Irish Ferries Joins Stena Line, DFDS, Brittany Ferries, Attica Group, Tallink Grupp and Gotlandsbolaget as Top European Sea Travel Destinations Promising Scenic Routes, Comfort, and Unforgettable Journeys!

Published on December 1, 2025

In 2025, Irish Ferries earned €399.5 million, marking a 6.3% year-on-year increase. This growth highlights the company’s ability to adjust prices and maintain strong passenger services despite minor declines in car transport. Travelers can expect well-maintained vessels and reliable service when planning trips between Ireland, the UK, and continental Europe.

The revenue includes customer surcharges related to fuel price fluctuations and EU Emission Trading System (ETS) costs, which ensure vessels meet sustainability standards. Tourists can enjoy environmentally-conscious travel while experiencing scenic sea routes.

ICG Group Performance: Beyond Ferries
The Irish Continental Group, which manages Irish Ferries along with freight and container terminal operations, achieved €573 million in revenue for the first ten months of 2025—a 10% increase from the previous year. For travelers, this translates to a robust network supporting both passenger and commercial ferry operations, promising punctual services and reliable scheduling.

Passenger and Vehicle Trends
While Irish Ferries carried 624,300 cars—a 5% drop compared to last year—this does not affect passenger services. Tourists and travelers planning to cross the Irish Sea can still expect well-spaced seating, efficient boarding, and comfortable cabins. The decline in vehicle numbers may indicate more travelers opting for public transport or seasonal variations, making it a quieter travel experience in some periods.

Comparative Insights from Other European Ferry Companies

Stena Line (Sweden/Europe)
Stena Line reported SEK 19.45 billion in revenue for 2024, up 3% from the previous year. Despite external economic pressures slightly impacting profitability, travelers benefit from a stable network of routes connecting Sweden, Denmark, and Germany. Stena Line’s focus on efficient sea travel makes it a reliable choice for eco-conscious tourists exploring Northern Europe.

DFDS (Denmark/Europe)
DFDS achieved DKK 8.3 billion revenue in Q3 2025, a 4% year-on-year increase, though organic growth was slightly negative. The company is optimizing operations, including cost reductions and staffing adjustments, to maintain service quality. Travelers can expect smoother scheduling and possibly more competitive fares in the coming year.

Brittany Ferries (France/Europe)
Brittany Ferries saw revenue reach €516 million in 2024, up 6.5% from the previous year. New EU ETS regulations slightly affected profits, but the company continues to invest in sustainable operations. For tourists, this ensures cleaner, greener travel from France to the UK, Spain, and Ireland, blending adventure with environmental responsibility.

Attica Group (Greece/Mediterranean)
Attica Group posted a remarkable 27% revenue increase to €747.8 million in 2024, driven by strategic integration. While some costs affected net profits, travelers can look forward to expanded routes across Greece and the Mediterranean. Tourists visiting islands such as Crete or Santorini can enjoy upgraded ferry experiences and more frequent connections.

Tallink Grupp (Estonia/Baltic Sea)
Tallink Grupp experienced revenue of €577.3 million in the first nine months of 2025, down 4.2%, and profits fell sharply due to vessel maintenance and geopolitical challenges. Travelers planning Baltic Sea routes should check schedules and vessel availability, especially during low-demand seasons, to ensure a smooth journey.

Gotlandsbolaget (Sweden)
Gotlandsbolaget achieved SEK 2.62 billion in revenue for 2024, up 10.5% from the previous year. The company offers robust ferry services to Gotland and surrounding islands, making it an attractive choice for tourists seeking scenic Northern European routes with reliable timetables and modern vessels.

Travel Tips for Passengers

1. Booking Ahead: With strong revenue growth indicating high demand, travelers are advised to book early, especially for peak summer months.
2. Sustainability Considerations: EU ETS compliance ensures greener travel. Expect some fare adjustments reflecting fuel and emission costs.
3. Vehicle Transport: If traveling with cars, check vehicle booking requirements. Slight declines in car volumes may create a quieter boarding experience.
4. Cabin and Seating: Most ferries offer cabins, reclining seats, and dining options. Early reservations can secure better accommodations.
5. Regional Connections: Use ferries as a scenic alternative to flights. Irish Ferries connect Ireland to the UK, while European companies offer cross-continental routes.

Conclusion: A Traveler’s Perspective
Irish Ferries and other European ferry operators demonstrate resilience and adaptation in 2025. Revenue growth and route optimization signal stable and enjoyable travel experiences. For global tourists, this is the perfect opportunity to explore Europe by sea, combining comfort, sustainability, and scenic views. Travelers can plan journeys confidently, knowing that ferry networks are financially strong and focused on delivering quality service.