Switzerland’s Viking welcomes newest eco-friendly cruise ship
Swiss cruise line Viking has recently celebrated a significant milestone with the delivery of the Viking Vela. This vessel marks the beginning of a new series of eco-friendly ships being constructed by the renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. The delivery ceremony took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Ancona, Italy, showcasing the collaboration between these two industry leaders. Viking Vela is not just another cruise ship; it represents a commitment to sustainability and innovation in the maritime industry.
Specifications and Features of Viking Vela
The Viking Vela is classified as a small ship, similar to other vessels in Viking’s ocean fleet. It boasts a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and features 499 staterooms, accommodating around 998 guests. This design allows for an intimate cruising experience while still providing ample amenities for passengers. As Viking Vela joins the fleet, it is set to embark on its inaugural season, offering itineraries in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. These routes promise to showcase the beauty of these regions while providing a luxurious travel experience.
One of the standout features of Viking Vela is its commitment to environmental sustainability. While the ship currently operates on a traditional propulsion platform, it is classified as “hydrogen-ready.” This means that it can be retrofitted in the future to utilize a hybrid propulsion system based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells. This innovative approach aims to enable zero-emission operations in sensitive environments, such as the Norwegian fjords. Viking’s forward-thinking strategy reflects a broader trend in the cruise industry toward greener technologies and practices.
Collaboration and Future Prospects
The delivery of Viking Vela is part of a larger collaboration between Viking and Fincantieri, which dates back to 2012. To date, Fincantieri has delivered 13 vessels to Viking, including two expedition cruise ships built by its Norwegian subsidiary, Vard. The partnership has resulted in a total of around 26 ships ordered, showcasing a strong and ongoing relationship between the two companies. This collaboration emphasizes the importance of adhering to the latest navigation and safety regulations while also focusing on energy efficiency and reduced emissions.
In July, just months before the delivery of Viking Vela, Viking signed a contract with Fincantieri for the construction of two additional environmentally friendly units. The estimated value of this agreement ranges between €500 million and €1 billion. Furthermore, in October, a two-plus-four option was added to the orderbook, with delivery dates scheduled for 2030, 2031, and 2032. This expansion reflects Viking’s commitment to enhancing its fleet with sustainable vessels that meet international environmental standards.
As the cruise industry continues to evolve, Viking Vela stands as a testament to the potential for innovation and sustainability in maritime travel. With its eco-friendly features and strong collaborative efforts, Viking is paving the way for a greener future in cruising.
