Contracts to build two new Viking ocean cruise ships have been signed with Italian shipyard Fincantieri.
The value of the deal, subject to financing and other terms and conditions, has been categorised as “substantial”.
The 998-passenger vessels are due for delivery between 2028 and 2029.
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“These ships will be based on the successful design characteristics of previous collaborations between Fincantieri and Viking,” the ship builder said.
“The agreement underscores the robust recovery of the cruise market, evidenced by the return of passenger volumes to pre-pandemic levels.
“This milestone strengthens Fincantieri’s commercial pipeline, complementing the significant orders secured earlier this year.”
The pair of new ships will be built in compliance with the latest environmental standards and equipped with advanced safety systems, according to Fincantiari.
Viking runs a fleet of 11 identical sister ocean ships, with latest newbuild Viking Vesta due to enter service in July 2025.
Fincantieri’s partnership with Viking, which dates back to 2012 includes a total of 20 ships, including expedition vessels.
Chief executive and general manager Pierroberto Folgiero said: “This contract further consolidates our relationship with Viking and confirms Fincantieri as a partner of choice for shipowners who want to build ships that can use both the energy sources of today and those of the future.
“Fincantieri and Viking, together, trace the shipbuilding industry’s path towards the goal of zero emissions.”