Press release -
Hurtigruten Reports Strong Growth in Guest Numbers and Financial Results
Hurtigruten Group is pleased to announce a strong operational result and solid revenue growth for the first half of 2025.
Following the successful restructuring of the company earlier this year - including the split from cruise expedition company HX - Hurtigruten now operates 10 ships along the Norwegian coast as well as land-based tour operations in Svalbard. The financial results Hurtigruten reports today are the first as a standalone company since the split.
During the first half of 2025 (H1), the EBITDA increased by 60 percent, from EUR 27 million to EUR 43 million compared to the same period the previous year. The total revenue increased by 14 percent to EUR 250 million. Occupancy rates also saw a rise, from 66 percent in H1 2024 to 70 percent in H1 2025.
“This growth is a testament to the successful establishment of the 'new' Hurtigruten, which now solely serves the Norwegian coast and Svalbard. 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,” said CEO Hedda Felin.
“We would like to thank our guests for choosing Hurtigruten, our partners for their collaboration, and our dedicated employees for their commitment. Together, we are setting new standards in the travel industry and creating unforgettable journeys through Norway's breathtaking landscapes in a time where more sustainable destinations become increasingly popular,” Felin added.
Well positioned to meet strong demand
Looking ahead, Hurtigruten Group expects continued growth in EBITDA and occupancy rates, reflecting strong demand and positive booking trends. As of August 26, Hurtigruten’s booked ticket sales for the full current year are up by 11 percent compared to the same time in 2024. Similarly, Hurtigruten’s booked ticket sales for 2026 are up by 12 percent compared to the year ahead bookings at the same time last year.
During the first half of 2025 Hurtigruten restructured and significantly strengthened its balance sheet. The book equity now stands at EUR 85 million and the Company’s EUR 411 million term loans matures in 2030. The Group’s total cash position was EUR 112 million at the end of the first half of 2025.
Reducing environmental impact
As a part of Hurtigruten’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint, the company is continuously looking at ways to modernize the fleet. During the first half of 2025, MS Nordlys completed a significant upgrade to battery-hybrid propulsion, making it the fourth Hurtigruten ship to run on hybrid power. In addition, Hurtigruten reduced its Scope 1 emissions per guest by 9%, and significantly reduced SOx emissions by 45% (2024 figures compared to 2023).
Topics
Since 1893, Hurtigruten has connected Norway’s coastal communities. They transport locals, cargo, and international guests to 34 ports along the legendary 12-day round trip between Bergen and Kirkenes - sailing what is often called ‘the world's most beautiful voyage’.
Today, their custom-built fleet offers authentic, immersive experiences, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of this stunning coastline and the communities that call it home.
Committed to setting a higher standard for more sustainable travel initiatives, their fleet includes four battery-hybrid powered ships, while they prioritise energy efficiency, responsible waste management and locally sourced ingredients. Through their ambitious Sea Zero project, Hurtigruten aims to develop their first ship that can sail emissions-free in normal operations on the Norwegian coast by 2030.
Hurtigruten operates year-round, offering two different experiences: the Original Coastal Express voyages and the premium, all-inclusive Signature voyages, dedicated to Svalbard (summer) and the North Cape (winter).
