ZDCosta

The newly refurbished cabins were quite large with excellent quality bedding and new, very comfortable beds. However, our cabin number 7051 was beneath the Spa which was undergoing major refurbishment so during the day there was almost constant drilling and banging as there was in our daughter's cabin next door. As she was unwell for several days it was very noisy trying to rest. As the ship was full we were unable to be moved. Also, as we were opposite a main service area there was a lot of noise and on several mornings we were woken up at 5.30 by this. The staff were all very polite and the service and meals in the dining room were very good (even though we did not always get what we ordered!).

Smoking was allowed in lots of areas, including bars and entertainment rooms, which drifted over to the non-smoking sections. This was very unpleasant, especially if one suffered with breathing problems. It was a shame that this policy was allowed, so for this reason I would not recommend this ship. I do not know if any other Costa ships have the same policy.

This ship is different to traditional British cruise ships in as much as it picks up passengers at most of the port stops meaning that the clientel was very cosmopolitan. Britons appeared to be in the minority and announcements were generally made in 5 or 6 languages. Communication with the crew was however not a problem. It appeared that 24 hour tea and coffee was not the norm, only at meal times and was frequently served with hot milk. There were many coffee bars where drinks could be purchased and I would recommend the daily drinks package, although this encouraged one to drink rather more than usual! The dress code at meal times was very casual even on the formal nights.

There is no theatre on this ship but mainly musical entertainment is provided in cabaret bars and other communal areas.

In spite of the criticisms we found the cruise good fun and we did enjoy it.