VIKING and shipbuilder Fincantieri have announced the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ships, with Viking Libra, to debut next year.
The vessel will be capable of operating with zero emissions, once she is delivered late next year – a milestone that is set to eclipse other cruise lines such as Hurtigruten (CW 26 Mar) and Ponant (CW 30 Oct), which are working on similar projects.
Also currently under construction is the hydrogen-powered Viking Astrea, which is scheduled for delivery in 2027.
Both ships will host 998 guests, like all future Viking ships, and will be powered on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells.
This hybrid propulsion system will make them capable of navigating with zero emissions, which could allow them to access the most environmentally sensitive areas, such as Norway’s fjords, which are set to be closed off to non-zero-emission ships starting from next year.
“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,” Chair & Chief Executive Officer Torstein Hagen said.
“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 Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Pierroberto Folgiero said the delivery of Libra will reinforce the shipbuilder’s commitment to shaping the future of sustainable maritime transportation.
“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,” he said.
“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 and Fincantieri also announced that contracts have been signed for two additional ocean ships for delivery in 2031, and an option for two additional ocean ships for delivery in 2033.
The cruise line expects to take delivery of 26 more river ships by 2028 and 11 additional ocean ships by 2031, which will brings it fleet to 110 river ships and 23 ocean ships. MS
Viking has been preparing for future propulsion for a number of years now, with Viking Vela, the line’s newest ship, considered to be hydrogen-ready. MS