Following a successful restructuring earlier this year – including its split from expedition cruise company HX – Hurtigruten, the leading operator of iconic Norwegian coastal voyages, is now charting its own course as a standalone company. With a fleet of 10 ships serving Norway’s coast and land-based tour operations in Svalbard, Hurtigruten is proud to report its first financial results since the separation.
In the UK, this year’s summer trading has been particularly strong, with booked revenue between 1 June and 28 August rising by 25% year-on-year. This revenue growth was fuelled by a surge in Signature bookings, which recorded a 75% increase over the same period. This summer, UK guest numbers across the Hurtigruten fleet rose by 10%, reflecting growing demand from British travellers for authentic experiences along the Norwegian coast.
“The UK remains one of Hurtigruten’s most important international markets, and we’re delighted to see such strong momentum this summer,” said Chief Commercial Officer, Iain Powell. “What’s especially encouraging is the way British travellers are embracing more premium experiences such as our Signature product, as well as showing a growing appetite for authentic journeys along Norway’s coast and to destinations like Svalbard. This shift reflects a broader trend towards meaningful, experience-led travel, and we believe the UK will continue to play a key role in driving our growth.”
Globally, Hurtigruten has released its first-half 2025 figures, reporting a 60% increase in EBITDA, up from EUR 27 million to EUR 43 million compared to the same period the previous year. Total revenue grew 14% to EUR 250 million, with occupancy rates improving from 66% in H1 2024 to 70% 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 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% compared to the same time in 2024. Similarly, Hurtigruten’s booked ticket sales for 2026 are up by 12% 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).
