Shipbuilder Fincantieri and Viking River Cruises announced the development of Viking Libra, a cruise ship that will use hydrogen stored on board to generate electricity and power its propulsion system. Fincantieri expects to deliver the vessel in late 2026.
Zero Emissions
According to Fincantieri, the zero-emission Viking Libra measures approximately 784 feet long, features a gross tonnage of about 54,300 tons, and offers 499 cabins for nearly 1,000 passengers.
Fincantieri is also building the Viking Astrea, a hydrogen-powered ship slated for delivery in 2027.
Six Megawatts of Power
The company estimates that the hydrogen propulsion system and integrated fuel cell technology will produce six megawatts of power.
Fincantieri’s Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM) subsidiary will provide the fuel cell technology. A containerized system aboard the Viking Libra will store the hydrogen, powering an IFM-designed polymer electrolyte membrane system.
New Contract
Fincantieri also announced an agreement with Viking to construct two new cruise vessels for delivery in 2031, with an option to build two additional ships. According to Fincantieri, the contract’s value ranges between $565 million and $1.1 billion.
Viking CEO and Chairman Torstein Hagen commended the ships’ design and said they align with the company’s goal of reducing fuel consumption and offering environmentally friendly transportation.
Image credit: Viking
