Fincantier’s Ancona Shipyard launches world’s first hydrogen-hybrid cruise ship

Photo: Fincantieri

Fincantieri’s Ancona Shipyard has launched Viking Libra, the world’s first hydrogen-fueled cruise ship, or, more exactly, part hydrogen-fueled. The 239-meter, 998-passenger ship will have a hybrid propulsion system incorporating liquefied hydrogen and fuel cells.

With technology from Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specializing in advanced fuel cell technology, the state-of-the-art propulsion system will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power, enabling the ship to operate in zero-emission mode and allowing it to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas.

According to IFM, its tailor-made technological solutions for Viking Libra will feature innovative systems for hydrogen loading and storage directly onboard, using a containerized solution designed to overcome current supply chain challenges. The hydrogen will power a PEM (polymer electrolyte membrane) fuel cell system, specifically optimized for cruise operations and entirely designed and manufactured by IFM.

The launch ceremony was attended Gilberto Tobaldi, drector of the Ancona Shipyard, and members of the Viking team.

Covering an area of approximately 360,000 square meters, the Ancona shipyard has a production capacity of 60,000 GT, lifting systems of up to 500 tons, and hull construction capability of about 1,200 tons. Further investments are planned to increase the site’s production capacity. Since 2009, more than 20 ships have been delivered by the yard, which plays a strategic role in Fincantieri’s industrial network and is involved in the Operations Excellence program, which entails the introduction of advanced technologies, robotics, and AI to increase efficiency and improve work quality.