Viking and Fincantieri: The First Hydrogen-Powered Ship
Viking and Fincantieri have officially revealed details of a groundbreaking milestone for the cruise industry: the Viking Libra, set to become the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, is currently under construction at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy.
Delivery is scheduled for the end of 2026 and will be followed in 2027 by a second vessel, the Viking Astrea, also equipped with this innovative technology.
In addition to unveiling these two hydrogen-powered ships, the companies signed an agreement for the construction of two more ocean-going cruise ships, slated for delivery in 2031, along with an option for two additional units by 2033. With these new orders, Viking’s ocean fleet is expected to reach 23 ships by 2031, reinforcing the company’s global leadership in the experiential travel sector.
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The Viking Libra marks a decisive step toward the decarbonization of maritime transport. Classified as a small cruise ship—like all Viking’s ocean vessels—it will have a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons, 499 cabins, and capacity for 998 guests. Its true innovation lies in the hybrid propulsion system, partially powered by liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells capable of generating up to six megawatts of energy.
This advanced system will be provided by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), a Fincantieri subsidiary specializing in fuel cell technologies. The new system will allow the ship to operate with zero emissions, making it suitable for navigating environmentally sensitive areas—a feature that could open new routes and opportunities for sustainable cruise tourism.
Torstein Hagen, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Viking, emphasized that sustainability has always been a core priority for the company. According to Hagen, Viking’s river and ocean fleets have been carefully designed to minimize fuel consumption, but the Viking Libra and Viking Astrea represent a further leap forward. He proudly highlighted the strategic decision to invest in hydrogen as a true zero-emission solution and expressed great excitement for the upcoming launch of the world’s first cruise ship powered by this clean fuel.
Viking Astrea
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and General Manager of Fincantieri, noted that the construction of the Viking Libra is not only a technological achievement—the world’s first cruise ship powered by hydrogen stored onboard—but also a concrete step in Fincantieri’s commitment to a more sustainable future in maritime transport. Folgiero also welcomed Viking’s decision to expand its fleet with two additional vessels, viewing it as a strong endorsement of the partnership between the companies and of Fincantieri’s technical and design expertise.
This announcement is part of Viking’s long-term growth strategy, which continues to focus on cultural and experiential travel for a curious and sustainability-conscious audience. According to the current plan, Viking anticipates the delivery of 26 new river ships by 2028 and 11 new ocean and expedition ships by 2031, bringing the fleet to 110 river vessels and 23 ocean and expedition ships.
Viking’s commitment to sustainable innovation goes beyond shipbuilding. The company also distinguishes itself through its cultural, scientific, and educational initiatives, including editorial and multimedia projects, and continues to earn international accolades. Viking has received over 450 awards, including “#1 for river, ocean, and expedition cruises” by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure.
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The launch of the Viking Libra marks the beginning of a new era for the cruise industry, where technological innovation and environmental responsibility go hand in hand to meet the expectations of an increasingly aware and responsible public. The partnership between Viking and Fincantieri stands out as one of the most forward-looking and solid in the global maritime industry—capable of turning vision into reality and setting new standards for the future.
With hydrogen-powered ships on the horizon, new orders, and a global expansion plan, Viking is preparing to navigate a future where efficiency, environmental responsibility, and the quality of the travel experience will be the foundation of every journey.
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