Viking announced details of the Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, which is capable of operating with zero emissions. 

Already under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, the Viking Libra is scheduled for delivery in late 2026. 

The company’s subsequent ocean ship, the Viking Astrea, is scheduled for delivery in 2027 and will also be hydrogen-powered.

The Viking Libra will have a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests. The ship will have a propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This hybrid propulsion system will make the ship capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, which would allow it to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas. 

Enabled by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specializing in advanced fuel cell technology, the ship’s state-of-the-art propulsion system 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,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, in a statement. “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.”

Viking and Fincantieri also announced that contracts have been signed for two additional ocean ships for delivery in 2031 and an option for two additional ocean ships for delivery in 2033. Based on the committed orderbook, the company expects to take delivery of 26 additional river ships by 2028 and 11 additional ocean ships by 2031. With these orders, Viking will have 110 river ships in 2028 and 23 ocean and expedition ships in 2031.