Cruise operator Viking and Fincantieri have announced details of the ‘Viking Libra’, said to be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, capable of operating with zero emissions.
Already under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, the Viking Libra is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. The Company’s subsequent ocean ship, the Viking Astrea, which is currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen powered.
At 54,300gt, Viking Libra is classified as a small ship, as are all Viking ocean ships. It will have 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests. While the ship is considered a sister ship in Viking’s ocean fleet, she will have a propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This hybrid propulsion system will make her capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, which would allow her to access the most environmentally sensitive areas. Enabled by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel cell technology, the ship’s propulsion system will be capable of producing up to 6MW.
Torstein Hagen, Viking Chairman and CEO, said: “From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption, and we are very proud the Viking Libra and the Viking Astrea will be even more environmentally friendly. Viking made the principled decision to invest in hydrogen, which offers a true zero-emission solution. We look forward to welcoming the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to our fleet in 2026.”
Fincantieri CEO and MD Pierroberto Folgiero added: “With the Viking Libra, we are not only delivering the world’s first cruise ship powered by hydrogen stored on board, but we are also reinforcing our commitment to shaping the future of sustainable maritime transportation. Furthermore, we are thrilled about Viking’s decision to expand its fleet with the order of two additional ships, which reaffirms the strength of our partnership, and the trust placed in our expertise. This new order is a testament to our shared vision for a more sustainable cruise industry, as together we continue to set new standards for innovation and responsible shipbuilding.”
Viking remains focused on its long-term growth plans and committed to its strategy, continuing to be a global leader in experiential travel. As part of the company’s commitment to continue to grow capacity, Viking and Fincantieri additionally announced that contracts have been signed for two additional ocean ships for delivery in 2031 with an option for two more ocean ships for delivery in 2033. Based on the committed orderbook, the company expects to take delivery of 26 additional river ships by 2028 and 11 additional ocean ships by 2031. With these orders, Viking will have 110 river ships in 2028 and 23 ocean and expedition ships in 2031.
Image: ‘Viking Libra’ sister ship sailing in the Norwegian Fjords (source: Business Wire)
