The passenger side saw a decrease of 69.4% year-on-year in the number of travellers (1,927,302) boarding the company's ferries (of which only four out of seven were employed in regular traffic last year).

"In maritime transport, the COVID-19 pandemic has hit passenger transport hardest. Our staff's engagement and loyalty have been admirable, and their great efforts during this difficult time are greatly appreciated. Viking Line will come out of this stronger," Jan Hanses, CEO, Viking Line.

He continues, "We are now preparing for the time that will come after the pandemic and look forward to countries reopening soon thanks to the vaccines now being rolled out. It is important that the vaccination process is carried out quickly and efficiently in the countries we serve so that restrictions can be safely lifted again."

"On January 26, we will celebrate the launch of our new vessel, Viking Glory. We will take delivery in late autumn 2021. The vessel will be unique and beautiful - both inside and out. We are already seeing enormous interest in the vessel, and we are happy about this. It gives us faith in the future," Hanses summed up.