Ferry and cruise operator SeaLink expects profit to continue to rise as fuel prices drop and overseas tourists are attracted by a falling Australian dollar.
Growth in its tourism and charter operations in Darwin and Sydney drove a 37 per cent rise in SeaLink's net profit to $4.7 million in the six months to December 31.
Managing director Jeff Ellison expects an even brighter second half of the financial year, as a weaker local dollar draws tourists from overseas.
"The growing tourism market out of Asia, and improving world economies - particularly the US - will create further demand," he said on Friday.
Greater benefits of low oil prices will also be seen by year's end, Mr Ellison said.
"We're predicting a better second half than first half because of those fundamental things."
SeaLink last year secured a four year contract to run ferries from Darwin to Tiwi Island after a successful trial period.
"That's going very well and exceeding our expectations on passenger numbers," Mr Ellison said.
SeaLink is also adding two new vessels to its Captain Cook Cruise services in Sydney Harbour.
Mr Ellison hinted at an expansion of the business, potentially through an acquisition.
"We have a strong balance sheet, and we can access significant capital to expand," he said.
Sealink shares were up 10 cents, or 4.4 per cent, at $2.37 at 1445 AEDT
SMOOTH SAILING FOR SEALINK
* Half year net profit of $4.7m, up 37 pct from $3.4m in 2013/14
* Revenue of $57.2m, up nine pct from $52.4m
* Interim dividend of 3.8 cents, up from 3.66 cents
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