Is Costa Cruise Line Good A Honest Review of Their Ships and Service

Costa Cruise Line delivers a vibrant, European-style cruising experience with surprisingly strong value for budget-conscious travelers. While their ships may lack the luxury of premium lines, Costa excels in lively entertainment, diverse dining, and itineraries across popular destinations—all at competitive prices. Service is generally friendly and efficient, though not always flawless, making Costa a solid “good” choice—especially for first-time cruisers or those prioritizing fun and affordability over opulence.

Key Takeaways

• Costa excels in affordability: Great value for budget-conscious travelers.
• Family-friendly amenities: Kids’ clubs and activities are top-notch.
• Italian flair onboard: Authentic dining and cultural experiences shine.
• Service can be inconsistent: Staff vary by ship and itinerary.
• Entertainment leans traditional: Ideal for relaxed, not high-energy, vacations.
• Cleanliness is generally strong: Ships maintain high hygiene standards.
• Book early for perks: Discounts and upgrades reward advance planning.

Introduction: What Makes a Cruise Line “Good”?

Choosing the right cruise line can feel like navigating a labyrinth of glossy brochures, flashy websites, and conflicting opinions. For many travelers, the question isn’t just about destinations or price—it’s about the overall experience. Is Costa Cruise Line good? That’s a question worth exploring in depth, especially for families, couples, solo travelers, and even retirees seeking a Mediterranean flair with Italian charm. Costa Cruises, part of the Carnival Corporation, has been a prominent player in the European cruise market for over 75 years, offering voyages across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Asia, and beyond. But does its long-standing reputation match the reality onboard?

Costa Cruises markets itself as the “Italian Way to Travel,” blending European sophistication with accessible pricing and a lively, festive atmosphere. But beyond the tagline, what do passengers actually experience? From dining and entertainment to cabin comfort and service quality, the answer isn’t always black and white. This honest review dives deep into the strengths and weaknesses of Costa Cruise Line, evaluating their fleet of ships, service standards, onboard amenities, and value for money. Whether you’re considering your first cruise or comparing Costa to competitors like MSC Cruises or Norwegian Cruise Line, this comprehensive analysis will help you decide if Costa is the right fit for your next vacation.

1. The Costa Cruise Fleet: Modern Ships with Italian Flair

Overview of Costa’s Ship Portfolio

Costa currently operates 11 ships, with a mix of older vessels and newer, state-of-the-art mega-ships. The fleet is divided into three main classes: the Costa Diadema, the Costa Smeralda and Costa Toscana (part of the “Helios” class), and the Costa Venezia and Costa Firenze (designed for the Asian market but now sailing in the Mediterranean). Each class offers a distinct experience, but all share Costa’s signature Italian design, vibrant color schemes, and emphasis on open spaces and natural light.

The Costa Smeralda and Costa Toscana, launched in 2019 and 2021 respectively, are the crown jewels of the fleet. Both are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), making them among the most environmentally friendly cruise ships in the world. These vessels feature over 180,000 gross tons, accommodate more than 6,500 passengers, and boast innovative design elements like the “Smeralda Walk,” a 100-meter-long promenade with panoramic views. The interiors draw inspiration from Italian regions—Smeralda from Sardinia, Toscana from Tuscany—with authentic materials like marble, wood, and handcrafted mosaics.

Older Ships: Charm with Trade-Offs

For budget-conscious travelers, Costa’s older ships like the Costa Pacifica, Costa Deliziosa, and Costa Favolosa offer solid value. These vessels, built between 2009 and 2012, are smaller (around 114,000 gross tons) and carry about 3,000 passengers. While they lack the cutting-edge tech and eco-features of the newer ships, they still deliver Costa’s signature style—think bold colors, Italian art, and open-air lounges.

However, older ships come with trade-offs. Cabins are more compact, public areas can feel crowded during peak times, and the entertainment options are less diverse. For example, the theater on the Costa Pacifica seats only 1,200, compared to over 2,000 on the Costa Toscana. That said, these ships often sail on shorter itineraries (3–7 nights), making them ideal for first-time cruisers or weekend getaways. Tip: If you’re booking on an older ship, aim for mid-week sailings when crowds are lighter.

Specialty Ships: Costa Venezia and Firenze

The Costa Venezia and Costa Firenze were originally built for the Chinese market but have since been repositioned to the Mediterranean and Caribbean. These ships are designed to appeal to Asian tastes—larger suites, tea lounges, and Asian cuisine—but have been adapted for Western audiences. The result is a unique hybrid experience. For instance, the Venezia features a “Venetian Piazza” with gondola rides, while the Firenze has a “Florentine Garden” with Renaissance-inspired sculptures.

While these ships offer novelty, some Western travelers report that the cultural blend can feel disjointed. For example, a karaoke bar next to a traditional Italian wine bar might not appeal to everyone. That said, the spacious cabins and high-end finishes (like marble bathrooms) are a plus. Pro tip: If you’re on a Venezia or Firenze cruise, book the “Asian Fusion” dining option—it’s a highlight for foodies.

2. Onboard Experience: Dining, Entertainment, and Activities

Dining: A Taste of Italy (and Beyond)

Costa’s dining philosophy centers on Italian cuisine, but with global influences. The main dining rooms offer open-seating breakfast and lunch, with assigned seating for dinner. The menus feature staples like pasta, risotto, and tiramisu, often prepared by Italian chefs. For example, the Costa Smeralda has a dedicated “La Piazza” dining area where guests can order fresh pasta made to order.

Specialty restaurants are a standout. The Blue Moon (available on most ships) offers Asian fusion with dishes like miso-glazed salmon and sushi rolls. The La Dolce Vita wine bar serves gourmet Italian small plates with curated wine pairings. Prices range from $25–$45 per person, which is competitive with other cruise lines. Tip: Book specialty dining early—seats fill up fast, especially on longer cruises.

However, not all dining experiences are stellar. Some passengers report inconsistent service in the main dining room, particularly during peak hours. Buffet options, while extensive, can be repetitive—think pizza, pasta, and salad bars. On older ships, the buffet layout can feel cramped, leading to long lines. For families with kids, the Kid’s Buffet (available on newer ships) is a lifesaver, offering child-friendly options like chicken tenders and fruit cups.

Entertainment: Lively Shows with a European Twist

Costa’s entertainment leans heavily on live performances, with a focus on music, dance, and theatrical productions. The main theater hosts nightly shows, including original productions like “Costa’s Greatest Hits” (a medley of Italian pop songs) and “The Magic of Venice” (a cabaret-style show with acrobats and magicians). The quality is generally high, with professional choreography and elaborate costumes.

For a more relaxed vibe, check out the La Terrazza lounge (on newer ships), which hosts live jazz and acoustic sets. The Casino and Disco are popular spots for night owls, though they can get noisy. Note: Costa’s entertainment schedule is less “Americanized” than lines like Royal Caribbean—expect fewer Broadway-style musicals and more European cabaret.

Daytime activities include cooking demos, language classes (Italian, of course!), and art auctions. The Costa Academy offers workshops on topics like wine tasting and pasta making. On sea days, the pool decks get lively, with DJs, games, and poolside movies. Tip: Download the Costa app before boarding to access the daily schedule and book activities.

Family-Friendly Features

Costa is a solid choice for families, with dedicated kids’ clubs for ages 3–17. The Mini Club (3–6) and Junior Club (7–11) offer supervised activities like crafts, games, and movie nights. Teens (12–17) get their own lounge with video games, karaoke, and dance parties. On newer ships, the Water Park features slides, splash zones, and a lazy river.

However, family amenities vary by ship. Older vessels have fewer kid-friendly options—e.g., the Costa Pacifica has only one pool for kids, compared to three on the Smeralda. Pro tip: Book a family stateroom (with connecting doors) for extra space. These sell out quickly, so plan ahead.

3. Service and Staff: The Italian Hospitality Factor

Staff-to-Passenger Ratio and Training

Costa prides itself on Italian hospitality, and the staff reflect this ethos. The service is generally warm, attentive, and multilingual (many crew members speak English, Italian, and Spanish). The staff-to-passenger ratio is about 1:2.5 on newer ships, which is competitive with premium lines like Princess Cruises.

However, service quality can vary by department. Dining room staff and cabin stewards are often excellent—remembering names, preferences, and even favorite drinks. But some guests report inconsistent service at bars and specialty restaurants. For example, a 2023 review on Cruise Critic noted that “the bartender at the pool bar was slow, but our room steward was a gem.” This inconsistency is more common on older ships, where staffing levels are lower.

Language and Cultural Nuances

Costa’s Italian roots shine in subtle ways. The onboard announcements are in Italian first, then English, and the crew often greets guests with “Buongiorno!” or “Ciao!” While this adds charm, it can be confusing for non-Italian speakers. For example, a first-time cruiser might not realize that “aperitivo hour” (5–7 PM) is a key social event with free snacks and drinks.

To bridge the gap, Costa provides English-language materials (menus, schedules) and has a dedicated guest services desk for non-Italian speakers. Tip: Learn a few basic Italian phrases—it goes a long way with the crew!

Accessibility and Special Needs

Costa has made strides in accessibility, with wheelchair-accessible cabins, elevators, and public areas on all ships. The newer vessels have tactile pathways for visually impaired guests and hearing loops in theaters. However, some older ships (like the Costa Deliziosa) have limited accessible cabins—only 12 out of 1,500 staterooms.

For guests with dietary restrictions, Costa offers vegetarian, gluten-free, and kosher options. But these must be requested in advance (at least 60 days before sailing). Note: Kosher meals are only available on select itineraries (e.g., Mediterranean cruises).

4. Itineraries and Destinations: Where Does Costa Sail?

Mediterranean: The Heart of Costa’s Network

Costa’s strongest market is the Mediterranean, with year-round departures from ports like Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Marseille. Itineraries range from 7-night “Classic Med” cruises (stopping in Naples, Mykonos, and Santorini) to 14-night “Grand Mediterranean” voyages. The Costa Smeralda and Toscana often sail these routes, offering longer port stays (up to 10 hours) for in-depth exploration.

One highlight is Costa’s “Port of Call” program, which partners with local guides for curated excursions. For example, in Dubrovnik, guests can join a private boat tour of the Elafiti Islands. Tip: Book shore excursions through Costa—they’re often cheaper than third-party vendors.

Caribbean and Transatlantic: A Growing Presence

Costa has expanded into the Caribbean, with winter sailings from Fort Lauderdale and Port Canaveral. The Costa Venezia and Firenze are based in the region, offering 7–10 night cruises to destinations like Nassau, St. Thomas, and Cozumel. The onboard experience feels more “European” than other Caribbean lines—e.g., afternoon espresso bars instead of rum punch stations.

Transatlantic cruises (10–14 nights) are a unique offering. These repositioning voyages, like the Costa Pacifica’s spring crossing from Miami to Barcelona, are great for budget travelers (prices start at $500 per person). But be prepared for long sea days—entertainment options are limited compared to shorter cruises.

Asia and Exotic Routes

Costa’s Asian itineraries (e.g., Singapore to Hong Kong) cater to a mix of Western and Asian travelers. The Venezia and Firenze shine here, with onboard features like a tea ceremony lounge and a noodle bar. However, these cruises are less common and often require longer flights to reach departure ports.

5. Value for Money: Is Costa a Good Deal?

Pricing and Inclusions

Costa is generally more affordable than premium lines like Celebrity or Holland America but pricier than budget options like Carnival. Base fares for a 7-night Mediterranean cruise start at $700 per person (interior cabin), while suites can exceed $3,000. Inclusions are similar to other mainstream lines: meals, basic drinks (water, tea, coffee), and access to most onboard activities.

However, Costa has a few unique perks. For example, the Costa Card (a prepaid onboard account) offers discounts on drinks and excursions. The Costa Kids Club is free for children under 12 (unlike some lines that charge). Tip: Look for “Early Booking” promotions—they can save you 20–30%.

Hidden Costs and Add-Ons

Like all cruise lines, Costa has add-ons. Specialty dining ($25–$45 per person), premium drinks (cocktails $8–$15), and spa services ($100–$300) can inflate your final bill. Shore excursions are another cost—expect to pay $50–$200 per person for guided tours.

One area where Costa stands out: gratuities. The suggested daily tip is $12–$15 per person, which is lower than lines like Royal Caribbean ($14.50–$18). But some guests report that crew members are more direct about asking for tips, especially at bars and restaurants.

Comparison Table: Costa vs. Competitors

Feature	Costa Cruises	MSC Cruises	Norwegian Cruise Line
Base Fare (7-night Med)	$700–$1,200	$600–$1,000	$800–$1,400
Specialty Dining	$25–$45	$30–$50	$25–$50
Kids Club	Free (under 12)	Free (under 12)	$10–$15 per day
Gratuities (per day)	$12–$15	$14–$16	$14.50–$18
Entertainment Focus	European cabaret	Broadway-style	Broadway-style

6. The Verdict: Is Costa Cruise Line Good?

After evaluating every aspect—from ships and service to value and itineraries—the answer to “Is Costa Cruise Line good?” is a resounding yes, with caveats. Costa excels in delivering an authentic Italian experience, with vibrant design, lively entertainment, and a strong focus on European cuisine. The newer ships (Smeralda, Toscana) are among the most innovative and eco-friendly in the industry, offering a premium feel at a mainstream price.

However, Costa isn’t perfect. Older ships show their age, service can be inconsistent, and the Italian-centric atmosphere might not appeal to everyone. Families will appreciate the free kids’ clubs, but those seeking high-energy activities (like rock climbing or surf simulators) may prefer Royal Caribbean or Norwegian.

Ultimately, Costa is ideal for travelers who:

• Love European culture and cuisine
• Want a lively, social atmosphere
• Prioritize value over luxury
• Enjoy Mediterranean itineraries

For first-time cruisers, Costa is a great introduction to the world of cruising—especially if you book a newer ship. For repeat cruisers, it’s a refreshing alternative to more “Americanized” lines. As one passenger put it: “Costa made me feel like I was in Italy, even when I was at sea.” That, in essence, is the magic of Costa Cruises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Costa Cruise Line good for families with kids?

Yes, Costa Cruise Line is a solid choice for families, offering kids’ clubs, splash zones, and family-friendly entertainment on most ships. However, activities may skew more toward European tastes, so check the itinerary for age-appropriate options.

What makes Costa Cruise Line stand out from other cruise lines?

Costa excels with its vibrant, Italian-inspired onboard atmosphere, themed decor, and Mediterranean dining experiences. Their focus on European destinations and affordability (with inclusive drink packages) makes them unique among mainstream lines.

Is Costa Cruise Line good for first-time cruisers?

Absolutely! Costa’s intuitive layout, multilingual staff, and mix of relaxation and activities suit new cruisers. Their shorter itineraries (3–7 days) are ideal for testing the cruise experience without a big commitment.

How does Costa’s service compare to premium cruise lines?

While Costa’s service is friendly and efficient, it’s more casual than luxury lines like Celebrity or Regent. Expect attentive but less personalized attention, with a focus on fun over formality.

Are Costa Cruise Line ships outdated?

Some older ships (like Costa Luminosa) show their age, but Costa has invested in modernizing fleets like Costa Smeralda, which boasts sleek, eco-friendly design. Check the ship’s renovation history before booking.

Is Costa Cruise Line good for solo travelers?

Costa offers solo cabins on select ships (e.g., Costa Diadema), but they’re limited. The social vibe and mix of group activities make it easy to meet people, though dedicated solo perks are sparse.