Able to operate with zero emissions, the new Viking Libra will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, scheduled for delivery in late 2026. Under construction at Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri’s Ancona yard, Viking Libra will join Viking’s small-ship ocean fleet and represents a major step toward cleaner maritime travel.
At about 54,300 tons with 499 staterooms accommodating up to 998 guests, Viking Libra is the first of two hydrogen-powered ocean vessels for the company. The second ship, Viking Astrea, is planned for delivery in 2027 and will share the same sustainable propulsion approach.
© Viking
“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. “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.”
Both Libra and Astrea will use a state-of-the-art hybrid propulsion system developed in partnership with Isotta Fraschini Motori, a Fincantieri subsidiary focused on advanced fuel cell technology. The design integrates onboard hydrogen storage and fuel cells to deliver propulsion with no direct CO2 emissions during operation.
“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,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri. “We are thrilled that Viking has expanded its order with two additional ships, which reaffirms the strength of our partnership and the trust placed in our expertise. This new order is a testament to our shared vision for a more sustainable cruise industry, as together we continue to set new standards for innovation and responsible shipbuilding.”
The introduction of hydrogen-powered ocean ships marks an important milestone for the cruise sector as companies seek viable pathways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in ports and along popular itineraries. By combining efficient hull design, electrified hotel systems and hydrogen fuel cell propulsion, these vessels aim to deliver a passenger experience that is both comfortable and environmentally responsible.
As construction progresses at the Ancona shipyard, Viking and Fincantieri will continue testing and validating the ship’s systems to meet safety and regulatory standards while optimizing operational performance. If successful, the Viking Libra and Viking Astrea could serve as blueprints for future hydrogen-powered cruise vessels and help accelerate broader adoption of zero-emission technologies across the maritime industry.