Costa Cruises
Quick Answer: La dolce vita at sea. Costa Cruises wraps you in Italian elegance — from authentic regional cuisine and espresso bars to vibrant piazzas and Mediterranean itineraries that read like a love letter to Europe. With a multilingual international atmosphere and 9 active ships, Costa delivers the warmth of Italian hospitality on every voyage.
Is Costa Right for You?
If you dream of sipping limoncello as the Amalfi Coast glides past your balcony, or savoring handmade pasta while the sun sets over Santorini, Costa Cruises was made for you. This Italian-heritage line infuses every moment with Mediterranean charm — from the piazza-style atrium to the leisurely multi-course dinners that celebrate la bella vita.
Costa's international atmosphere means you'll share the deck with fellow travelers from across Europe and beyond, creating a cosmopolitan energy you won't find on North American-focused lines. Entertainment blends Italian flair with global appeal, and the itineraries showcase the Mediterranean's greatest hits alongside hidden coastal gems.
Ideal for travelers who appreciate European culture, international dining experiences, and Mediterranean exploration. Costa's inclusive packages and family-friendly programming also make it accessible for multigenerational groups seeking something beyond the typical Caribbean cruise.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Brand Identity: Italian-heritage cruising with la dolce vita spirit
- Parent Company: Carnival Corporation & plc
- Signature Features: Authentic Italian dining, piazza-style atriums, Samsara Spa, multilingual international atmosphere
- Best For: Mediterranean enthusiasts, international travelers, food lovers, families seeking European itineraries
- Fleet Size: 9 active ships
- Primary Itineraries: Western & Eastern Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean, South America
Ships by Class
Explore each ship's page for deck plans, live trackers, dining venues, and stateroom guides. Classes ordered largest to smallest.
Excellence Class
LNG-powered, 185K GT flagships with the stunning Colosseo atrium, 13 restaurants, and Solemio Spa. The Italian piazza concept at its grandest — these are Costa's crown jewels.
Dream Class
Built on Carnival's Vista platform and infused with Italian soul. Piazza Colosseo, Italian-themed entertainment, and Mediterranean flair at 135K GT. Where Carnival engineering meets Costa character.
Concordia Class
Mid-size 114K GT workhorses with Samsara Spa, grand piazzas, and classic Costa style. Reliable Mediterranean favorites that deliver the full Italian cruising experience.
Musica Class
114K GT with Samsara Spa, music-themed decor, and Mediterranean character. A proven platform with Italian warmth and personality.
Spirit Class
Intimate 92K GT vessel with Samsara Spa and refined Italian atmosphere. Ideal for longer voyages where connection and tranquility matter most.
Gallery
Level Up Your Planning
You've picked your ship class — now make your voyage unforgettable. These resources turn good cruises into great ones.
Restaurants & Menus
Browse every dining venue with menus, dress codes, and honest reviews. Know what to book before you board.
→Packing Lists
Mediterranean or Northern Europe? Formal night or casual? Get ship-tested lists that fit your itinerary — nothing forgotten, nothing wasted.
→Port Guides
What to do when you dock. Honest snapshots, DIY options, and accessibility notes for every port of call.
→Solo Cruising
First time sailing alone? Learn how to own your itinerary, find your people, and love the freedom.
→First Cruise Guide
New to cruising? Our step-by-step guide covers booking, boarding, and everything in between.
→Compare Lines
Not sure Costa is the one? Compare cruise lines side by side and find your perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Costa Cruises unique?
Costa Cruises brings Italian heritage and la dolce vita to the seas. Known for authentic Italian dining, vibrant entertainment, Mediterranean itineraries, and a multilingual international atmosphere that feels like floating through Italy. The signature piazza-style atriums, Samsara Spa wellness programs, and leisurely multi-course dinners set Costa apart from North American-focused lines.
What dining does Costa offer?
Costa ships feature authentic Italian cuisine as a cornerstone, with regional specialties, fresh pasta, and Italian wines. The dining experience emphasizes la dolce vita with leisurely multi-course meals and specialty restaurants. Excellence Class ships offer up to 13 dining venues, from traditional Italian trattorias to international specialty restaurants and casual buffets with live cooking stations.
Where does Costa cruise?
Costa Cruises focuses heavily on the Mediterranean, including Western and Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, but also offers Caribbean, South American, Northern European, and world cruise voyages. The Mediterranean remains the heartland, with itineraries calling at iconic ports in Italy, Spain, France, Greece, and Croatia.
Which Costa ship is best for first-timers?
Costa Smeralda or Costa Toscana (Excellence Class) are ideal for first-time Costa cruisers. Their LNG-powered design, 13 restaurants, Colosseo atrium, and Solemio Spa showcase everything Costa does best — Italian elegance, vibrant entertainment, and Mediterranean cuisine at the grandest scale. For a more intimate first experience, Costa Deliziosa offers refined charm on longer voyages.
What are Costa's ship classes?
Costa operates five ship classes: Excellence Class (LNG-powered flagships at 185K GT), Dream Class (Vista-platform ships with Italian theming at 135K GT), Concordia Class (mid-size 114K GT Mediterranean workhorses), Musica Class (music-themed vessels at 114K GT), and Spirit Class (intimate 92K GT ships for longer voyages). Each class brings a distinct take on Costa's Italian cruising philosophy.
All pages are offered as a gift to God. Soli Deo Gloria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What information does this page provide?
This page provides planning resources and information about Costa Cruises. Use it alongside official cruise line resources when planning your trip.
Is this information official?
This page provides community insights and planning resources. Always confirm details with your cruise line or travel advisor before making final decisions.
How can I get more help?
For additional assistance, contact your cruise line directly or work with a travel advisor who specializes in cruises.