This year saw the launch of intra-Baltic cruises on board Birka Gotland, which attracted 296,085 travellers since spring.
Viking Line's fleet also transported 98,779 ro-ro cargo units, up 5.6% on the January-September 2023 result.
"As usual, the third quarter has been crucial for the company's earnings. However, the consumer caution that characterized the two previous quarters has continued. The Finnish economy is slowly recovering, with continued low inflation, but so far this has not been reflected in consumer behaviour. The weak Swedish krona has continued to erode purchasing power in the Swedish market. Third quarter results were somewhat worse than for the same period in 2023, with September in particular showing a weakening," explained Jan Hanses, Viking Line's President and CEO.
He also highlighted, "The launch of service for Gotland Alandia Cruises has entailed additional one-off costs, and occupancy rates on the vessel Birka Gotland during the period up to June did not correspond to our expectations. Occupancy rates improved during the summer and are expected to remain at a good level during the autumn."