Costa Cruise to Iceland and Greenland: The Ultimate Adventure

“Sailing through the icy waters of Northern Iceland while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and luxurious amenities.” It sounds like it was taken straight from an adventure fantasy novel written by a swashbuckling author, right? However, that’s what we experienced on our recent Costa Favolosa cruise!

Buckle up as we take you on a journey through our 23-day adventure, and will reveal why Favolosa might just be the crown jewel of the Costa Cruise fleet.

An Unforgettable Voyage

Our cruise on the Costa Favolosa was nothing short of extraordinary. Spanning 23 days, this round-trip journey from Hamburg, Germany, took passengers to the remote wonders of Iceland, Greenland, and Scotland. The itinerary was a dream for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

We opted for a balcony cabin and paid €8,666 for the all-inclusive package or €188 per person per day. I know it might seem a bit costly, but considering the unique destinations and the quality of service, I can tell you it was worth every euro. 

What set this cruise apart was its perfect blend of luxury and exploration. You’d be amazed by the rugged beauty of Iceland one day and find yourself indulging in gourmet meals the next. The Costa Favolosa offers an ideal balance between comfort and adventure, and it’s so good that seasoned travelers and first-time cruisers won’t regret every penny spent on the trip. 

We’d give this cruise 5 out of 5 anchors in value. The unique itinerary, impeccable service, and overall experience more than justified the price tag. It’s rare to find a cruise that offers such a perfect mix of exotic destinations and top-notch amenities.

A Home Away From Home: Our Cabin

Our home for the 23-day journey was a balcony cabin on deck six, mid-ship. While it wasn’t as luxurious as the Grand Suite we enjoyed on our previous Costa Favolosa cruise, it was comfortable and surprisingly spacious.

The cabin’s standout feature was its minimalist design. Every surface gleamed, and the attention to detail was impressive. Our cabin steward deserves a special mention for their proactivity and friendly demeanor.

Though minimalist in typical Costa style, the bathroom was functional and immaculately clean. We never ran short of fresh towels, and our bathrobes were replaced every other day – a small touch that made a big difference in our comfort.

The bed was a dream to sleep on. After long days of exploring icy landscapes and participating in onboard activities, sinking into that comfy mattress was bliss. Rick and I agreed that we slept better on the ship than at home!

One minor gripe was the “ugly brown couch” – but it’s a staple in Costa cabins. However, in our cabin, it was in excellent condition and served its purpose well. The balcony let us enjoy private views of the stunning scenery we sailed past. It was a fantastic addition! 

The storage space was ample, with enough room to unpack completely for our long journey. The cabin’s layout was well-thought-out, making the most of the available space without feeling cramped.

Overall, our cabin experience on the Costa Favolosa deserves a solid 5 out of 5 anchors. It provided the perfect retreat after busy days of exploration and entertainment. The design strikes an ideal balance between comfort and functionality.

If “Cleanliness” Was A Cruise Ship

If there’s one area where the Costa Favolosa truly excelled, it was cleanliness. From the moment we stepped on board, we were struck by how spotless every area of the ship was. The cleaning crew worked tirelessly, constantly scrubbing, buffing, and wiping every surface.

One morning, we witnessed something truly interesting. The housekeeping manager meticulously checked every single door threshold with his finger and instructed his team to dust any areas that didn’t meet his exacting standards. I can tell you. This level of attention to detail was unprecedented in our cruising experience.

The public areas were equally impressive. The lounges, restaurants, pool, and entertainment venues always sparkled, and even high-traffic areas like elevators and staircases were consistently squeaky clean.

In the dining areas, tables were promptly cleaned and sanitized between guests. Though we didn’t use the buffet area much, it was kept pristine, with staff constantly monitoring cleanliness standards.

Even during peak times, such as after-shore excursions when hundreds of passengers returned to the ship, the crew worked efficiently to clean muddy footprints and deal with the influx of passengers without missing a beat. All to maintain their high standards.

It’s worth noting that this level of cleanliness went beyond what we experienced even during the height of the pandemic, and it set a new benchmark for what we expect from a cruise ship. So, in our books, the cleanliness of the Costa Favolosa deserves a resounding 5 out of 5 anchors.

Service That’s Above and Beyond

The service on board the Costa Favolosa was a standout, even considering previous cruise standards. The staff consistently went above and beyond from our arrival to our unexpected early departure.

At the bars, service was prompt and always delivered with a smile. The bartenders were skilled at mixing drinks and engaging in friendly conversation by adding a personal touch to each interaction.

The pool attendants deserve special mention. They were always on hand to help with loungers and ensure everyone’s safety around the pool area. Their attentiveness and friendly demeanor enhanced our relaxation time on deck.

We encountered a mix of experienced servers in the main dining room, and some were still in training. Although this occasionally led to slower service, seeing the more seasoned staff mentoring their junior colleagues was heartening.

The Club Bistro, reserved for Gold and Platinum members, was a highlight of our dining experience. Our server, Nila, was exceptional – so much so that her section was always in high demand. Her knowledge of the menu and genuine warmth made every meal a pleasure.

On the first sea day, we did encounter a hiccup when we arrived for lunch at 12:30 PM and found the restaurant unexpectedly packed. We were assigned to a table with a junior server, which resulted in a nearly two-hour lunch. However, the restaurant manager handled our feedback impressively.

The next day, he escorted us to an empty restaurant area and assigned a dedicated waiter. This level of personalized service was truly remarkable.

Our server, Mary, was outstanding at the Club restaurant, where we dined in the evenings. Her genuine attention to our preferences made each dinner a delightful experience. We were also touched by the warmth of old friends among the staff, like Arun, who we knew from a previous cruise on the Costa Pacifica, and Stephanie, the English host with whom we’ve sailed several times.

The front desk staff deserves special praise for handling our unexpected early departure due to a family emergency. They managed the situation quickly and showed empathy and professionalism in a challenging moment. The hotel manager, Oscar, even personally checked in to see if there was anything else he could do to help—a gesture that went a long way in a stressful situation.

Despite the minor issue we experienced in the restaurant on the first day, the overall service on the Costa Favolosa was exceptional. The staff’s ability to resolve problems quickly and exceed expectations, combined with their genuine warmth, earns them a solid 5 out of 5 anchors in our book.

Culinary Delights Were A Feast for the Senses

The culinary experience on the Costa Favolosa was a delightful journey of flavors, presentation, and variety. We noticed some changes in the menu compared to our previous Costa cruises, which added a fresh twist to our dining experience.

One pleasant surprise was the addition of eggs Benedict to the breakfast menu. This classic dish, not typically found on Costa ships, was a welcome treat for our mornings. We’re unsure if this addition was due to the cruise departing from Germany with most German passengers or perhaps influenced by the Austrian head chef. Whatever the reason, it was a delicious start to our days.

The main dining room offered an impressive array of dishes each night. The menu struck a perfect balance between classic favorites and innovative creations. For Rick, a standout was the ability to order his favorite Greek salad as an appetizer every evening. This flexibility in catering to individual preferences was a testament to the kitchen’s dedication to guest satisfaction.

The presentation of each dish was a feast for the eyes and the palate. The chefs took pride in their work, with each plate artfully arranged to showcase the colors and textures of the ingredients. It wasn’t just about taste; it was a full sensory experience.

Seafood lovers were in for a treat, with fresh catches featured prominently on the menu. Given our Northern route, we enjoyed some exceptional cold-water fish preparations new to our palates. The chefs’ skill in preparing these dishes was evident in every bite.

Costa Favolosa offers options for those with dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices are available at every meal, and the staff is knowledgeable about ingredients and preparation methods.

The desserts, as we’ve come to expect from Costa, were phenomenal. Each sweet creation perfectly blends flavors, textures, and visual appeal. From classic Italian tiramisu to more exotic concoctions, the pastry chefs outdid themselves night after night.

One aspect that stood out was incorporating local flavors into the menu as we visited different ports. It added an extra layer of excitement to our dining experience, allowing us to taste the essence of each destination even while on board.

The wine list deserves a special mention. As expected, it featured an excellent selection of Italian wines but also included some fantastic international options. The sommeliers were knowledgeable and always ready with perfect pairing suggestions.

The staff was incredibly accommodating to special dietary needs. We observed them handling various requests with patience and care, ensuring that every guest, regardless of dietary restrictions, had a satisfying dining experience.

Overall, the food on the Costa Favolosa was a highlight of our journey. The quality, variety, presentation, and willingness to cater to individual preferences contributed to a dining experience we looked forward to each day. Without hesitation, we award the culinary offerings on the Costa Favolosa 5 out of 5 anchors.

Fellow Passengers’ Pleasant Surprise

One aspect of our Costa Favolosa cruise that pleasantly surprised us was the caliber of our fellow passengers. We’ve never reviewed this category, but it significantly impacted our overall experience.

We noticed more seasoned cruisers on this sailing than on our previous trips. This created a unique atmosphere on board, with passengers who were familiar with cruise etiquette and eager to share their travel experiences.

The politeness and friendliness of our fellow travelers were remarkable. People were always ready with a smile and a friendly greeting, whether in the elevator, at the bar, or on shore excursions. This created a warm atmosphere that enhanced our enjoyment of the cruise.

We engaged in fascinating conversations with other passengers, exchanging travel stories and tips. The diversity of experiences among our fellow cruisers added an unexpected layer of enrichment to our journey.

Interestingly, we encountered several passengers who recognized us from our YouTube channel. Many shared that they had researched the Costa Favolosa through our videos before booking their trip. These encounters were incredibly gratifying and reinforced our commitment to providing helpful content for fellow cruise enthusiasts.

We speculate that the unique nature of our itinerary may have attracted a more adventurous and experienced group of travelers. Long cruises also appeal to seasoned cruisers, which could explain the demographic we encountered.

Another positive aspect was passengers’ respect for the ship and its staff. We observed people being courteous and showing appreciation for the crew’s hard work. This mutual respect contributed to a harmonious atmosphere on board.

The mix of nationalities on the ship was also interesting. While there was a majority of German passengers (given our departure point), we also met travelers from various European countries, North America, and even a few from Asia and Australia, which led to fascinating cultural exchanges.

We were particularly impressed by how well everyone adapted to the formal nights. The effort people put into embracing the spirit of these special evenings added a touch of glamour to our voyage.

While we hesitate to assign a rating to our fellow passengers, it would undoubtedly be 5 out of 5 anchors if we were to do so. The polite, friendly, and interesting mix of people we encountered significantly enhanced our cruise experience. It serves as a reminder that the people you meet can be just as important as the places you visit in making a journey memorable.

Shore-Bound Adventures

The excursions offered on our Costa Favolosa cruise were crucial to our journey, especially given the unique itinerary covering Iceland and Greenland (of course, we didn’t get to Greenland, but more on that later.) While these excursions came with a hefty price tag, many proved worth every penny.

First and foremost, we cannot stress enough the importance of booking excursions early. These destinations offer limited capacity for tours, and the most popular excursions sell out quickly. We learned this the hard way when we missed out on a south coast Iceland tour we had our hearts set on.

The excursion team on the Costa Favolosa deserves high praise. They were exceptionally well-organized and trained, ensuring that all tours ran smoothly. Their efficiency was particularly evident in ports where we had limited time ashore.

While the quality of the excursions was generally high, we did notice that they were more expensive compared to other cruises we’ve taken. However, given the remote locations and the specialized nature of many tours, the higher prices were understandable.

One minor drawback was the long lines at the excursion desk on the ship. This could be frustrating, especially when trying to book or modify tours. We suggest Costa consider implementing an online booking system to streamline this process.

For future cruisers, we recommend carefully researching the available excursions before your trip and booking early to avoid disappointment. Also, don’t hesitate to mix guided tours with independent exploration where possible, as this can provide a more balanced and cost-effective way to experience each port.

Overall, we rate the Iceland excursions on our Costa Favolosa cruise 5 out of 5 stars and withhold any ratings for the Greenland excursions. Their unique experiences, professional organization, and ability to enhance our understanding of the destinations we visited made them invaluable parts of our journey.

Non-Stop Entertainment Extravaganza

While we didn’t dive into the entertainment and activities on the Costa Favolosa, this aspect is crucial to any cruise experience. Costa Cruises is known for its lively atmosphere, and the Favolosa didn’t disappoint.

The ship’s theater was the epicenter of evening entertainment, hosting various shows throughout our cruise. There was something to suit every taste, from Broadway-style musical productions to acrobatic performances. The production quality was impressive, with talented performers, stunning costumes, lighting, and sound systems.

One standout performance was a cirque-style show that combined acrobatics, dance, and music. The performers’ skill and artistry had us on the edge of our seats. Another highlight was an Italian-themed musical night that perfectly captured the spirit of Costa’s Italian heritage.

During the day, the animation team kept their energy high through various activities. Pool games, dance classes, and trivia contests were regular features. We particularly enjoyed the Italian language lessons, which added a cultural touch to the onboard activities.

The Costa Favolosa also boasts a well-equipped fitness center with panoramic ocean views. Daily exercise classes, including yoga and pilates, were available for those looking to stay active. The spa, operated by Samsara, offered a range of treatments for those seeking relaxation.

The casino was a popular evening spot for those who enjoyed a flutter. While not massive, it offered a good selection of slot machines and table games. The nightly tournaments added an extra element of excitement for regular casino-goers.

Music lovers were well catered for, with live performances in various lounges throughout the ship. There was always a melody in the air, from classical piano recitals to jazz ensembles and pop cover bands.

One unique feature we appreciated was the 4D cinema. While small, it offered a fun diversion, especially on sea days. The selection of short films rotated regularly, ensuring there was always something new to experience.

The kids’ clubs seemed well-organized and engaging for younger cruisers. Although we didn’t use these facilities, we observed happy children participating in various age-appropriate activities.

Theme nights were a regular feature, with passengers enthusiastically participating in events like the White Party and the 70s Disco Night. These added a festive atmosphere to the cruise and provided great opportunities for socializing.

While the entertainment program was diverse and engaging, we did notice that some activities were more geared toward European tastes. This isn’t a criticism but rather an observation that first-time cruisers with Costa should be aware of.

Overall, the entertainment and activities on the Costa Favolosa perfectly complement the stunning destinations we visited. There was always something to do, whether you wanted to be actively involved or simply spectate. We’d rate this aspect of the cruise 4.5 out of 5 anchors, with the half-point deduction only because some passengers might find certain activities lost in translation.

A Journey’s Abrupt End

So, we’ve hinted several times that we couldn’t see this Costa Favolosa cruise to the end. Here’s why.

After our first week on board the Costa Favolosa, we were in the port of Isafjordur, Iceland, just about to sail away for Greenland, when we received the news that Andrea’s dad had just been admitted to ICU. For this reason, we had to cut our cruise short and disembark in a rush at the port of Isafjordur. Luckily, we received the call before sailing away for Greenland because if that had been the case, we would not have been able to come home for several days. 

I feel these situations are rare in Costa cruises, so I must commend the staff for acting in the way they did. Everyone on board was incredibly nice and helpful during this trying time. The front desk staff handled the situation quickly and did everything they could to help us out.

Even the hotel manager, Oscar, came to say hi and ask if there was something he could do to help. That was an incredibly nice touch. Thank you, everyone.

Weighing the Costs and Benefits

Now that we’ve covered all the bases, it’s time to consider the cruise’s value.

When considering a cruise, especially a lengthy and unique itinerary like ours on the Costa Favolosa, value for money is important. While we touched on the cost briefly in our original review, it’s worth exploring this aspect in more detail.

Our 23-day cruise, including an all-inclusive package, costs €8,666, which is €188 per person per day. At first glance, this might seem expensive compared to other cruise options. However, when you consider the unique itinerary, the length of the cruise, and the inclusions, the value becomes more apparent.

Now, considering our unique situation, I have to give props to Costa Cruise for their empathy and accommodation. We never asked Costa for a refund; we just requested a letter stating the total costs and which ones were refundable for insurance purposes.

Two hours later, we received a notification for a payout from Costa, and, indeed, they refunded all unused onboard expenses. There was no processing, no paperwork, and no calling toll-free numbers multiple times over months—they just gave back whatever was not used. Now, that’s quality service, the type of thing that has earned Costa our loyalty as customers and members.

The all-inclusive package covered our accommodation, meals in the main dining areas, beverages (including alcoholic drinks), and access to many onboard facilities and entertainment options. This removed the stress of constantly monitoring our onboard spending and allowed us to enjoy the cruise experience fully.

The cruise looks quite good compared to the daily rate of land-based travel in our destinations. Accommodations and meals in these countries can be very expensive, not to mention the cost of transportation between locations.

The ship served as our floating hotel, restaurant, and entertainment complex, eliminating the need for multiple bookings and transfers. This convenience factor adds significant value, especially in remote areas with limited tourism infrastructure.

However, it’s important to note that excursions were quite expensive and not included in the cruise fare. These could add significantly to the overall cost of the trip. Many of these excursions offered unique experiences that would be difficult or impossible to arrange independently.

This Costa Favolosa cruise had consistently high quality of service, food, and accommodations, which contributed to its overall value. The ship’s cleanliness and attentive staff ensured we always felt well cared for.

Another factor to consider is the entertainment and activities included in the cruise fare. With multiple shows, classes, and events daily, there was always something to do without incurring additional costs.

One aspect that added value was the ability to visit multiple countries and destinations without the hassle of packing, unpacking, or arranging transportation. This is especially valuable in regions like Greenland, where travel between towns can be challenging and expensive.

Our cruise took place during the peak summer season in the North Atlantic, which is typically the most expensive time to visit these destinations. When viewed in this context, the pricing becomes more competitive.

While the cruise was not cheap, we believe it offered good value for money, given the unique itinerary, the quality of the ship and service, and the convenience it offered. A cruise like this can be a cost-effective option for travelers looking to explore remote and expensive destinations like Iceland and Greenland.

Considering all factors, we would rate the value for money on our Costa Favolosa cruise as 4.5 out of 5 anchors. The half-point deduction is mainly due to the high cost of shore excursions, which could significantly increase the overall trip cost for those wanting to explore each port fully.

Pros and Cons: Balancing the Cruise Experience

To provide a balanced view of our Costa Favolosa experience, it’s important to consider both the positives and negatives of our cruise. While our overall experience was overwhelmingly positive, no vacation is perfect, and there were a few areas where improvements could be made.

Pros:

1. Unique Itinerary: The route covering Iceland, Greenland, and Scotland offered a once-in-a-lifetime experience to explore remote and beautiful destinations.
2. Exceptional Cleanliness: The ship’s cleanliness was outstanding, surpassing our experiences on other cruise lines.
3. High-Quality Service: Staff were consistently friendly and professional and went above and beyond to ensure guest satisfaction.
4. Excellent Food: The variety and quality of dining options were impressive, particularly in the main dining room and specialty restaurants.
5. Comfortable Accommodations: Our balcony cabin was well-designed, comfortable, and kept immaculately clean.
6. Diverse Entertainment: A wide range of shows, activities, and entertainment options catered to various interests and age groups.
7. Well-Organized Excursions: Despite being expensive, the shore excursions were well-planned and offered unique experiences.
8. All-Inclusive Package: Enjoying meals, drinks, and many onboard activities without additional charges added value and convenience.

Cons:

1. Expensive Shore Excursions: While high-quality, the cost of excursions, particularly in Iceland and Greenland, could significantly increase the overall trip cost.
2. Crowded Public Areas: During peak times, some public areas like the pool deck and buffet restaurant could get quite crowded.
3. Limited English-Language Activities: Some onboard activities and entertainment were more geared towards European, particularly Italian, tastes.
4. Slow Internet: While internet access was available, the speed was sometimes frustratingly slow, especially in remote areas.
5. Long Lines at Excursion Desk: The process of booking or modifying excursions on board could be time-consuming due to long queues.
6. Inconsistent Service in Main Dining Room: While generally good, we experienced some inconsistencies in service speed and quality in the main dining room.
7. Limited Late-Night Dining Options: After hours, food choices were somewhat restricted compared to some other cruise lines.

Balancing The Scale

When weighing these pros and cons, the positives significantly outweigh the negatives. Many of the cons are common to cruising in general or are understandable given the remote nature of our itinerary.

The unique experiences offered by the itinerary, combined with the high standards of cleanliness, service, and dining, made for an exceptional cruise overall. While there’s always room for improvement, our Costa Favolosa experience was memorable for all the right reasons.

Being aware of these pros and cons for future cruisers can help set realistic expectations and plan accordingly. For instance, budgeting for shore excursions in advance or be prepared for potential language barriers can enhance the overall experience.

In conclusion, despite minor drawbacks, our journey on the Costa Favolosa was overwhelmingly positive. The ship provided a comfortable and enjoyable base to explore some of the world’s most stunning and remote locations, making for a truly unforgettable vacation.

Tips for Your Costa Favolosa Adventure

To help future cruisers make the most of their Costa Favolosa experience, especially on similar itineraries, here are some valuable tips and tricks:

1. Book Excursions Early: Popular excursions, especially in Greenland, sell out quickly. Book as soon as they become available to avoid disappointment.
2. Pack for All Weather: Even in summer, temperatures can vary greatly. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy walking shoes.
3. Learn Basic Italian: While the crew speaks multiple languages, knowing a few Italian phrases can enhance your experience and show appreciation for Costa’s Italian heritage.
4. Explore Specialty Dining: While the main dining room is excellent, don’t miss out on the specialty restaurants. They offer unique culinary experiences worth the extra cost.
5. Take Advantage of Sea Days: Use these days to explore the ship’s amenities, participate in activities, or simply relax. The spa’s thermal suite is particularly enjoyable on cooler days.
6. Bring Binoculars. These are invaluable for spotting wildlife and enjoying the scenery, especially in fjords and glacier areas.
7. Consider an All-Inclusive Package: This can offer good value, especially if you enjoy drinks and plan to use the specialty restaurants.
8. Book a Balcony Cabin: For scenic itineraries like this, a balcony provides private viewing of breathtaking landscapes.
9. Attend Port Talks: These informative sessions can help you maximize your time in each destination.
10. Use the Self-Service Laundry: For longer cruises, this can save you money and ensure you always have clean clothes.
11. Participate in Theme Nights: These are fun ways to meet fellow passengers and add variety to your evenings.
12. Book Spa Treatments on Port Days: You’ll often find better deals, and the spa is less crowded.
13. Bring a Good Camera. The scenery on this itinerary is spectacular, so don’t rely solely on your smartphone.
14. Stay Flexible: Weather can affect plans in northern regions. Be prepared for itinerary changes.
15. Use the Stairs: It’s a great way to stay active and avoid elevator waits, especially after meals.

Here’s a useful table summarizing some key information:

Category	Recommendation
Best Time to Book Excursions	As soon as they’re available
Must-Pack Items	Layers, waterproof gear, binoculars
Recommended Cabin Type	Balcony
Best Value Dining Option	All-Inclusive Package
Top Onboard Activity	Thermal Suite in Samsara Spa
Money-Saving Tip	Use self-service laundry
Best Photo Opportunities	Scenic sailing, especially in fjords

Unforgettable Voyage Reflections

Our Costa Favolosa cruise was unforgettable, blending Nordic wonders with Italian hospitality. From Greenland’s fjords to Scotland’s history, each day brought new marvels. The ship’s comfort, amenities, and service complemented the stunning itinerary perfectly.

Despite minor issues like occasional crowding and pricey excursions, the overall experience was overwhelmingly positive. We highly recommend this cruise for those seeking a mix of adventure and comfort in remote, beautiful locations.

This journey reminded us of the world’s vastness and beauty, creating lasting memories and new perspectives. It proved that sometimes, the voyage itself is as enriching as the destination – the essence of true travel.

So, if you’re looking for a cruise that offers more than just sun and sand, consider setting sail on the Costa Favolosa. Who knows? You might just find yourself on the adventure of a lifetime, just as we did.