LOS ANGELES, 11 September 2026: Viking has announced the float-out of Viking Astrea at Fincantieri’s Ancona Shipyard, marking the first time the company’s second hydrogen-powered cruise ship capable of operating with zero emissions has touched water.
Scheduled for delivery in May 2027, Viking Astrea will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe.
The float-out ceremony began when a ceremonial cord was cut, signalling the flow of water into the ship’s building dock. Following a two-day process to set the ship afloat, Viking Astrea will be moved to a nearby outfitting dock for final construction and interior build-out.
“The float out of the Viking Astrea represents another important milestone for Viking,” said Leah Talactac, President and Chief Executive Officer of Viking. “From the beginning, we have sought thoughtful ways to design more efficient ships, and the Viking Astrea is an important step forward in that ongoing effort.”
Hydrogen System Capable of Zero-Emission Operation
Classified as a small ship, Viking Astrea will have a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and 499 staterooms accommodating up to 998 guests. The ship will be a sister vessel in Viking’s ocean fleet and will feature a hybrid propulsion system based partially on liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells.
Viking says the system will make Viking Astrea capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, which would allow the ship to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas. The propulsion system is enabled by Isotta Fraschini Motori, Fincantieri’s subsidiary specialising in advanced fuel-cell technology, and will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power.
Viking Libra Due in November 2026
Viking Libra, described by Viking as the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship capable of operating with zero emissions, is scheduled for delivery in November 2026.and five river vessels during the remainder of 2026.
Source: Official Press Release from Viking Cruises and Business Wire on 11 September, 2026, Los Angeles.
