Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to debut in 2026

• Viking will launch a second hydrogen-powered cruise ship in 2027.
• Two additional hydrogen-powered ocean ships to be delivered in 2031.
• Viking has an option to build another two hydrogen-powered ocean ships in 2033.

Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, capable of operating with zero emissions will debut in late 2026.

Currently under construction in Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, Viking said the second hydrogen cruise ship, Viking Astrea, will be launched in 2027.

Both ocean ships, will each have 499 staterooms to accommodate 998 guests. The ships will have a propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. This hybrid propulsion system will make them capable of navigating with zero emissions which will allow them to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas.

Viking and Fincantieri have also announced an additional two hydrogen-powered ocean ships will be delivered in 2031 with an option to deliver another two ocean ships in 2033.  

“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.

“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.

Viking expects to take delivery of 26 new river ships by 2028 and an additional 11 ocean ships by 2031. This will mean that Viking will have a fleet of 110 river ships in 2028 and 23 ocean and expedition ships in 2031.

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