How This Luxury Cruise Line Is Leading The Way In Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Voyages

Forbes

01-05-2025

Viking Expedition Ship in Antarctica
Given the havoc that mass travel can cause on the environment, Earth Month is the perfect time for travelers to consider the impact of where they go and how they get there.
Historically, the cruising industry has faced scrutiny due to its carbon footprint, massive waste output and aquatic disruption.
Fortunately, several cruise lines have modified their approach over the years by utilizing cutting-edge technology such as operating from battery power, revising their onboard disposable systems and transitioning to cleaner fuels.
Viking Cruise Lines stands out as a leader in balancing luxury with genuine sustainability. As a frontrunner in the clean maritime travel sector, Viking has overhauled its entire fleet of ocean liners to have minimal environmental impact and expeditions that prioritize preservation.
As of 2025, Viking has a fleet of over 90 ships, including larger luxury liners that accommodate 1,400 to 1,530 passengers and crew and smaller river vessels that can transport up to 638 passengers.
Viking's commitment to sustainable sailing begins with the installation of advanced sewage treatment systems on all 15 ships, preventing waste or bilge water from being discharged into the sea. According to Friends of Earth, all water from the vessel's toilets, showers and sinks is pumped ashore to municipal wastewater treatment plants. Their liners also operate on energy-efficient hybrid engines, hydrodynamically optimized hulls and solar panels to maximize fuel efficiency. Viking also equipped 12 of their ships with shoreside power capabilities to reduce port emissions.
Recently, Viking announced that in 2026, it would launch the Viking Libra, the world's first hydrogen-powered cruise ship capable of operating with zero emissions. In 2027, the brand will follow with a second hydrogen-powered ocean liner, the Viking Astrea.
Viking is among the first to commit to hydrogen-powered vessels—a leap from industry standards.
"From the outset, we have designed our river and ocean ships thoughtfully to reduce their fuel consumption and we are very proud 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.'
Along with its bold steps in environmental stewardship, Viking's Expedition cruises allow travelers to have first-hand experience in their attempt to prioritize preservation.
Launched in 2022, Viking Expedition ships the Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris are purpose-built state-of-the-art vessels that combine Scandinavian design, advanced technology and scientific discovery.
Each ship holds 378 guests and over 250 crew members, providing a unique blended experience of luxury, comfort and cultural enrichment.
Viking Expedition Ship—The Science Lab
Viking's expedition cruises are curated for curious travelers who want to explore some of the world's most remote and remarkable regions.
Expedition itineraries explore high-latitude and remote areas including Antarctica, the Arctic, the Great Lakes, Patagonia and beyond. Viking's experienced expedition team includes biologists, geologists, ornithologists and naturalists.
The onboard specialists guide the landings and shore excursions including studying phytoplankton and native coral, implementing bird-strike reduction efforts and discovering new penguin colonies.
Viking guests watching gentoo penguins during onshore excursions in Antarctica.
Guests are encouraged to participate in designated science programs such as collecting water samples, launching weather balloons and viewing research conducted in onboard labs. They are also encouraged to attend daily debriefings and presentations of findings.
Viking's investment in cleaner travel has led them to create partnerships with leading institutions such as the University of Cambridge, UC San Diego Scripps Institution of Oceanography and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Despite the integrated scientific aspect, Viking does not abandon their "luxury-first" approach on the expedition cruises. Guests will enjoy spacious staterooms featuring floor-to-ceiling views and ship amenities include world-class dining, a Scandinavian spa with a complimentary thermal suite and numerous lounges.
In an industry where the environmental impact is often open to criticism, Viking is sailing past the competition when it comes to investing in conservation methods and environmental stewardship.
Their impeccable eye for luxury, scientific collaborations and sustainable practices create an ideal environment for guests to experience both opulence and purpose.
Aboard Viking Cruises, guests are more than observers; they have the opportunity to actively participate in preserving our planet, redefining what it means to travel responsibly by sea.