Cruise lovers, here’s some exciting news. A brand-new luxury cruise ship is getting ready to set sail in 2026. It’s called Viking Mira, and it’s the latest addition to the beautiful and popular fleet from Viking Ocean Cruises. Built by the well-known shipbuilding company Fincantieri, Viking Mira is all about comfort, elegance, and thoughtful design. If you enjoy traveling in style and appreciate smaller, more peaceful cruise ships, this one might just be for you.
Viking Mira is Built by Experts in Italy
Fincantieri is a name that’s well-known in the cruise ship world. They have built hundreds of ships, and their work is trusted by many cruise lines around the globe. The Viking Mira was constructed at Fincantieri’s Ancona shipyard in Italy, a place famous for building top-of-the-line luxury vessels.
This ship is one of many that Fincantieri has built for Viking. In total, 28 Viking ships have come out of Fincantieri’s shipyards. Some have already been delivered, some are still being built, and a few more are in the planning stages.
A Small Ship That Feels Big in Comfort
At 784 feet (or 239 meters) long, Viking Mira is considered a “small class” cruise ship. It can hold up to 998 guests across 499 staterooms. That might sound like a lot, but in the cruise world, it’s actually on the smaller side. And that’s a good thing.
Smaller ships like Viking Mira are made to go places that giant cruise ships can’t. They can dock at smaller ports and visit quiet towns and scenic spots that bigger ships usually skip. For travelers, this means unique experiences and less crowded destinations. It also makes the onboard atmosphere feel more relaxed and personal.
Verandas for Everyone
One of the best parts of Viking’s ocean ships is their “all-veranda” design. That means every single stateroom comes with its own private veranda. No matter which room you choose, you’ll be able to step outside and enjoy the sea breeze whenever you like. Whether you’re watching the sunrise, sipping coffee, or just enjoying the view, your veranda is your own peaceful retreat.
And if you want something even fancier, Viking offers Penthouse Veranda rooms. These are larger than the regular veranda staterooms—25% bigger, in fact. They come with extra touches, like a complimentary bottle of champagne and a more spacious layout. It’s a little bit of luxury that goes a long way.
Going Green with Hydrogen Power
Viking isn’t just focused on luxury. They’re also thinking about the future—and the planet. Earlier this year, Viking made headlines by announcing something very special. They’re working with Fincantieri to build the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship.
The ship will be called Viking Libra, and it’s going to be a big step forward for cleaner travel. Viking Libra will be followed by another hydrogen-powered ship called Viking Astrea. These ships are the same size as Viking Mira, but what sets them apart is what’s under the hood—or rather, below the deck.
Instead of using traditional fuel, these new ships will run on a special hybrid system that works with liquid hydrogen. This system was designed by a Fincantieri company called Isotta Fraschini Motori, which focuses on high-tech fuel cells. The ships will use hydrogen not just for sailing but also to power everything onboard.
Because of this clean technology, Viking Libra and Viking Astrea will be able to sail into environmentally sensitive areas that other ships can’t enter. This is a major step forward for sustainable travel on the seas.
Viking Libra is expected to be completed in 2026, with Viking Astrea arriving the year after in 2027. Both ships are being built at the same Ancona shipyard that produced Viking Mira.
Not Just Oceans—Viking Does Rivers Too
While Viking’s ocean ships like Viking Mira grab a lot of attention, their river cruises are also something special. One standout is the Viking Osiris, which cruises along the beautiful River Nile in Egypt. This ship is smaller than river ships in Europe, but it’s wider and taller, giving guests more space to relax.
Viking Osiris carries just 82 guests in 41 cabins, so it feels cozy and peaceful. There’s even an Explorer Suite onboard—a fancy and spacious room that makes the journey feel extra special. Viking has put the same care and design into their river cruises as they have with their ocean fleet, making every trip a memorable experience.
Why People Love Viking Cruises
So, what is it that makes Viking cruises so popular? First, the size of the ships is a big factor. People love the smaller, more intimate setting. You’re not lost in a sea of thousands of passengers. Instead, it feels more like a boutique hotel on water.
Second, the design is modern, clean, and inspired by Scandinavian style. Everything feels simple but elegant, with soft colors, natural materials, and lots of light. It’s a relaxing environment that helps you unwind and enjoy your trip.
Third, Viking puts a strong focus on the experience. Their itineraries are well-planned, and the staff is known for being friendly and helpful. Whether you’re cruising the oceans or rivers, Viking aims to make your journey smooth, stress-free, and full of meaningful memories.
A Look at What’s Next
With Viking Mira getting ready for her first trip in 2026 and new hydrogen-powered ships on the way, the future looks exciting for Viking and its passengers. The cruise industry is changing, and Viking seems to be leading the way—not just in style, but also in sustainability.
They’re proving that it’s possible to enjoy luxury travel while also caring for the planet. That’s something worth celebrating.
If you love cruises or are thinking about taking your first one, keep an eye on Viking Mira and her sister ships. You might find yourself sailing on one of the most comfortable, eco-friendly ships on the water.
Source: Viking Cruises
