Viking Ocean Cruises has announced it to be partnering with the Fincantieri Ancona shipyard to build the world’s first zero-emission cruise ship. The Viking Libra, as the ship will be called, will use liquified hydrogen stored on board for both propulsion and onboard electricity generation.
Viking Libra is currently under construction at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona (Italy) and should be ready to sail by the end of 2026. The hybrid propulsion system will use liquified hydrogen to power a PEM, or polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell system, developed by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel cell technology.
At our booth at @SeatradeCruise Global 2025, the future comes to life with the immersive 3D model of #VikingLibra, the first hydrogen-powered ship that we presented during this important event.
— Fincantieri (@Fincantieri) April 9, 2025
Capable of accessing even the most environmentally sensitive areas thanks to… pic.twitter.com/VRclvPvCGX
The system will produce six megawatts of power, allowing the Libra to navigate with zero emissions and to access more environmentally sensitive areas. The ship will have a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and a length of 239 meters, allowing it to accommodate up to 998 guests in 499 staterooms. Plans for the ship show a Nordic spa, a theatre, multiple pools, and a selection of bars and restaurants.
“From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption, and we are very proud that the Viking Libra and the Viking Astrea, will be even more environmentally friendly. 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,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking.
Other ships are in the making
A second ship, the Viking Astrea, is also under construction and will be hydrogen-powered just like the Viking Libra. The Astrea is set to launch at the end of 2027. A new contract has been signed between Viking and Fincantieri, good for two extra ships, which should be delivered by the end of 2031, plus an option for two additional vessels.
“This milestone marks a defining moment in our journey towards net zero, fully aligned with our Business Plan, and underscores Fincantieri’s role as a catalyst for the industry’s green transition. Beyond shipbuilding, we are driving a systemic evolution by integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering supply chain innovation, and creating a model for the widespread adoption of hydrogen in the maritime sector,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri.
While waiting for the launch of the world’s first zoo emissions cruise ship, the Viking Vesta – operating on a hybrid propulsion system – will launch in the summer of 2025.
