The maritime industry is witnessing a historic milestone with the keel laying of Viking Libra, the world’s first cruise ship powered entirely by hydrogen stored onboard. Held in Ancona, the ceremony marked a giant leap forward in sustainable cruise technology, attended by shipyard Director Gilberto Tobaldi and Viking’s New Building Site Team Manager, Gastone Lazzari.
This innovation highlights the strong collaboration between Viking and its shipbuilding partners, aiming to redefine eco-friendly travel on the seas.
Hydrogen Power: A Game-Changer for Cruising
At approximately 54,300 gross tons and 239 meters in length, Viking Libra is not only impressive in scale but also revolutionary in technology.
Its hydrogen-powered system will generate both propulsion and onboard electricity, enabling operations with zero emissions. This makes the vessel capable of accessing environmentally sensitive regions that traditional cruise ships cannot enter, setting a benchmark for green innovation in the cruise industry.
Viking’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
The Viking Libra reflects more than just advanced engineering; it embodies Viking’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. With capacity for 998 guests in 499 staterooms, the ship blends luxury with environmental responsibility.
Viking’s partnership with the shipyard, established in 2012, has already produced 28 vessels, but this new project signals the beginning of a transformative era for cruising, where comfort and ecological responsibility coexist seamlessly.
The keel laying of Viking Libra marks not just the beginning of a new ship but the dawn of a new chapter in maritime history. By embracing hydrogen technology, Viking is setting the course toward cleaner oceans and a sustainable future for global cruising.
This pioneering effort proves that innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand, inspiring the entire maritime industry to follow suit.
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Source: LinkedIn
