Hydrogen-powered Viking Astrea launched at Fincantieri ahead of 2027 debut

Viking’s second hydrogen-powered cruise ship, Viking Astrea, has been launched at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard ahead of its June 2027 debut.

The 54,300-gross-tonne vessel will use a propulsion system partially powered by liquid hydrogen and fuel cells, following the same technology being introduced aboard sister ship Viking Libra.

The launch marks the latest construction milestone for the 239-metre Viking Astrea, which will accommodate up to 998 passengers in 499 cabins.

Francesca Baldinelli, who works in the production control department at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, served as godmother for the launch.

The ceremony was also attended by Gilberto Tobaldi, Director of Fincantieri’s Ancona Shipyard, and Ghislain Lemarie, Vice President of Ship Development and Construction, Viking.

Viking Astrea is scheduled to enter service in June 2027, approximately seven months after the planned delivery of Viking Libra.

The two vessels represent Viking and Fincantieri’s first use of liquid hydrogen and fuel-cell technology aboard the cruise line’s ocean-going fleet.

Viking Libra reached its own float-out milestone at the Ancona shipyard in March 2026 and is scheduled for delivery in November.

Viking has described Viking Libra as the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, with Viking Astrea set to follow the vessel into service the following year.

The technology allows hydrogen stored aboard the ships to be used by fuel cells as part of their propulsion and onboard energy systems, reducing their reliance on conventional marine fuels.

The two ships continue Viking’s established ocean-ship design, with Viking Astrea maintaining a capacity below 1,000 passengers despite its new propulsion technology.

The launch moves construction of Viking Astrea into its next phase at Ancona, where outfitting and installation work will continue ahead of testing, sea trials, and delivery.

Fincantieri and Viking have an extensive newbuild programme underway, with the Italian shipbuilder contracted to deliver further vessels for the cruise line in the coming years.

The latest contracts announced by the companies include two additional 54,300-gross-tonne, 988-passenger ships scheduled for delivery in 2032, which will also be built at Fincantieri’s Ancona facility.

Viking Astrea is scheduled to sail its maiden cruise in June 2027.