Fincantieri has unveiled the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, Viking Libra, at its Ancona shipyard in Italy. Scheduled for delivery in late 2026, the ship will weigh approximately 54,300 gross tons and span 239 meters, accommodating up to 998 passengers in 499 cabins, aligning with Viking’s small-ship strategy.
The vessel will utilize a hybrid propulsion system that combines liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells, enabling zero-emission operations under specific conditions. This capability aims to facilitate access to environmentally sensitive areas where traditional cruise ships face stricter regulations. The initiative reflects a growing trend among cruise operators and shipbuilders to adopt alternative fuels in response to increasing regulatory pressures, particularly in Europe.
Viking Libra marks a significant milestone in the partnership between Fincantieri and Viking, which began in 2012. Together, they have a pipeline of 26 vessels, including existing orders and recent options. Fincantieri’s Ancona facility plays a crucial role in this strategy, with plans for further investment to enhance production capacity and implement advanced technologies aimed at improving efficiency and productivity.
