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Mar 06
3

ICG / Irish Ferries Reports Strong 2025 Results

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Irish Continental Group (ICG) reported

  • Revenue of €666.7 million (+10.4%)
  • Operating profit €85.6 million (+23.9%)
  • EBITDA reached €150.6 million (+12.8%)

The Irish Ferries division reported

  • Revenue €465.5 million (+7.4%)
  • Operating profit €65.2 million (+19.9%)
  • EBITDA €120.7 million (+9.9%)
  • Traffic figures: 2.99 million passengers (-2.5%), 679,700 cars (-3.9%), and 816,700 RoRo freight units (+6.5%).
  • The group took delivery of the cruise ferry JAMES JOYCE and is moving towards full ownership of its ferry fleet, enhancing operational flexibility.

ICG estimates that the overall car market, on the routes that they operate (Republic of Ireland to UK/France and the Dover Straits), grew by approximately 0.7% in 2025 to 4,722,600 cars. While encouraging, this level of car carryings is still 13.0% behind 2019 levels.

Irish Ferries’ car carryings decrease is primarily due to the reduction of a ship on the Dover – Calais route.

The total sea passenger market (i.e. comprising car, coach and foot passengers on the Republic of Ireland to UK/France and the Dover Straits) decreased by 1.0% on 2025 to a total of 19.0 million passengers. Irish Ferries’ passenger numbers carried decreased by 2.5% at 2,985,500 (2024: 3,062,200).

The RoRo freight market grew marginally between the Republic of Ireland to the UK and France and the Dover Straits, but the market remains 16.3% below 2019 levels.

Irish Ferries’ increased freight carryings over market performance were primarily driven by further market share on the Dover – Calais route.

Source: Irish Continental Group

Mar 06
3

Kontrari and West Coast Invest Take Full Ownership of Fjord Line

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Kontrari and West Coast Invest have acquired Ferd’s stake in Fjord Line and are now the sole owners of the Norwegian ferry company, each holding a 50% share.

Fjord Line is Norway’s second-largest international ferry operator, carrying around 1 million passengers annually. The company operates routes between Norway and Denmark, with daily sailings from Bergen and Stavanger to Hirtshals and from Kristiansand to Hirtshals.

The transaction includes a capital injection that strengthens the company’s financial flexibility and supports its long-term development.

Kontrari and Ferd had been majority owners since 2015, with West Coast Invest joining in 2023. During this period, Fjord Line invested heavily in modernisation and sustainability. The high-speed catamaran FJORD FSTR was introduced on the Kristiansand–Hirtshals route, while cruise ferries STAVANGERFJORD and BERGENSFJORD—pioneers as LNG-powered vessels—were further upgraded with dual-fuel engines.

Ferd exits the company after ten years as an active co-owner. The parties have not disclosed the transaction value.

Source: https://kommunikasjon.ntb.no/pressemelding/18818309/fjord-line-unites-under-norwegian-ownership

Mar 06
3

Finnlines Reports Stable 2025 Results

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Key figures (2025)

  • Revenue: EUR 713.5 million (2024: EUR 699.3 million)
  • EBIT: EUR 79.4 million (2024: EUR 70.6 million)
  • Net profit: EUR 67.2 million (2024: EUR 44.6 million)
  • 2024 results included gains from the sale of five vessels

Traffic volumes

  • 788,000 cargo units transported
  • 71,000 cars (excluding passengers’ cars)
  • 1 million tonnes of non-unitised freight
  • More than 1 million passengers and professional drivers

Operations and network

  • Continued fleet optimisation and focus on route profitability
  • Strengthened position in the Baltic Sea and North Sea markets
  • Added a weekly departure from Gdynia to the North Sea–Biscay route, connecting Poland more directly to the Grimaldi network

Sustainability and fleet development

  • Fleet carbon intensity reduced by 14% compared with 2024
  • 40% emissions reduction target for 2030 (vs 2008 baseline) already achieved
  • Three methanol-ready RoPax vessels ordered, to enter service 2028–2029

CEO comments

  • CEO Thomas Doepel described 2025 as a stable financial year with a strong financial position.
  • The company continued to develop services, optimise its fleet and strengthen profitability.
  • Despite regulatory uncertainty around shipping’s green transition, Finnlines remains committed to its environmental targets and long-term investments in low-emission vessels.

Sources:

Finnlines’ Financial statements 2025, PDF

Finnlines’ Financial review January–December 2025, PDF

Mar 06
3

Eckerö Reports Record Results and Strong Volume Growth In 2025

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Rederiaktiebolaget Eckerö delivered its best operating result ever in 2025, supported by record cargo volumes and steady passenger growth.

Interim-Accounts-31.12.2025 – Key points:

  • Cargo volumes reached a record 210,598 units, +11%, driven mainly by strong Finland–Estonia demand.
  • Passengers +2% (3,191,322), also the highest annual figure recorded by the company.
  • Revenue +5% EUR 234.8 million, reflecting higher volumes and more departures during the year.
  • Operating result improved to EUR 25.6 million, the strongest in company history.
  • Net result reached EUR 18.8 million, the second-best annual result for the group.
  • Cargo market share on the Finland–Estonia route 46%, up from 40% in 2024.
  • Passenger market share on the same route remained stable at 28%.
  • The company maintained a strong balance sheet, ending the year with net debt of -EUR 19.0 million, meaning cash exceeded interest-bearing liabilities.

Strategic Developments

  • The group acquired SAILOR from Tallink Grupp and renamed it FJÄRDVÄGEN. The vessel entered service on 2 January 2026 on the Långnäs–Naantali route under subsidiary Eckerö Link Ab.
  • The previous FJÄRDVÄGEN has been withdrawn and is held for sale.
  • The company also sold its last RoRo vessel TRANSPORTER in November 2025.

Outlook

For 2026, the company expects a stable financial result, although geopolitical uncertainty and the ongoing audit of pandemic traffic support could affect future performance.

Source: Interim-Accounts-31.12.2025

Mar 06
3

Brittany Ferries Signs Charter for NORBAY on Cherbourg–Rosslare Route

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Brittany Ferries signed a one-year charter agreement on 5 March to deploy the freight ferry NORBAY on the Cherbourg–Rosslare route. The contract includes an option for a second year.

The route became available after Stena Line exited the market at the end of September. Earlier, in early August, Brittany Ferries secured access to linkspans at both ports following a competitive process involving DFDS and another Irish operator.

The deployment of NORBAY provides Brittany Ferries with additional freight capacity on a route that has gained importance since post-Brexit direct links between Ireland and continental Europe expanded.

Mar 06
3

Changes in the Corsica Ferry Scene Ahead

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

RoPax KALLISTE of La Méridionale, which the CMA CGM Group had initially planned to scrap, will instead be acquired by Corsica linea. Remember that the unions went on strike to protest against the scrapping plans.

After half a year of lay up, KALLISTE will go to drydock in Marseille to be repainted (from blue to red) and to be ready for the season as from mid-April.

FSN also understands (unconfirmed) that Corsica linea is also expected to charter MASSALIA (former NORMANDIE), and that the CMA CGM Group, —owner of La Méridionale—, is looking to sell one of the ferries under construction.

Photo JP Fabre

Mar 06
3

Scottish Government Plans Direct Awards for Four Vessels at Ferguson Marine

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

The Scottish Government has announced plans to directly award contracts for four new vessels to the publicly owned Ferguson Marine shipyard on the Clyde, aiming to secure the yard’s future and strengthen domestic shipbuilding.

The proposed programme includes:

  • Two small ferries under Phase 2 of the Small Vessel Replacement Programme
  • A replacement for the marine research vessel SCOTIA
  • A replacement for the fisheries protection vessel MINNA

The vessels would be built at the Port Glasgow yard, subject to a due diligence process assessing the viability of the plan.

According to the government, the contracts match the yard’s current capabilities and would occupy most of its capacity for the next five years, while still allowing Ferguson Marine to pursue additional commercial work.

Scottish Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop also confirmed that the replacement of the CalMac ferry LORD OF THE ISLES will not be directly awarded. Instead, it will go through a competitive tendering process.

Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes described the announcement as a significant step for the future of the yard, stating that the programme could secure a pipeline of work while allowing Ferguson Marine to proceed with modernisation plans and compete for further orders.

The proposals remain subject to detailed due diligence by the Scottish Government and may be referred to the Competition and Markets Authority under the UK Subsidy Control Act.

If approved, the programme would also unlock the remaining GBP 14.2 million previously committed by the Scottish Government for yard upgrades aimed at improving productivity and streamlining production.

Sources:

https://www.gov.scot/news/investing-in-ferguson-marine/

https://www.fergusonmarine.com/news/ferguson-marine-secured-four-vessel-direct-award/

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9v0x2ld43po

Mar 06
3

Baleària Expands High-Speed Fleet with Trimaran

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments
  • Baleària has acquired a 102-metre high-speed trimaran to strengthen its fast ferry fleet.
  • The vessel, to be renamed PEPA CASTELLVÍ, was built by Austal and can carry 870 passengers and 250 vehicles, with 190 lane metres for freight and a top speed of 35 knots.
  • Previously operated by Condor Ferries, the former CONDOR LIBERATION will undergo technical works and a refit in Algeciras.
  • Entry into service is expected in summer 2026, increasing Baleària’s high-speed capacity.
Mar 06
3

UECC Orders Two Smaller Eco-Friendly PCTCs

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

FSN normally does not cover PCTC (Pure Car and Truck Carrier) orders. However, this one is interesting because it focuses on smaller, flexible vessels designed for the European short-sea market.

Key points

  • 3,000 CEU capacity, significantly smaller than typical deep-sea PCTCs, making them suitable for regional trades.
  • Multi-fuel LNG engines with battery-hybrid systems, capable of running on liquefied biomethane (LBM).
  • Ballast-free design and aerodynamic hull aimed at reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
  • Enhanced safety architecture, with improved fire detection, monitoring and containment systems.
  • Nine-deck configuration with stronger and higher decks, allowing transport of larger high & heavy cargo and project cargo.
  • Shore power capability and real-time emissions monitoring.
  • Advanced digital systems to improve operational performance and lifecycle management.

The vessels will be built at China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Nanjing) and are scheduled for delivery in early 2028. UECC already has two larger 4,500 CEU vessels on order at the same yard.

Source: https://uecc.com/news/uecc-expands-fleet-with-fresh-order-for-eco-friendly-pctc-newbuild-pair-at-chinese-yard/

Mar 06
3

Wagenborg Names New Ferry HIDDEBORG

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments
  • Wagenborg has named its new (small) ferry HIDDEBORG, which will operate the fast connection between Ameland and the mainland.
  • The vessel was christened at Next Generation Shipyards in Lauwersoog by journalist Afke Boven.
  • Designed for the shallow Wadden Sea, the ferry features about 80 cm draught, waterjet propulsion and energy-efficient engines.
  • HIDDEBORG is expected to enter service in 2026, strengthening reliability on the Ameland route.

Source: Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten (in Dutch)

Mar 06
3

Three New Motorways of the Seas to Be Subsidised in Italy

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Three new Motorways of the Seas have been declared eligible for government funding under Italy’s Sea Modal Shift programme (formerly Marebonus).

Sea Modal Shift 3 new routes

The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport approved requests submitted by shipping companies for the following routes:

  • Savona – Palma de Mallorca (covered by GRIMALDI GROUP via Valencia)
  • Cagliari – Marina di Carrara (operated by GRENDI TRASPORTI MARITTIMI)
  • Gioia Tauro – Livorno, a brand-new link to be launched between the two Italian ports

The Sea Modal Shift incentive scheme, promoted by the Italian Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, supports combined road–sea transport.

Key elements include:

  • Eligible beneficiaries: road haulage companies, including temporary or permanent groupings, shipping vehicles and/or swap bodies (with or without drivers) on RoRo and RoPax vessels.
  • Eligible routes: those listed in Regulation No. 166/2023, plus additional routes proposed by applicants.
  • Subsidy: up to €0.30/km for each loaded vehicle unit, multiplied by the number of road kilometres avoided.
Mar 06
3

Scotland To Bring Ardrossan Harbour Into Public Ownership And Redevelop Port Ellen

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

The Scottish Government has announced a series of investments in ferry infrastructure, including the acquisition of Ardrossan Harbour and major redevelopment plans for Port Ellen.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport Fiona Hyslop told Parliament that negotiations and legal agreements for the purchase of Ardrossan Harbour have been successfully concluded. The harbour will be formally acquired by Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) later this month.

Bringing Ardrossan into public ownership is intended to secure its role as the main mainland port for CalMac services to Arran. According to the government, CMAL is already assessing short-term works to ensure resilient ferry operations while CALEDONIAN ISLES continues to operate from the port. The government also confirmed its commitment to funding a two-port service until major redevelopment works begin.

In addition, the Scottish Government has allocated more than GBP 107 million for the redevelopment of Port Ellen on Islay. The project will include new terminal facilities and an expanded marshalling area, aimed at increasing capacity and improving the passenger experience.

Source: https://www.transport.gov.scot/news/investment-in-ferries-and-ports/

Mar 06
3

SCA Reshapes RoRo Calls Between Umeå and Piteå to Cut Emissions and Improve Efficiency

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

SCA will reorganise its RoRo logistics from 1 October 2026, changing sailing patterns and port usage between Umeå and Piteå. The measures aim to improve efficiency and cut vessel emissions by about 40%.

Key port-related changes

  • Fewer RoRo departures from Umeå: services will drop from three to two sailings per week (one to Kiel, one to London/Rotterdam).
  • Lower sailing speeds of 11–12 knots (down from about 15 knots) combined with higher vessel load factors.
  • Piteå (Haraholmen) will become a regular call, allowing vessels to load production from SCA’s Munksund mill.
  • Around 550,000–600,000 tonnes per year from Munksund will shift to Piteå, making SCA one of the port’s largest customers.
  • The rail link between Munksund and Umeå will no longer be required.

Impact on ports

  • Piteå gains significant new volumes, alongside SCA’s existing 300,000 m³ of sawmill cargo.
  • Port operator ShoreLink expects to recruit around 20 additional staff to handle the increased activity.
  • Umeå will see a reduction of about 300,000–400,000 tonnes annually from Munksund cargo, although growing volumes linked to the Obbola paper mill will partly offset the decline.
Mar 06
3

Winter Weather Pushes EV Traffic on Molslinjen’s Kattegat Routes

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

Traffic patterns on Denmark’s domestic ferry network followed the usual winter trend in February 2026. Cold weather and snow reduced travel demand across most routes. Molslinjen reported slight traffic declines on all routes except the Kattegat crossings.

“The routes across the Kattegat stand out significantly. This time we believe we can thank the winter weather for the good numbers, somewhat unusually,” said Molslinjen’s Commercial Director, Lucas Kragh.

Cold temperatures appear to have boosted ferry demand among electric vehicle (EV) drivers. Low temperatures reduce battery range, encouraging drivers to limit road kilometres.

The share of EVs on MOLSLINJEN ferries rose sharply:

  • February 2025: 25.4%
  • February 2026: 34.0%

As a result, total traffic across the Kattegat increased 3.9% year-on-year in February.

At the end of January, Molslinjen commissioned eight new superchargers with 16 charging points at the Port of Aarhus. EV drivers can recharge while waiting for departure, reducing range concerns before continuing their journey across Zealand.

Molslinjen plans to install a similar number of charging stations at the Port of Odden. The new facilities are expected to enter service by the end of March 2026.

Mar 06
3

Viking Line Connects to Matkahuolto’s Matkat App

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments
  • Viking Line has become the first shipping company to integrate with Matkahuolto’s Matkat transport app.
  • Travellers can now book and pay for their entire journey in one place, combining local transport, coaches or rail with Viking Line sailings to Tallinn, Stockholm or Åland.
  • The app allows passengers to plan door-to-door journeys across Finland, comparing routes and timetables and purchasing all tickets in a single transaction.
  • The service aims to make public transport connections to ports easier and more sustainable for travellers.
Mar 06
3

Europe’s Ports Welcome EU Ports Strategy

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments

On 4 March, the European Commission launched its EU Ports Strategy, a 28-page framework outlining the future direction of Europe’s ports.

The European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) welcomed the document as a good starting point for further dialogue with EU institutions. The strategy recognises the growing complexity of ports, which must combine their role as competitive trade hubs with public service responsibilities supporting Europe’s economic resilience.

ESPO particularly welcomed:

  • The focus on maintaining the global competitiveness of European ports
  • The intention to review the impact of EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime
  • Recognition of the major investment needs in ports and their industrial clusters
  • Efforts to accelerate permitting procedures
  • The proposal for a high-level EU Ports Board
  • Plans for a cybersecurity forum linking ports, Member States, and the Commission

At the same time, ESPO warned against adding extra sector-specific regulatory layers or increasing reporting obligations for ports.

The organisation also called for further dialogue on shipping decarbonisation, the evolution of bunkering markets, and the role ports should play in the energy transition.

Mar 06
3

Interferry Welcomes EU Industrial Maritime Strategy

By | 2026 Newsletter week 10 | No Comments
  • Interferry supports the European Commission’s Industrial Maritime Strategy, which recognises the strategic role of ferries in Europe.
  • The association particularly welcomes the proposal to reinvest EU ETS revenues into maritime decarbonisation.
  • Shipping’s annual financing needs for fleet decarbonisation are estimated at EUR 2.4–8.5 billion, while ETS collections could reach about EUR 10 billion per year.
  • Interferry stresses that funds should support practical measures for the existing fleet, including shore power, electrification and alternative fuels.
  • The organisation also backs efforts to reduce administrative burdens and avoid double payments once a global IMO measure is in place.

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