Our initial expectations were not met because Costa has cut back on what we initially experienced several years ago -- fewer musicians, no piano bar, apparent reduction in personnel in bar and other services. But the people were excellent and so nice, friendly. Our dinner waiter and several of the "bar" staff exceeded expectations. The Hospitality/Service Personnel were absolutely fantastic. The people were the hightlight of the cruise.
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Food in main dining room was not bad, but it paled vs food several years ago. 24 hour dining was not available as buffet closed at various times and food was hard to come by. When available, it was good. Waiters/waitresses were superb -- courteous, friendly and very professional.
Onboard Activities
2 out of 5
Music opportunities were certainly less than 5 years ago. There was a piano bar, but no piano player to lead singing or play songs -- disappointing. Highlight of other cruises/cruiselines has been the late night piano bar and sing along.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Stages shows were typical. Tenor was fantastic but could have performed more. Latin singers/dancers were the best part of the entertainment.
Children's Programs
No children
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Cannot imagine how it could have been better. In particular, the Hospitality/Service Desk personnel deserve applause and a "pat on the back!" What they had to put up with (complaints, discourteous cruisers, long lines) was amazing, yet they were always professional, smiling, friendly and showed a sincere wish to help. I cannot say enough about them.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Cleaning staff for the public restrooms was apparently limited. On several occasions, we needed to complain to get them cleaned up due to some people's bad habits, lack of hygiene. Ship as a whole seemed to be understaffed.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Cabin size and comfort was good, cleanliness was excellent. However, what used to be two times a day service was reduced to 1x/day. However, once we knew that to be the case, it was easy to adjust. Big issue was the missing towel animals we grew to enjoy on our cruises. A small issue, but something special to cruising.
Ship tip
If it's your first trip, you will really enjoy it. If you have sailed Costa before, you may be disappointed by the reduction in personnel and service vs prior sailings in prior years.
I find the Bahamas not friendly -- I always get the impression that I am about to get ripped off. I do not mean to be unfair to the Bahamian people, many of whom are really nice, but the port experience certainly lags behind other ports in the Caribbean. I no longer do excursions any more as I have been on too many cruises and have the excursions of interest.
Loved Key West -- great for walking and sightseeing. Did not like, however, that we had to clear US passport Control -- we almost missed it, which have resulted in a fine.
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