Fincantieri and Viking announced today the first cruise ship in the world to be powered by hydrogen stored onboard for both propulsion and onboard electricity generation, the “Viking Libra”. The vessel is currently under construction at the Fincantieri Ancona shipyard, with delivery scheduled for late 2026.
With a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and a length of 239 meters, the “Viking Libra”, will accommodate up to 998 guests in 499 staterooms. Designed with sustainability in mind, the ship will be capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, allowing it to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas. This marks a new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion system that, combined with advanced fuel cell technology, will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power, and will set a new benchmark for the industry’s decarbonization efforts. Viking’s subsequent ocean ship, the “Viking Astrea”, which is also currently under construction at the Ancona shipyard and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen-powered.
The success of this joint initiative with Viking is made possible by Fincantieri’s capability to integrate disruptive new technologies on board. A key contributor to this effort is Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specializing in advanced fuel cell technology, which will provide tailor-made solutions for the “Viking Libra”. The vessel will feature first-of-a-kind solutions to load and store hydrogen directly onboard the ship thanks to a containerized system to overcome supply chain constraints. Hydrogen will power polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells system specifically optimized for cruise operations, designed and produced by IFM. This achievement reinforces IFM’s role as a leader in the adoption of green fuels and cutting-edge energy systems for the maritime and land application sectors.
