Good sales figures for Havila Voyages

On board the Havila Capella, emissions-free and silent in the Geirangerfjorden, Havila Voyages presented their quarterly results for the first quarter of 2023. At the same time, two new board members were voted into the company's board of directors.

Havila Voyages is still experiencing a negative result but can demonstrate good sales figures for the first quarter.

"We have salary expenses for our sailing crew equivalent to a little over three fully operational ships, and a shore organization equivalent to full operation. Together with significant costs associated with sanctions and refinancing of the fleet, this is the result we are left with," said CEO Bent Martini.

"If we exclude the extraordinary costs related to wages, sanctions, fleet refinancing, and lost income due to planned dockings, a normalized EBITDA would show a positive result of around 20 million NOK."

Martini also mentioned that the company is experiencing increasing interest in all markets.

"The positive aspect is that we are seeing good sales growth and that many people want to travel with us. The sales figures tell us that we will turn to a positive result when we have all four ships fully operational along the Norwegian coast."

"Our concepts and products have been well received in the market, and we constantly receive very positive feedback from our guests. We adapt and make small adjustments to enhance the overall onboard experience, and we can see the impact on these figures," explained Martini.

Two new board members
During Friday's general meeting, two new members were also voted into the company's board of directors. The new board members are Karina Halstensen Birkelund (43) and Svein Roger Selle (50). Birkelund has extensive experience in equity issues and capital raising from the banking side and currently works as an investment manager at Farvatn, responsible for renewable energy, sustainable solutions, and technology. Selle has worked for over 20 years as a strategic advisor, partner and manager at Geelmuyden Kiese and is now the founder and CEO of the consultancy firm Selle & Partners. He has broad expertise in brand building, particularly in the travel industry, and is often an advisor in sustainability for his clients.

"We have gained two strong individuals with backgrounds and expertise that we believe will complement our board and provide good support to the management," said Chairman Per Sævik.

"I am pleased that Karina and Svein Roger accepted the nomination and that the general meeting supported the recommendation."