DFDS reported another month of solid freight performance, with April volumes increasing across most of its ferry network.
Freight Volumes Continue to Grow
In April 2026, DFDS transported 3.6 million lane metres of freight, up 2.0% compared with April 2025. Adjusted for route changes, growth was 1.9%.
Regional highlights included:
- North Sea volumes above last year, supported by stronger performance on several routes.
- Mediterranean volumes showing particularly strong growth, led by the Egypt and Tunisia services.
- Baltic Sea volumes well ahead of 2025.
- Strait of Gibraltar volumes also increased.
- Channel volumes were slightly below last year, broadly reflecting overall market trends on the Dover Strait.
Over the last twelve months, total freight volumes reached 41.8 million lane metres, an increase of 0.8%.
Passenger Volumes Affected by Easter Timing
Passenger numbers in April totalled 416,000, down 8.1% on a comparable basis. The decline was mainly due to Easter falling earlier this year, shifting part of the seasonal travel demand into March.
Operational issues also resulted in fewer departures on the Strait of Gibraltar.
Freight Business Demonstrates Resilience
Despite some seasonal effects in passenger traffic, DFDS continues to benefit from the strength and diversification of its freight network. Growth in key regions such as the Mediterranean and Baltic underscores the company’s ability to capture opportunities in dynamic markets.
With freight volumes rising and performance improving across most areas, DFDS remains well positioned to deliver steady progress in 2026.
