Costa Deliziosa
Costa Deliziosa / Costa Cruises
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Samsara Spa / Costa Cruises
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Lido Azzurro Blu / Costa Cruises
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Lido Acqua Regina / Costa Cruises
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Cruise Costa Cruises

Costa Deliziosa

Our Ship Review
Costa Cruises
Cruise Line
by Laura Manske
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

With room for 2,260 passengers, the Costa Deliziosa is smaller than many of this Italian line’s Corcordia-class vessels (such as Favolosa). And that’s a good thing, because Deliziosa is able to slip through the Panama Canal and, as a result, complete around-the-world itineraries. Yet Deliziosa still carries impressive mega-ship-level diversions: a three-tiered theater, outdoor putting green, Grand Prix single-seat racing simulator, poolside giant movie screen, and 11 bars. Michelin-star chef Fabio Cucchelli has recently teamed up with Costa’s corporate chefs to showcase more authentic Italian regional dishes throughout the fleet.

What We Love

Just Say “Spa-ah”: The two-deck Samsara SPA Wellness Center has a thalassotherapy pool, Turkish bath, tepidarium, laconium, and beauty salon, plus an extensive menu of aromatherapy, acupuncture, massages, and facials. Book one of the special 52 spa cabins snuggled just steps away from treatment rooms.

Lots of Entertainment: Frequent live music presentations, elaborate stage shows, and even a 4-D cinema keep you clapping.

Best Known For

“Italy’s Finest”: The line has stepped up efforts to emphasize Italian culture and cuisine onboard. Tenors sing Italian love songs, you can sip espresso at the Illy Café, and Ferarri sparkling wines flow freely.

Competitive Pricing: Costa has gained a reputation for keeping the party at a reasonable price for cruisers.

Who It's Best For

Worldly Travelers: Many cruisers are European (Italians in the majority; then Germans and French), as well as some Asian passengers (depending on the itinerary). For North Americans who are interested in forging friendships with new international pals, this is a festive and easy high-seas meet-up.

Families: The Squok Club and Teen Zone supervise youngsters from six months to 17 years old, divided into four developmental age groups. Their playful areas are brightly colored and chock full of toys and gear. PlayStation World is a popular spot.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

Language Marathon: Because of the international clientele, almost all shipboard announcements are made in multiple languages. This can either be a fun way to learn five different ways to say “good morning,” or a drawn-out daily ritual just to get basic info.

Smoking Smarts: Although smoking is prohibited inside Deliziosa (except in the cigar lounge), some Europeans light up on outside decks more than you might see on an American ship.