Nicko extends repairs on Vasco da Gama and cancels Norway cruise
Vasco da Gama stays in Brest as repairs continue (Source: Nicko Cruises)
Nicko Cruises cancelled the July 2nd departure of the Madeira-flagged Vasco da Gama, extending the vessel’s stay at Damen Shiprepair Brest in France as technical repair work continues. The cancellation marks the sixth sailing withdrawn since the ship’s world cruise was cut short during its final leg.
The 14-night Norway and Scandinavia itinerary had been intended to mark the vessel’s return to service following a series of earlier cancellations. Scheduled ports of call included Hammerfest, Ålesund and Bergen.
Nicko told passengers that additional time in the yard was required following a review of the ship’s safety and service standards. In a statement to cruise passengers, the company said: “Our goal is to offer our guests a safe, reliable, and thoroughly enjoyable vacation experience at all times.”
Affected passengers are being offered alternative travel arrangements, including rebooking options and full refunds. Previous cancellations included a charter voyage from Kiel and an 18-night Scandinavian and Iceland itinerary after technical assessments identified further repair requirements.
Marios Ferreira, chief executive of parent company Mystic Cruises, defended the extended maintenance programme, stating: “Ships of this character and quality require continuous care, attention, and preventive technical maintenance to ensure they continue operating safely and reliably for many years to come.”
The 219-m Vasco da Gama, built by Fincantieri in 1993 as Statendam, is Nicko Cruises’ only oceangoing vessel. The company said teams on board and ashore continue to work towards returning the ship to service as quickly as possible.
