Fincantieri has secured an order from Viking Cruises to build two new expedition vessels. The companies also signed an option for two additional ocean ships. The agreement marks another step in their long-term partnership.
The expedition vessels will be delivered in 2030 and 2031. They will be sister ships to Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris. Fincantieri’s subsidiary Vard built those vessels in 2021 and 2022. The Palermo shipyard will construct the new ships.
Each vessel will host 378 guests in 189 staterooms. They will carry Polar Class 6 certification for operations in polar waters. The ships will sail in remote regions and on the St. Lawrence River. Designers equipped them with straight bows, extended hulls, and advanced fin stabilizers. Ice-strengthened hulls will support safe navigation in extreme conditions. U-tank stabilizers will reduce rolling at anchor. The design follows Viking’s Scandinavian style and includes spaces built specifically for expedition cruises.
The option covers two ocean ships scheduled for delivery in 2034. Each vessel will measure about 54,300 gross tons. They will carry 998 guests in 499 cabins. The ships will meet the latest environmental and navigation standards and include advanced safety systems.
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, said the agreement strengthens the group’s strategic and industrial position. He added that building the vessels in Palermo confirms the shipyard’s growing role within Italy’s industrial system.
The latest order expands a partnership that began in 2012. It now includes a total of 26 ships.
