Viking OCEAN, in partnership with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, disclosed details surrounding the construction of Viking Libra - the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship.
Currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona yard, the vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2026-Q4.
The project represents a significant advancement in the transition toward cleaner propulsion technologies and zero-emission maritime operations.
Viking Libra will be equipped with a hybrid propulsion system incorporating liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells, developed in cooperation with Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), a Fincantieri subsidiary specializing in advanced propulsion solutions. This system is expected to generate up to 6 MW/megawatts of power, enabling the vessel to operate without emissions.
The design will allow access to environmentally protected regions that are typically restricted to conventional ships due to emissions standards.
Torstein Hagen (Viking Group's Chairman and CEO) indicated that the company has consistently prioritized fuel-efficient design across both its river and ocean fleets. He noted that the Viking Libra, along with her sister ship Viking Astrea, will further enhance the line’s environmental credentials. Hagen also stated that Viking’s decision to invest in hydrogen technology was driven by the desire to adopt a propulsion method capable of delivering genuine zero-emission performance.
Pierroberto Folgiero (Fincantieri's CEO) remarked that the Viking Libra represents a landmark achievement—not only as the first cruise ship powered by onboard-stored hydrogen, but also as a reflection of the company’s broader strategy to lead the maritime sector toward a sustainable future.
Viking Libra is not an isolated endeavor. Construction is also underway on the Viking Astrea (delivery in 2027) which will feature comparable hydrogen propulsion systems. In addition, Viking Group and Fincantieri have finalized contracts for two further ocean vessels, expected for delivery in 2031, with options secured for two more in 2033.
These developments form part of Viking’s broader fleet expansion and sustainability strategy. By 2028, the company aims to operate 110 river vessels. By 2031, it expects to have a fleet of 23 ocean and expedition ships. The roadmap includes delivery of 26 new river vessels by 2028 and 11 ocean ships by 2031, reinforcing Viking’s position as a leader in sustainable and experience-focused cruising.