en.Wedoany.com Reported - Swedish shipping company Gotlandsbolaget achieved revenue of SEK 621.6 million in the first quarter of 2026, an increase compared to the same period last year. However, due to seasonal factors, the group still recorded an operating loss. Increased sales from subsidiary Go Nordic Cruiseline supported overall performance, while operations remained largely consistent with previous years.
Costs for the quarter climbed to SEK 795.5 million, primarily due to increased depreciation expenses for the vessels "Nordic Pearl" and "Nordic Crown," as well as fleet-related project activities and one-off expenditures. The adjusted operating loss was SEK 192.7 million, a result the company stated was in line with expectations for the seasonal low. CEO Björn Nilsson said: "Performance was weighed down by depreciation and one-off project costs."
In terms of business segments, Destination Gotland saw a slight decline in passenger volumes due to multiple cancellations caused by severe weather during the New Year holiday period, but passenger numbers recovered slightly in late March, partially offsetting the earlier shortfall. Birka Gotland, following operational streamlining throughout 2025, saw improved performance, with increased onboard sales per passenger helping to mitigate the adverse impact of the vessel's seasonal lay-up.
On the investment front, Gotlandsbolaget reached an agreement on April 9 to acquire a 30% stake in Nordic Ferry Infrastructure for approximately EUR 510 million. The transaction was carried out through NP HoldCo, a newly formed joint venture with Interogo Infrastructure and Lægernes Pension. The company holds a 54% stake in NP HoldCo and is the largest shareholder, while EQT Infrastructure V remains the majority owner of the infrastructure group.
The Swedish government announced an investment of SEK 125 million to reduce ferry and flight ticket prices for Gotland residents. Nilsson is monitoring the actual benefit of these funds in the second half of 2026. Meanwhile, the government submitted a tonnage tax amendment to parliament in mid-April, with a final ruling expected in June. Gotlandsbolaget noted that the ruling will determine whether the Gotland traffic public service contract can be integrated into a competitive Swedish tax system, stating that a favorable outcome would allow the company to "bring the Gotland traffic agreement home."
The car deck capacity of the "Visby" will be increased by 20% through the installation of a mezzanine deck to meet passenger demand during the summer peak season.
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