European Cruise Service acquires port agency and tour company in Sweden

ECS took ownership of the companies, based in Visby, Sweden at the beginning of this month.

AB Carl E Ekman and Gotland Excursion offer a comprehensive range of port agency, ship related services and shore excursions, for all types of vessels.

‘We believe this will be very good for both businesses. This is European Cruise Service's core business, and they intend to invest in Gotland and Visby, which is positive for Gotland and the Gotland tourism industry, but of course also for the employees of Gotland Excursion and Carl E Ekman,’ says Marcus Risberg, CEO of Destination Gotland, the previous owner.

European Cruise Service AS mainly conducts ship agency, ground handling and shore excursions in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, the UK and Asia. Having already worked closely for several years, all three companies are very committed to this move which means a stronger foothold in the growing port of Visby and a wider and better service nationally. The company names will remain as before.

‘European Cruise Service operates both as a ship agent and tour operator, and the acquisition of Gotland Excursion and AB Carl E Ekman is a unique opportunity to jointly strengthen and develop our work in the Baltic Sea. The focus is to offer our current and future customers continued excellent service with very strong local roots in Visby and Gotland. As Carl E Ekman, Gotland Excursion and European Cruise Service have worked together for a long time, the companies' staff already know each other well,’  commented  Andreas Storl, CEO of European Cruise Service.

He continued, ‘Our aim is to offer sustainable and interesting experiences that highlight the special features of Gotland and the Baltic Sea. European Cruise Service offers visiting cruise lines and shipping companies our excellent services as a full-service company and reliable partner on Gotland.’