A new milestone in cruise ship innovation was marked today with the launch of the “Viking Libra” at the Ancona shipyard, where the vessel is currently under construction for Viking. Delivery is expected toward the end of 2026. The event brought together key figures, including Gilberto Tobaldi, Director of the Ancona Shipyard, alongside representatives from the Viking team.
Designed with a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tonnes and measuring 239 metres in length, the ship will accommodate up to 998 guests across 499 staterooms. Notably, “Viking Libra” is set to become the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, featuring a propulsion system that incorporates liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells. The vessel has been developed with a strong environmental focus and will be capable of operating with zero emissions, enabling access to environmentally sensitive destinations.
The ongoing collaboration between Fincantieri and Viking, which dates back to 2012, continues to strengthen their position within the cruise industry. Including vessels already on order, signed contracts, and recently agreed options, subject to standard financing conditions, the partnership now encompasses a total of 26 ships.
The Ancona shipyard itself spans approximately 360,000 square meters and boasts a production capacity of 60,000 gross tonnes. Equipped with lifting systems capable of handling up to 500 tonnes and hull construction capabilities of around 1,200 tonnes, the facility remains a central asset within the Group’s industrial network. Since 2009, more than 20 ships have been delivered from the site, supported by the daily efforts of around 3,700 workers. Additional investments are planned to further enhance production capacity, while the shipyard is also advancing through the Operations Excellence programme, which integrates advanced technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence to improve both efficiency and work quality.
Fincantieri is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups, the only player active in all high-complexity marine industry sectors. The Group is a leader in the construction of cruise ships, naval, and offshore vessels and stands out for its extensive experience in the development of underwater solutions, thanks to its integrated industrial structure capable of managing and coordinating all activities related to the commercial, defence, and dual-use sectors. It holds a strong presence in key markets also thanks to the internalisation of high value-added, distinctive technologies; it is also a leader in sustainable innovation and in the digital transformation of the shipbuilding sector. The company is active in the fields of mechatronics, electronics, and digital naval systems, as well as in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and marine interior solutions. It also offers a wide range of after-sales services, including logistics support and fleet assistance. With over 230 years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri is a global player with a production network of 18 shipyards worldwide and over 23,000 employees. It maintains its know-how, expertise and management centres in Italy, where it directly employs over 12,000 workers and creates around 90,000 indirect jobs.
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