Skip to main content

LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS HOLDINGS INC

For the period ended Dec 31, 2023. Filed Mar 6, 2024.

View on SEC.gov

About this filing

A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.

FY2023 · Filed Mar 6, 2024

LIND$35.70+5.1%Stored close · as of Nov 9, 2026

Extracted filing text, with the paragraph anchors used by the comparison.

See the whole filing, with its images and exhibits
Contents

Item 11. Executive Compensation

Item 11.Executive Compensation

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

This compensation discussion and analysis describes the material elements of compensation awarded to, earned by, or paid to each of our named executive officers, whom we refer to as our “NEOs,” during 2023 and describes our policies and decisions made with respect to the information contained in the following tables, related footnotes and narrative for 2023. The NEOs are identified below in the table titled “Summary Compensation Table for 2023.” In this compensation discussion and analysis, we also describe various actions regarding NEO compensation taken before or after 2023 when we believe it enhances the understanding of our executive compensation program. Due to the circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic and compensation limits under Section 4004 of the CARES Act in connection with the Company’s prior Main Street Loan, a number of extraordinary measures were taken and discretionary decisions were made by the Compensation Committee on salaries, short-term and long-term incentive compensation of our NEOs during 2021 and 2022. During 2022, we repaid the Main Street Loan in full.

Overview of Our Executive Compensation Philosophy and Design

We believe that a skilled, experienced and dedicated management team is essential to our future performance and to building stockholder value. We seek to establish competitive compensation programs that enable us to attract and retain executive officers with these qualities. The other objectives of our compensation programs for our executive officers are the following:

●to motivate our executive officers to achieve and create stockholder value;
●to attract and retain executive officers who we believe have the experience, temperament, talents, and convictions to contribute significantly to our future success; and
●to align the economic interests of our executive officers with the interests of our stockholders.

The Compensation Committee is focused on executive compensation being appropriate in amount and form. The Compensation Committee strives to align the interests of our executive team with the interests of our stockholders by providing incentives based upon the achievement of performance levels in relation to our strategic goals. Our Board of Directors and our Compensation Committee value the opinions of our stockholders and are committed to ongoing engagement with our stockholders on executive compensation practices. The Compensation Committee specifically considers the results from the annual stockholder advisory vote on executive compensation. At the 2023 annual meeting of shareholders, 85% of the votes cast on the stockholder advisory vote on executive compensation were in favor of our executive compensation.

Oversight of Executive Compensation

Our Compensation Committee has primary responsibility for, among other things, determining our compensation philosophy, evaluating the performance of our executive officers, setting the compensation and other benefits of our executive officers, overseeing our response to the outcome of the advisory votes of stockholders on executive compensation, assessing the relative enterprise risk of our compensation program and administering our incentive compensation plans. Our Board of Directors, our Compensation Committee and our Chief Executive Officer will each play a role in setting the compensation of our NEOs. Our Board of Directors appoints the members of our Compensation Committee and delegates to the Compensation Committee the direct responsibility for overseeing the design and administration of our executive compensation program. The Compensation Committee evaluates the performance of the CEO and determines his compensation based on this evaluation. With respect to our other executive officers, the Compensation Committee considers the CEO’s input as to performance evaluations and recommended compensation arrangements. The compensation of all named executive officers is subject to the final approval of the committee.

Management and the Compensation Committee rely upon outside advisors to determine competitive pay levels, evaluate pay program design, and assess evolving technical constraints. The Compensation Committee retained the firm of Frederic W. Cook & Co. (“FW Cook”) to consult and assist with the structuring and development of a comprehensive executive compensation program based on performance, utilizing the elements discussed below. We considered all factors relevant to FW Cook’s independence from management, including the following factors:

●The provision of other services that the consultant provides to us;
●The amount of fees received from us as a percentage of the consultant’s total revenue;
●The consultant’s policies and procedures designed to prevent conflicts of interest;
●Business or personal relationships of the consultant with our Compensation Committee members;
●The amount of our stock owned by the consultant; and
●Business or personal relationships of the consultant with our executive officers

Mr. Bressler’s employment agreement provides for an annual cash bonus opportunity equal to 10% of Natural Habitat’s net profits (after giving effect to accrual or payment of such bonus), and an annual restricted stock unit award opportunity of $100,000 related to the management of the Land Experiences business segment. Accordingly, Mr. Bressler does not currently participate in the Company’s long-term or short-term incentive compensation plans described below. During 2023, Mr. Bressler earned a bonus of $1.5 million and $100,000 of restricted stock units in accordance with his employment agreement.

Elements of Executive Compensation

Our executive compensation program for our NEOs consists of the following elements:

●Base salary;
●Short-term (annual) cash-based incentive compensation;
●Long-term incentive compensation in the form of equity; and
●Retirement and other benefits.

Base Salary

We pay our NEOs a base salary to compensate them for services rendered and to provide them with a steady source of income for living expenses throughout the year. Generally, our Compensation Committee will set executive base salaries at levels comparable with those of executives in similar positions and with similar responsibilities at comparable companies. Base salaries will generally be reviewed annually by our Compensation Committee, subject to terms of employment agreements, and will adjust base salary amounts to realign such salaries with industry norms after taking into account individual responsibilities, performance and experience.

The 2024 effective base salaries for our NEOs, as well as the percentage increase from the 2023 actual base salaries, if any, are as follows:

NameFiscal 2024 Base SalaryPercentage Change From Fiscal 2023 Base Salary
Mr. Lindblad$386,2503%
Mr. Felenstein$489,2503%
Mr. Brodsky$463,5003%
Mr. Byus$360,5003%
Mr. Bressler$200,0000%

Short-Term (Annual) Cash-Based Incentive Compensation

We utilize annual cash incentive bonuses for executives to focus them on achieving key operational and financial objectives within a yearly time horizon. In 2017, our Compensation Committee adopted an Employee Incentive Plan (EIP) under our 2015 Long-Term Incentive Plan to govern annual cash incentive award opportunities for our executive officers and other key employees. Target award levels under the EIP are based on a percentage of each participant’s base salary and cash incentive awards are earned based on performance against metrics.

2023 Short-Term (Annual) Cash-Based Incentive Compensation

For 2023, the Compensation Committee set the performance metric weightings as follows: Adjusted EBITDA (target $79.2 million; 70%), Net Yield per Available Guest Night (target $1,157; 15%) and Guest Satisfaction (target 90%; 15%). The Compensation Committee set target award levels for each of our NEOs at a target level of 75% (as a percentage of base salary). For 2023, awards could be earned at a level of up to 150% of the target level if maximum performance goals are achieved and the minimum thresholds to earn awards are as follows: Adjusted EBITDA (85% of target), Net Yield per Available Guest Night (90% of target) and Guest Satisfaction (96% of target). Our Compensation Committee has the discretion to adjust the achievement of the financial metrics for unusual and nonrecurring factors and events, such as acquisitions and other unusual events, costs and expenses. As a result of our performance, our NEOs earned 95.1% of the target award level for the short-term incentive compensation, resulting in the following bonus amounts:

Name2023 Short-Term Annual Cash-Based Incentive Bonus Amount Earned
Mr. Lindblad$133,737
Mr. Felenstein$328,928
Mr. Brodsky$312,404
Mr. Byus$245,121

Long-Term Incentive Compensation

We utilize equity-based incentive compensation in order to align compensation directly with the creation of value to stockholders by rewarding performance and the achievement of goals important to the Company’s strategic objectives. We believe that such compensation attracts, motivates and helps retain executives. In 2023, our Compensation Committee approved awards of restricted stock units (“RSUs”) and a performance-vesting equity incentive award (“PSUs”) grant, to key employees, including our named executive officers, under our Long-Term Incentive Plans, each as described in more detail below:

2023 Long-Term Incentive Compensation

In March 2023, our Compensation Committee approved awards of RSUs and PSUs to key employees, including our named executive officers, under our LTIP, each as described in more detail below:

RSUs. The RSUs are time vesting equity incentive awards that will vest in annual installments, following the March 31, 2023 grant date, subject to the recipient’s continued employment or service with us or our subsidiaries on the applicable vesting date. Upon vesting, each RSU represents the right to receive one share of our common stock or an equivalent amount of cash. Each RSU is granted in tandem with a dividend equivalent right, which is subject to the same vesting schedule as the underlying RSU to which it relates. In 2023, RSU awards were awarded in the following amounts to our NEOs, with the number of RSUs determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on the March 31, 2023 grant date, which was $9.56: Mr. Berle (former Chief Executive Officer): $287,500 (30,020 RSUs); Mr. Felenstein: $237,500 (24,843 RSUs); Mr. Brodsky: $225,000 (23,535 RSUs); and Mr. Byus: $175,000 (18,305 RSUs). The awards were granted on March 31, 2023 and will vest annually over three years on the anniversary of the grant, subject to continued service with us.

PSUs. The PSUs are performance-vesting equity incentive awards that will be earned based on our annual performance against metrics relating to annual Adjusted EBITDA and annual revenue over a three-year time period. Each PSU is granted in tandem with a dividend equivalent right, which is subject to the same performance vesting terms as the underlying PSU to which it relates. Awards will vest after a three-year performance period. Performance shall be determined based on the Company's level of achievement against the target goals for each fiscal year. The number of PSUs earned shall be equal to the target number of PSUs multiplied by the average of the payout percentages for each fiscal year. For 2023, the Compensation Committee set the performance metric weightings of Annual Adjusted EBITDA (75%) and Annual Revenue (25%) for each applicable fiscal year. In

2023, PSU awards were granted in the following amounts to our NEOs, with the number of shares determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on the March 31, 2023 grant date, which was $9.56: Mr. Berle: $287,500 (30,020 PSUs); Mr. Felenstein: $237,500 (24,843 PSUs); Mr. Brodsky: $225,000 (23,535 PSUs); and Mr. Byus: $175,000 (18,305 PSUs).

Retirement and Other Benefits

We are strongly committed to encouraging all employees to save for retirement. To provide employees with the opportunity to save for retirement on a tax-deferred basis, we sponsor a 401(k)-plan pursuant to which we matched any employee contributions, including our NEOs, up to $2,400 in 2023. We also provide certain other customary benefits to our employees, including our NEOs, which are intended to be part of a competitive compensation program. These benefits, which are offered to all full-time employees, include medical, dental, life and disability insurance as well as paid leave during the year.

In order to increase their knowledge and understanding of our business and the related challenges that the business faces, we encourage our employees, including our NEOs, and their families to experience our expeditions. To that end, employees and their family members are entitled to travel on expeditions at the per person variable land costs associated with the particular expedition. In addition to the land costs, the employee is responsible for airfare, any shipboard purchases and crew gratuities.

Compensation on Termination of Employment

Each of our named executive officers, other than Mr. Lindblad, has an employment agreement that provides for severance in the event they are terminated without cause or they leave for good reason. We believe these agreements are important for retention purposes, as many companies we compete with offer severance compensation, particularly in connection with a change of control. Accordingly, our named executive officers have the right to receive severance compensation if they are terminated without cause or they leave for good reason while the agreement is in effect. If such termination occurs within a specified period after a change of control, enhanced severance compensation, including the vesting of unvested equity awards, is provided. We believe that such compensation gives our named executive officers incentive (1) to stay with the Company despite the possibility of losing employment after a change of control and (2) to focus on obtaining the best possible value for stockholders in a change of control transaction. For additional information on compensation on termination of employment, see “Executive Compensation—Agreements with Executive Officers” and “Executive Compensation—Estimated Additional Compensation Triggered by Termination of Employment.”

Clawback Policy

We have adopted a clawback policy that provides that we shall, except in limited circumstances, recover any erroneously awarded incentive based compensation from our named executive officers. The policy is filed as an exhibit to this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Summary Compensation Table

The following table summarizes the compensation earned in each of the last three completed fiscal years to our NEOs:

Name and Principal Position · Year · Salary(1) · Bonus · Stock Awards(2) · Option Awards(2) · All Other(6) · Total
Mr. Lindblad (3)
Chief Executive Officer2023$187,500$133,737$1,996,000$-$35,265$2,352,502
2022 · $ · - · $ · - · $ · - · $ · - · $ · - · $ · -
2021$-$-$772,519$-$38,608$811,127
Mr. Felenstein
Chief Financial Officer2023$461,167$328,928$474,998$1,198,000$39,562$2,502,655
2022$412,000$317,343$411,986$-$42,931$1,184,259
2021$412,000$296,014$411,982$-$42,840$1,162,836
Mr. Brodsky (4)
Chief Commercial Officer2023$438,000$312,404$450,008$-$24,221$1,224,633
2022$241,900$75,000$437,506$2,809,777$13,092$3,577,275
Mr. Byus III
Chief Expedition Officer2023$343,667$245,121$349,992$1,198,000$39,562$2,176,342
2022$283,250$218,173$283,263$-$42,931$827,616
2021$283,250$203,510$283,235$-$42,840$812,835
Mr. Bressler
President, Natural Habitat, Inc.2023$200,000$1,586,704$99,998$-$47,440$1,934,142
2022$200,000$1,183,389$100,000$-$50,809$1,534,198
2021$171,354$211,500$-$-$50,718$433,572
Mr. Berle (5)
Former Chief Executive Officer2023$289,712$-$574,996$574,996$23,424$1,463,127
2022$575,000$442,894$575,000$-$42,409$1,635,303
2021$370,432$302,892$1,012,973$5,230,000$19,966$6,936,263
(1)Due to circumstances related to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mr. Lindblad declined a salary for a significant period of 2021, and similarly, Mr. Bressler reduced his annual salary in 2021. There was a restriction and freeze on executive salary for the period that the Company’s Main Street Loan was outstanding plus one year, the Main Street Loan was repaid in 2022.
(2)With respect to stock awards, the grant date fair value is measured based on the closing market value on the date of grant. Mr. Lindblad’s 2023, Mr. Brodsky's 2022 and Mr. Berle’s 2021 grants relate to their employment agreements. With respect to options, the calculated grant date fair value of Messrs. Felenstein’s and Byus’ 2023 options were $5.99 per share, Mr. Brodsky's 2022 options were awarded in two grants at $8.18 and $7.27 per option and Mr. Berle’s 2021 options were $5.23 per option. Refer to Note 12 of our consolidated financial statements included herein for assumptions used to value equity awards.
(3)Mr. Lindblad served as our Chief Executive Officer through May 2021. Thereafter, he served as director and Board Co-Chair before being re-appointed as Chief Executive Officer on July 20, 2023. Amounts in the table exclude any amounts earned for service as a director of the Company during the time he did not serve as an executive officer.
(4)Mr. Brodsky joined the Company on May 31, 2022. Mr. Brodsky's 2022 bonus includes a $75,000 hiring bonus.
(5)Mr. Berle left the Company on May 31, 2023.
(6)The amounts in this column for 2023 consist of the following for each executive:
Name · 401(k) Match · Health Insurance Premiums · Life, Accidental Death & Dismemberment and Long-Term Disability Premiums · Other(a)
Mr. Lindblad$-$34,532$733$-
Mr. Felenstein$2,400$34,532$2,630$-
Mr. Brodsky$2,400$19,713$2,108$-
Mr. Byus$2,400$34,532$2,630$-
Mr. Bressler$2,400$34,532$2,108$8,400
Mr. Berle$2,400$20,144$880$-
(a)Mr. Bressler receives a monthly vehicle allowance.

Pay Ratio

We have estimated the ratio between our Chief Executive Officer’s total compensation and the median annual total compensation of all employees (except the Chief Executive Officer). In searching for the median employee, we considered taxable compensation totals in 2023. We identified the “Median Employee” based on the taxable compensation of all full-time, part-time, and temporary employees employed by us on December 31, 2023, then we calculated the Median Employee’s compensation under the Summary Compensation Table rules. Our Chief Executive Officer had annual total compensation of $2,352,502 and our Median Employee had annual total compensation of $144,973. Therefore, we estimate that our Chief Executive Officer’s annual total compensation for 2023 was approximately 16.2 times that of the median of the annual total compensation of all of our employees.

This compensation ratio was significantly impacted during 2023 due to the one-time initial grants of RSUs provided to Mr. Lindblad upon his appointment as Chief Executive Officer in July 2023. Excluding the one-time hire grants provided to Mr. Lindblad, and including traditional annual grants of RSUs and PSUs in lieu of them, with a grant date value of $375,000, we estimate that the Chief Executive Officer’s annual total compensation for 2023 would have been approximately 5.1 times that of the median of the annual total compensation of all of our employees for 2023.

Grants of Plan Based Awards During 2023

The following table sets forth information about grants of plan-based awards to our NEOs during the year ended December 31, 2023.

Estimated Possible Payouts Under Non-Equity Incentive Plan Awards(1) · Estimated Future Payouts Under Equity Incentive Plan Awards(2)
Name · Grant Date of Equity Incentive Plan Awards · Threshold ($) · Target ($) · Maximum ($) · Threshold (#) · Target (#) · Maximum (#) · All Other Stock Awards: Number of Options, Shares of Stock or Units (#)(3) · Grant Date Fair Value of Stock and Option Awards ($)(4)
Mr. Lindblad · $ · - · $ · - · $ · -
7/21/2023200,000$1,996,000
Mr. Felenstein$-$356,250$534,375
03/31/2324,843$237,499
03/31/23200,000$1,198,000
03/31/23-23,53647,072$225,004
Mr. Brodsky$-$337,500$506,250
03/31/2323,536$225,004
03/31/23-18,30536,610$174,996
Mr. Byus$-$150,000$225,000
03/31/2318,305$174,996
03/31/23200,000$1,198,000
03/31/23-24,84349,686$237,499
Mr. Bressler$-$-$-
03/31/2310,460$99,998
Mr. Berle$-$281,250$421,875
03/31/2330,073$287,498
03/31/23-30,07360,146$287,498
(1)The amount shown represents the range of possible cash incentive awards that could have been earned under our 2023 Short-Term (Annual) Cash-Based Incentive Compensation plan. For additional information, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.”
(2)The amounts shown represent the range of PSU stock awards that may be earned under our 2023 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan for performance during 2023 through 2025. For additional information, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.”
(3)The amount represents RSUs granted under our 2023 Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan. For additional information, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” and “Outstanding Equity Awards at 2023 Fiscal Year End” table.
(4)Amount represents the aggregate grant date fair value computed in accordance with FASB ASC 718. With respect to stock awards, the grant date fair value is measured based on the closing market value on the date of grant. With respect to options, the calculated grant date fair value of Messrs. Felenstein’s and Byus’ 2023 options were $5.99 per share. Refer to Note 12 of our consolidated financial statements included herein for assumptions used to value equity awards.

Outstanding Equity Awards at 2023 Fiscal Year-End

The following table sets forth information about outstanding equity awards held on December 31, 2023 by our NEOs.

Option Awards · Stock Awards
Name · Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options Exercisable (#) · Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options Un-exercisable (#)(2) · Option Exercise Price ($) · Option Expiration Date · Number of Shares or Units of Stock That have Not Vested (#)(2) · Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested ($)(1) · Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested (#) · Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested ($)(1)
Mr. Lindblad--$-N/A206,812$2,330,77120,437(3)$230,325
Mr. Felenstein-200,000$9.5603/31/3342,583$479,90710,899(3)$122,832
188,000-$9.4709/06/2613,660(4)$153,948
24,843(5)$279,981
Mr. Brodsky40,115120,343$14.3605/31/3246,386$522,77323,536(5)$265,251
10,00030,000$12.6406/10/32
Mr. Byus-200,000$9.5603/31/3327,063$305,0047,493(3)$84,446
--$-N/A9,392(4)$105,848
18,305(5)$206,297
Mr. Bressler--$-N/A10,460$117,884-$-
238,115350,343333,304$3,756,339128,565$1,448,928
(1)The amounts in this column have been computed based on the closing price of our common stock of $11.27 on December 29, 2023 (the last business day of 2023). The actual value realized by the executive will depend on the market value of our common stock on the date that the awards vest and the actual number of shares that vest.
(2)The shares vest as follows:
Unvested Stock Awards (number of shares, units or options)
Mr. LindbladMr. FelensteinMr. BrodskyMr. ByusMr. BresslerVesting Dates
-24,84323,53618,30510,460RSUs vest 33% on each March 31, 2024, 2025 and 2026
200,000----RSUs vest 25% on each January 21 and July 21, 2024 and 2025
6,8129,107-6,261-RSUs vest 50% on each March 31, 2024 and 2025
-3,633-2,497-RSUs vest 100% on each March 31, 2024
-5,000---RSUs vest 100% on each December 8, 2024
--22,850--RSUs vest 33% each on May 31, 2024, 2025 and 2026
-200,000-20,000-Options vest 25% on each of May 31, 2024, 2025, 2026 and 2027
--120,343--Options vest 33% on each of May 31, 2024, 2025 and 2026
--30,000--Options vest 33% on each of June 10, 2024, 2025 and 2026
(3)Represents MSUs in an amount equal to the maximum possible awards available on December 31, 2023 under our 2021 long-term incentive compensation plan based on performance during 2021 through 2024. The MSUs are market-based equity incentive awards based on a performance-multiplier of change in the stock price of the Company’s common stock between the grant date and a determined closing price. Awards will vest after a three-year performance period and may be earned at a level ranging from 0% to 150% of the number of MSUs granted, depending on performance. Performance shall be determined by dividing (i) the average Company stock closing price for 10 consecutive trading days ending on the vesting date by (ii) the Company stock closing price on the day of the grant, provided, however, that in no event shall the performance exceed 150%. The number of MSUs earned shall be determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on our March 31, 2024 stock price and shall vest on that date. In 2021, MSU awards were awarded in the following amounts to our NEOs, with the number of shares determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on the grant date: Mr. Felenstein: $206,000; Mr. Byus: $141,625 and Mr. Lindblad $386,259. The awards were granted on March 31, 2021, with the award amount determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on March 31, 2021, which was $18.90.
(4)Represents MSUs in an amount equal to the maximum possible awards available on December 31, 2023 under our 2021 long-term incentive compensation plan based on performance during 2022 through 2025. The MSUs are market-based equity incentive awards based on a performance-multiplier of change in the stock price of the Company’s common stock between the grant date and a determined closing price. Awards will vest after a three-year performance period and may be earned at a level ranging from 0% to 150% of the number of MSUs granted, depending on performance. Performance shall be determined by dividing (i) the average Company stock closing price for 10 consecutive trading days ending on the vesting date by (ii) the Company stock closing price on the day of the grant, provided, however, that in no event shall the performance exceed 150%. The number of MSUs earned shall be determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on our March 31, 2025 stock price and shall vest on that date. In 2021, MSU awards were awarded in the following amounts to our NEOs, with the number of shares determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on the grant date: Mr. Felenstein: $206,000; and Mr. Byus: $141,631. The awards were granted on March 31, 2022, with the award amount determined based upon the closing price of our common stock on March 31, 2022, which was $15.08.
(5)Represents PSUs in an amount equal to the maximum possible awards available on December 31, 2023 under our 2021 long-term incentive compensation plan based on performance during 2023 through 2025. For additional information, see “Compensation Discussion and Analysis.”

Option Exercises and Stock Vested in 2023

The following table sets forth information about option exercises and restricted stock vesting for our NEOs in 2023.

Option Awards · Stock Awards
Name · Number of Shares Acquired on Exercise (#) · Value Realized on Exercise ($) · Number of Shares Acquired on Vesting (#) · Value Realized on Vesting ($)(1)
Mr. Lindblad-$-45,024$325,432
Mr. Berle-$-18,046$59,664
Mr. Felenstein-$-33,565$227,772
Mr. Brodsky-$-7,617$72,207
Mr. Byus-$-19,640$187,755
-$-123,891$872,829
(1)The amounts in this column represent the aggregate market value of the shares of common stock acquired upon vesting based on the closing price on the applicable vesting date or, if the market was closed on the vesting date, the last trading day that immediately preceded the vesting date.

Agreements with Executive Officers

We have entered into agreements with certain of our executive officers as follows:

Dean (Trey) Byus III. On September 4, 2018, we entered into an amendment to the employment agreement with Mr. Byus, which (i) extended the term of the employment agreement until March 31, 2020, with automatic twelve-month renewal periods thereafter unless either party provides prior notice of non-renewal; (ii) provides for an annual target cash bonus equal to 75% of his base salary in 2018 (subject to adjustment by the Company’s Compensation Committee in future periods provided that such target cash bonus amount shall not be reduced to less than 65% of his base salary) and (iii) provides for participation in the Company’s equity incentive plans with the expectation that he will receive an annual equity award targeted at 100% of his base salary.

If we were to terminate Mr. Byus’s employment without “cause” (which includes our non-extension of the term) or if he were to resign for good “reason” (each a “Qualifying Termination”), Mr. Byus will be entitled to, subject to his signing and not revoking a general release of claims, (i) severance payments equal to one times the sum of annual base salary plus average annual bonus over the preceding three-year period, payable over a 12 month period in accordance with our customary payroll practices; (ii) a pro-rated bonus for the year of termination (based on actual performance for the fiscal year) and (iii) COBRA continuation coverage for 12 months after the termination date.

If a Qualifying Termination occurs within one year after a change in control, or while we are party to a definitive agreement the consummation of which would result in a change in control, the employment agreement provides that the executive will be entitled to, subject to his signing and not revoking a general release of claims and in lieu of the amounts above, (i) severance payments equal to two times the sum of annual base salary plus target annual bonus amount, payable over a 24-month period in accordance with our customary payroll practices; (ii) a pro-rated bonus for the year of termination (based on our actual performance for the fiscal year) and (iii) COBRA continuation coverage for 24 months after the termination date.

The employment agreement contains mutual non-disparagement and customary confidentiality and assignment of inventions provisions. In addition, for 24 months following termination, the employment agreement prohibits Mr. Byus from competing with our business worldwide (except for providing services to a conglomerate that competes with us if the executive is not directly involved with the competitive division or line) and from soliciting our employees, independent contractors, customers, suppliers and similar counterparties.

“Cause” is defined to mean, subject to us providing timely notice and the right to cure, (i) willful misconduct and mismanagement that is materially injurious to us; (ii) refusal in any material respect to carry out or comply with any lawful and reasonable directive of our Board of Directors consistent with the terms of the employment agreement; (iii) conviction, plea of no contest, or plea of nolo contendere for any felony; (iv) unlawful use (including being under the influence) or possession of illegal drugs on our (or any of our subsidiaries’) premises while performing duties and responsibilities under the employment agreement; (v) commission of an act of fraud, embezzlement, willful misappropriation, willful misconduct, or breach of fiduciary duty, in any case that results in material harm to us or any of our affiliates; (vi) material violation of any provision of the employment agreement or material written policy; or (vii) willful or prolonged, and unexcused, absence from work (other than by reason of disability due to physical or mental illness). Action or inaction is only “willful” if done or omitted without the good faith belief that such action or inaction is in our best interests.

“Good reason” is defined to mean (i) a material diminution in base compensation, the budget that Mr. Byus oversees, or his authority, duties or responsibilities (including reporting relationships); (ii) a material change in geographic location where Mr. Byus must perform services; or (iii) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach of the employment agreement.

Craig I. Felenstein. In connection with his appointment as Chief Financial Officer, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Felenstein for an initial term of four years, pursuant to which he was provided with the following compensation arrangements: (i) an initial annual base salary of $400,000; (ii) an annual bonus opportunity through an incentive bonus program established by our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee, with bonuses to be targeted at 75% of annual base salary; (iii) an annual equity incentive award to be targeted at 100% of annual base salary; (iv) a grant of 40,000 restricted shares of our common stock vesting annually pro rata over a four-year period; and (v) a grant of stock options to purchase 200,000 shares of our common stock vesting annually pro rata over a four-year period; provided, however, that (a) if Mr. Felenstein’s employment terminates due to death, disability or without cause or due to his resignation for good reason prior to the fourth anniversary of the effective date of the agreement, the portion of the restricted shares and the shares subject to the stock option scheduled to vest on the next regular anniversary vesting date shall vest; (b) upon a “change in control” (as defined in our Long-Term Incentive Plans), the value of any unvested restricted shares will be retained in Mr. Felenstein’s favor under comparable terms as he had prior to such change in control (which retention may be in the form of stock and/or cash); and (c) if Mr. Felenstein’s employment terminates without cause or due to his resignation for good reason within one year after a change in control, 100% of the restricted shares and the shares subject to the stock option (to the extent outstanding following such transaction) shall vest.

In addition, if Mr. Felenstein’s employment is terminated without cause or due to his resignation for good reason, he will be entitled to continuation of his annual base salary and payment or reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a twelve-month period if such termination occurs on or after the three-year anniversary of the effective date. Upon such termination or his death or disability, Mr. Felenstein will also be entitled to a pro-rated portion of any annual bonus for the year of termination. To receive these severance payments and benefits, Mr. Felenstein must execute a general release of claims. Mr. Felenstein will also be prohibited from competing with the Company or soliciting the Company’s employees, customers or suppliers for a period of two years following his termination of employment. The definition of “cause” and “good reason” are the same as set forth above for Mr. Byus.

Noah Brodsky. In connection with his appointment as Chief Commercial Officer, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Brodsky for an initial term through May 31, 2026, which renews automatically annually, pursuant to which he was provided with the following compensation arrangements: (i) an initial annual base salary of $400,000; (ii) an annual bonus opportunity through an incentive bonus program established by our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee, with bonuses to be targeted at 75% of annual base salary; (iii) an annual equity incentive award to be targeted at 100% of annual base salary; (iv) a grant valued at $1.75 million, 75% of which will be issued in options and 25% of which will be issued in Restricted Stock Units, each vesting annually pro rata over a four-year period commencing on the Effective Date under the Company’s 2021 LTIP; provided, however, that if Mr. Brodsky’s employment terminates without cause or due to his resignation for good reason within one year after a change in control, 100% of the restricted shares and the shares subject to the stock option (to the extent outstanding following such transaction) shall vest.

In addition, if Mr. Brodsky’s employment is terminated without cause or due to his resignation for good reason, he will be entitled to continuation of his annual base salary and payment or reimbursement of COBRA premiums for a twelve-month period. Upon such termination or his death or disability, Mr. Brodsky will also be entitled to a pro-rated portion of any annual bonus for the year of termination. To receive these severance payments and benefits, Mr. Brodsky must execute a general release of claims. Mr. Brodsky will also be prohibited from competing with the Company or soliciting the Company’s employees, customers or suppliers for a period of two years following his termination of employment. The definition of “cause” and “good reason” are the same as set forth above for Mr. Byus.

***Benjamin L. Bressler.***In connection with the acquisition of Natural Habitat, we entered into an employment agreement with Mr. Bressler, amended May 2020 and December 2022, for a term extended through December 31, 2025, pursuant to which he was provided with the following compensation arrangements: (i) an initial annual base salary of $200,000; (ii) an annual cash bonus opportunity equal to 10% of Natural Habitat’s net profits (after giving effect to accrual or payment of such bonus) (the “Net Profit Bonus”); (iii) an equity incentive opportunity to earn an award of options based on the future financial performance of Natural Habitat. Specifically, as soon as practicable after December 31, 2025, we will calculate the Final Year Equity Value of Natural Habitat (as defined in the employment agreement) and if it exceeds $25 million, effective as of December 31, 2025, subject to his continued employment through that date, Mr. Bressler will be granted a number of options that will have a fair value (generally determined in accordance with applicable accounting standards) equal to 10.1% of such excess, with a one-time 50% early election as of December 31, 2023. Any such options will have a per-share exercise price equal to the fair market value of our common stock on the grant date and will be fully vested and exercisable as of the grant date. If our Board of Directors reasonably determines that issuing options would violate any applicable law or regulation or any applicable securities exchange listing standards or other requirements or the terms and conditions of our equity incentive plan then in effect, we may instead settle the equity incentive opportunity with a lump-sum cash payment equal to 10.1% of such excess; (iv) a managed business value equity incentive opportunity where Mr. Bressler shall also have an opportunity to earn a stock or cash award based on the future financial performance of the managed businesses; and (v) be eligible to participate in and may receive additional awards under any of Parent’s equity incentive award plans and programs as in effect from time to time, such awards will include an annual restricted stock unit award opportunity with a target annual award value of $100,000, which may be earned based on the business performance of the Managed Businesses. In addition, in the event Natural Habitat makes any dividend payment or other distribution to its stockholders during the period beginning on the closing date of the acquisition of Natural Habitat and ending on December 31, 2023, upon the occurrence of such dividend payment or other distribution, Mr. Bressler will be entitled to receive a supplementary compensatory cash payment equal to 10.1% of the aggregate dividend or distribution payment amount, subject to his continued employment through the date of payment.

The employment agreement also provides that, upon the termination of Mr. Bressler’s employment due to death or disability, subject to his signing and not revoking a general release of claims, he will be entitled to (i) a pro-rated portion of any Net Profit Bonus for the year of termination (based on Natural Habitat’s actual net profits for such year) and (ii) if such termination occurs prior to December 31, 2025, a lump sum cash payment equal to 10.1% of the Final Year Equity Value of Natural Habitat (determined in this circumstance as of the last day of the calendar quarter ending prior to the termination date) over $25.0 million (the “Equity Opportunity Payout”). The employment agreement also provides that, upon the termination of Mr. Bressler’s employment without cause or his resignation of employment for good reason, subject to his signing and not revoking a general release of claims, he will be entitled to (i) severance payments equal to one times his annual base salary, (ii) any Net Profit Bonus for the year of termination (based on Natural Habitat’s actual net profits for such year) and (iii) if such termination occurs prior to December 31, 2025, the Equity Opportunity Payout.

The employment agreement contains confidentiality and assignment of inventions provisions for the benefit of us, Natural Habitat and their direct and indirect subsidiaries and prohibits Mr. Bressler from competing with, or soliciting the employees of, us, Natural Habitat and their direct and indirect subsidiaries, for a period of two years following his termination.

In addition, Mr. Bressler’s remaining 19.9% ownership interest in Natural Habitat is subject to an arrangement providing for put/call rights that generally cannot be exercised, with certain exceptions, until 2025.

“Cause” is defined in the employment agreements to mean, subject to us providing timely notice and the right to cure, (i) willful misconduct and mismanagement that is materially injurious to Natural Habitat; (ii) refusal in any material respect to carry out or comply with any lawful and reasonable directive of the Natural Habitat Board of Directors or our Board of Directors consistent with the terms of the employment agreement; (iii) conviction, plea of no contest, or plea of nolo contendere for any felony; (iv) unlawful use (including being under the influence) or possession of illegal drugs on our (or any of our subsidiaries’) premises while performing executive’s duties and responsibilities under the employment agreement; (v) commission of an act of fraud, embezzlement, willful misappropriation, willful misconduct, or breach of fiduciary duty, in any case that results in material harm to us or any of our affiliates; (vi) material violation of any provision of the employment agreement or material written policy; or (vii) willful or prolonged, and unexcused, absence from work (other than by reason of disability due to physical or mental illness). Action or inaction is only “willful” if done or omitted without the good faith belief that such action or inaction is in the best interests of Natural Habitat.

“Good reason” is defined in the employment agreement to mean (i) a material diminution in base compensation or the formula for determining Net Profit Bonus from the highest level in effect during the term, the budget that Mr. Bressler oversees, or his authority, duties or responsibilities (including reporting relationships); (ii) a material change in geographic location where he must perform services; or (iii) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach of the employment agreement.

Estimated Additional Compensation Triggered by Termination of Employment if Terminated on the Last Business Day of 2023

The following table illustrates the additional compensation that we estimate would be payable to each of our NEOs on termination of employment under each of the circumstances described above, assuming the termination occurred on December 31, 2023. The amounts shown are estimates and do not necessarily reflect the actual amounts that these individuals would receive on termination of employment.

Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason Without a Change in Control:
Name · Cash · Equity · Perquisites/ Benefits · Total
Mr. Lindblad$-$1,203,771(3)$-$1,203,771
Mr. Felenstein$790,095(1)$293,257(4)$31,168(6)$1,114,520
Mr. Brodsky$750,404(1)$522,773(5)$31,168(6)$1,304,345
Mr. Byus$811,056(2)$-$31,168(6)$842,224
Mr. Bressler$31,938,368(12)$-$46,752(7)$31,985,120
Termination Without Cause or for Good Reason in connection with a Change in Control:
NameCashEquityPerquisites/ BenefitsTotal
Mr. Lindblad$-$1,203,771(10)$-$1,203,771
Mr. Felenstein$790,095(1)$479,907(9)$31,168(6)$1,301,170
Mr. Brodsky$750,404(1)$522,773(10)$31,168(6)$1,304,345
Mr. Byus$1,425,103(8)$-$62,336(11)$1,487,439
Mr. Bressler$31,938,368(12)$-$46,752(7)$31,985,120
(1)Amount represents twelve months of annual salary and the annual bonus amount actually paid for the 2023 fiscal year.
(2)Amount represents the sum of (i) one times annual base salary; (ii) average annual bonus for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021; and (iii) the annual bonus amount actually paid for the 2023 fiscal year.
(3)Amount shown represents (a) the product of (i) the number of shares underlying all unvested stock options and (ii) the excess, if any, of the closing price per share of our common stock on December 29, 2023 of $11.27 and the exercise price per share of such options, plus (b) the market value of 27% of the unvested RSUs at the December 29, 2023 closing share price of $11.27.
(4)Amount shown represents (a) the product of (i) the number of shares underlying all unvested stock options and (ii) the excess, if any, of the closing price per share of our common stock on December 29, 2022 of $7.70 and the exercise price per share of such options, plus (b) the market value of 40% of the unvested RSUs at the December 29, 2023 closing share price of $11.27.
(5)Amounts represents the product of (i) the number of shares underlying all unvested stock options and (ii) the excess, if any, of the closing price per share of our common stock on December 29, 2023 of $11.27 and the exercise price per share of such options.
(6)Amount represents the value of COBRA continuation coverage for a period of 12 months.
(7)Amount represents the value of COBRA continuation coverage for a period of 18 months.
(8)Amount represents the sum of (i) two times the sum of annual base salary and target bonus; and (ii) the annual bonus amount actually paid for the 2023 fiscal year.
(9)Amount shown represents the sum of the market value of 100% of the unvested RSUs at the December 29, 2023 closing share price of $11.27.
(10)Amount shown represents the product of (i) the number of shares underlying all unvested stock options and (ii) the excess, if any, of the closing price per share of our common stock on December 29, 2023 closing share price of $11.27 and the exercise price per share of such options.
(11)Amount represents the value of COBRA continuation coverage for a period of 24 months.
(12)Amount represents the sum of (i) annual base salary, (ii) the annual bonus amount actually paid for the 2023 fiscal year and (iii) Company Value Increase amount as defined per the employment acquisition agreement.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

During the last fiscal year, no member of our Compensation Committee served as one of our employees. No member of our Compensation Committee entered into a related party transaction with us during fiscal year 2023; however, Mr. Fahey's daughter was employed by us during 2023. See Item 13 herein for additional information.

No interlocking relationships exist between our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee and the board of directors or the Compensation Committee of any other entity. None of our executive officers serves, or in the past year has served, as a member of the board of directors or compensation committee of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving on our Board of Directors or our Compensation Committee.

Compensation Committee Report

Our Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed the “Compensation Discussion and Analysis” contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K with management. Based on our Compensation Committee’s review and discussions with management, our Compensation Committee recommended to our Board of Directors that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

John M. Fahey (Chair)

Elliott Bisnow

L. Dyson Dryden

Mark D. Ein

Catherine B. Reynolds

Director Compensation

Our non-employee director compensation includes annual cash fees of $55,000 for each non-employee director, additional $40,000 of cash compensation for the Chair of the Board, additional cash compensation for chair of board committees ($15,000 for the Audit Committee Chair and $10,000 for the Chairs of the other committees), and an annual grant of $85,000 in shares of restricted stock. Our 2023 annual restricted stock grant was made in August 2023, with the awards resulting in 8,276 restricted shares per director that vest in August 2024, subject to continued service with us. We have also established a deferred compensation program for our non-employee directors to elect to defer receipt of their director compensation or to elect to receive shares of the Company’s common stock in lieu of cash compensation.

In order to increase their knowledge and understanding of our business and the related challenges that the business faces, we encourage our non-employee Board members and their families to experience our expeditions. Under the Directors Expedition Policy, a Board member is entitled to take one expedition every calendar year with no cost to the director. Each expedition the director participates in must be on a different vessel and must be a different itinerary than they have taken in the past. The director’s family, at the cost to the director including airfare, may accompany the director on the expedition. Each of the director’s family members will be charged a rate equal to the Company’s cost for the expedition, plus airfare, subject to certain exceptions.

Director Compensation for 2023

Name · Fees Earned or Paid in Cash · Option Awards · Stock Awards(1) · All Other Compensation · Total
Mr. Aronson (2)$-$-$148,253$-$148,253
Mr. Bisnow$55,000$-$93,271$-$148,271
Mr. Dryden (3)$70,000$-$93,271$-$163,271
Mr. Ein (2) (4)$-$-$198,247$-$198,247
Mr. Fahey (5)$65,000$-$93,271$-$158,271
Mr. Lindblad (6)$47,500$-$-$-$47,500
Ms. Reynolds$55,000$-$93,271$-$148,271
Mr. Schultz$55,000$-$93,271$-$148,271
Mr. Smith$55,000$-$93,271$-$148,271
(1)In accordance with SEC rules, the amounts shown reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of stock awards granted to non-employee Directors during 2023, computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 (“FASB ASC 718”). The grant date fair value is measured based on the closing fair market value of our common stock on the date of grant.
(2)Mr. Aronson and Mr. Ein elected stock-based compensation in lieu of cash for 2023, resulting in awards totaling 5,830 and 11,131 shares, respectively.
(3)Mr. Dryden earned additional compensation of $15,000 for serving as the Chairperson of the Audit Committee during 2023.
(4)Mr. Ein earned additional compensation of $40,000 for serving as the Chairperson of the Board of Directors and $10,000 for serving as the Chairperson of the Nominating Committee during 2023.
(5)Mr. Fahey earned additional compensation of $10,000 for serving as the Chairperson of the Compensation Committee during 2023.
(6)Represents director fees paid to Mr. Lindblad prior to becoming our Chief Executive Officer.
ContentsView on SEC.gov

The text of this filing, as the company filed it with the SEC, without its images or exhibits. This is not investment advice.