The 998-passenger Viking Libra, which is currently being built at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard in Italy, will have a propulsion system “based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells”.

The line claims Libra’s hybrid propulsion system will be able to operate with zero emissions. 

It also confirmed another ocean-going vessel – Viking Astrea – due to be delivered in 2027, will also be hydrogen powered. 

Explora Journeys – MSC Group’s ultra-luxury brand – confirmed orders for two hydrogen-powered ships with Italian shipbuilding firm in 2023.

However, Explora V and Explora VI are slated to launch in 2027 and 2028 after Viking Libra. While French cruise line Ponant plans to build a ship powered by a combination of wind, liquid hydrogen and bio-liquefied natural gas by 2030. 

Torstein Hagen, Viking’s chair and chief executive, said: “From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption, and we are very proud 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.”

Pierroberto Folgiero, chief executive and managing director of Fincantieri, said the shipbuilding firm had a commitment to shape the future of sustainable maritime transportation. 

Based on the committed orderbook, Viking expects to take delivery of 26 additional river ships by 2028 and 11 additional ocean ships by 2031. 

With these orders, Viking will have 110 river ships in 2028 and 23 ocean and expedition ships in 2031.