The Spartacus Gay Cruise 2027 takes you along the fascinating boundary between two continents. From the Mediterranean elegance of Palma, through the cultural vibrancy of Barcelona and Valencia, to the Andalusian zest for life in Málaga, the cruise spans the breadth of European history. In Tangier, the gateway to North Africa finally opens – a place where trade routes, religions and traditions have converged for centuries. Moorish heritage and modern metropolises merge to create a striking panorama of cultural diversity. At the same time, ‘Between the Continents’ takes in some of the most significant strongholds of the LGBT community in the Mediterranean region. For decades, Barcelona has been regarded as one of Europe’s most open and vibrant cities. Not far away lies Sitges – internationally renowned as one of Europe’s most famous LGBT destinations, whose liberal atmosphere extends far beyond Spain. Thus, this journey connects not only continents, but also progressive lifestyles, tolerance and lived diversity along the Spanish Mediterranean coast.
At the same time, “Between the Continents” takes you through some of the most significant hubs of the LGBT community in the Mediterranean region. For decades, Barcelona has been regarded as one of Europe’s most open and vibrant cities. Not far away lies Sitges – internationally renowned as one of Europe’s most famous LGBT destinations, whose liberal atmosphere extends far beyond Spain’s borders. Thus, this journey connects not only continents, but also progressive lifestyles, tolerance and lived diversity along the Spanish Mediterranean coast.
Vasco da Gama
nicko cruises
The environmentally friendly Vasco da Gama is once again available for this cruise, with a manageable guest capacity of fewer than 1,000 passengers. The Vasco boasts two swimming pools, the larger of which is fitted with a retractable glass roof, meaning it can be used in all weathers.
The Vasco da Gama features four different types of cabin on decks 4, 5, 6, 9 and 10. These comprise 129 inside cabins measuring 16 square metres, 352 outside cabins measuring 17 square metres, 120 balcony cabins measuring 21 square metres and 28 suites with balconies measuring 34 square metres. The balconies feature at least two seats. The inside cabins are equipped with a bathroom and shower. The outside cabins have either a shower or a bath. All cabins are equipped with a flat-screen TV. The beds can be arranged separately or together. In some cases, the sofa can be converted into a bed, thus providing space for a third person.
The shipping company has fitted the Vasco da Gama’s diesel engines with a new fuel system designed to run on the low-emission fuel MGO (Marine Gas Oil). The vessel has also been fitted with a urea-water-based selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system. In addition, a new wastewater treatment system has been installed on board, which reduces suspended solids to zero without the use of chemicals.
Gym, Spa, Pool
Wellness
Wellness is a top priority on the “Vasco da Gama”. The gym, located next to the spa, is open 24 hours a day and is equipped with a wide range of machines. These include 11 spinning bikes, 5 steppers, 7 treadmills, 5 recumbent bikes, 14 weight machines, 2 rowing machines and a large selection of free weights. Use of the dry and steam saunas in the spa is included in the cruise fare. The jogging trail is located on the top deck.
The Vasco da Gama features two pool areas – one is prominently situated at the stern of the ship and boasts generous sunbathing areas. The other is situated amidships and is equipped with a retractable roof, a feature found on only a tiny number of cruise ships. There is also an elegant wellness area with a sauna and steam room, a large fitness centre and sports facilities on the outdoor decks. The ‘Hollywood’s’ show theatre spans two decks and offers first-class evening entertainment.
Restaurants,
Bars, Lounges
When it comes to dining, the Vasco da Gama is also in a league of its own. It boasts three à la carte restaurants, among which the Asian-inspired ‘Fusion’ stands out for its exceptional attention to detail. This includes authentic Japanese-style floor-level tables. But the buffet restaurant also stands out in terms of its concept. It is more reminiscent of a food court with various culinary stations. European dishes are served in the “Waterfront”, which seats 150. The restaurant is designed in an exclusive style. “The Grill” is the speciality restaurant on board and seats 66. The “Chefs Table”, with its 14 seats, can be booked for a surcharge for larger groups on special occasions, such as weddings, silver wedding anniversaries, birthdays, etc. The Alfresco Grill is the bistro for a quick bite when you return from an excursion or feel peckish by the pool. The pizzas, burgers and hot dogs are all included in the price of the trip.
There are currently no extensions for this cruise.
artists
2027
Party themes
Numerous artists and DJs will once again be performing on the Spain & Morocco leg of the Spartacus Cruise gay cruise. The following themed parties are also planned:
Palma de Mallorca: Colours of the Rainbow
Barcelona: Spanish Heat – all in red
Valencia: Fetish
Alicante: Disco
Marbella White Party
Tangier: 1001 Nights
Sea Day: Drag Night
There is also a tea dance every day from 4 pm to 6 pm by the Lido Pool.
Tante Gladice
Aunt Gladice is one of the best-known and most popular drag performers in Frankfurt, Cologne and the surrounding area. For over 20 years, she has been delighting her audience with extravagant costumes, sparkling jewellery, a powerful voice, plenty of passion and positive energy. Her motto is: “Kisses, kisses, raise your glasses!”
In her shows, she takes on the roles of a diva, a housewife or a glam girl, combining live singing with comedy and hosting. Her musical repertoire ranges from old and new pop hits and evergreens to pop songs and cheeky chansons. With her lively jokes and punchlines, she ensures a great night’s entertainment
Aunt Gladice can regularly be seen and heard at events such as the Christopher Street Days (CSDs) in Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Cologne and many other cities. She has been hosting the CSD in Frankfurt since 1998. During the carnival season, there is hardly a stage in the Rhine-Main region on which she has not performed and whipped the audience into a frenzy. In 2023, Aunt Gladice shone in the film “Meine Freundin Volker” (My Girlfriend Volker), produced by NDR and broadcast several times on ARD, alongside Axel Milberg and Kim Riedle as “Gudrun the Divine”.
Abby OMG
Miss Abby OMG is familiar to all ‘Drag Race’ fans from the first series of the Dutch spin-off of the globally successful show, where she made it all the way to the final. On the show, she really gave her fellow contestants a run for their money and went down in the franchise’s history as a legendary lip-sync queen. No wonder, after all, the stunning Latina queen originally hails from Brazil! On board the Vasco da Gama, Abby will really get you going with various dance routines and as a DJ in the Dome. She has been part of the Spartacus family for many years and will be returning in 2027 with exciting costumes and plenty of ‘spice’ in her luggage.
Nelson Cerqueira
Born in Brazil, Nelson Cerqueira is a DJ, singer and producer who brings tropical heat and Berlin club energy to dancefloors around the world. Nelson discovered his passion for the art form in 2022 on the Spartacus Cruise. What began as a life-changing party quickly became a calling.
In 2024, he took to the stage for the first time as an official artist at the legendary Spartacus Party in Mykonos – and from then on, there was no turning back. Since then, he has had crowds rocking on his 2025 Pride Tour across six German cities and can regularly be seen at the Queer Space at Venus – Europe’s largest adult entertainment fair. Because subtlety has never been part of the plan. Expect Brazilian grooves, disco glamour, house & techno and loads of good vibes.
DJ PoppyDownes
DJ PoppyDownes is joining us on the Spartacus Cruise all the way from Chicago. His passion is to entertain and inspire dancefloors around the world. He blends classic and obscure disco beats with hits from every era, creating an atmosphere that celebrates individuality, promotes inclusivity and welcomes queerness. “I love turning the dance floor into a place where people can leave their problems behind, connect with someone and express themselves freely.”
DJ James
DJ JAMES is one of the best-known DJs on the LGBTQ+ scene in southern Germany and Austria. Now in its 17th year, his “Pink Paradise” party is Munich’s most successful gay event. For many years, he has been thrilling audiences at national and international festivals as well as at prestigious events. In Munich, he has been a fixture at Christopher Street Day Munich and Pink Christmas Munich for many years. Internationally, he has been a regular fixture at the legendary Bear Week Sitges and also creates a lively atmosphere on dancefloors worldwide during cruises. His versatile sound blends all-time dance classics, Schlager, disco, house and current hits into an energetic mix that brings generations onto the dancefloor.
DJ U-Seven
DJ U-Seven can now look back on a long and successful career as a DJ. At the heart of this are his gigs at numerous Berlin clubs, such as Schwuz and the iconic Connection, where he is a resident DJ. His close collaboration with our hostess Nina Queer has also spanned over a decade. U7 regularly performs at their successful parties, such as Irrenhouse and Rose Kennedy. He is also one of the club set DJs for the well-known Berlin radio station 98.8 Kiss FM, where a driving set of his can be heard every month. On our cruise, he will be treating us to the finest pop music of the last 40 years.
Stefano May
Stefano May is an internationally acclaimed Italian singer, songwriter and piano virtuoso, known for his fusion of soul, pop and classical music. He began taking classical piano lessons at the age of seven and quickly made a name for himself by appearing on major Italian television programmes and collaborating with the renowned director Franco Zeffirelli and the filmmaker Jamal Joseph.
As a platinum-selling artist, Stefano has built a career marked by high-profile global partnerships and has shared the stage with icons such as Bruce Springsteen and Andrea Bocelli. His music has captivated audiences worldwide and earned him recognition from CNN Argentina, NPR, GLAAD, Ladygunn, RAI, Mediaset and Good Day Live Tampa Bay.
Since launching his solo career in 2019, Stefano has continued to build bridges between cultures through music, working with the renowned producer Chico Bennett (Madonna, Lady Gaga, Prince) and collaborating with artists from all over the world. Most recently, he teamed up with Emeli Sandé for the ‘2025 Peace One Day’ event, a performance watched by 1 million people. This partnership is a testament to his commitment to international artistic exchange. Through these diverse collaborations, Stefano aims to unite and inspire people and share his talent to empower others.
Mallo Santo
“Baby’s got back!” Brazilian dancer, performer, and fitness instructor Mallo Santo will be joining us on our cruise for the first time in 2026. Every afternoon at the Lido, he and his Spartacus Bunnies will be lighting a fire under our butts and make sure no hip stays unmoved. You can also look forward to his popular “Booty” class at the gym. Whether by the pool, in the gym, or in the evening at our theme parties: Mallo guarantees sweating bodies and sexy moves.
Bookings for the Spain to Morocco Cruise 2027 ranges from €1.214,00 for Inside Cabins to €3.023,00 Suites—based on double occupancy. Prices listed as a (-10%) Early Bird discount until 01.09.26. Please contact us directly at [email protected] or (+1)713.661.2117 for real-time availability of staterooms and for reservations.
