If you’ve already researched into Costa Cruises, you may have already seen the negative perceptions regarding the experience from Youtube reviews, Cruise Critic comments, and even travel agents.
But in this blog post, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of Costa Cruises, explore its brand perception since the Costa Concordia disaster, and offer tips on making an informed decision when choosing a cruise line.
The biggest difference between Costa Cruises and your Royal Caribbean‘s of the world is that Costa Cruises primarily cater to European residents, so you can expect announcements to be said in multiple languages, with English not always taking priority. Onboard entertainment may not always be in English, and English may not be the native language of the staff onboard.
The Costa Cruises Experience: Positives
1. Cultural Atmosphere:
Costa Cruise prides itself on delivering a unique Italian experience on the high seas. For those seeking a blend of international flair with an Italian touch, this cruise line might be a perfect fit.
2. Diverse Itineraries:
Costa Cruise offers a wide range of itineraries, allowing travelers to explore various destinations across the globe. From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, the options are diverse and exciting.
3. Entertainment Options:
Entertainment is a crucial aspect of any cruise experience, and Costa Cruise delivers on this front. With a variety of shows, activities, and themed events, passengers can expect a lively and engaging atmosphere.
The Costa Cruises Experience: The Negatives
1. Service Quality:
Some passengers have raised concerns about the service quality on Costa Cruises. This can vary depending on individual experiences, but it’s crucial to consider customer feedback when evaluating the cruise line.
2. Food Preferences:
Cruise ship cuisine is a sensitive subjective matter, and some travellers may not find the food options on Costa Cruises to align with their preferences. Costa Cruises portions tend to be smaller than your American style cruises, so it’s advisable to research dining options and consider potential dietary restrictions.
3. Communication Barriers:
With an international crew, language barriers can sometimes pose a challenge. While the crew is generally multilingual, some passengers have reported difficulties in communication. However, something to consider: the staff onboard are required to cater to every single guest, so you can imagine the difficulty in providing A+ service if they aren’t fully fluent in English, German, or Spanish and have to try their best to communicate to everyone.
Brand Perception Since the Costa Concordia Disaster:
The Costa Concordia disaster in 2012, where a cruise ship ran aground off the coast of Italy, resulted in a tragic loss of lives and had a significant impact on Costa Cruises’ brand perception. The incident raised concerns about safety protocols and emergency procedures within the cruise industry. In the aftermath, Costa Cruises implemented various safety measures and protocols to reassure passengers and regain trust.
Over the years, the cruise line has worked diligently to rebuild its image. While some travellers may still associate the brand with the Costa Concordia incident, others acknowledge the proactive steps taken by Costa Cruises to enhance safety measures and ensure passenger well-being.
It’s essential for potential cruisers to be aware of this part of Costa Cruises’ history and assess whether the steps taken by the company align with their comfort levels and expectations regarding safety.
Making an Informed Decision: Tips for Choosing the Right Cruise Line
1. Research, Research, Research:
Before booking any cruise, including one with Costa Cruises, conduct thorough research. Read recent reviews from multiple sources to get a comprehensive understanding of the cruise line’s strengths and weaknesses.
2. Consider the Specifics:
Each cruise ship within a fleet can offer a different experience. Consider the specific ship, its amenities, and the itinerary it follows. What works for one person may not work for another, so align your preferences with the cruise’s offerings. And if you’re a first time cruiser, you may be open to the Italian-style cruises as you have nothing to compare it too. However, if you’re an avid cruiser on American-style cruises, you may want to stick to that style of cruising.
3. Prioritise Your Preferences:
Identify what matters most to you in a cruise experience. Whether it’s cultural immersion, gourmet dining, or a variety of entertainment options, prioritise your preferences and choose a cruise line that aligns with them. Especially important if you’re wanting to sail from a specific port and not a lot of cruises sail from there. Your options may be limited, so it may come down to putting the negatives aside to cater to your specific needs.
4. Keep an Open Mind:
Remember that individual experiences can vary widely. What one person dislikes about a cruise line might not be a dealbreaker for you. Keep an open mind and weigh the positives against the negatives based on your priorities. Are you someone that speaks multiple languages?
In conclusion, Costa Cruise, like any other cruise line, has its strengths and weaknesses. By conducting thorough research, considering the specifics of each cruise, and being aware of the brand’s history, you can make an informed decision that ensures a memorable and enjoyable cruising experience.
Happy sailing! ⚓🚢
