My Costa Cruise experience.

This is only my second experience of Costa Cruise Lines and only booked it for the price and destination which assured us of good weather.
My first time on the Victoria was OK but as you all know I have been spoilt since joining Cruise.Co.UK and been on some amazing ships. When talking to Customers on general sale calls who want a cruise but have no preferences we always ask if any lines they do not want to try and Costa is the most common reply. Why I wonder when the prices are always very competitive, is it that English is the second language ? the various nationalities?
the hidden charges?. Costa do say they do not expect tipping but a compulsory surcharge is added to your account. (this must be for the tips, so be up front as this cannot be taken off). All of these are the reasons I am given. So what did I find. ?

Arriving at Port Rashid the Costa Fortuna looked very pleasant and the checking in process was a dream we were on board within 15 minutes.
We found our cabin very easily and it was spacious and clean although lacking in character as the rest of the ship was very much 1920’s Art Deco

I will be honest my first impression was oh no I am not sure I like this but reminded myself you get what you pay for. But after a day or two we all warmed to her as the service, food and evening shows were excellent. So much choice and not only Italian but everything you could wish for. We even brought the basic drinks package (this is not as good value as the MSC one as not as much choice but fine for our requirements.)

My Daughter was pleased with the choice on shops with everything from the usual Cruise Ship souvenirs to Michael Kors and Swarovski although Dubai and shopping well you do not need shops on the ship. (The dragon and lanterns were to celebrate Chinese New Year.)

There are two restaurants which both have 2 sittings and are two tired with plenty of space and staff. The menu was really good with an always available option for those who prefer something simple. Five or six courses should you wish and a lovely buffet which was more relaxed in the evening (lunch times a complete different kettle of fish as all are, manic)

Each evening was a show in the main theatre, a Spanish guitar and harpist (that was really cool as a very modern twist) in the Atrium followed by singers. Two other lounge bars one with dancing and the other live groups so again lost of choice.

Overall we had excellent value for money and I do think that I would try them again but on one of the newer ships in the fleet.