In an announcement made earlier this week, Stena Line stated:
“The main reason is a lack of demand from the company’s shipping customers due to the development of the current geopolitical situation. The service will continue until October 20, when both of the ships that currently operate the route will be chartered out or given other assignments within Stena Line.”
Stena Line started its service from Nynäshamn outside Stockholm to Hanko in Finland in spring last year. The company said it did so due to evident market demand and direct requests from existing network customers.
“However, due to the way the geopolitical situation has developed, the previous shipping volumes have decreased and the market for shipping services has become saturated. This, in turn, has meant that demand from Stena Line’s freight customers on the route has not developed as expected,” said Stena Line.
Stena Line also added that the Finnish government’s decision to grant exemptions from the EU emissions trading system ETS from 1 January 2024 for ships passing through Åland will “create a distorted commercial landscape, with clear advantages for trade via Åland”.
Commenting on the decision, Johan Edelman, Stena Line’s Trade Director for Baltic Sea North, said:
“It is with a heavy heart that we have reached the point where we have to draw our line between Sweden and Finland. It has been a very difficult decision, but after considering all aspects, we are convinced that we have made the right decision.”
Stena Line stresses that it is in dialogue with the trade union concerned and its employees on the line, and is keeping them informed on an ongoing basis.
All freight customers and passengers will be informed and offered a refund if they have booked a trip after 20 October. If necessary, they will also be assisted with bookings on alternative routes.
