Viking and shipbuilder Fincantieri have announced plans to launch the world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, capable of operating with zero emissions. Olivia Palamountain reports

Set to launch in 2026, the groundbreaking Viking Libra will be powered by hydrogen and capable of zero-emission operations.

Currently under construction at Fincantieri's Ancona shipyard, is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. A second hydrogen-powered vessel, the Viking Astrea, is also being built and is set to debut in 2027.

Classified as a small ship, in line with Viking's existing ocean fleet, the Viking Libra will have a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons with 499 staterooms accommodating up to 998 guests.

While maintaining the design elements of Viking's award-winning ocean ships, the Libra will feature an innovative hybrid propulsion system partially based on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This technology will enable the ship to navigate and operate with zero emissions, allowing access to environmentally sensitive areas.

The state-of-the-art propulsion system, developed by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), a Fincantieri subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel cell technology, will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power.

"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," says 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 world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to our fleet in 2026."

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri, says: "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."

As part of Viking's long-term growth strategy, the company has also signed contracts with Fincantieri for two additional ocean ships to be delivered in 2031, with an option for two more vessels in 2033.

The cruise line expects to take delivery of 26 additional river ships by 2028 and 11 additional ocean ships by 2031. Upon completion of these orders, Viking will operate 110 river ships by 2028 and 23 ocean and expedition ships by 2031.