Costa Serena

The Pasta and Other Italian Specialties: Costa Serena’s bustling two-story dining rooms have traditionally focused on the cuisine of its mother country — the pasta course was especially delicious — so guests eat quite well for a budget cruise fare.

The Thalassotherapy Pool: Located in the Samsara Spa, the large jetted pool is an ideal spot to relax before or after a massage.

Jam-Packed Itineraries: Cruise passengers who want to see a different city every day — in three or four countries — will appreciate Costa Serena’s fast-paced itineraries. That said, the ship might only be in port for five or six hours.

Kitschy Decor: Despite the ship’s name, its vibrant, playful décor is the exact opposite of serene. Designed by Miami-based Joe Farcus, the nine-story atrium features mannequin-like Greek gods and goddesses floating amid plastic clouds and elevators lit up like gaming arcades, while the nightclubs have whimsical furniture in bold color combinations.

Budget-Conscious Travelers: Costa cruises traditionally offer good value and a casual ambiance on the line's Mediterranean and Adriatic itineraries, giving them wide appeal, especially with multigenerational European families.

This Crowd Likes to Party: Passengers on Costa cruises seem to be on a mission to have fun — and this ship obliges by entertaining kids in the Pan Disco until well past midnight so parents can enjoy after-dinner nightlife.