Swiss cruise line Viking celebrated the delivery of Viking Vela, an eco-friendly cruise ship built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. The vessel, with a gross tonnage of 54,300 tons and 499 staterooms, is designed to accommodate around 998 guests. While Viking Vela currently operates with a traditional propulsion platform, it is classified as hydrogen-ready, allowing for potential retrofitting in the future. Viking has been exploring a partial hybrid propulsion system based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells, aiming to achieve zero-emission operations in environmentally sensitive areas like the Norwegian fjords. This development aligns with Viking's commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Fincantieri highlighted that the ships built for Viking comply with the latest navigation and safety standards, featuring energy-efficient engines and systems that minimize exhaust gas pollution. The collaboration between Viking and Fincantieri, which began in 2012, has resulted in the delivery of 13 ships, including expedition vessels. Recent agreements indicate a continued partnership, with plans for additional environmentally friendly units scheduled for delivery in 2030-2032, reinforcing the focus on decarbonization and eco-friendly practices.