Viking has charted a new course with plans to expand its ocean fleet significantly.
- Contracts have been signed for two new 998-passenger ocean cruise ships.
- Options secured for an additional four ships, set for future delivery.
- The collaboration with Fincantieri underscores a decade-long partnership.
- Viking aims to enhance its fleet with environmentally compliant vessels.
Viking has taken a decisive step in bolstering its presence in the ocean cruise industry by signing contracts for two new ships with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. These ships, each accommodating 998 passengers, are scheduled for delivery in 2030, marking a significant augmentation of Viking’s existing fleet. The agreement, while described as substantial, remains undisclosed in value, contingent on financing and other terms. This move highlights Viking’s commitment to expanding its ocean cruise offerings with state-of-the-art vessels.
Additionally, Viking has provisioned options for four more ships, anticipated to join the fleet between 2031 and 2032. This potential expansion further cements the collaboration with Fincantieri, a partnership that commenced in 2012 and has already seen the successful delivery of 22 vessels. The new ships will mirror Viking’s current ‘small ship’ fleet, each weighing 54,300 tons, and are expected to adhere strictly to modern environmental and navigation standards.
Fincantieri’s role in this venture is pivotal, as it continues to solidify its relationship with Viking. Pierroberto Folgiero, Fincantieri’s chief executive, expressed that the new order not only strengthens the company’s order book but also ensures the continuity of work across their shipyards in the long run. He emphasised, ‘This agreement not only strengthens our order book but it ensures further depth of work in our shipyards over the long term, positioning us at the forefront of driving the industry towards energy transition.’ This statement underscores the strategic importance of this collaboration in the context of evolving environmental regulations in the maritime sector.
Viking’s strategic expansion through its collaboration with Fincantieri reflects its forward-thinking commitment to sustainability and growth within the cruise industry.
