HydrogenShipbuilding.com

Sailing: 16

Ordered: 33

Proposed: 19

Category: oceangoing

  • Viking Libra: A step Towards Zero-Emission Cruising

    In a groundbreaking development for the maritime industry, Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and Swiss cruise line Viking have unveiled the world’s first cruise ship powered by liquid hydrogen stored onboard. This pioneering vessel, named Viking Libra, is currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard, with delivery anticipated in late 2026. This has been long in the making but very good to see this public announcement. It is another confirmation of the role liquid hydrogen can play in maritime transport.

    Source: Viking cruises

    The Viking Libra represents a significant advancement in sustainable maritime technology. With a gross tonnage of approximately 54,300 tons and a length of 239 meters, the ship is engineered to operate with zero emissions. Its state-of-the-art hydrogen propulsion system, combined with advanced fuel cell technology, is capable of generating up to 6 megawatts of power.

    A notable feature of the Viking Libra is its innovative approach to hydrogen storage and utilization. The vessel will incorporate a containerized system designed to load and store hydrogen directly onboard, effectively addressing existing supply chain challenges. This hydrogen will fuel a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell system, specifically optimized for cruise operations and developed by Isotta Fraschini Motori (IFM), a subsidiary of Fincantieri specializing in advanced fuel cell technology.

    Torstein Hagen, Chairman and CEO of Viking, expressed pride in this environmental milestone:

    “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. 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.”

    Expanding the Fincantieri-Viking Partnership

    In addition to the Viking Libra, Fincantieri is constructing the Viking Astrea, another hydrogen-powered vessel scheduled for delivery in 2027. This initiative underscores Viking’s commitment to sustainable cruising and marks a significant step toward reducing the environmental impact of maritime travel.

    Further strengthening their collaboration, Fincantieri and Viking have signed an agreement for the construction of two additional cruise ships, set for delivery in 2031. This contract includes an option for two more vessels and is based on the successful design features of previous units built by Fincantieri for Viking. These new ships will comply with the latest environmental regulations and incorporate modern safety systems. Positioned in the small cruise ship segment, each will have a gross tonnage of about 54,300 tons and accommodate 998 passengers across 499 cabins.

    Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director of Fincantieri, highlighted the significance of this partnership:

    “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. 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.”

    Pioneering Sustainable Maritime Transportation

    The launch of the Viking Libra signifies a pivotal moment in the cruise industry’s journey toward sustainability. By integrating hydrogen fuel technology, Viking and Fincantieri are setting new standards for eco-friendly maritime operations, paving the way for a future where zero-emission cruising becomes the norm.

    As the maritime sector continues to seek innovative solutions to reduce its environmental footprint, collaborations like that of Fincantieri and Viking exemplify the transformative potential of embracing green technologies. The Viking Libra and its sister ships stand as beacons of progress, heralding a new era in sustainable sea travel.

  • H2ESTIA Project: Liquid Hydrogen-Powered General Cargo Ship

    In February this site already reported on five Dutch hydrogen ships winning subsidy. Now the general public is introduced to one of those vessels: the H2ESTIA Project. Spearheaded by the Nederlandse Innovatie Maatschappij (NIM), this project aims to develop the world’s first zero-emission general cargo ship powered by liquid hydrogen, marking a significant milestone in the quest for greener shipping solutions.

    Project Overview

    The H2ESTIA Project focuses on the design, construction, and demonstration of a hydrogen-powered cargo vessel intended for operations in the North Sea and beyond. Managed by Van Dam Shipping, a family-run short-sea and inland shipping company, the vessel is designed to transport bulk goods without emitting harmful pollutants, thereby redefining sustainable maritime logistics.

    Source: NIM

    Innovative Technological Integration

    Central to the project’s innovation is its integrated approach to hydrogen propulsion. The vessel will feature a newly designed cryogenic hydrogen storage and bunkering system, ensuring the safe handling and storage of liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures. Propulsion will be achieved through a hydrogen fuel cell system complemented by batteries, delivering clean and efficient power.

    To enhance energy efficiency further, the ship will incorporate:

    • Wind-Assisted Propulsion: Utilizing wind power to reduce reliance on hydrogen fuel.
    • Waste Heat Recovery Systems: Capturing and reusing excess heat to improve overall energy utilization.

    Additionally, the implementation of digital twin technology will create a virtual model of the ship, allowing for real-time monitoring, operational optimization, and enhanced safety measures.

    Collaborative Effort

    The H2ESTIA Project is supported by a consortium of leading maritime and technology organizations, including TNO, MARIN, the University of Twente, Cryovat, EnginX, Encontech, and classification society RINA. This collaborative effort is further backed by the Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, highlighting the project’s national significance in advancing sustainable shipping practices.

    Statements from Key Stakeholders

    Sander Roosjen, CTO at NIM, emphasized the project’s groundbreaking nature: “H2ESTIA is a flagship project for commercial shipping. By integrating hydrogen technology with digital innovation, we are proving that zero-emission shipping is not just a vision—it is an achievable reality.”

    Jan van Dam, CEO of Van Dam Shipping, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts: “Parallel to the H2ESTIA Project, we are working on securing the supply, as well as the necessary bunkering and logistics. This is a combined effort, as a single ship alone does not generate sufficient demand. Collaboration at this stage is what transforms our ambitions into reality.”

    Implications for the Maritime Industry

    The H2ESTIA Project aims to demonstrate both the technological readiness and economic viability of hydrogen-powered cargo vessels, paving the way for their commercial deployment. By addressing challenges such as hydrogen system certification, risk management, and crew training, the project sets a precedent for the safe integration of hydrogen technology into maritime operations.

    As the maritime industry continues to seek sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, initiatives like H2ESTIA exemplify the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source, offering a promising pathway toward achieving zero-emission shipping in the near future.

  • GreenH Advances Hydrogen Hub for Ships

    Those involved with hydrogen project for shipping know the chicken-and-egg situation: why build hydrogen ships when there is not supply vs in order to build the infrastructure we need guaranteed long term off-take. That is why GreenH’s final investment decision (FID) is such a big deal: finally dedicated hydrogen supply hub for ships will be constructed. While simultaneously solving the problem of bunkering high volumes of compressed hydrogen into a ship. Therefore we can only respect this major green shipping milestone.

    Norwegian company GreenH has secured NOK 1 billion (approximately $89 million) to develop a green hydrogen facility in Bodø. This plant will supply hydrogen the two Torghatten Nord’s ferries on the Vestfjorden route. The FID, announced on January 27, 2025, marks a significant milestone after four years of development.

    Source: GreenH

    Enova grant

    In November 2024, Enova granted NOK 129 million (around $11.5 million) to support the Bodø hydrogen facility. This funding was pivotal in reaching the final investment decision.

    Norwegian hydrogen hub

    The Bodø facility will feature a 20 MW electrolyzer, capable of producing up to 3,100 tons of green hydrogen annually. Operations are slated to begin in 2026, making it the first in Northern Europe to supply pressurized green hydrogen directly to maritime vessels. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to decarbonize maritime transport. For instance, Norwegian shipyard Myklebust Verft is constructing two hydrogen-powered ferries for Torghatten Nord. Upon delivery, these vessels will be the world’s largest hydrogen-powered ships, operating primarily on the green hydrogen produced in Bodø.

    Port infrastructure

    Globally, ports are investing in hydrogen infrastructure to support sustainable shipping. The Port of Seattle is exploring green hydrogen to power port operations and fuel vessels. Similarly, the Hamburg Green Hydrogen Hub plans to start building its electrolysis plant in 2025, aiming to decarbonize the port and surrounding industries. These developments underscore the maritime industry’s commitment to reducing emissions through innovative hydrogen solutions.

  • Energy Observer 2 – Fuel EU Maritime

    In my previous post I explained how the Energy Observer 2 is a new milestone for hydrogen powered vessels. This post analyzes a typical operation for such vessel across European ports in an assumed schedule and evaluates its potential benefits from Fuel EU Maritime.

    Operational Snapshot

    The vessel operates between key European ports on the west coast:

    PortDistance (nautical miles)Port MovesWaiting Time (hours)Maneuvering Time (hours)
    Hamburg40560022
    Antwerp25250022
    Le Havre46340022
    La Rochelle10320022
    Bordeaux99650022
    Total2,2192,2001010
    Overview of EO2 trade route

    Speed, Time, and Energy Calculations

    The vessel operates at a service speed of 12 knots for regular operations. The journey duration and corresponding energy consumption were calculated as follows:

    • Total sailing days: 7.70 (12 knots)
    • Energy consumption during sailing: 554,750 kWh
    • Port energy consumption: 20,000 kWh (port waiting and maneuvering energy combined)

    Based on the following assumed power ratings:

    • Sailing: 3,000 kW
    • Maneuvering: 1,500 kW
    • Port operations: 500 kW

    Hydrogen Fuel Usage and Emissions

    With a typical consumption rate of 60 grams of LH2 per kWh for fuel cells and no further losses assumed, the vessel’s total hydrogen fuel usage per journey is 34.5 tons. Annually, considering regular operations of one round-trip every two weeks, the vessel consumes 897 tons of liquid hydrogen, or 2.5 tons per day.

    Fuel EU Maritime

    The Fuel EU Maritime regulations that came into force this year is meant to enforce the adoption of renewable fuels and to reward early adopters. When we consider the above amount of RFNBO hydrogen in Fuel EU maritime it demonstrates a strong over-compliance compared to requirements in 2029. This can be verified in any free online calculate like provided here. 

    Moreover, this over-compliance can be traded at marketplaces which came into operation this year (for example here and here). If we assume a rate of €320 per ton CO2-eq – half of the penalty rate – this give a value of €2.55 million. Or €2.85 per kilo LH2. Whether this amount itself justifies to cost of sailing on liquid hydrogen is doubtful but at least it reduced the operational cost of doing so.

    A Path Forward

    This analysis showcases the potential effect of Fuel EU maritime on hydrogen-powered ships across European shipping routes. As port infrastructure evolves to support hydrogen refueling, this mode of operation will become increasingly viable.

    The hydrogen shipping revolution is just beginning—charting the way toward a sustainable and efficient future.

    What’s your take on hydrogen-powered shipping? Share your thoughts below!

  • Energy Observer 2, a new milestone

    In the past week, more information became known about the largest vessel to-date to operate on liquid hydrogen: the Energy Observer 2 (EO2), a project spearheaded by Energy Observer in collaboration with partners like LMG Marin. This blog post summarizes what is known to date about this large vessel.

    Introducing Energy Observer 2

    Building upon the success of the original Energy Observer—a vessel that demonstrated the viability of renewable energy and hydrogen integration—the EO2 project aims to revolutionize cargo shipping. This 160-meter containership will carry up to 1,100 TEU containers, operating entirely on liquid hydrogen, thereby ensuring zero-emission voyages. Zero emission operation is scheduled to take place on a route along the west coast of Europe. This will connect major ports such as Hamburg, Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Bordeaux, offering a new green corridor on a high-traffic maritime route.

    Source: LMG Marin

    Key Features of EO2:

    • Sustainable Propulsion: Equipped with electric propulsion powered by 4.8 MW fuel cells developed in partnership with EODev and Toyota, EO2 exemplifies cutting-edge maritime technology.
    • Innovative Design: Two large C-type liquid hydrogen tanks located on the aft deck with a total volume of 1,000 m3.
    • Operational Efficiency: With a range of up to 4,000 nautical miles, EO2 is tailored for intra-continental and coastal routes. This is a sustainable alternative to traditional road transportation.
    • No sails: surprisingly, this latest design does not show the Oceanwings’ sails that were present in earlier designs. One possible reason for this omission is the potential interference with cargo operations(?).

    Collaborative Efforts

    The development of EO2 is a testament to collaborative innovation. LMG Marin, renowned for its expertise in decarbonized propulsion, is leading the ship’s design. Other key partners include Air Liquide, CMA CGM Group, Bureau Veritas, and Ayro, each contributing specialized knowledge to ensure the project’s success.

    European Union’s Support

    Highlighting its commitment to sustainable maritime solutions, the European Union’s Innovation Fund has awarded the EO2 project €40 million. See also this blog post.This funding should cover all green equipment cost and a significant amount of operational expense. The grant accelerates the path toward constructing and operating the world’s largest liquid hydrogen-powered cargo ship by 2029.

    A Vision for the Future

    EO2 is not just another ship; it’s a vision for the future of maritime transport. By integrating advanced technologies and fostering international collaboration, it aims to set a new standard for zero-emission shipping due to it’s larger scale, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

    As the maritime industry navigates toward a sustainable future, projects like Energy Observer 2 illuminate the course, demonstrating that with innovation and cooperation, zero-emission shipping is not just an aspiration but an achievable reality.

  • 2024: Record deliveries and orders

    While 2024 is generally seen as a year of delays and set-backs for industrial hydrogen projects, not so for hydrogen in shipbuilding. This year has been very eventful with a large number of hydrogen-fueled ships entering into operation(6) as well as new ships (16!) being announced, backed by subsidies from Norway and the EU. This is a very positive development, especially because these newly publicized vessels are significantly larger in size and power requirement.

    Many vessels delivered

    In 2024 a large number hydrogen vessels entered into operation, which clearly demonstrate the feasibility of hydrogen as fuel. Among those vessels are the following.

    • Project 821, the Feadship superyacht on liquid hydrogen. See details here.
    • Hydromer dredging vessel, though awaiting the hydrogen installation on deck
    • Coastal Liberty with a hydrogen system for auxiliary power on deck.
    • H2 Barge 2, the next inland vessel of Future Proof Shipping.
    • Zulu 06 another inland barge on hydrogen.
    • Hydrocat 55, another crew transfer vessel of Windcat.

    Enova enables more project of zero-emission ships

    This year Enova, Norway’s state enterprise dedicated to promoting environmentally friendly energy solutions, significantly advanced the maritime sector’s transition to zero-emission vessels through substantial funding initiatives.

    In June, Enova announced its largest-ever funding allocation within the maritime transport sector, committing NOK 1.2 billion to support the development of ammonia and hydrogen-powered vessels. Then in December the next funding round was announced with two more hydrogen vessels.

    The beneficiaries to develop the 11 more hydrogen ships are:

    • Maris Fiducia five hydrogen-powered dry-bulk vessels.
    • Halten Bulk: two dry bulk vessels.
    • Napier: two general cargo ships.
    • Møre Sjø: live fish carrier.
    • Cruise Service: two hydrogen-powered passenger vessels.

    Equally important, in a separate funding round, Enova granted EUR 65 million to five hydrogen production projects aimed at supplying fuel for ships.

    And so does the EU

    On 22 October results of the 2023 EU Innovation Fund call were announced. 85 innovative net-zero projects were selected to receive grants of a total €4.8 billion. A small part of this went so shipping projects to demonstrate the feasibility of sailing on liquid hydrogen.

    • Swap2Zero Ponant’s cruise ship project with liquid hydrogen for auxiliary power
    • Samskip’s HydroShuttles two liquid hydrogen-powered containerships.
    • Energy Observer 2 a 1,100 TEU containership on liquid hydrogen.

    More information will be made available on this site’s ships page.

    The awarded EU Innovation Fund grants will also support a number of industrial developments of hydrogen infrastructure in compressed and liquid state to support the maritime industry. More details on that later in this blog.

    On a slightly smaller scale but equally important, the Dutch Maritime Masterplan has also awarded subsidies to a few hydrogen shipbuilding projects just before the end of 2024. However these have not yet been publicly announced.

  • EU grants hydrogen vessels

    Very pleased to see the EU Innovation fund specifically supporting three projects developing vessels operating on hydrogen. Ponant enables environmental friendly cruising with a very interesting mix of technologies. Samskip continues their venture into hydrogen vessels after already ordering the Sea Shuttles. While the original Energy Observer get is much larger container-carrying sister.

    In November 2023, the European Commission announced the recipients of the EU Innovation Fund 2023, dedicating substantial grants to pioneering projects aimed at decarbonizing the maritime industry. Among the notable beneficiaries are:

    Ponant’s SWAP2ZERO Project

    • Grant Amount: Not publicly disclosed.
    • Project Overview: Ponant, a French luxury cruise operator, is developing the world’s first transoceanic vessel targeting carbon neutrality.
    • Key Features:
      • Wind Propulsion: A sail power system providing up to 50% of the vessel’s propulsion energy.
      • Solar Energy: Approximately 1,000 square meters of eco-friendly photovoltaic panels.
      • Fuel Cells: Integration of both low-temperature and high-temperature fuel cells for propulsion and hotel load needs.
      • Carbon Capture: Onboard technology to capture and reuse CO₂ emissions.
    • Operational Target: Aiming for zero CO₂ emissions during operation with one month of autonomy.
    • Planned Launch: The vessel is expected to be operational by 2030.

    Samskip’s HydroShuttles

    • Grant Amount: Funding details not publicly disclosed.
    • Project Overview: Samskip, a leading logistics company, is developing hydrogen-powered short-sea vessels designed for efficient, clean coastal transport.
    • Key Features:
      • Hydrogen Fuel Cells: Utilization of advanced fuel cell technology for propulsion.
      • Scalable Hydrogen Storage: Innovative storage solutions to support extended operations.
    • Impact: Aiming to reduce emissions in regional trade routes, showcasing the viability of hydrogen for short-sea shipping applications.

    Energy Observer 2 (EO2)

    • Grant Amount: €40 million from the EU Innovation Fund.
    • Project Overview: Building upon the success of the original Energy Observer, EO2 is a 160-meter liquid hydrogen-powered container ship.
    • Key Features:
      • Fuel Cell Capacity: Equipped with 4.8 MW of fuel cells developed by EODev in partnership with Toyota.
      • Cargo Capacity: Capable of carrying up to 1,100 TEU containers.
      • Range: Designed for a 1,600 nautical mile route over 14 days.
    • Operational Target: Scheduled for commercial operation by 2029 on Europe’s Atlantic and Channel coasts.
    • Environmental Impact: Projected to reduce CO₂ emissions by 112,250 tonnes over ten years, equivalent to the annual absorption of 190,000 mature trees.

  • December 2024 Norway subsidy results

    Hydrogen Projects score poorly in Norway’s latest Zero-Emission Vessel Funding

    Norway’s recent allocation of approximately $108 million to 14 zero-emission vessel projects underscores its commitment to sustainable maritime solutions. However, it’s notable that only two hydrogen-powered vessels received funding, despite numerous applications in this category.

    Among the projects awarded, Cruise Service AS secured the subsidy for two hydrogen-powered passenger vessels. Details are not known.

    The limited support for hydrogen initiatives is concerning, given hydrogen’s potential to revolutionize maritime transport, particularly in shortsea shipping. By not capitalizing on the opportunity to fund a broader range of hydrogen projects, Norway may be missing a chance to lead in this transformative technology.

    It’s encouraging to note that Enova plans to hold additional funding rounds, with the next call for hydrogen and ammonia programs anticipated at the end of the first quarter of 2025. This presents an opportunity to reassess and potentially increase support for hydrogen-based maritime solutions in future allocations.

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  • Superyacht 821 on LH2

    Superyachts often waste engineering resources on gadgets like underwater elevators and mobile helidecks. It provides bragging rights to the owners but does nothing to advance the shipbuilding industry. Not so for Project 821. Building a multi-megawatt fuel cell system with liquid hydrogen storage in a closed environment is relevant for the entire shipbuilding industry. An engineering feat to be proud of.

    Project 821 is a groundbreaking superyacht launched by Dutch shipyard Feadship on May 4, 2024. Spanning 118.8 meters, it holds the distinction of being the world’s first hydrogen fuel cell-powered superyacht, marking a significant advancement in sustainable shipbuilding since the delivery of the first LH2-fuelled ferry Hydra.

    feadship project 821 launched

    Innovative Green Technology

    Project 821 employs green hydrogen to generate emission-free power for both propulsion and onboard amenities. This zero-diesel approach allows the yacht to operate silently and without emissions for up to a week while at anchor or cruising at 10 knots, significantly reducing its environmental impact.

    A key challenge in the yacht’s development was the safe storage of liquid hydrogen at extremely low temperatures (-253°C). Feadship addressed this by installing a double-walled cryogenic storage tank capable of holding approximately 4 tons of hydrogen. Additionally, the fuel cells can utilize methanol, offering flexibility in fuel sources.

    Design and Luxury Features

    Designed by British studio RWD, Project 821 seamlessly integrates luxury with cutting-edge technology. The yacht features five decks above water and two below, with 14 deploying balconies, five shell doors, and seven significant opening platforms—the most hull openings of any Feadship to date. These elements create a harmonious indoor-outdoor experience for guests.

    Liquid hydrogen installation

    MAN Cryo, a division of MAN Energy Solutions, supplied the liquid-hydrogen gas-fuel supply system, marking the first installation of such technology on a superyacht. Their scope encompassed the 92 cubic meter vacuum-insulated type C tank, a tank connection space with essential process equipment like vaporizers and control valves, a bunker station for shore-to-ship bunkering, control and automation systems , a vent mast, and interconnecting hydrogen piping.

    This innovative system stores hydrogen in liquid form, then evaporates and heats it to supply gaseous hydrogen to the fuel cell system, enabling the vessel’s zero-emission propulsion. MAN Cryo collaborated with Lloyd’s Register to develop a risk-assessment-based design approved for below-deck placement—a pioneering achievement in marine liquid-hydrogen projects.

    Technical Specifications

    • Length Overall: 118.8 meters (389’9″)
    • Beam: 19 meters (62’4″)
    • Draft: 5.25 meters (17’3″)
    • Propulsion: 2 x 3,200 kW ABB azimuthing thrusters
    • Power Supply:
    • 2 x 900 kW MTU generators
    • 3 x 2,500 kW MTU generators
    • 16 x 185 kW PowerCell hydrogen generators (fuel cells)
    • Tank: 92 m3 C-type
    • Range: 6,500 nautical miles at 14 knots
    • Accommodation: Up to 30 guests in 12 staterooms, with additional cabins for 44 crew members and 2 staff members

    Market Availability

    Shortly after its launch, Project 821 was listed for sale through yacht brokerage Edmiston. While there have been rumors linking the yacht to Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, Feadship has not confirmed any details regarding ownership or pricing.