Havila Voyages achieved a profit for the first time in its history in the second quarter of the year as it overcame problems with delayed ship deliveries.
Latest figures show increased revenues and a positive operating result of more than 58 million Norwegian kroner (£4.2 million) compared to a loss of NOK 15 million (£1 million) in the same period last year.
Havila Voyages reported a positive first half operating result of NOK 41 million (£3 million), compared to a loss of NOK 111 million (£8 million) in the first six months of 2023.
This came as revenues in the half-year more than doubled to NOK 662 million (£48 million)
The growth was attributed to both higher occupancy and increased average cabin revenue across its four hybrid-powered ships operating along the Norwegian coast between Bergen and Kirkenes.
Occupancy and average income per cabin also rose year-on-year in the first half.
Chief executive Bent Martini said: ”It is very gratifying to present a positive operating result. It is important for the company and its owners that we have reached this point after a challenging start to Havila Voyages’ history.”
He added: “It is, of course, positive that we are seeing an increase in income and higher occupancy. This shows that we have a product that is gaining more recognition and that we have been able to deliver a good experience to those who have travelled with us. We are experiencing a very positive reception from both the coastal communities and our passengers.
“This gives us confidence in increased sales and occupancy for next year, especially since the prices we operated with this year were influenced by ticket sales from previous years and re-bookings at the same price due to cancellations related to the delayed delivery of our last two ships.
“We have seen good growth in direct digital sales through our own channels.
“We expect that our modern and more environmentally friendly coastal route ships, along with a continuously strengthened brand, will contribute to increased demand going forward.”
The company said it reduced its CO2 emissions by 36% in the second quarter.
Martini said: “The requirement in the agreement with the Ministry of Transport is a 25% CO2 reduction compared to 2017, and we are proud to deliver well above that requirement.
“Our strong performance is no excuse to rest. We aim to further reduce our environmental footprint, and we have proven that it is possible to take measures that benefit the climate and environment today, not just in the future.
“Reducing food waste is also important for cutting greenhouse gases, and it makes economic sense. We are pleased to keep food waste at a level far below the industry standard.”