Costa Cruises is known for its Italian flair and lively on-board atmosphere. This cruise line may be owned by the giant Carnival Corporation of America, but its roots lie in Italy, and Costa cruise ships boast a cosmopolitan ambience helped by the mix of nationalities attracted aboard. Costa has one of the largest and most modern fleets in Europe with 12 ships, ranging from the smallest Costa Marina, with 383 cabins, to the newest Costa Serena and Costa Concordia which have 1,500 cabins apiece. Next year, they will be joined by Costa Pacifica, which is a similar size, and the slightly smaller Costa Luminosa with 1,130 cabins.

For passengers who like their cruising big and bold, Costa Cruise holidays offer an impressive array of facilities, particularly on the line’s largest ships with their huge Samsara spas stretching across two decks with special spa cabins and suites that have direct access to the facilities. The décor across the ships is highly original and varies from extravagant to completely over the top – but always unforgettable. The ships are like mini floating palaces with millions of pounds worth of original artwork and specially-made furnishings that adorn the public areas while the cabins are more low-key but tastefully decorated. Cuisine plays a big part on Costa holidays and there are numerous eating places to choose from, but one of the more unusual culinary experiences is the chance to sample molecular cuisine served up in one of its speciality restaurants. This process is based on the molecular links of food when mixed, cooked and cooled and produces totally new natural tastes and textures. Costa Cruises are never dull as there is plenty to entertain passengers of all ages, from kids clubs to lively entertainment or more relaxed ballroom dancing and piano bars.

Costa offers one of the widest ranges of sailings of any cruise company and it boasts that it has more ships in the Mediterranean than any other cruise line. It is also one of the few to offer Mediterranean sailings during the winter. Passengers can choose from a variety of options for Costa cruise holidays that include voyages from Dubai through the Arabian Gulf, along the Amazon River, throughout the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Costa holidays are also a good deal for youngsters as free cruises are offered on nearly all sailings for under-18s. Flexibility is also a key word when taking a Mediterranean Costa cruise as passengers have the freedom of joining the ships in different ports of call.