Viking Welcomes Its Latest Addition: The Viking Vesta Unveiled at Fincantieri's Ancona Shipyard

A recent publication by Fincantieri highlights the exciting addition of Viking Ocean Cruise’s latest vessel,the Viking Vesta,which was officially handed over at a ceremony in Ancona,Italy. This new ship is designed to accommodate 998 passengers across its 499 staterooms and boasts a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons.

Viking Vesta is set to enhance the company’s fleet as it embarks on its inaugural season in both the Mediterranean and Northern European waters. Notably versatile, this cruise ship can operate on customary marine diesel but has been engineered with future advancements in mind. This means it can be easily upgraded to adopt emerging technologies as they become prevalent within the industry.

This delivery follows closely behind an declaration regarding another groundbreaking project: the Viking Libra. As reported by Fincantieri,this innovative ship will be the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise liner capable of operating with zero emissions. Currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona facility, Viking Libra features a propulsion system that integrates hydrogen and fuel cells and is slated for completion in 2026.

Looking ahead, Viking has plans for more eco-kind vessels; their next project after Libra is called viking Astrea, also set to run on hydrogen power and expected to launch in 2027.The company aims for substantial growth with ambitions to add 27 river ships by 2028 alongside ten ocean vessels by 2031. By then, they anticipate having a total of 111 riverboats and expanding their ocean fleet to include up to 23 ships along with expedition vessels.

Founded back in ’97, Viking specializes in immersive cruises that focus on destinations around oceans, rivers, and lakes worldwide—catering specifically to travelers eager for experiences rich in science, history, culture, and culinary delights. Their commitment shines through their scandinavian-inspired designs that prioritize premium onboard experiences without casinos or children under eighteen years old—ensuring an elegant atmosphere tailored for discerning guests seeking cultural enrichment during their journeys.