Viking and Fincantieri announce hydrogen-powered cruise ship

Already under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, Italy, the Viking Libra is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. The company’s subsequent ocean ship, the Viking Astrea, which is also currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen powered.

Classified as a small ship, the Viking Libra will have a gross weight of approximately 54 300 t, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests. While the ship is considered a sister ship in Viking’s ocean fleet, it will have a propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This hybrid propulsion system will make the ship capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, which would allow it to access even 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 6 MW of power.

“From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce fuel consumption,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Viking made the principled decision to invest in hydrogen, which offers a true zero-emission solution. We look forward to welcoming the first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to our fleet in 2026.”

“With the Viking Libra, we are not only delivering the world's first cruise ship powered by hydrogen stored on board, but also reinforcing our commitment to shaping the future of sustainable maritime transportation,” added Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri. “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.”

Read the article online at: https://www.globalhydrogenreview.com/hydrogen/09042025/viking-and-fincantieri-announce-hydrogen-powered-cruise-ship/