Viking and Fincantieri are pioneering the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, the Viking Libra, set for delivery in 2026. With zero emissions and a hybrid propulsion system, the ship will accommodate 998 guests in 499 staterooms. This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable maritime transportation.
Viking has ordered two more cruise ships from Fincantieri, bringing the total to 10. The collaboration began in 2012, resulting in the launch of Viking Star in 2015. The new ships will be larger, accommodating 998 passengers. Fincantieri has a busy schedule with orders from various cruise lines, indicating a resurgence in the industry.
The shortage of firefighting foam chemicals poses a safety risk on 40,000 sea vessels. New regulations will phase out PFOS, a harmful compound. Ship owners must replace foams at first survey after January 1, 2026. VIKING offers services for a smooth transition to safer alternatives, despite logistical challenges. Port state control will enforce compliance strictly.
Fincantieri and Viking have signed contracts for two new cruise ships, set to be delivered in 2028 and 2029. These ships, with a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons, will accommodate 998 passengers and meet the latest environmental standards. The partnership between the two companies has resulted in 20 ships being built since 2012.
Five years after the Viking Sky cruise ship incident, the Norwegian Safety Investigation Authority issued a critical report, blaming the cruise line, operational managers, design, shipyard, and classification society. The ship, with insufficient oil in its tanks, blacked out during a storm, nearly grounding in a potential disaster at sea. The report calls for industry-wide actions to prevent future incidents.
Following Stories compiled in this News Digest for the week from 20 Dec 2021 to 26 Dec 2021 in descending…
