Fincantieri and Viking announced the first cruise ship in the world to be powered by hydrogen stored onboard for both propulsion and onboard electricity generation, the “Viking Libra”.
The vessel is currently under construction at the Fincantieri Ancona shipyard, with delivery scheduled for late 2026.
Operating with zero emissions
Designed with sustainability in mind, the ship will be capable of navigating and using with zero emissions
With a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and a length of 239 metres, the “Viking Libra”, will accommodate up to 998 guests in 499 staterooms.
Designed with sustainability in mind, the ship will be capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, allowing it to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas.
Advanced fuel cell technology
This marks a new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion system that, combined with advanced fuel cell technology, will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power, and will set a new benchmark for the industry's decarbonisation efforts.
Viking’s subsequent ocean ship, the “Viking Astrea”, which is also currently under construction at the Ancona shipyard and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen-powered.
Integrate disruptive new technologies
Viking is made possible by Fincantieri’s capability to integrate disruptive new technologies on board
The success of this joint initiative with Viking is made possible by Fincantieri’s capability to integrate disruptive new technologies on board.
A key contributor to this effort is Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel cell technology, which will provide tailor-made solutions for the “Viking Libra”.
Adoption of green fuels
The vessel will feature first-of-a-kind solutions to load and store hydrogen directly onboard the ship thanks to a containerised system to overcome supply chain constraints.
Hydrogen will power polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells system specifically optimised for cruise operations, designed and produced by IFM.
This achievement reinforces IFM’s role as a pioneer in the adoption of green fuels and cutting-edge energy systems for the maritime and land application sectors.
Latest environmental rules and navigation regulations
The value of this deal, subject to financing and other typical terms and needs, is considered large
Fincantieri and Viking also announced that they have signed an agreement for the construction of two new cruise ships for delivery in 2031, plus an option for two additional vessels, based on the successful features of the previous units, which Fincantieri has already built for this shipowner in its Italian yards.
The value of this agreement, subject to financing and other typical terms and conditions, is considered as large.
The new ships will be built according to the latest environmental rules and navigation regulations and will be equipped with the most modern safety systems. The new vessels will be placed in the small cruise ship segment, the gross tonnage is about 54,300 tons and they will accommodate 998 passengers on board in 499 cabins.
Future of sustainable maritime transportation
"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," said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri.
Pierroberto Folgiero adds, "This milestone marks a defining moment in our journey towards net-zero, fully aligned with our Business Plan, and underscores Fincantieri’s role as a catalyst for the industry's green transition. Beyond shipbuilding, we are driving a systemic evolution by integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering supply chain innovation, and creating a model for the widespread adoption of hydrogen in the maritime sector."
New standards for innovation and responsible shipbuilding
Pierroberto Folgiero continues: "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."
Zero-emission solution
"From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption, and we are very proud that the Viking Libra and the Viking Astrea, will be even more environmentally friendly," said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.
Torstein Hagen adds, "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."
