We got a good price for this cruise and overall it was a good experience. There were a few hiccups, but as Americans we went in knowing this would be an Italian cruise skewing to older guests. So that helped set our expectations.
The excursions were mostly great. The Piu Gusto beverage package was a great value for us. But we're younger (26-28yo) and were able to drink more. The food was hit or miss, especially in the full-service dining room. The buffet seemed to offer better selection and taste which was unexpected.
Club Luminosa dining room was a waste. Service overall was good, except an issue with an excursion/spa situation.
We were happy to get a room upgrade and had a balcony room which was great.
Overall I think we would use Costa again just for the value. Even if on the ship there were some puzzling upcharge situations.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
The main dining room food left some to be desired. The dishes were mostly Italian inspired and that wasn't a bad thing. But it seemed like the buffet offered more tasty selections than the standard full-service dinners. Also, we did pay extra for the Club Luminosa restaurant. That was a big mistake. The food was not worth the extra expense and worse yet, there were even more additional upgrades on the menu. Generally I thought once you pay the extra, everything offered is possible without an extra fee.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
The activities were standard for the cruise we expected. In the nightclub, the DJ refused to play modern songs or where unaware of famous artists even featured elsewhere on the ship. The DJ wouldn't really change songs even if our younger group were among the only ones in the dance hall.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Nothing special. Not a favorite of mine.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
As an English speaker, I went in not expecting the easiest means of communication. But for the most part, the service was fine. There was a brief issue with the spa when we had to cancel an appointment last minute in order to deal with a canceled excursion for Russia. The spa staff, while understandably upset, should never let a guest see that especially given the situation was caused by something out of our control.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Ship was really nice and clean. No issues with the common areas or our room.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Cabin was great. We were not expecting an upgrade, but given that the ship apparently was not full, the ship must have upgraded a lot of people. The room itself was great and was clean. There was a minor thing in the bathroom where a panel under the sink was held up with what looked like scotch tape.
Ship tip
If you're an English speaker, just go in with an expectation that there might be a slight language barrier and a different type of service in some situations. It'll help if you've sailed a US flagged boat before.
Given visas are needed for a lot of guests to get off the boat, definitely take advantage of at least one excursion. But also be prepared as English speakers to have excursions canceled and a plan for a backup. You will be given little notice of a cancellation.
When your ready to another
Espically with your age group
I have some awesome suggestions
Send me a email
This ship has it all and more of a fun amazing time
Geared to having fun times all night
Send me a email
abystron@cruiseshipcenters.com
Toni
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