What to know about Costa Cruises?
170 years of maritime heritage and Italian flair at sea
The history of Costa reaches back much further than modern cruising. In 1854, Giacomo Costa founded a business in Genoa trading olive oil and textiles.
The cruise adventure truly began in 1948 with the Anna C, the first passenger liner connecting Italy to South America. The company initially capitalized on the wave of Italian migration to the Americas before gradually reinventing itself as a cruise specialist starting in the 1960s.
Now part of the Carnival Corporation since 1997, Costa remains the only line sailing under the Italian flag. Its headquarters stay firmly rooted in Genoa, reflecting a deep commitment to its origins.
A clearly defined Mediterranean identity
Costa stands out for its specific positioning: bringing the Italian lifestyle to the high seas. This italianità is not just a marketing layer but a philosophy that runs through every part of the experience.
From the interior design of the ships to the cuisine curated by chef Bruno Barbieri (who holds 7 Michelin stars in total), every detail feels like Italy. Italian coffee, wines from the boot, and regional recipes: the company does not hide its roots, it makes them its signature.
The ships themselves carry evocative names: Smeralda (referencing the Sardinian Costa Smeralda), Toscana, Diadema, Fortuna. Each liner tells a piece of the Italian story.
Accessible value
Positioned as an entry-level option within the Carnival group, Costa targets a broad audience without major compromises on comfort.
Rates remain competitive, especially for families: guests under 18 often travel free on many packages. A 7-day Mediterranean cruise can start around 600€ (about $650) per person.
Pro tip: check the Costa Cruises section on Croisieres.fr to find a selection of promotional offers and save money.
A modern fleet looking ahead
The company currently operates about a dozen ships after transferring some units to other brands within the group. Among them, the Costa Diadema (306 meters, 4,947 passengers) stands as the largest vessel flying the Italian flag.
The real stars of the fleet are the Costa Smeralda (2019) and the Costa Toscana (2022), the first ships in the company powered by LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas). These floating cities hold up to 16 restaurants, about 20 bars, water parks, and even an Italian design museum on board the Smeralda.
Most Costa ships were built in the prestigious Fincantieri shipyards in Italy, further strengthening the connection to national maritime heritage.
A pioneering environmental commitment
Costa was the first cruise line to receive the Green Star certification from the Italian maritime registry (RINA) in 2005, long before sustainability became a standard industry talking point.
Using LNG reduces CO2 emissions by 25%, nitrogen oxide by 85%, and particulate matter by 95% compared to traditional marine fuels. The company aims for carbon neutrality by 2050.
Beyond propulsion, Costa runs a total waste recycling program on board and has collaborated with food banks since 2015 under the Milan Protocol to limit food waste. Ships are equipped with shore power systems to reduce pollution while docked in port.
Who is Costa for?
This line is a particularly good fit for families looking for an affordable vacation without sacrificing comfort. Infrastructure for children and teens is extensive, including age-appropriate clubs, water parks, and supervised activities.
Costa also appeals to travelers who enjoy a relaxed Mediterranean vibe and authentic Italian food. If you dream of Neapolitan pizza and fresh pasta in the middle of the ocean, you are in the right place.
An international and lively atmosphere
The Costa clientele is diverse. French, Italian, and Spanish guests mingle in a casual and festive atmosphere that can be loud depending on your preferences.
This mix might surprise those looking for a quieter or exclusively English-speaking environment, but it is part of the Mediterranean charm of the experience. Italian passengers are often the majority on certain sailings.
Varied destinations from the Mediterranean
The heart of Costa itineraries beats in the Mediterranean, the company's primary territory since its inception. Marseille, Barcelona, Naples, and the Greek islands: Costa knows these waters by heart.
But the offering extends far beyond: Northern Europe and the Norwegian fjords, the Caribbean, the United Arab Emirates, South America, and Asia are all on the schedule. In total, Costa offers 261 destinations and 131 different itineraries, including some around-the-world voyages.
What to know before you book
Costa embraces its accessible positioning. Ships accommodate between 2,000 and 5,000 passengers depending on the model, which creates a lively atmosphere, especially in high season and on the largest ships.
The main language on board is Italian, though French is supported. Some non-Italian guests report feeling like they are in the minority, particularly during entertainment and shows.
There are many add-on services (drinks, Wi-Fi, cabin service depending on the tier), a common practice in the industry that you should account for in your budget. All-inclusive packages are available and help keep costs predictable.
I can only say good things about Costa, even though I only did a three-night mini cruise in the Mediterranean with them, which I booked in a rush. The prices were very attractive (half price for my daughter, free for my son), so I wasn't expecting anything extraordinary. A very pleasant surprise: we were upgraded to a cabin with a balcony that was very clean, spacious, and comfortable. Very good meals and high-end shows. As someone who isn't usually a fan of this kind of trip, I give it 100 percent approval.