

 

55.6

%

55.5

%

52.3

%

53.0

%

General and administrative expenses

 

2,117

 

1,798

 

4,546

 

3,787

 

% of net voyage revenue

 

9.9

%

10.4

%

10.1

%

10.6

%

Depreciation and amortization

 

4,951

 

4,226

 

10,320

 

8,280

 

Operating income

 

2,932

 

2,219

 

7,428

 

5,892

 

% of net voyage revenue

 

13.7

%

12.8

%

16.6

%

16.4

%

Interest expense, net

 

1,500

 

2,051

 

2,661

 

4,222

 

Other expense (income), net

 

(24

)

(73

)

(26

)

(106

)

Income before provision for income taxes

 

1,456

 

241

 

4,793

 

1,776

 

Provision for income taxes

 

87

 

36

 

287

 

266

 

Net income

 

$

1,369

 

$

205

 

$

4,506

 

$

1,510

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net voyage revenue by trade

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Coastwise

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total tank vessel days

 

1,726

 

1,444

 

3,422

 

2,900

 

Days worked

 

1,470

 

1,233

 

3,033

 

2,557

 

Scheduled drydocking days

 

103

 

90

 

103

 

179

 

Net utilization

 

85

%

85

%

89

%

88

%

Average daily rate

 

$

10,612

 

$

9,438

 

$

11,123

 

$

9,833

 

Total coastwise net voyage revenue

 

$

15,599

 

$

11,637

 

$

33,735

 

$

25,143

 

Local

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total tank vessel days

 

1,318

 

1,288

 

2,606

 

2,484

 

Days worked

 

1,064

 

1,090

 

2,013

 

2,106

 

Scheduled drydocking days

 

97

 

74

 

154

 

125

 

Net utilization

 

81

%

85

%

77

%

85

%

Average daily rate

 

$

5,491

 

$

5,210

 

$

5,535

 

$

5,105

 

Total local net voyage revenue

 

$

5,843

 

$

5,679

 

$

11,141

 

$

10,752

 

Tank vessel fleet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total tank vessel days

 

3,044

 

2,732

 

6,028

 

5,384

 

Days worked

 

2,534

 

2,323

 

5,046

 

4,663

 

Scheduled drydocking days

 

200

 

164

 

257

 

304

 

Net utilization

 

83

%

85

%

84

%

87

%

Average daily rate

 

$

8,462

 

$

7,454

 

$

8,893

 

$

7,698

 

Total fleet net voyage revenue

 

$

21,442

 

$

17,316

 

$

44,876

 

$

35,895

 

 

13



 

Three Months Ended December 31, 2004 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2003

 

Net Voyage Revenue

 

Voyage revenue was $27.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $6.8 million, or 33%, as compared to voyage revenue of $20.5 million for the three months ended December 31, 2003.  Voyage expenses were $5.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $2.7 million (83%) compared to voyage expenses of $3.2 million incurred for the three months ended December 31, 2003.

 

Net voyage revenue was $21.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, which exceeded net voyage revenue of $17.3 million for the three months ended December 31, 2003 by $4.1 million, or 24%.  In our coastwise trade, net voyage revenue was $15.6 million, an increase of $4.0 million, or 34%, as compared to $11.6 million in the three months ended December 31, 2003.  Net utilization in our coastwise trade was 85% for the three-month periods ended December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003.  Increases in coastwise net voyage revenue were positively impacted by an increase in days worked by our vessels, as follows: (1) a full quarter’s operation of the DBL 102, construction of which was completed and the vessel placed in service in January 2004, (2) a full quarter’s operation of the DBL 140, which was purchased in January 2004,  (3) a full quarter’s operation of the DBL 105, which completed its modification for petroleum transportation and was placed in service in May 2004, and (4) the return of the KTC 80 from bareboat charter in November 2003.  These increases were partially offset by the sale of the KTC 135 in April 2004, in anticipation of its OPA 90 phase-out, almost two months of drydocking of one tug/barge unit in anticipation of its entering into a new three-year time charter which commenced in January 2005, a longer than anticipated break-in period for a recently delivered barge, and certain seasonal market factors normally encountered in our second quarter, such as changes in inventory levels for clean oil products (e.g., gasoline and home heating oil) relating to the onset of winter.  Coastwise net voyage revenue also benefited from a 12% increase in average daily rates, to $10,612 for the three months ended December 31, 2004 from $9,438 for the three months ended December 31, 2003.  Average daily rates were positively impacted by the continuing strong demand for petroleum products, increasing oil prices, and the addition of the several larger vessels described above, which generate higher average daily rates.

 

Net voyage revenue in our local trade for the three months ended December 31, 2004 increased by $0.2 million, or 3%, to $5.8 million from $5.6 million.  Net utilization in our local trade, which was 81% for the three months ended December 31, 2004 compared to 85% for the three months ended December 31, 2003, was adversely impacted by higher unscheduled repair days for one of our small tankers.  Average daily rates in our local trade, however, improved 5% to $5,491 for the three months ended December 31, 2004 from $5,210 for the three months ended December 31, 2003, reflecting positive impacts of strong customer demand.

 

Bareboat Charter and Other Revenue

 

Bareboat charter and other revenue was substantially unchanged at $0.5 million for the three month periods ended December 31, 2004 and 2003.  The fiscal 2004 period included $0.1 million of revenue generated from chartering out the KTC 80, which was redelivered to us in November 2003.

 

Vessel Operating Expenses

 

Vessel operating expenses were $11.9 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $2.3 million, or 24%, as compared to $9.6 million for the three months ended December 31, 2003.  Vessel operating expenses as a percentage of net voyage revenue increased to 55.6% for the three months ended December 31, 2004 from 55.5% for the second quarter of fiscal 2004.  Vessel labor and related costs increased as a result of contractual labor rate increases and a higher average number of employees due to the operation of the additional barges described under “Net voyage revenue” above, and an additional tugboat purchased in January 2004.  Outside towing expense increased by $1.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004 due to the need for additional tugboats to satisfy increased demand for our tank vessels.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization was $5.0 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $0.8 million compared to $4.2 million for the three months ended December 31, 2003.  The increase resulted from additional depreciation on our newbuild and purchased vessels as described above.

 

14



 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses were $2.1 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $0.3 million, or 18%, as compared to general and administrative expenses of $1.8 million for the three months ended December 31, 2003.  As a percentage of net voyage revenue, general and administrative expenses decreased to 9.9% for the three months ended December 31, 2004 from 10.4% for the three months ended December 31, 2003.   The fiscal 2005 second quarter included $0.3 million in additional expenses relating to our new reporting and other requirements as a publicly traded partnership that we did not incur in the comparative prior year period.

 

Interest Expense, Net

 

Net interest expense was $1.5 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2005, or $0.6 million lower than the three months ended December 31, 2003.  The decrease resulted from the significant reduction of higher cost debt in connection with our initial public offering in January 2004.

 

Provision For Income Taxes

 

Our interim provisions for income taxes are based on our estimated annual effective tax rate.  For the three months ended December 31, 2004, this rate was 6.0% as compared to a rate of 15.0% for the three months ended December 31, 2003, which related to the Predecessor.  Our effective tax rate comprises the New York City Unincorporated Business Tax on our operating partnership, plus federal, state and local corporate income taxes on the taxable income of our operating partnership’s corporate subsidiary.  Our effective tax rate for the quarter ended December 31, 2004 was lower than the Predecessor’s for the comparable prior year period because a smaller portion of our pretax income was contributed by our operating partnership’s corporate subsidiaries.

 

Net Income

 

Net income was $1.4 million for the three months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $1.2 million compared to net income of $0.2 million for the three months December 31, 2003.   The increase resulted primarily from the $0.7 million increase in operating income and the $0.6 million decrease in interest expense described above.

 

Six Months Ended December 31, 2004 Compared to Six Months Ended December 31, 2003

 

Net Voyage Revenue

 

Voyage revenue was $56.0 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $12.6 million, or 29%, as compared to voyage revenue of $43.4 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  Voyage expenses were $11.1 million for the six-months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $3.6 million (47%) compared to voyage expenses of $7.5 million incurred for the six-months ended December 31, 2003.

 

Net voyage revenue was $44.9 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, which exceeded net voyage revenue of $35.9 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003 by $9.0 million, or 25%.  In our coastwise trade, net voyage revenue was $33.7 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $8.6 million, or 34%, as compared to $25.1 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.   Net utilization in our coastwise trade was 89% for the six-months ended December 31, 2004 compared to 88% for the six-months ended December 31, 2003.   Increases in coastwise net voyage revenue were positively impacted by an increase in days worked by our vessels, as follows: (1) a full quarter’s operation of the DBL 102, construction of which was completed and the vessel placed in service in January 2004, (2) a full quarter’s operation of the DBL 140, which was purchased in January 2004,  (3) a full quarter’s operation of the DBL 105, which completed its modification for petroleum transportation and was placed in service in May 2004, and (4) the return of the KTC 80 from bareboat charter in November 2003.  These increases were partially offset by the sale of the KTC 135 in April 2004 in anticipation of its OPA 90 phase-out, almost two months of drydocking of one integrated tug/barge unit in anticipation of its entering into a new three-year time charter that commenced in January 2005, and a longer than anticipated break-in period for a recently delivered barge.  Coastwise net voyage revenue also benefited from a 13% increase in average daily rates to $11,123 for the six months ended December 31, 2004 from $9,833 for the six

 

15



 

months ended December 31, 2003.  Average daily rates were positively impacted by the continuing strong demand for petroleum products, increasing oil prices, and the addition of the several larger vessels described above, which generate higher average daily rates.

 

Net voyage revenue in our local trade for the six months ended December 31, 2004 increased by $0.4 million, or 4%.  Net utilization in our local trade was 77% for the six-months ended December 31, 2004 compared to 85% for the six-months ended December 31, 2003, adversely impacted by higher unscheduled repair days for one of our small tankers.  Average daily rates in our local trade, however, improved 8% to $5,535 for the six months ended December 31, 2004 from $5,105 for the six-months ended December 31, 2003, positively impacted by additional short-term work for a customer in the Northeast and strong overall customer demand.

 

Bareboat Charter and Other Revenue

 

Bareboat charter and other revenue was $0.9 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, compared to $1.1 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  The fiscal 2004 period included $0.3 million of revenue generated from chartering out the KTC 80, which was redelivered to us in November 2003.

 

Vessel Operating Expenses

 

Vessel operating expenses were $23.5 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $4.5 million, or 23%, as compared to $19.0 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  Vessel operating expenses as a percentage of net voyage revenue decreased to 52.3% for the six months ended December 31, 2004 from 53.0% for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  Vessel labor and related costs increased as a result of contractual labor rate increases and a higher average number of employees due to the operation of the additional barges described under “—Net voyage revenue” above, and an additional tugboat purchased in January 2004.  Outside towing expense increased by $2.1 million due to the need for additional tugboats to satisfy increased demand for our tank vessels, and to replace certain tugboats during re-powering projects.

 

Depreciation and Amortization

 

Depreciation and amortization was $10.3 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $2.0 million compared to $8.3 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  The increase resulted from additional depreciation on our newbuild and purchased vessels as described above, plus additional depreciation to reduce the salvage value for the two single-hull vessels which phased out on December 31, 2004.

 

General and Administrative Expenses

 

General and administrative expenses were $4.5 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $0.7 million, or 20%, as compared to general and administrative expenses of $3.8 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  As a percentage of net voyage revenue, general and administrative expenses decreased to 10.1% for the six months ended December 31, 2004 from 10.6% for the first half of fiscal 2004.   The fiscal 2005 second quarter included $0.7 million in additional expenses relating to our new reporting and other requirements as a publicly traded partnership that we did not incur in the comparative prior year period.

 

Interest Expense, Net

 

Net interest expense was $2.7 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, or first quarter of fiscal 2005, or $1.6 million lower than the six months ended December 31, 2003.  The decrease resulted from the significant reduction of higher cost debt in connection with our initial public offering in January 2004.

 

Provision For Income Taxes

 

Our interim provisions for income taxes are based on our estimated annual effective tax rate.  For the six months ended December 31, 2004, this rate was 6.0% as compared to a rate of 15.0% for the six months ended December 31, 2003, which related to the Predecessor.  Our effective tax rate comprises the New York City Unincorporated Business Tax on our operating partnership, plus federal, state and local corporate income taxes on

 

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the taxable income of our operating partnership’s corporate subsidiary.  Our effective tax rate for the quarter ended December 31, 2004 was lower than the Predecessor’s for the comparable prior year period because a smaller portion of our pretax income was provided by our operating partnership’s corporate subsidiaries.

 

Net Income

 

Net income was $4.5 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $3.0 million compared to net income of $1.5 million for the six months December 31, 2003.   The increase resulted primarily from the $1.5 million increase in operating income and the $1.6 million decrease in interest expense described above.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Operating Cash Flows.  Net cash provided by operating activities was $13.6 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, an increase of $7.0 million compared to $6.6 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  The increase resulted from the improved results of operations, after adjusting for non-cash expenses such as depreciation and amortization, and a decrease of $0.8 million in drydocking expenditures in the six months ended December 31, 2004 compared to the six months ended December 31, 2003.

 

Investing Cash Flows.  Net cash used in investing activities totaled $32.0 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, compared to $14.1 million for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  The six months ended December 31, 2004 included $20.8 million, including certain acquisition related costs, to acquire the vessels and the water treatment facility described under “Recent Events” above.  Other capital expenditures, relating primarily to various tugboat coupling and re-powering projects,  totaled $3.5 million in the six months ended December 31, 2004 compared to $3.2 million in the comparative prior year period.  Tank vessel construction in the six months ended December 31, 2004 included final payments for the double hulling of the DBL 155, and progress payments on construction of a new 100,000-barrel tank barge.  Tank vessel construction in the comparative prior year period included payments for building the DBL 102 and retrofitting the DBL 105.

 

Financing Cash Flows.  Net cash provided by financing activities was $18.1 million for the six months ended December 31, 2004, compared to $7.5 million provided by financing activities for the six months ended December 31, 2003.  The primary financing activities in the first six months of fiscal 2005 were an increase of $21.9 million under our credit facility made primarily to finance the acquisition of the vessels and the water treatment facility discussed under “Recent Events” above, $9.1 million of borrowings under a new $20 million facility to partially finance the double hulling of the DBL 155, and $9.1 million in distributions to partners as described in “—Payment of Distributions” below.  In the six months ended December 31, 2003, we increased our credit line and short-term debt borrowings by an aggregate of $16.9 million, primarily to finance tank vessel construction, and repaid term loans totaling $8.3 million.

 

Payment of Distributions.  The board of directors of K-Sea General Partner GP LLC declared quarterly distributions to unitholders of $0.525 per unit in respect of the quarter ended June 30, 2004, which was paid on August 16, 2004 to unitholders of record on August 12, 2004, and $0.54 per unit in respect of the quarter ended September 30, 2004, which was paid on November 15, 2004 to unitholders of record on November 10, 2004.  Such distribution payments totaled $9.1 million.  On January 28, 2005, the board declared a quarterly distribution of $0.54 per unit in respect of the quarter ended December 31, 2004, payable on February 14, 2005 to unitholders of record on February 8, 2005.

 

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Oil Pollution Act of 1990.  Tank vessels are subject to the requirements of OPA 90.  OPA 90 mandates that all single-hull tank vessels operating in U.S. waters be removed from petroleum and petroleum product transportation services at various times through 2014, and provides a schedule for the phase-out of the single-hull vessels based on their age and size.  Two vessels, the KTC 90 and the KTC 96, phased out on December 31, 2004.  To replace these two vessels, and two other vessels which phased out in December 2002 and April 2004, we entered into a contract with Bollinger Gretna, L.L.C. in March 2001 for the construction of four double-hull tank barges to be built over three years.  All of these vessels have now been delivered.  These new tank barges have been coupled with tugboats we already own, using an articulated connection system, to create integrated tug-barge units that provide increased operating efficiency and enhanced safety and reliability.  We financed the purchase of the four new tank vessels through the issuance of Title XI bonds described below under “—Title XI Borrowings”.  As of December 31, 2004, after the phase-out of the two single-hull tank barges and the acquisition of the tank barges described under “Recent Events” above, approximately 71% of the barrel-carrying capacity of our tank vessel fleet is double-hulled in compliance with OPA 90, and the remainder will be in compliance with OPA 90 until the end of 2014.

 

Ongoing Capital Expenditures.  Marine transportation of refined petroleum products is a capital-intensive business, requiring significant investment to maintain an efficient fleet and to stay in regulatory compliance. We estimate that we will spend an average of approximately $8.8 million per year to drydock and maintain operating capacity.  We expect to adjust this amount during the quarter ending March 31, 2005 to reflect the vessel acquisitions made in December 2004 as described under “Recent Events” above.  We expect actual  drydocking expenditures to approximate $7.5 million in fiscal 2005.  In addition, we anticipate that we will spend $0.5 million annually in general capital expenditures.  Periodically, we also make expenditures to acquire or construct additional tank vessel capacity and /or to upgrade our overall fleet efficiency.

 

We define maintenance capital expenditures as capital expenditures required to maintain, over the long term, the operating capacity of our fleet, and expansion capital expenditures as those capital expenditures that increase, over the long term, the operating capacity of our fleet.  Examples of maintenance capital expenditures include costs related to drydocking a vessel, retrofitting an existing vessel or acquiring a new vessel to the extent such expenditures maintain the operating capacity of our fleet.  Generally, expenditures for construction in progress are not included as capital expenditures until such vessels are completed.  Capital expenditures associated with retrofitting an existing vessel, or acquiring a new vessel, which increase the operating capacity of our fleet over the long term whether through increasing our aggregate barrel-carrying capacity, improving the operational performance of a vessel or otherwise, are classified as expansion capital expenditures.  Drydocking expenditures are more extensive in nature than normal routine maintenance and, therefore, are capitalized and amortized over three years. For more information regarding our accounting treatment of drydocking expenditures, please read “—Critical Accounting Policies—Amortization of Drydocking Expenditures” below.

 

The following table summarizes total maintenance capital expenditures, including drydocking expenditures, and expansion capital expenditures, including vessel acquisitions, for the periods presented (in thousands):

 

 

 

Six months ended
December 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Maintenance capital expenditures

 

$

2,801

 

$

3,837

 

Expansion capital expenditures (including vessel acquisitions)

 

24,143

 

2,838

 

Total capital expenditures

 

$

26,944

 

$

6,675

 

Construction of tank vessels

 

$

7,706

 

$

10,847

 

 

In September 2004, we signed an agreement with a shipyard to construct a new 100,000-barrel tank barge which is expected to be delivered during the fall of 2005.  The contract cost, after addition of certain special equipment and integration with an existing tugboat, is expected to be in the range of $13.0 to 14.0 million, substantially all of which remains to be spent.  This newbuilding will be financed using our credit facilities plus cash from operations.

 

Additionally, we intend to retire or retrofit 21 single-hull tank vessels, which at December 31, 2004 represented approximately 29% of our barrel-carrying capacity after giving effect to the phase-out of two single-hull

 

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tank barges and the acquisition of five single-hull tank barges in connection with the December 2004 acquisition described above.  We estimate that the current cost to replace the 29% of our barrel-carrying capacity represented by those tank vessels with newbuildings would range from $53.0 million to $60.0 million.  This capacity can also be replaced by December 2014 by acquiring existing double-hull tank vessels as opportunities arise, or by retrofitting our existing vessels.  We are currently evaluating the most cost-effective means to replace this capacity.

 

Liquidity Needs.  Our primary short-term liquidity needs are to fund general working capital requirements, distributions to unitholders, and drydocking expenditures while our long term liquidity needs are primarily associated with expansion and other maintenance capital expenditures.  Expansion capital expenditures are primarily for the purchase of vessels, while maintenance capital expenditures include drydocking expenditures and the cost of replacing tank vessel operating capacity.  Our primary sources of funds for our short term liquidity needs are cash flows from operations and borrowings under our working capital facility, while our long term sources of funds are cash from operations, long term bank borrowings and other debt or equity financings.

 

We believe that cash flows from operations and borrowings under our credit agreement, described under “—Credit Agreement” below, will be sufficient to meet our liquidity needs for the next 12 months.

 

Credit Agreement.  We have a three-year $47.0 million credit agreement with two lending institutions which expires in January 2007.  The credit agreement comprises a $10.0 million senior secured revolving working capital facility, a $30.0 million senior secured revolving acquisition facility, and a $7.0 million senior secured standby letter of credit facility.

 

The working capital facility can be used for any purpose in the ordinary course of business, including ongoing working capital needs, documentary letters of credit, and distributions.  Amounts borrowed and repaid under the working capital facility may be re-borrowed.  We are required to reduce all working capital borrowings to zero for a period of at least 15 consecutive days once each year.  There were no amounts outstanding under the working capital facility as of December 31, 2004.

 

The acquisition facility is used to finance acquisitions, including the acquisition of additional vessels.  Interest under the acquisition facility is payable monthly for 18 months after each borrowing.  After the expiration of 18 months, or upon the earlier expiration of the credit agreement, we must either repay the entire outstanding principal amount or exercise an option to refinance the then outstanding borrowings over 60 months based on a 10-year amortization schedule, with a balloon payment for any unpaid amount due at the end of such term.  We cannot exercise this option if an event of default exists under any facility.  As of December 31, 2004, $26.3 million was outstanding under the acquisition facility, including $20.5 million borrowed in connection with the December 2004 asset acquisitions.

 

We have utilized $6.5 million of the standby letter of credit facility as collateral in connection with security granted to the Maritime Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation (“MARAD”) pursuant to the financial agreements governing our Title XI borrowings.  For more information, please read “—Title XI Borrowings” below.

 

Other Term Loans.  To finance the January 2004 acquisition of a 140,000-barrel capacity double-hull tank barge and related tugboat, we entered into a seven-year, $25.0 million term loan. Our obligations under this agreement are secured by a first priority security interest in the two vessels.  We have assigned to the lender all proceeds from charters, hires, and contracts of affreightment, as well as the proceeds of any insurance payments, with respect to the pledged vessels.  The loan is repayable in monthly installments of $139,155, plus interest at an annual rate of 30-day LIBOR plus 2.95%, with a balloon payment of the remaining principal balance at maturity in 2011.

 

To finance the rebuilding of the DBL 105 and the retrofitting of the DBL 155, we entered into an agreement with a financial institution in May 2004 to provide $20.0 million of term loans to permanently finance these vessels upon completion of the respective projects.  These loans are due seven years from the date of drawdown, at which time a balloon payment of the remaining principal balance is due.  The loans are payable in monthly installments of principal plus accrued interest at an annual rate of 30-day LIBOR plus 2.40%.  Upon delivery of the DBL 105 in May 2004, we borrowed $10.9 million under this agreement, which is collateralized by the tank barge and a tugboat. We have assigned to the lender all proceeds from charters, hires, and contracts of affreightment, as well as the proceeds of any insurance payments, with respect to the pledged vessels. The loan is repayable in monthly installments of $64,876 plus interest.  Upon delivery of the DBL 155 in September 2004, we

 

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borrowed an additional $9.1 million under this agreement, repayable in monthly installments of $54,171 plus interest.

 

Title XI Borrowings.  To permanently finance construction of four new tank barges, we applied for and received from MARAD a guarantee of obligations for mortgage financing pursuant to Title XI of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936.  Under this program, this long-term financing is guaranteed by the full faith and credit of the United States of America, and is collateralized by the tank barges constructed and certain other agreements.  The guarantee amount of $40.4 million is equal to 87.5% of the MARAD-approved cost of construction of the four tank barges, which includes qualifying financing costs.  We refer to our obligations relating to this financing as our “Title XI borrowings”.

 

On June 7, 2002, we privately placed $40.4 million of bonds (the “Title XI bonds”), which were guaranteed by MARAD.  The proceeds of $39.1 million, net of certain closing fees, were deposited in an escrow account with the U.S. Department of the Treasury.  The Title XI bonds were issued in four series and bear interest at a weighted average fixed rate of 6.2% per year. Each series is repayable over 25 years beginning six months after the delivery date of the related tank vessel.

 

On July 26, 2002, February 5, 2003, June 27, 2003, and January 16, 2004, respectively, the delivery dates of the four tank barges, we drew down the portion of the escrow account relating to the particular vessel.  Principal repayment of these bonds, excluding interest, will total $1.6 million for fiscal 2005 and for each fiscal year thereafter until the debt is repaid.

 

The agreements with MARAD governing the Title XI borrowing guarantees are collateralized by a first priority security interest, subject to permitted liens, on the four Title XI vessels.  In addition, throughout the term of the Title XI bonds, we will cause additional funds in the aggregate sum of $8.0 million to be made available to the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, (the “Secretary”) in the form of one or more letters of credit and/or additional cash deposits ($1.5 million minimum for cash deposits) to the escrow account that we maintain pursuant to the terms of the Title XI agreements.  We are obligated under the financial agreement with MARAD to escrow on a monthly basis one-sixth of the next semi-annual debt service payment due for each series of the Title XI bonds, which deposits are used to make such semi-annual payments. We have also granted MARAD first priority security interests in additional vessels having an orderly liquidation value of $10.0 million.

 

Restrictive Covenants.  The agreements governing the $47,000 credit facility, the Title XI borrowings and the term loans contain restrictive covenants that, among others, (a) prohibit distributions under defined events of default, (b) restrict investments and sales of assets, and (c) require us to adhere to certain financial covenants, including defined ratios of fixed charge coverage and funded debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, as defined), and a minimum balance of partners’ capital.

 

Under the terms of the credit facility and the term loans, we are prevented from declaring distributions if any event of default, as defined, occurs or would result from such declaration.  The financial agreements relating to the Title XI bonds enable us to make distributions of our available cash in accordance with the terms of our partnership agreement, except under certain defined circumstances in which case distributions would require the written consent of the Secretary.

 

Contingencies.

 

We are a party to various claims and lawsuits in the ordinary course of business for monetary relief arising principally from personal injuries, collision or other casualty and to claims arising under vessel charters.  All of these personal injury, collision and casualty claims are fully covered by insurance, subject to deductibles ranging from $25,000 to $100,000.  We accrue on a current basis for estimated deductibles we expect to pay.

 

EW Transportation LLC and its predecessors have been named, together with a large number of other companies, as co-defendants in 39 civil actions by various parties alleging unspecified damages from past exposure to asbestos and second-hand smoke aboard some of the vessels that it contributed to us in connection with our initial public offering.  EW Transportation LLC and its predecessors were dismissed from 37 of these lawsuits in the first half of 2003 for an aggregate sum of approximately $46,000, have settled another case for $1,000 which is pending dismissal, and are pursuing settlement of the other case.  We may be subject to litigation in the future involving these plaintiffs and others alleging exposure to asbestos due to alleged failure to properly encapsulate friable asbestos or remove friable asbestos on our vessels, as well as for exposure to second-hand smoke and other matters.

 

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EW Transportation Corp., a predecessor to our Partnership, has come under audit with respect to the New York State Petroleum Business Tax (“PBT”) which is a tax on vessel fuel consumed while operating in New York State territorial waters.  Since the boundaries of these waters have not been defined, EW Transportation Corp. has not been able to reasonably estimate the tax.  This matter is expected to be resolved as a result of the audit, which will establish a basis for future payment of the tax by us.  In accordance with the agreements entered into in connection with our initial public offering, any liability resulting from the PBT prior to January 14, 2004 (the effective date of the offering) is a retained liability of our Predecessor.  We will record any liability for periods subsequent to January 14, 2004 when such amounts can be reasonably estimated.

 

Seasonality

 

We operate our tank vessels in markets that have historically exhibited seasonal variations in demand and, as a result, in charter rates. Movements of clean oil products, such as motor fuels, generally increase during the summer driving season. Movements of black oil products and distillates, such as heating oil, generally increase during the winter months, while movements of asphalt products generally increase in the spring through fall months. Unseasonably cold winters result in significantly higher demand for heating oil in the northeastern United States, which is a significant market for our tank barge services. The summer driving season can increase demand for automobile fuel and, accordingly, the demand for our services.

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The accounting treatment of a particular transaction is dictated by generally accepted accounting principles and, in certain circumstances, requires us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions that we believe are reasonable based upon information available.  We base our estimates, judgments and assumptions on historical experience and known facts that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions and conditions.  We believe that, of our significant accounting policies discussed in note 3 to our consolidated financial statements included herein, the following may involve a higher degree of judgment.

 

Revenue Recognition

 

We earn revenue under contracts of affreightment, voyage charters, time charters and bareboat charters.  For contracts of affreightment and voyage charters, revenue is recognized based upon the relative transit time in each period, with expenses recognized as incurred.  Although contracts of affreightment and certain contracts for voyage charters may be effective for a period in excess of one year, revenue is recognized over the transit time of individual voyages, which are generally less than ten days in duration.  For time charters and bareboat charters, revenue is recognized ratably over the contract period, with expenses recognized as incurred. Estimated losses on contracts of affreightment and charters are accrued when such losses become evident.

 

Depreciation

 

Vessels and equipment are recorded at cost, including capitalized interest where appropriate, and depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the individual assets as follows: tank vessels—five to twenty-five years; tugboats—twenty years; and pier and office equipment—five years. For single-hulled tank vessels, these useful lives are limited to the remaining period of operation prior to mandatory retirement as required by OPA 90.  Also included in vessels are drydocking expenditures that are capitalized and amortized over three years.  Major renewals and betterments of assets are capitalized and depreciated over the remaining useful lives of the assets.  Maintenance and repairs that do not improve or extend the useful lives of the assets are expensed.  To date, our experience confirms that these policies are reasonable, although there may be events or changes in circumstances in the future that indicate the recovery of the carrying amount of a vessel might not be possible.  Examples of events or changes in circumstances that could indicate that the recoverability of a vessel’s carrying amount should be assessed might include a change in regulations such as OPA 90, or continued operating losses, or projections thereof, associated with a vessel or vessels.  If events or changes in circumstances as set forth above indicate that a vessel’s carrying amount may not be recoverable, we would then be required to estimate the undiscounted future cash flows expected to result from the use of the vessel and its eventual disposition.  If the sum of the undiscounted expected future cash flows is less than the carrying amount of the vessel, we would recognize an impairment loss to the extent the carrying value exceeds its fair value by appraisal.  Our assumptions and estimates would include, but not be limited to, the estimated fair market value of the assets and their estimated future cash flows, which are based on additional assumptions such as asset utilization, length of service of the asset and

 

21



 

estimated salvage values.  Although we believe our assumptions and estimates are reasonable, deviations from the assumptions and estimates could produce a materially different result.

 

Amortization of Drydocking Expenditures

 

Drydocking expenditures are capitalized and amortized over three years.  Drydocking of vessels is required by both the U.S. Coast Guard and by the applicable classification society, which in our case is the American Bureau of Shipping.  Such drydocking activities include, but are not limited to, the inspection, refurbishment and replacement of steel, engine components, tailshafts, mooring equipment and other parts of the vessel.  Amortization of drydocking expenditures is included in depreciation and amortization expense.

 

Accounts Receivable

 

We extend credit to our customers in the normal course of business.  We regularly review our accounts, estimate the amount of uncollectible receivables each period, and establish an allowance for uncollectible amounts. The amount of the allowance is based on the age of unpaid receivables, information about the current financial strength of customers, and other relevant information.  Estimates of uncollectible amounts are revised each period, and changes are recorded in the period they become known.  Historically, credit risk with respect to our trade receivables has generally been considered minimal because of the financial strength of our customers.

 

Deferred Income Taxes

 

We provide deferred taxes for the tax effects of differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates in effect in the jurisdictions where we operate for the years in which the differences are projected to reverse.  A valuation allowance is provided, if necessary, for deferred tax assets that are not expected to be realized.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

On December 16, 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued FASB Statement No. 123(R),  Share-Based Payment (“FAS 123(R)”).  FAS 123(R) revises FASB Statement No. 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation (“FAS 123”) and requires companies to expense the fair value of employee stock options and other forms of stock-based compensation.  In addition to revising FAS 123, FAS 123(R) supersedes Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, and amends FASB Statement No. 95, Statement of Cash Flows.  We are required to adopt this new standard on July 1, 2005 and are in the process of determining which method of adoption we will elect as well as the potential impact the adoption will have on our consolidated financial statements.

 

Forward-looking Statements

 

Statements included in this Form 10-Q that are not historical facts (including statements concerning plans and objectives of management for future operations or economic performance, or assumptions related thereto) are forward-looking statements.  In addition, we may from time to time make other oral or written statements that are also forward-looking statements.

 

Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this Form 10-Q and include statements with respect to, among other things:

 

                  planned capital expenditures and availability of capital resources to fund capital expenditures;

 

                  our expected cost of complying with OPA 90;

 

                  estimated future expenditures for drydocking and maintenance of our tank vessels’ operating capacity;

 

                  our plans for the retirement or retrofitting of tank vessels and the expected delivery, and cost, of newbuild vessels;

 

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                  the integration of recent acquisitions of tank barges and tugboats, including the timing and effects thereof;

 

                  expected decreases in the supply of domestic tank vessels;

 

                  expected demand in the domestic tank vessel market in general and the demand for our tank vessels in particular;

 

                  our future financial condition or results of operations and our future revenues and expenses; and

 

                  our business strategy and other plans and objectives for future operations; and

 

                  our future financial exposure to lawsuits currently pending against EW Transportation LLC and its predecessors.

 

These forward-looking statements are made based upon management’s current plans, expectations, estimates, assumptions and beliefs concerning future events and therefore involve a number of risks and uncertainties.  We caution that forward-looking statements are not guarantees and that actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements.

 

Important factors that could cause our actual results of operations or our actual financial condition to differ include, but are not limited to:

 

                  insufficient cash from operations;

 

                  a decline in demand for refined petroleum products;

 

                  a decline in demand for tank vessel capacity;

 

                  intense competition in the domestic tank vessel industry;

 

                  the occurrence of marine accidents or other hazards;

 

                  the loss of any of our largest customers;

 

                  fluctuations in voyage charter rates;

 

                  delays or cost overruns in the construction of new vessels or the retrofitting or modification of older vessels;

 

                  difficulties in integrating recently acquired vessels into our operations;

 

                  failure to comply with the Jones Act;

 

                  modification or elimination of the Jones Act; and

 

                  adverse developments in our marine transportation business.

 

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Item 3.           Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.

 

Our Title XI bonds bear interest at fixed interest rates ranging from 6.17% to 6.26%.  Borrowings under our credit agreement and our outstanding term loans bear interest at a floating rate based on LIBOR, which subjects us to increases or decreases in interest expense resulting from movements in that rate.  Based on the aggregate $69.4 million of floating rate debt outstanding as of December 31, 2004, the impact of a 1% increase in LIBOR would result in an increase in interest expense, and a corresponding decrease in income before income taxes, of approximately $0.7 million on an annual basis.

 

Item 4.           Controls and Procedures.

 

In accordance with Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15, we carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2004 to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in our reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

 

There has been no change in our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the three months ended December 31, 2004 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

 

PART II – OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1.          Legal Proceedings.

 

We are subject to various claims and lawsuits in the ordinary course of business for monetary relief arising principally from personal injuries, collision or other casualty and to claims arising under vessel charters.  Although the outcome of any individual claim or action cannot be predicted with certainty, we believe that any adverse outcome, individually or in the aggregate, would be substantially mitigated by applicable insurance or indemnification from previous owners of our assets, and would not have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.  We are subject to deductibles with respect to our insurance coverage that range from $25,000 to $100,000 per incident, and we provide on a current basis for estimated payments thereunder.

 

EW Transportation LLC and its predecessors have been named, together with a large number of other companies, as co-defendants in 39 civil actions by various parties alleging unspecified damages from past exposure to asbestos and second-hand smoke aboard some of the vessels that it contributed to us in connection with the initial public offering.  EW Transportation LLC and its predecessors were dismissed from 37 of these lawsuits in the first half of 2003 for an aggregate sum of approximately $46,000, have settled another case for $1,000, and are pursuing settlement of the other case.  We may be subject to litigation in the future involving these plaintiffs and others alleging exposure to asbestos due to alleged failure to properly encapsulate friable asbestos or remove friable asbestos on our vessels, as well as for exposure to second-hand smoke and other matters.

 

EW Transportation Corp. has also received notice that it is a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) in a proceeding for the cleanup of hazardous substances at a site in Port Arthur, Texas, where cleaning was performed on two of our barges in 1996 and 1997.  This proceeding involves numerous waste generators and waste transportation and disposal companies and seeks to allocate or recover costs associated with site investigation and cleanup.  We believe our share of liability, if any, will be immaterial to our financial position, results of operations, and cash flows given our limited dealings with the site.  Estimates of the degree of remediation of a particular site and the method and ultimate cost of remediation require a number of assumptions and are inherently difficult to make.  It is also possible that technological, regulatory or enforcement developments, the results of environmental studies and the inability of other PRPs to contribute to settlements of such liability could require us to incur some costs, the amount of which is not possible to estimate. These costs, if any, would be subject to insurance and certain indemnifications.

 

Item 2.          Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.

 

Not applicable.

 

24



 

Item 3.          Defaults Upon Senior Securities.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 4.          Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 5.          Other Information.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 6.          Exhibits.

 

Exhibit
Number

 

 

 

Description

3.1*

 

 

Certificate of Limited Partnership of K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Partnership’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 107084), as amended (the “Registration Statement”), originally filed on July 16, 2003).

3.2*

 

 

Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P. (including specimen unit certificate for the common units) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Partnership’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2003).

3.3*

 

 

Certificate of Limited Partnership of K-Sea General Partner L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to the Registration Statement).

3.4*

 

 

First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of K-Sea General Partner L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to the Partnership’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2003).

3.5*

 

 

Certificate of Formation of K-Sea General Partner GP LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.7 to the Registration Statement).

3.6*

 

 

First Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of K-Sea General Partner GP LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.8 to the Partnership’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2003).

31.1

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 Certification of Timothy J. Casey.

31.2

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 Certification of John J. Nicola.

32.1

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 906 Certification of Timothy J. Casey.

32.2

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 906 Certification of John J. Nicola.

 


*                                         Incorporated by reference, as indicated.

 

25



 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

K-SEA TRANSPORTATION PARTNERS L.P.

 

 

 

 

By:

K-SEA GENERAL PARTNER L.P.,

 

 

 

its general partner

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

K-SEA GENERAL PARTNER GP LLC,

 

 

 

 

 

its general partner

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: February 10, 2005

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Timothy J. Casey

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Timothy J. Casey

 

 

 

 

 

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: February 10, 2005

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ John J. Nicola

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

John J. Nicola

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chief Financial Officer (Principal

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

26



 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number

 

 

 

Description

3.1*

 

 

Certificate of Limited Partnership of K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Partnership’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 107084), as amended (the “Registration Statement”), originally filed on July 16, 2003).

3.2*

 

 

Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of K-Sea Transportation Partners L.P. (including specimen unit certificate for the common units) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Partnership’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2003).

3.3*

 

 

Certificate of Limited Partnership of K-Sea General Partner L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.5 to the Registration Statement).

3.4*

 

 

First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of K-Sea General Partner L.P. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.6 to the Partnership’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2003).

3.5*

 

 

Certificate of Formation of K-Sea General Partner GP LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.7 to the Registration Statement).

3.6*

 

 

First Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of K-Sea General Partner GP LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.8 to the Partnership’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended December 31, 2003).

31.1

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 Certification of Timothy J. Casey.

31.2

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 302 Certification of John J. Nicola.

32.1

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 906 Certification of Timothy J. Casey.

32.2

 

 

Sarbanes-Oxley Act Section 906 Certification of John J. Nicola.

 


*                                         Incorporated by reference, as indicated.

 

27