Viking Cruises announced plans to introduce the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, capable of operating with zero emissions. The ship, the Viking Libra, is being built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at its Ancona shipyard, and is scheduled for delivery in late 2026.

Switzerland-based Viking conducts ocean, lake and river cruises throughout the world. Viking said that the Libra, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests, and will have a propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells, becoming the world’s first capable of using hydrogen power for both propulsion and onboard electricity generation. Another hydrogen-powered ship under construction by Fincantieri, the Viking Astrea, is set for delivery in 2027.

Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, said:

“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.”

According to Ficantieri, the new ship will feature solutions to load and store hydrogen directly onboard using a containerized system, overcoming hydrogen supply chain constraints. Hydrogen will power a polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells system, specifically optimized for cruise operations.

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, said:

“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… 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.”