Cuisine and dining on a Costa cruise
Dining rooms aboard all Costa ships are smoke-free (in theory). All ships have two seatings for dinner; dining times on Europe/Mediterranean and South America cruises are usually later than those in the Caribbean because Europeans and Latin passengers eat much later than North Americans.
The cuisine is best described as continental, with many regional Italian dishes included, and much emphasis on pasta (50 pasta dishes per cruise).
Presentation and food quality are not memorable (exception: pasta dishes, made fresh on board, and cream sauces are good), and are the subject of many negative comments from passengers.
So, although there is plenty of food, its quality and presentation often prove disappointing to those who expect better. While the quality of meats is adequate, it is often disguised with gravies and rich sauces.
Alternative Dining
If you opt for one of the ‘alternative’ restaurants (aboard the larger ships), note that a cover charge applies: Euros 20 per person + 10% service charge (Europe and Mediterranean cruises), or $20 per person + 15% service charge (Caribbean cruises).
All ships have self-serve lido buffets. Most are of the queue (move along with your tray) type, although the latest ships have more active stations and individual islands. The items available are quite basic.
Entertainment on
Costa cruise ships
Each ship carries its own resident troupe of singers/dancers and audio-visual support staff. Costa Cruises is not known for its entertainment. What it does present tends to be of the ‘no finesse’ variety, with revue-style shows (performed by a small troupe of resident onboard singers/ dancers) that have little story line, poor choreography and execution, but plenty of fast-moving action (this is more stepping in place than dancing), but lots of volume. It’s entertainment to pass the time rather than remember.
Cabaret acts (typically singers, magicians, comedy jugglers, ventriloquists, and so on) are entertaining but rather ho-hum, and are more based on price than coherent themes.
Costa Cruises for families
Costa Kids Club is a programme that is variable by ship, itinerary and season for children aged 3–17. Group babysitting is available.
Kids Club is for 3–6;
Junior Club is for 7–12;
Teen Club is for 13–17.
Best ships for children:
Costa Atlantica, Costa Concordia, Costa Fortuna, Costa Magica, Costa Mediterranea, Costa Serena
But not:
Costa Allegra, Costa Classica, Costa Europa, Costa Marina, Costa Romantica, Costa Victoria
Spa and fitness facilities
Spa and fitness facilities vary according to ship and size the newest and largest ships have more space and better facilities, while the others (Costa Allegra, Costa Europa, Costa Marina) have only basic facilities.
Spa/fitness facilities are staffed and operated by Steiner Leisure, a specialist concession, whose young staff will try to sell you Steiner’s own-brand beauty products. Some fitness classes are free, while some, such as yoga, and kick-boxing, cost US$10 per class.
Massage (including exotic massages such as Aroma Stone massage, facials, pedicures, and beauty salon treatments are at extra cost. Make appointments early as time slots can go quickly.
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