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Fincantieri and Viking announce the world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship and sign contracts for two new units

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 08 April 2025 08 April 2025

Fincantieri and Viking announced today the first cruise ship in the world to be powered by hydrogen stored onboard for both propulsion and onboard electricity generation, the Viking Libra. The vessel is currently under construction at the Fincantieri Ancona shipyard, with delivery scheduled for late 2026.

With a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and a length of 239 meters, the Viking Libra, will accommodate up to 998 guests in 499 staterooms. Designed with sustainability in mind, the ship will be capable of navigating and operating with zero emissions, allowing it to access even the most environmentally sensitive areas. This marks a new state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion system that, combined with advanced fuel cell technology, will be capable of producing up to six megawatts of power, and will set a new benchmark for the industry's decarbonization efforts. Viking’s subsequent ocean ship, the Viking Astrea, which is also currently under construction at the Ancona shipyard and scheduled for delivery in 2027, will also be hydrogen-powered.

The success of this joint initiative with Viking is made possible by Fincantieri’s capability to integrate disruptive new technologies on board. A key contributor to this effort is Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), Fincantieri’s subsidiary specializing in advanced fuel cell technology, which will provide tailor-made solutions for the Viking Libra. The vessel will feature first-of-a-kind solutions to load and store hydrogen directly onboard the ship thanks to a containerized system to overcome supply chain constraints. Hydrogen will power polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells system specifically optimized for cruise operations, designed and produced by IFM. This achievement reinforces IFM’s role as a leader in the adoption of green fuels and cutting-edge energy systems for the maritime and land application sectors.

Fincantieri and Viking also today announced that they have signed an agreement for the construction of two new cruise ships for delivery in 2031, plus an option for two additional vessels, based on the successful features of the previous units, which Fincantieri has already built for this shipowner in its Italian yards. The value of this agreement, subject to financing and other typical terms and conditions, is considered as large. The new ships will be built according to the latest environmental rules and navigation regulations and will be equipped with the most modern safety systems. The new vessels will be placed in the small cruise ship segment, the gross tonnage is about 54,300 tons and they will accommodate 998 passengers on board in 499 cabins.

"With the Viking Libra, we are not only delivering the world's first cruise ship powered by hydrogen stored on board, but we are also reinforcing our commitment to shaping the future of sustainable maritime transportation," said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri. “This milestone marks a defining moment in our journey towards net-zero, fully aligned with our Business Plan, and underscores Fincantieri’s role as a catalyst for the industry's green transition. Beyond shipbuilding, we are driving a systemic evolution by integrating cutting-edge technologies, fostering supply chain innovation, and creating a model for the widespread adoption of hydrogen in the maritime sector. Furthermore, we are thrilled about Viking’s decision to expand its fleet with the order of two additional ships, which reaffirms the strength of our partnership, and the trust placed in our expertise. This new order is a testament to our shared vision for a more sustainable cruise industry, as together we continue to set new standards for innovation and responsible shipbuilding."

“From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption, and we are very proud that the Viking Libra and the Viking Astrea, will be even more environmentally friendly,” said Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking. “Viking made the principled decision to invest in hydrogen, which offers a true zero-emission solution. We look forward to welcoming the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship to our fleet in 2026.”

World's largest cruise terminal officially opens in PortMiami

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 06 April 2025 06 April 2025

The Cruise Division of MSC Group inaugurated the world’s largest cruise terminal yesterday at PortMiami. This industry-leading facility was developed in partnership with PortMiami and Miami-Dade County. Imagined by global design firm Arquitectonica and built by Fincantieri Infrastructure, a world-leader in large-scale construction projects, the terminal's futuristic design and advanced passenger technology will set a new standard for the cruise industry.

Dignitaries from across the world attended the ribbon cutting event, including, Secretary J. Alex Kelly, Florida Department of Commerce, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, and Edoardo Rixi, Italian Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport Infrastructure along with Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division and Pierroberto Folgiero, Fincantieri’s CEO and Managing Director.

The new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal spanning more than 492,000 square feet equivalent to 8.5 American football fields, is capable of processing up to 36,000 passengers daily and is designed to accommodate up to three ships at once.

This multi-million-dollar terminal represents a significant investment by the Cruise Division, highlighting its dedication to providing an exceptional experience for guests in the U.S. and the Caribbean. Additionally, it supports the deployment of the company's newest and most efficient vessels. The terminal, along with the new Cruise Division U.S. headquarters in Miami and the expanded office in Fort Lauderdale, underscores the company's long-term commitment to the region.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group, said: "Our new cruise terminal is the most advanced in the world, designed to offer a seamless experience for our guests before and after their cruise, setting a new benchmark for the industry. This proud moment reflects our unwavering commitment to Miami and its vibrant community, a partnership that spans over 20 years. The terminal symbolizes our dedication to quality tourism, innovation, and we are grateful for the strong collaborations that have brought this vision to life. This incredible state-of-the art facility will not only enhance the travel experience but also bring significant economic benefits to the region, creating jobs and fostering growth in the local economy.”

The MSC Miami Cruise Terminal is an architectural masterpiece and will become an iconic landmark on Miami’s skyline, bringing a fresh and modern approach to passenger terminals. The facility’s high ceilings and floor to ceiling windows, create an incredible sense of light and space. The Company partnered with Miami-Dade County's Art in Public Places Program to commission seven works of art from both local and internationally renowned artists, further enriching the guest experience.

The terminal uses advanced technology for better energy efficiency. Efforts include utilizing Miami-Dade County’s shore power connectivity to reduce local emissions when ships are in port. The facility also features systems for waste management, water recycling, and the use of sustainable materials. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Gold Certification is in progress.

From beginning to end, everything has been designed to ensure a seamless experience. Guests can check in online from the comfort of their home, upload travel documents, and receive their boarding pass in minutes, preparing for biometric processing in advance to save time upon arrival.

Arriving at the terminal is hassle-free, with options for car, bus, taxi, or ride share, and a six-level garage with over 2,400 spaces for those driving.

A state-of-the-art baggage handling system developed by Leonardo ensures efficient processing of guest and crew luggage. Check-in and security are expedited with biometric face pods and efficient screening lanes.

Guests can relax in comfortable, stylish waiting areas with an exclusive lounge for MSC Yacht Club guests. The embarkation process is finalized with biometric E-gates, allowing guests to start their holiday immediately. Disembarkation and luggage collection is just as seamless, ensuring guests can get home quickly and start planning their next cruise.

MSC Cruises will have a total of four ships sailing from the new terminal throughout 2025, including its newest flagship MSC World America, alongside ships from MSC Group’s luxury ocean travel brand, Explora Journeys. Explora I will return to the Caribbean sailing from the new terminal in November this year.

New residential ship emerges for the cruise market

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 21 March 2025 21 March 2025

Crescent Heights, one of the country’s largest and most prestigious real estate developers, today announced the launch of Crescent Seas, an exclusive new residential model offering luxury residences at sea. Designed for discerning travelers accustomed to the private oasis of the yachting lifestyle, Crescent Seas now brings Crescent Heights vision of creating magical communities in the sky to the high seas.

Crescent Seas will launch with the Navigator – in agreement with the ship’s owners, which are affiliates of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH). It will undergo an extensive and top-grade refurbishment of more than $50 million. Three elite design firms are working with Crescent Seas to complete the redevelopment, Lissoni & Partners, Journey and MAWD, each responsible for respective features across the ships. The Navigator will feature 210 residences, ranging from $750,000 to $8 million. Amenities will include white-glove butler service for all units and Starlink internet connection to allow for remote work or schooling. Residence sales will open to the public on April 9th, with a sales gallery in Miami available for prospective buyers. The Navigator will embark on its maiden voyage in December 2026. Crescent Seas also plans to announce four more luxury residence ships over the next five years.

Russell W. Galbut, a founding partner of Crescent Heights and a leader in the cruise industry, is spearheading the growth of Crescent Seas, “After spending so much time on the seas, we noticed that travelers yearned for more. People on the ships kept telling us they wanted to live this luxurious lifestyle. So, we decided to select ships with the right configurations to convert to the most magnificent cruising yachts,” Galbut said. “With most of the earth’s surface covered by water, it only felt right to use our 50 years of development expertise on land, to create the most magical residences at sea. Why vacation to just one gateway city when you can be at home and live in all the greatest gateway cities around the globe? After hand-selecting this ship, we hired the same experienced management teams to operate the ship for the first 10 years of operations. We are delighted to be able to provide luxury homes to people that will carry them to places they’ve only dreamed of.”

Unlike traditional commercial cruises, owners of these best-in-class residences will journey on extended voyages around the world staying in each destination for 2 to 3 days. The adventurous itineraries will span across all seven continents, reaching some of the most far stretched destinations on the planet. Marisa Galbut, President of Crescent Seas stated, “Residents will venture to exotic parts of the world to explore places like French Polynesia, the Faroe Islands and Madagascar.”

Ensuring a first-class level of service, each ship will be continuously operated and maintained by their existing crews; and the day-to-day on-board hospitality services will continue to be handled by the existing service provider, The Apollo Group. With more than 50 years of experience in the cruising industry, The Apollo Group will provide the highest level of service and dining for every resident as they have in the past.

"We are delighted to announce that Navigator will continue to sail the ocean with Crescent Seas. While we know Navigator is a favorite to many guests, with our two new Prestige Class ships on order, this agreement allows us to optimize our fleet while ensuring Navigator continues creating unforgettable memories at sea." said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Crescent Seas is being launched through GFO Investments, Galbut’s global family office and a major investor in Crescent Heights. As Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Crescent Heights, Galbut has an exemplary track record of developing urban projects in gateway cities across the country including Ten Thousand Santa Monica Blvd and The Remington in Los Angeles, Forma Miami, and the redevelopment of 25 Broad Street in New York City into the most desired homes and residences. Galbut’s development expertise coupled with his over 23-year tenure in the cruise industry gives Galbut a unique vantage point to meet the current market demands and drive the success of Crescent Seas.

Fincantieri delivers first Prima Plus Class ship

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Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä

Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines

Published: 13 March 2025 13 March 2025

Today Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) celebrated the delivery at the Marghera (Venice) shipyard of Norwegian Aqua, the first ship of the expanded Prima Plus Class that Fincantieri is building for the cruise line.

The ceremony was attended by Biagio Mazzotta and Pierroberto Folgiero, respectively Chairman, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, and by Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of the Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division. Present for the shipowner were Harry Sommer, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, and David J. Herrera, Brand President of Norwegian Cruise Line.

At 156,300 gross tons and a length that spans 1,056 feet, Norwegian Aqua is 10% larger than the first two Prima Class vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, which also feature the craftmanship of Fincantieri, providing guests with wide open space, thoughtful art and design and more unmatched experiences, including the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world’s first-ever hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide; the Glow Court, a new high-tech digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor; as well as the Aqua Game Zone, a multi-faceted entertainment space filled with immersive and virtual reality games. Moreover, Norwegian Aqua features the most expansive 360-degree outdoor promenade to date, Ocean Boulevard.

Over the past few months, more than 4,000 people, including Fincantieri staff and partner companies, have worked tirelessly onboard this new ship. In addition to the delivery of Norwegian Aqua, the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera will experience another milestone tomorrow, with the launching ceremony of Norwegian Luna, the sister ship to Norwegian Aqua, scheduled for delivery in spring 2026. A double event which further strengthens the close relationship between Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, coming just weeks after the announcement of a landmark order for four approximately 226,000 tons cruise ships - the largest ever built for NCL by the Group.