Hurtigruten earnings jump 60% amid rising bookings

Hurtigruten has reported a sharp increase in earnings on the back of rising demand for its cruises along the Norwegian coast, with first-half profits (EBITDA) climbing 60% year-on-year to €43 million (AED184.7 million).

 

Revenues grew 14% to €250 million, while occupancy rates improved from 66% to 70%.

 

The stronger financial performance is underpinned by a solid booking trend. 

 

Reservations for 2025 are up 11% compared to the same time last year, while early sales for 2026 are running 12% ahead of last year’s forward booking levels, signalling a buoyant outlook for the Norwegian coastal operator.

 

Such rising demand has prompted Hurtigruten to double capacity on its Svalbard Line, introducing a second ship for the regular Bergen–Longyearbyen sailings starting summer 2026. 

 

The financial results come after a major restructuring earlier this year that saw Hurtigruten streamline its operations and split from its sister expedition cruise brand HX.

 

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The “new” Hurtigruten now focuses exclusively on voyages along Norway’s coastline and land-based tourism in Svalbard, with a fleet of 10 ships in service.

 

CEO Hedda Felin said the stronger performance reflected the company’s sharper focus and brand positioning. 

 

“This growth is a testament to the successful establishment of the new Hurtigruten, which now solely serves the Norwegian coast and Svalbard,” she said. 

 

“Our commitment to providing the iconic experience of Norway has resonated with our guests, and we are excited about the future as we continue to see strong demand.”

 

The company also used the first half of 2025 to strengthen its balance sheet, Book equity now stands at €85 million (AED365 million), while €411 million (AED480) in term loans are not due until 2030. At mid-year, Hurtigruten held cash reserves of €112 million.

 

For more information, visit www.cruisexplore.com and Hurtigruten’s B2B Agent Portal at www.agentportal.hurtigruten.com and www.hurtigruten.com/en. For travel trade enquires, visit www.connectingtravel.com/cruise-hub/hurtigruten or contact Carla Hines, Head of Sales Emerging Markets on +44 (0) 7826 912 426 or carla.hines@hurtigruten.com