DFDS reports mixed September: freight up slightly, passenger volumes decline

DFDS announced a mixed picture for its September 2025 volumes. Freight lane metres increased 0.8% to 3.5 million compared to 2024, though they were 1.2% lower when adjusted for route changes. Year-to-date growth for freight was 0.2% unadjusted and -1.2% adjusted. North Sea, Channel, Baltic Sea, and Strait of Gibraltar volumes were generally stable or above 2024 levels, while Mediterranean volumes declined.

In contrast, passenger numbers in September 2025 were significantly down. Adjusted for route changes, passengers decreased 7.4% to 392,000 compared to 2024, with the adjusted year-to-date growth rate at -4.1%. This decline was primarily driven by lower Channel volumes. The number of cars transported in September was also 5.7% below 2024, adjusted for route changes.