For the first half of 2025 (January–June), sales fell 1.5% to EUR 215.8 million from EUR 219.1 million, with operating income dropping to a loss of EUR 11.2 million compared to a EUR 4.3 million loss in 2024. The decline was primarily due to planned dockings of vessels GABRIELLA and VIKING XPRS, which reduced passenger numbers. Income before taxes deteriorated to a loss of EUR 17.2 million from EUR 12.4 million. However, cargo revenue grew by 6.1% to EUR 26.7 million, and freight volumes increased to 71,324 units, lifting market share to 19.5% from 16.8%.

President and CEO Jan Hanses noted that the first half was weighed down by dockings and a challenging market, but demand is expected to strengthen in July and August. Autumn remains uncertain due to economic and geopolitical factors, including rising energy costs and higher fairway dues in Finland. The EU Emissions Trading System, now 70% implemented, and upcoming environmental regulations add to cost pressures, with alternative fuels still scarce.

Investments totalled EUR 12.4 million, mainly for GABRIELLA and VIKING XPRS, down from EUR 15.4 million in 2024. The company repaid EUR 1.1 million in pandemic-era traffic subsidies, with further repayments possible. On 14 August, the Board approved a second dividend instalment of EUR 0.50 per share, totalling EUR 8.6 million, payable on 25 August.

Passenger numbers fell 2.8% to 2,003,861, but Viking Line held a 31.6% market share in its region. The joint venture Gotland Alandia Cruises faced similar market difficulties but is expected to follow the wider recovery trend. The Board predicts 2025 pre-tax profits will match 2024, despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

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