Fincantieri and Viking have announced groundbreaking plans for the development of the world's first cruise ships powered by onboard hydrogen, a major step towards decarbonizing the maritime sector. The initial vessel, named Viking Libra, is currently being constructed at Fincantieri's Ancona shipyard with an expected delivery date in late 2026. Standing at 54,300 gross tons and 239 meters in length, the ship will accommodate 998 passengers in 499 staterooms. What distinguishes the Viking Libra is its hydrogen-based propulsion system, capable of generating up to six megawatts of power through advanced fuel cell technology, facilitating emission-free operations. This technological advancement not only ensures zero emissions but also grants the vessel access to ecologically delicate areas typically off-limits to traditional cruise ships. The project's technical ingenuity is attributed to Fincantieri's subsidiary, Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), which has devised a specialized polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell system tailored for cruise purposes. Moreover, the vessel will incorporate cutting-edge solutions for storing hydrogen onboard using a containerized system designed to overcome supply chain obstacles. Viking's dedication to hydrogen power extends to the Viking Astrea, another vessel in the same class currently under construction at the Ancona shipyard, scheduled for delivery in 2027. The agreement between Fincantieri and Viking encompasses the construction of two additional hydrogen-powered cruise ships expected to be delivered by 2031, with provisions for two extra vessels. Valued between €500 million and €1 billion, this large-scale deal underscores a shared commitment to sustainable maritime transport. Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, emphasized the significance of this milestone in transitioning towards a net-zero future. Viking's Chairman and CEO, Torstein Hagen, praised the company's environmental dedication, citing hydrogen as a genuine zero-emission solution. The announcement of these hydrogen-powered cruise ships represents a significant leap forward in the maritime industry's quest for sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation.