NLC Ferry reported its highest February passenger volume since beginning operations in 2013, with 18,191 people travelling on its Wasaline service. This figure represents an 11 per cent increase compared to the same period during the previous year.
Growth was primarily driven by the popularity of an "ice cruising concept" in the Kvarken region, which attracted various groups from across Europe. Managing Director Peter Ståhlberg stated, “Our long-term marketing efforts in Europe are now starting to show results.”
Ståhlberg noted that groups from Germany have been increasingly travelling to experience the local winter environment. He added that this segment expands annually and that international tourists have expressed satisfaction with the service provided during their trips.
In response to the current global situation and rising energy costs, the company has scheduled minor adjustments to its timetable for April. The vessel Aurora Botnia will maintain its Tuesday schedule throughout that month, though several arrival times have been modified.
Departures from Umeå on Mondays will now take place 30 minutes earlier than the previous schedule. These adjustments allow the vessel to operate at lower speeds to reduce energy consumption, NLC Ferry noted.