In a groundbreaking development for the cruise industry, Viking and Italian shipbuilding company Fincantieri have announced the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship capable of operating with zero emissions. Currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard in Italy, this revolutionary vessel is scheduled for delivery in late 2026, marking a watershed moment in sustainable maritime transportation.
The Viking Libra, classified as a small ship with approximately 54,300 tons gross tonnage and a length of 239 meters, will accommodate 998 passengers in 499 staterooms. What sets this vessel apart is its innovative hybrid propulsion system based on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This advanced technology enables the ship to navigate and operate with zero emissions, allowing access to environmentally sensitive areas that would otherwise be restricted to conventional vessels.
Engineered with sustainability at its core, the Viking Libra’s propulsion system utilizes polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology specifically optimized for cruise operations. This system, capable of generating up to six megawatts of power, sets a new benchmark for the industry’s decarbonization efforts. The ship features a pioneering containerized system for hydrogen storage designed to overcome current supply chain challenges, addressing one of the primary obstacles to hydrogen adoption in maritime applications.
Behind this breakthrough is Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), a Fincantieri subsidiary specializing in advanced fuel cell technology. IFM’s expertise provides the tailor-made solutions that power the Viking Libra, reinforcing their position as leaders in green fuel systems for both maritime and land sectors. Fincantieri’s ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies onboard their vessels enables it to push the boundaries of shipbuilding innovation.
Interestingly, Fincantieri is no stranger to creating remarkable vessels. The Italian shipyard previously built the Serene, a $400 million superyacht that eventually became the property of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. At 439 feet long, the Serene was Fincantieri’s first venture into superyacht construction and demonstrated their capabilities in creating vessels of exceptional luxury and technical sophistication long before they turned their attention to sustainable cruising.
The Viking Libra also comes at a time when hydrogen power is making waves in the superyacht sector. Notably, Microsoft founder Bill Gates has commissioned the world’s first hydrogen-powered superyacht, Breakthrough, demonstrating that the push for zero-emission maritime technology is gaining momentum across different vessel categories, with the world’s wealthiest individuals backing such initiatives.
Viking has already committed to expanding their hydrogen fleet with the Viking Astrea, a sister ship currently under construction at the same shipyard and scheduled for delivery in 2027. This commitment to hydrogen technology reflects Viking’s long-term environmental strategy. “Viking made the principled decision to invest in hydrogen, which offers a true zero-emission solution,” stated Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.
The partnership between Viking and Fincantieri extends beyond these two vessels, with contracts signed for additional ocean ships for delivery in 2031 and options for more in 2033. By 2031, Viking projects having a total fleet of 110 river ships and 23 ocean and expedition ships, many incorporating advanced environmental technologies.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, emphasized the significance of this project: “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.”
As the maritime industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint, the Viking Libra represents not just a technological achievement but a glimpse into the future of cruising—one where exploration and environmental responsibility sail hand in hand.
