Costa Cruises are one of the most controversial (and misunderstood) cruise lines. But this guide covers everything you need to know about the infamous Italian cruise line. Everything from my personal reviews, cruise news, and ship talk.
If you’re wanting to see some of my content on Costa, head over to my Instagram.
My Personal Experience on Costa Cruises
I recently travelled onboard Costa Smeralda. Initially, I was worried I’d struggle, as I only speak English! Booking with Costa felt like a bit of a risk, especially since I couldn’t find many guides about what to expect. So I decided to create one!
Service onboard Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises boasts a diverse crew, with many members speaking multiple languages. But don’t get too excited; while the service can be professional, it may not have the personal touch you’d find on premium cruise lines. Many passengers on Cruise Critic have noted that service quality can vary widely depending on the ship and the season. I can definitely attest to this. I found the service to be a little dismissive at times… But, I thought it was more reflective of the audience onboard.
Food quality onboard Costa
Costa offers a variety of Mediterranean dishes, from fresh pasta to seafood, and you might think you’re in for a treat. However… Reviews on Cruise Critic often highlight a mixed bag of experiences, with the buffet sometimes feeling repetitive after a few days at sea.
I personally loved the Main Dining Room on Costa Smeralda, and I honestly thought it was comparable to fine dining in Italy.
Is Costa Cruises a good cruise line?
It depends on what you’re after! Costa Cruises offers a distinctly European experience, great pricing, and stylish ships – but it might not suit cruisers looking for an American-style vibe. But, every cruise line and ship is different, so I would encourage you to give it a try!
Is Costa Cruises only for Italians?
In my blog posts, I share the reality: announcements are multilingual, but expect more Italian guests and less English-language entertainment compared to US-based lines. But honestly, you won’t struggle as an English speaking cruiser.
Are drinks included with Costa Cruises?
No, it’s quite controversial, but water is only included in the buffet. So even if the main dining rooms, you would need to have a drinks package. Costa Cruises state that this is what makes their cruises so affordable.
Is Costa Cruises good for families?
Yes! Especially the newer ships. The Costa Smeralda and Costa Toscana both have slides which children and families would love. Plus, on Costa Smeralda I noticed that a lot of children/families gravitated towards the indoor pool.