Costa Cruises marked the commencement of its domestic cruising program for Indian travelers with the arrival of the cruise ship ‘Costa Serena’ at its home port in Mumbai on Saturday. The Italian-flagged ship is scheduled to operate on newly designed itineraries, including 2, 3, and 5-night journeys from Mumbai, Goa, Kochi, and the scenic Island of Agatti in Lakshadweep from November 4, 2023, until January 11, 2024.
To celebrate Costa’s 75th anniversary, an event was held on board Costa Serena, attended by Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, Francesco Raffa (Asia Region & Growth Markets director at Costa Cruises), Nalini Gupta (Lotus Aero Enterprises, GSA of Costa Cruises), and other senior officials.
Sonowal expressed pride in Costa’s return, providing domestic cruising options to Indian travelers on the 150th anniversary of the Mumbai Port. He affirmed full support for the cruise line to home port their ships at Indian ports and readiness to enhance port infrastructure for larger cruise ships.
Costa Serena features 1,500 cabins, including 505 with private balconies, spread across 14 passenger decks. The cruise ship offers a range of international-style experiences, blending Italian warmth and hospitality. Onboard amenities include a wellness center, sea-view gym, beauty salon, theatre, restaurants serving Indian and international cuisine, bars, four swimming pools (two with self-propelled glass roofs), a shopping area, and a kids’ club for children and teenagers.
