Vasco da Gama: Modernized for green cruises of the future!

Vasco da Gama: Modernized for green cruises of the future!

The Vasco da Gama, Nicko Cruises' only ocean-going ship, recently completed a comprehensive modernization stay at the shipyard. In Portugal, more precisely at Lisnave, the ship was converted into an attractive, more environmentally friendly future format for five weeks in April 2025. These measures are part of the ongoing commitment of Mystic Ocean, the parent company of Nicko Cruises, which has been sending Vasco da Gama to the shipyard annually since 2021.

The modernization aims to significantly improve the sustainability of the ship. The latest technical upgrades have been installed to meet current and future environmental and climate protection regulations. Among other things, the Vasco da Gama received a high-voltage shore power system that enables emission-free operations in the port and is intended to significantly reduce CO₂ and pollutant emissions where possible. This will be supplemented by the installation of a biofuel mixing plant, which will be required from 2025 due to new EU regulations.

Technical upgrades and comfort optimization

The ship, which is 219 meters long and was originally commissioned in 1993 as “Statendam” by Holland America Line, now offers numerous improvements in comfort. The bathtubs in the cabins on deck 5 were replaced by modern, walk-in shower cabins. In addition, the renovation of the public areas continued, where new furniture, carpets and reclaimed wooden floors were added.

For the comfort of the guests, the air conditioning technology was completely replaced and the hydraulics and the control of the stabilizers were renewed. These measures significantly improve the ship's position in rough seas.

Innovations for the future

To meet the demands of a modern cruise, a new power management system was installed that optimizes the load distribution of the power generators and enables further energy savings. The hull was coated with special silicone paint; This measure reduces fouling and thus fuel consumption without using environmentally harmful toxins. The improvements to the bow and stern thrusters as well as the steering systems also improve maneuverability.

An aftershow, available to podcast supporters, will address the new Emissions Control Zones (ECAs) decided or planned by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). These include, among other things, new ECAs in the Canadian Arctic and along the coast of Norway, which are due to come into force from 2027 and in the North Atlantic from 2028. The Vasco da Gama is therefore well equipped to operate in these new zones.

In summary, the upgrades carried out are not only seen as investments in sustainability, but also significantly improve the experience for cruise guests. With fast Starlink internet and extensive technical upgrades, Vasco da Gama offers a contemporary cruise experience that meets the demands of the future.

For more information and details on the Vasco da Gama's upgrades, see the reports CruiseTricks and Cruise practice be read.