The cruise ship Vasco da Gama, operated by Nicko Cruises, is facing technical problems that have disrupted its current Atlantic voyage and led to the cancellation of an upcoming cruise.

The vessel is currently sailing from Luanda, Angola, to Praia in Cape Verde at reduced speed after a malfunction in the starboard controllable pitch propeller system. According to the company, the issue does not affect the safety of the ship, but it has significantly reduced its cruising speed to below 12 knots, compared to its usual 15 to 16 knots.

As a result of the delay, Vasco da Gama will arrive in Praia on April 15, where divers and technical experts are expected to inspect the partially functioning propulsion system.

The slowdown means the ship will not reach Málaga on April 17 as scheduled for a planned passenger exchange. Due to this disruption, nicko cruises has cancelled the Western Europe sailing to Hamburg, which was set to run from April 17 to May 1, 2026.

Guests currently onboard will have their voyage cut short in Cape Verde, with partial refunds being offered. Passengers who booked flights through the cruise line will be rebooked on a charter flight to Frankfurt, while those with independent travel arrangements can secure return flights at an additional cost.

The company has not yet confirmed how the situation will impact world cruise passengers scheduled to disembark in Hamburg. A final decision is expected after a full technical assessment of the vessel in Cape Verde.

Despite the setback, Vasco da Gama is still expected to begin its planned summer season in Northern Europe, pending the outcome of repairs.