Viking Line reports lower first-half income amid energy price uncertainty

Viking Line reported a decline in first-half 2026 financial results, with group sales falling 0.8% to EUR 214.0 million. Income before taxes dropped to EUR -18.6 million, compared to EUR -17.2 million in the previous year. The company attributed the downturn to an unusually severe ice winter, higher energy prices, and weaker earnings from associated companies, including Rederiaktiebolaget Eckerö, Alandia Försäkring Abp, and the joint venture Gotland Alandia Cruises AB.

Despite the overall decline, the second quarter showed signs of stability with sales increasing 0.7% to EUR 129.3 million. Viking Line’s estimated passenger market share rose slightly to 31.8% from 31.6%, supported by strong growth in the passenger car segment. However, cargo volumes decreased to 68,153 units, down from 71,324 in the prior year.

CEO Marcus Risberg noted that while the second quarter demonstrated stability, the company faces a challenging environment characterized by geopolitical uncertainty and a more cautious consumer market. Due to these factors and energy price volatility, the board expects full-year 2026 income before taxes to be lower than in 2025.