Costa Cruise in the Mediterranean: What to Know Before You Go
Are you thinking of taking a Mediterranean cruise on Costa and wondering what to expect? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re new to cruising or a seasoned traveler, Costa Cruises offers a fantastic experience with diverse itineraries, exciting excursions, and vibrant onboard life. As regulars on Costa Cruises, we’re excited to share everything you need to know for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Let’s dive into the details!
Itineraries: Discover the Mediterranean with Costa
Costa Cruises offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, catering to every type of traveler—from short getaways to extended voyages. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Western Mediterranean
Costa’s most common itinerary covers Savona, Marseille, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Palermo, and Civitavecchia (Rome). This 7-night cruise is ideal for first-time travelers, with a balance of sea and port days and visits to culturally rich destinations like Barcelona and Rome.
Costa also offers longer itineraries, including cruises to Lisbon, Morocco, and the Canary Islands. For shorter trips, Costa has mini-cruises lasting just 2 to 5 days.
2. Eastern Mediterranean
Eastern Mediterranean cruises typically visit the Greek Islands, and may include stops in Istanbul, Croatia, and Montenegro. Cruises for these itineraries often depart from Trieste, Venice, Bari, or Athens, offering stunning views and historical sites.
3. Combination Cruises
For a more extended adventure, Costa offers 14-night or longer cruises that combine both Western and Eastern Mediterranean routes. These cruises include stops in exotic destinations such as Malta, Rhodes, and Tangier. Sadly, Costa does not yet offer a 21-day Mediterranean cruise, though we’ve asked!
Whether you’re looking for a short getaway or a more extensive journey, Costa offers a range of options to suit your preferences.
Seasonality: When is the Best Time to Cruise With Costa in the Mediterranean?
One of the best things about Costa is that they cruise the Mediterranean year-round. However, choosing the right season can greatly enhance your experience.
Summer and Early Fall (Peak Season)
The best weather for cruising the Mediterranean is between late May and September. The temperatures are warm, the sea is calm, and it’s perfect for sunbathing and swimming. However, ports like Barcelona and Santorini can get extremely crowded, with multiple cruise ships docked at the same time, and prices tend to be at their highest.
Off-Season (Fall and Winter)
For fewer crowds and milder weather, consider cruising in the off-season (November to March). You’ll find cities like Rome and Barcelona far less crowded, and you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures for sightseeing. Plus, off-season fares are generally cheaper, although the seas may be rougher and the weather cooler.
Shoulder Season (Late Fall and Spring)
For a balance of good weather, lower prices, and fewer tourists, the shoulder season—from late October to early November or April to May—is ideal. Southern destinations like Malaga or Cadiz may still feel summery, offering you the chance to enjoy the warmth without the peak-season crowds.
Costa Cruise Ships in the Mediterranean: A Fleet to Explore
Costa deploys a range of ships in the Mediterranean, with something for everyone. Here’s what to expect:
1. Costa Smeralda and Costa Toscana
Costa’s flagships like the Toscana and Smeralda sail the Western Mediterranean, offering large, modern ships with state-of-the-art facilities. From luxurious spas to infinity pools and family-friendly activities, these ships are perfect for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere.
2. Costa Deliziosa and Costa Fortuna
If you’re cruising the Greek Islands or the Adriatic, you’ll likely sail aboard one of Costa’s smaller ships like the Costa Deliziosa, Favolosa, or Pacifica. These vessels offer a more intimate experience and are better suited for exploring smaller ports.
3. Winter Cruises
During the winter, Costa operates fewer ships, but you’ll still find options for Canary Islands or Southern Spain itineraries. One of their flagship vessels will usually remain in the Western Mediterranean year-round.
Dining and Food Experiences on Costa Cruises
Costa offers a variety of dining experiences on board their cruise ships, with an emphasis on Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Here’s what to expect:
1. Main Dining Room
In the main dining room, you’ll enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes, including pasta, seafood, and regional specialties from the ports you visit. The food is generally fresh and delicious, though not always gourmet.
2. Buffet
For a more casual experience, Costa’s buffet is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The selection is broad, and it’s a great option if you prefer flexible dining times. Just be prepared for crowds during peak hours.
3. Specialty Restaurants
Costa’s specialty restaurants offer a more refined dining experience at an additional cost. These include Teppanyaki, Pizza, sushi bars, and more. If you want to treat yourself to something extra special, these restaurants are worth the splurge.
4. Themed Dining Nights
Costa often hosts themed dining nights, including their famous White Party where guests dress in white. Often, Costa will also offer red and black nights or local food experiences depending on your Mediterranean cruise itinerary.
Entertainment and Activities: Always Something to Do on Board
Life on board a Costa cruise is full of fun, relaxation, and entertainment, making it impossible to be bored. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Daily Activities
Costa ships offer daily activities for all ages, including live performances, cooking classes, and art workshops. You’ll also find game shows, dance classes, and trivia sessions happening throughout the day.
2. Nightly Entertainment
Evenings on Costa Cruises come alive with live performances, from musical shows to comedians. Themed parties like the White Party or Carnevale Nights are a big part of the Costa experience, so bring your dancing shoes!
3. Wellness and Fitness
If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you can unwind at the onboard spa or enjoy fitness classes in the gym. Many Costa ships offer wellness packages that include spa treatments and access to thermal areas.
Excursions: Making the Most of Your Port Stops
One of the best things about a Mediterranean cruise is the variety of destinations. Costa offers a range of shore excursions that cater to different interests.
1. Walking Around Ports
Many of Costa’s Mediterranean ports, such as Barcelona, Palermo, and Naples, are conveniently located near the city center. You can simply walk off the ship and start exploring without needing an organized tour.
2. Costa’s Excursions
Costa offers a variety of excursions, including culinary experiences, city tours, and guided visits to historical sites. These are often well-priced and allow you to explore local cultures more deeply. Booking directly with Costa also gives you peace of mind, knowing you’ll be back on board in time.
3. Third-Party Providers
If you prefer more flexibility, third-party providers like Get Your Guide offer tours that often allow you to cancel up to the day of the excursion. This is especially helpful in the off-season when port stops may be canceled due to weather.
Booking Tips: How to Get the Best Deals
When booking your Mediterranean cruise on Costa, timing and research can save you a lot of money. Here are a few tips to ensure you get the best deal:
- Book Early: Costa often releases early-bird specials, so booking your cruise well in advance can save you money.
- Consider the Off-Season: Cruising in the off-season can be significantly cheaper, and you’ll avoid the crowds that descend on popular ports during summer.
- Loyalty Programs: Sign up for Costa’s C-Club loyalty program to earn discounts and onboard perks. You’ll also receive special offers for future cruises.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can maximize your budget and enjoy the most of your Mediterranean cruise experience.
Family-Friendly Options: Fun for All Ages
Costa Cruises is a family-friendly cruise line, offering activities and amenities to keep travelers of all ages entertained.
1. Kids’ Clubs
Costa ships have age-specific kids’ clubs, ranging from toddlers to teens. These clubs offer a mix of fun activities, including crafts, games, and sports, giving parents some much-needed downtime.
2. Family Suites
For families, Costa offers family-friendly cabins with interconnected rooms, making it easier for everyone to stay together while still having some privacy.
Sustainability Initiatives: Costa’s Commitment to the Environment
Costa Cruises has made strides in recent years to minimize their environmental impact. Here are some of the ways they are working towards a more sustainable future:
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG): Costa’s newest ships, like the Costa Smeralda, are powered by LNG, which significantly reduces harmful emissions.
- Single-Use Plastics Reduction: Costa is committed to reducing the use of single-use plastics on their ships, opting for eco-friendly alternatives wherever possible.
By choosing Costa, you’re cruising with a company that’s taking steps to ensure their operations are as eco-friendly as possible.
Health and Safety: Peace of Mind While Cruising
Costa places a strong emphasis on health and safety, especially in the post-pandemic era. Here’s what you can expect in terms of health and safety measures onboard:
1. Sanitation Protocols
Costa has implemented rigorous cleaning and sanitation protocols throughout their ships. Public areas are regularly disinfected, and hand sanitizing stations are readily available in high-traffic areas, including dining venues, theaters, and lounges.
2. Medical Facilities
Each Costa ship is equipped with medical facilities and trained personnel who are available 24/7. If you feel unwell during your cruise, the medical team can assist you. It’s always a good idea to purchase travel insurance that includes medical coverage to ensure you’re prepared for any health-related issues that may arise.
3. Health Screenings
Before boarding, Costa may conduct health screenings to ensure the safety of all passengers. This may include temperature checks and a health questionnaire. If you’re feeling unwell before your cruise, it’s essential to notify the cruise line as soon as possible.
Accessibility and Special Needs: Costa’s Inclusive Services
Costa Cruises strives to make their ships accessible to everyone, regardless of physical abilities or special needs. Here’s what they offer:
1. Wheelchair Accessibility
Costa ships are designed with wheelchair accessibility in mind. There are wheelchair-friendly staterooms and public areas, including ramps and elevators that are easy to navigate.
2. Assistance Services
If you or someone in your party requires assistance, Costa offers special services such as priority boarding, dedicated staff support, and accessible excursions. Be sure to notify the cruise line in advance so they can make the necessary accommodations.
3. Dietary Requirements
Costa also caters to special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-sodium meals. It’s best to inform them of any dietary restrictions when booking your cruise to ensure they can meet your needs.
What to Bring: Packing for Your Mediterranean Cruise on Costa
Packing smartly for your Mediterranean cruise will ensure you’re comfortable throughout your trip. Here’s a checklist to guide you:
1. Travel Documents
- Passport
- Boarding pass and cruise tickets
- Travel insurance documents
- Copies of prescriptions (for medications)
2. Clothing
- For Summer: Light, breathable clothing like shorts, T-shirts, sundresses, and sandals. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection!
- For Winter: Warmer layers, including sweaters, jackets, and scarves. Even during winter, Mediterranean weather can vary, so pack for both cool and mild temperatures.
- Themed Nights: Costa Cruises often have themed nights, like the White Party, so bring a white outfit. There might also be red and black parties or other themed events.
3. Essentials
- Toiletries: Costa’s onboard stores have limited selections, so bring your own toiletries such as deodorant, toothpaste, and skincare products.
- Medication: Keep any essential medication in your carry-on. It’s also a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit.
- Costa App: Download the Costa app before boarding to manage your itinerary, view menus, and book excursions.
4. Extras
- Comfortable Walking Shoes: Many Mediterranean ports have cobblestone streets, so sturdy walking shoes are a must.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is essential, especially in warmer months.
- Adapters: European electrical sockets may differ from what you’re used to, so pack an adapter for your electronics.
Sea Destinations: Unique Experiences on Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises has recently introduced Sea Destinations, a program that links unique on-board experiences with the destinations you’ll visit. Here’s a taste of what you can expect:
1. Mykonos Party
One of Costa’s Sea Destinations events includes a party in Mykonos, where guests can enjoy cocktails and live music under the stars. This event is perfect for those who love nightlife and want to experience the vibrant party scene in Greece.
2. Aperitivo in Venice
Another popular Sea Destination is the aperitivo experience in front of the Lido Island in Venice. Guests enjoy Italian cocktails and snacks while soaking in the views of the Venetian Lagoon.
3. Stargazing in the Mediterranean
If you’re more interested in tranquil experiences, Costa offers stargazing events in the darkest areas of the Mediterranean. These guided sessions allow you to admire the night sky with no city lights to obstruct the view.
These events are a great way to connect with the local culture and enjoy unique, destination-focused activities.
Bonus Tip: Grab Your Free Costa Cruise Guide
We promised something special at the beginning of this post, and here it is! We’ve put together a special downloadable guide that covers everything you need to know about cruising on Costa. This guide includes tips on:
- How to get the best deals on your cruise
- A detailed packing checklist
- Insider tips for excursions and onboard experiences
Simply scan the QR code below or click the link in the description to access your free Costa Cruise guide.
Conclusion: Ready to Set Sail on Costa?
Now that you’re equipped with all the essential knowledge, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable Mediterranean cruise with Costa! Whether you’re exploring the picturesque Greek Islands, soaking in the history of Rome, or indulging in local cuisines, Costa Cruises offers a vibrant, diverse, and immersive experience.
By planning ahead, packing smart, and embracing the unique experiences onboard and ashore, you’ll make the most out of your Mediterranean cruise. Don’t forget to download our free guide and share this post with fellow travelers who might be interested!
Bon voyage, and we’ll see you on board!