Costa Cruises -- Cruising Italian Style:

Considered to be Europe's #1 cruise line, Costa Cruises has been owned by Carnival Corporation since 1997. Its fleet spans the globe, offering cruises of seven nights and longer to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America and Transatlantic crossings. With its signature "Cruising Italian Style", Costa attracts cruisers from all parts of the globe, especially America, Canada, South America and Europe.

Costa Cruises brings over 50 years experience to its passengers, who can expect a cruise experience that is festive, elegant and service-oriented, all in a relaxing and warm environment. "Cruising Italian Style," reflects the line's rich, Italian heritage. No detail has been overlooked in recreating the style and generous hospitality of Italy. Italian Style also means living life to its fullest, so on each Costa cruise, guests will enjoy authentic Italian cuisine, as well as a warm and especially attentive crew.

Its fleet consists of 12 modern cruise ships. .

In addition to the Italian traditions of warmth and hospitality, Costa passengers can look forward to fun! While cruising in the Caribbean, there are theme nights, including its most famous -- and fun -- "Roman Bacchanal," an authentic Toga Party! The event is so unique that it has been voted the "most-off-the-wall" event in cruising by Fielding's Guide to Worldwide Cruises.

Golf enthusiasts may enjoy the "Golf Academy at Sea," featuring private lessons and more, as well as escorted golf excursions in most ports of call, including some of the Caribbean's finest courses. All ships feature Internet cafés and you can also relax at the spa and workout with state-of-the-art Technogym® equipment.

Dining

In Italy, dining is always a celebration, which explains the fabulous week of feasting Costa has prepared for its guests. Breakfast and lunch buffets are long and lavish, while morning and noonday meals in the restaurant are enjoyable, tasteful affairs.

Dinners are glamorous events, prepared by European chefs who are members of the world famous Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. Lighter choices are also available from the spa menu. Cozy bistros serve authentic Italian pizzas, gelato, cappuccino and espresso. Additionally, room service awaits your call 24-hours a day.

Part of the Costa experience is its signature dining. Costa offers several dining options, including glamorous six-course meals in the luxury of the ship's main restaurant during one of two seatings. Specialty dining includes the Ristorante Magnifico by Zeffirino onboard the CostaVictoria and Ristorante Club Atlantica with a menu presented by renowned chef, Gualtiero Marchesi onboard the CostaAtlantica.

Nightlife & Entertainment

As the fiery flares of sunset cool into the evening, the allure of Costa's nightlife beckons with an endless array of festivities. Tempt your palate with an artfully presented gourmet dinner conceived by Costa's award-winning chefs. Afterward, guests may head for the lively casino, pulsating with the excitement of the tables and the jingling of coins. There are intimately designed dance floors for "high stepping" to a capriccio in the background.

There are also musical revues, comedians, karaoke sing-a-longs, and for the truly adventurous, conga lines! Of course, for a quieter evening, you can stroll out on deck with a chilled bottle of champagne and toast each other under the moonlit sky. Then, as moonlight fades into daybreak, retire to the refined elegance of your tastefully appointed stateroom. "Buona sera" and sweet dreams.

Relax & Rejuvenate

Costa also offers a variety of activities for body, mind and soul. You can practice your swing with an onboard golf pro or kick back and relax in a comfortable deck chair. Explore the Italian shopping promenade for exotic perfumes and designer merchandise.

Enjoy incredible ocean views, modern, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, pools, Jacuzzis® and an authentic Roman steam bath. Let the gentle and restorative powers of body wraps, massages and conditioning therapies recharge you like nothing has before.

"Costa Kids Club"

Costa offers two programs for children on Caribbean sailings. There is a program for children between the ages of three (out of diapers) to 12 and another for teens between the ages of 13 and 17. Both are interactive programs that provide daily activities such as costume parties, board games and junior aerobics. Children have special counselors and a room designed for their activities. Depending on the ship, Costa also has rooms set aside specifically for children and teens.

Also on Caribbean cruises, the line offers "Parents Night(s) Out," whereby kids are entertained at a supervised pizza party on two nights of the cruise, offering parents free time.

There are pizza parties, pirate treasure hunts, face-painting, masquerades, even Italian lessons. From video game tournaments to karaoke contests, The Costa Kids Program gives kids a ship complete with supervised activities so everyone can enjoy themselves to the fullest. There are even ice cream socials and interesting bridge visits, so the entire family can enjoy the perfect cruise vacation.