Viking Vela Joins Award-Winning Ocean Fleet with Hydrogen-Ready Technology
Key Ideas
- Viking Vela, the newest ocean ship by Viking, was delivered at Fincantieri's shipyard in Italy, joining the company's fleet of award-winning ships.
- The ship has 499 staterooms accommodating 998 guests and will sail in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, showcasing Viking's elegant small ship design.
- Viking is working on a hybrid propulsion system for future ships based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells, aiming for zero-emission operations in environmentally sensitive areas.
- The company has received numerous accolades, including being rated #1 for Oceans, Rivers, and Expeditions by prestigious publications, solidifying its reputation in the industry.
Viking has announced the delivery of its newest ocean ship, the Viking Vela, at Fincantieri's shipyard in Ancona, Italy. The Viking Vela, classified as a small ship, features 499 staterooms for 998 guests and will operate in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. While the ship currently has a traditional propulsion system, it is considered hydrogen-ready and can be retrofitted with a partial hybrid propulsion system in the future, allowing for potential zero-emission operations in areas like the Norwegian Fjords. Viking's Chairman and CEO, Torstein Hagen, expressed pride in welcoming the new addition to their fleet, emphasizing the company's dedication to elegant small ship designs. The company has also been recognized with multiple accolades, including being rated #1 for Oceans, Rivers, and Expeditions in the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler. Viking is also working on a project for a hybrid propulsion system based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells for future ships, showcasing their commitment to environmentally friendly operations. Overall, the article highlights Viking's continuous success and innovation in the cruise industry.