Fincantieri and Viking announce world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship

Double move by Fincantieri from the USA where the group led by Pierroberto Folgiero is taking part in Seatrade Cruise Global, the world's largest exhibition dedicated to the cruise sector. Fincantieri and Viking today announced the world's first cruise ship powered by hydrogen stored on board, used for both propulsion and on-board power generation, the 'Viking Libra'. The two groups also signed an agreement to build two new cruise ships for delivery in 2031, plus an option for a further two vessels. The contract is worth around 1.5 billion

Returning to the hydrogen-powered ship, the unit is currently under construction at Fincantieri's Ancona shipyard, with delivery scheduled for the end of 2026. With a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tonnes and a length of 239 metres, 'Viking Libra' will be able to accommodate up to 998 people in 499 cabins. Designed with a focus on sustainability, the ship will be able to sail and operate with zero emissions, enabling it to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas. It will feature a new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion system that, combined with advanced fuel cell technology, will be able to generate up to 6 megawatts of power, setting a new standard for the industry's decarbonisation efforts. Viking's next cruise ship, 'Viking Astrea' currently under construction at the Ancona shipyard and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be powered by hydrogen.

Fincantieri thus confirms its ability to integrate new cutting-edge technologies on board its ships and exploits the expertise present within the group. A key contribution comes from Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri's subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel cell technologies, which will provide tailor-made solutions for the "Viking Libra". The ship will be equipped with novel solutions for loading and storing hydrogen directly on board, thanks to a containerised system designed to overcome the current critical supply chain issues. The hydrogen will power a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell system, specifically optimised for cruise operations, designed and manufactured by IFM. This achievement reinforces IFM's role as a leader in the adoption of green fuels and state-of-the-art energy systems for the maritime and land-based sectors.

As for the contract signed with Viking, the new ships will be built in compliance with the latest environmental and shipping regulations and will be equipped with the most advanced safety systems. The new vessels will be positioned in the small cruise ship segment, with a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tonnes and will accommodate 998 passengers on board in 499 cabins.

"With Viking Libra we are not only delivering the world's first cruise ship powered by hydrogen stored on board, but we are also strengthening our commitment to shaping the future of sustainable shipping," commented Fincantieri's CEO Pierroberto Folgiero. "This milestone marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards net-zero, fully in line with our Industrial Plan, and underlines Fincantieri's role as a catalyst for the sector's transition. Beyond shipbuilding, we are driving a systemic evolution by integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering innovation in the supply chain and creating a model for the large-scale adoption of hydrogen in the maritime sector. We are also excited about Viking's decision to expand its fleet with the order for two new ships, which confirms the strength of our partnership and the trust placed in our expertise. This new order is concrete proof of our vision for a more sustainable cruise industry, setting new standards of innovation.