Packages Feature 10- and 11-night Mediterranean Sailings Throughout Winter
MIAMI (September 30, 2009) – Savor unique European destinations while enjoying La Dolce Vita this winter with Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. New packages begin at just $1,408 per person and include cruise fare, air fare, air tax, transfers and a one-night post hotel stay, if necessary.
Beginning at $1,408 per person for a 10-night sailing, and at $1,545 for an 11-night sailing, guests may sail aboard sister ships Costa Pacifica or Costa Serena on Eastern or Western Mediterranean itineraries. Starting fares on these air packages are based on roundtrip airfare from JFK to Rome for the 10-night sailing aboard the Costa Pacifica, departing from Civitavecchia on December 9, 2009. This sailing features stops in Italy, Greece, Cyprus and Egypt. Fares for the 11-night sailings are based on airfare from JFK to Savona, Italy for the December 8, 2009 sailing aboard the Costa Serena with stops in Spain, Morocco, the Canary Islands and Madeira. Numerous additional gateways are available from the United States and Canada.
The Costa Pacifica (recently inaugurated in June 2009) and Costa Serena (introduced in 2007), were designed especially to sail the Mediterranean year round. Both vessels feature two pools with retractable glass magrodomes, ensuring pool time is enjoyable at any time of the year. In addition, the ships feature the award-winning Samsara Spa, which at over 23,000 square-feet is one of the largest spas at sea. This spa haven at sea boasts spa accommodations with direct access to the wellness center via private stairway or elevator and access to a dedicated spa restaurant.
Costa offers a “true European experience” to travelers, combining the charm of the old world with incredible innovations of today. This special brand of Italian warmth and European sophistication makes cruising with Costa much more than a voyage to a new and exciting destination – it’s an experience that creates lifetime memories that linger and make guests smile at unexpected moments. From delectable fresh pastas, warm cappuccinos, international guests who become friends from around the world and charming Italian greetings travelers hear such as “buongiorno” and “buonasera,” sailing with Costa brings the passion and vitality of Italy to sea.
For complete information regarding Costa’s winter Europe Air/Sea packages, guests may contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com. Guests in North America may also find Costa on Facebook at www.facebook.com/costacruises.na.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s number one cruise line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008 over 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability. In 2009, Costa Cruises was ranked the 4th best Italian company for reliability and reputation in the international “Global Reputation Pulse” survey, which covers 600 of the largest companies in 32 countries around the world.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
COSTA CRUISES RECEIVES THE ABB ENERGY EFFICIENCY AWARD 2009
MIAMI (September 24, 2009) – Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line, received the ABB Energy Efficiency Award 2009 this week in recognition of its efforts and progress in improving energy efficiency in its motor and drive systems.
The prize was presented as part of “Energy Efficiency Award 2009: Designing and Achieving Energy Efficiency: New Conversations,” an event promoted and arranged by Abb Sace, a division of ABB Spa. In addition to Costa Cruises’ project, initiatives implemented by Fiat Auto, a leader in vehicle manufacturing and Fiorucci, a leader in the food industry, were also honored at the ceremony.
Costa Cruises qualified for the award by installing inverters on its ships. These devices are designed to control the supply of electrical power and find the point of peak efficiency, thereby ensuring the flexibility of systems and machinery in relation to effective operational demands. The use of these variable speed drives have optimized the performance of fans and blowers in the engine room and have led to substantial energy savings combined with a reduced environmental impact.
Intelligent inverter speed control was first introduced on the Costa Fortuna and Costa Serena, while work is scheduled to install similar devices on the Costa Magica, Costa Pacifica and Costa Concordia. Meanwhile, the Costa Luminosa, which joined the fleet in May this year, and the Costa Deliziosa, due for delivery in January 2010, have both been designed with inverters already fitted on board.
The 51 inverters installed on the Costa Fortuna and on the Costa Serena, approximately 8,760,000 kWh, corresponding to approximately 1,820 tons of bunker, were saved in 12 months. There was a significant decrease in air emissions, namely 5,723 t/year of CO2.
Costa Cruises’ commitment to the implementation of energy saving systems, with fleetwide applications in a range of areas, is in line with the company’s environmental policy, which specifies obligations and targets that are far more restrictive than those enforced by mandatory international rules and requirements.
A separate collection program is in operation on all 14 ships in the Costa fleet for all of the solid waste generated. No solid waste, except for food waste or special waste, is ever discharged overboard. Approximately 400 m3 of aluminum and 2100 m3 of glass from the ships are sent for recycling each year. Most of the water used is produced directly on board using desalination plants and the ships are fitted with double bilge (oily water) separators as well as the fail-safe “white box” system enabling a further check of the oil content of effluent water. In addition, Costa carries out systematic sampling and analysis of engine, diesel generator and incinerator emissions, as well as monitoring of electromagnetic emission levels.
The Costa Luminosa, which entered service in May this year, is the first ship in Italy and one of the first in the world to be equipped for “cold ironing,” a system whereby vessels are plugged into shoreside electrical power, enabling generators to be shut down during stopovers in port. This means the environmental impact of port calls is also greatly reduced. The Costa Deliziosa, due for delivery in January 2010, will be fitted with the same system.
Costa is the only cruise company to have its own environmental management system developed in accordance with the latest international standards (UNI EN ISO 14001, issued in 2004) and documented in a Sustainability Report drawn up in accordance with the Guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and certified by RINA (the Italian Shipping Register). Moreover, in 2005 Costa Cruises became the first company in the world to receive the “Green Star” across the fleet from RINA. This prestigious notation certifies that all Costa’s vessels comply with environmental standards for the prevention of pollution of the marine environment and it is actually stricter than the prevailing provisions of the international MARPOL Convention. Further confirmation of the company’s commitment to environmental conservation is reflected by the partnership established in 2005 with WWF Italia to protect the marine environment, dedicated this year to a project safeguarding the Mediterranean Sea.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
The prize was presented as part of “Energy Efficiency Award 2009: Designing and Achieving Energy Efficiency: New Conversations,” an event promoted and arranged by Abb Sace, a division of ABB Spa. In addition to Costa Cruises’ project, initiatives implemented by Fiat Auto, a leader in vehicle manufacturing and Fiorucci, a leader in the food industry, were also honored at the ceremony.
Costa Cruises qualified for the award by installing inverters on its ships. These devices are designed to control the supply of electrical power and find the point of peak efficiency, thereby ensuring the flexibility of systems and machinery in relation to effective operational demands. The use of these variable speed drives have optimized the performance of fans and blowers in the engine room and have led to substantial energy savings combined with a reduced environmental impact.
Intelligent inverter speed control was first introduced on the Costa Fortuna and Costa Serena, while work is scheduled to install similar devices on the Costa Magica, Costa Pacifica and Costa Concordia. Meanwhile, the Costa Luminosa, which joined the fleet in May this year, and the Costa Deliziosa, due for delivery in January 2010, have both been designed with inverters already fitted on board.
The 51 inverters installed on the Costa Fortuna and on the Costa Serena, approximately 8,760,000 kWh, corresponding to approximately 1,820 tons of bunker, were saved in 12 months. There was a significant decrease in air emissions, namely 5,723 t/year of CO2.
Costa Cruises’ commitment to the implementation of energy saving systems, with fleetwide applications in a range of areas, is in line with the company’s environmental policy, which specifies obligations and targets that are far more restrictive than those enforced by mandatory international rules and requirements.
A separate collection program is in operation on all 14 ships in the Costa fleet for all of the solid waste generated. No solid waste, except for food waste or special waste, is ever discharged overboard. Approximately 400 m3 of aluminum and 2100 m3 of glass from the ships are sent for recycling each year. Most of the water used is produced directly on board using desalination plants and the ships are fitted with double bilge (oily water) separators as well as the fail-safe “white box” system enabling a further check of the oil content of effluent water. In addition, Costa carries out systematic sampling and analysis of engine, diesel generator and incinerator emissions, as well as monitoring of electromagnetic emission levels.
The Costa Luminosa, which entered service in May this year, is the first ship in Italy and one of the first in the world to be equipped for “cold ironing,” a system whereby vessels are plugged into shoreside electrical power, enabling generators to be shut down during stopovers in port. This means the environmental impact of port calls is also greatly reduced. The Costa Deliziosa, due for delivery in January 2010, will be fitted with the same system.
Costa is the only cruise company to have its own environmental management system developed in accordance with the latest international standards (UNI EN ISO 14001, issued in 2004) and documented in a Sustainability Report drawn up in accordance with the Guidelines of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) and certified by RINA (the Italian Shipping Register). Moreover, in 2005 Costa Cruises became the first company in the world to receive the “Green Star” across the fleet from RINA. This prestigious notation certifies that all Costa’s vessels comply with environmental standards for the prevention of pollution of the marine environment and it is actually stricter than the prevailing provisions of the international MARPOL Convention. Further confirmation of the company’s commitment to environmental conservation is reflected by the partnership established in 2005 with WWF Italia to protect the marine environment, dedicated this year to a project safeguarding the Mediterranean Sea.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
COSTA CRUISES OFFERS “ITALY IN THE TROPICS” FROM JUST $399
7-Night Caribbean Sailings Also Include Free Upgrades from $549 and “Kids Sail Free” Specials Throughout the Season
MIAMI (September 23, 2009) — Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line, is offering “Italy in the Tropics” at an upgrade during its winter Caribbean season from Ft. Lauderdale. Guests in North America may enjoy the “love, laughter, and la dolce vita” of Italy without crossing the pond, complete with some of the best deals Costa has offered in its 60 year history aboard both the Costa Atlantica and Costa Fortuna. Specials are also available during holiday sailings.
One of Costa’s richest Caribbean deals is a “Free Upgrade” promotion with veranda accommodations available at the price of an ocean view (fares from $699), ocean view at the price of an inside (fares from $549) and inside cabins available at specially reduced fares from $399. Additionally, throughout the season Costa is offering “Kids Sail Free” specials with parents sailing from only $499. During the holidays, kids sail for just $199 while staterooms for adults are from $599 with an up to four-category upgrade during this time. Deposits have been reduced to $150 on all Caribbean sailings for a limited time as well.
“I can’t think of a better way to take a winter vacation than on a veritable floating Italian villa in the tropics, which is what the Costa Caribbean experience is all about,” said Maurice Zarmati, president and ceo of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. “We’ve made the ‘sweet life’ even sweeter by offering amazing upgrades and value-packed fares on our cruises from Ft. Lauderdale, allowing travelers to experience Italy close to home.”
Costa’s unique and authentic onboard Italian flair provides guests with a feeling of “Italy in the tropics” on its Caribbean routes. For many, sailing Costa offers a “new” way of experiencing the Caribbean ports of call they know and love – bringing to mind the romance and warmth of Italy that is universally beloved. From homemade pastas and delectable desserts, to Italian greetings including “buongiorno” in the morning and “buonasera” in the evening, the “amore” of the old world stays with guests long after they disembark from their cruise. Festive onboard activities include everything from on-deck bocce ball games, tarantella dancing under the stars and Italian cooking lessons during “Festa Italiana,” to the famous “Roman Bacchanal” soirée, where guests don tasteful togas and celebrate as the Romans did centuries ago.
In November 2009, the 86,000-ton (2,114 double occupancy) Costa Atlantica will make her much anticipated return to Ft. Lauderdale, sailing seven-night voyages each Saturday through April 2010. The ship boasts 44 exclusive spa cabins that create a true “vacation within a vacation.” Guests who reserve these spa accommodations, appropriately located on Deck “8 ½” in honor of the famous Federico Fellini film of the same name (Fellini inspired design elements of the ship), will enjoy a variety of special privileges. These include a personalized wellness consultation, three complimentary treatments, two fitness or meditation classes and complimentary access to the Wellness Restaurant, offering a wide array of spa-friendly cuisine. Spa cabins, available in ocean view, veranda and suite categories, will feature aromatherapy diffusers, special shower and air filters, and a mini bar stocked with healthy food and beverage selections. In addition, guests with these accommodations will be offered priority spa reservation times.
The grand 110,000-ton (2,720 double occupancy) Costa Fortuna will once again return to the Caribbean from December 2009 through March 2010, departing every Sunday on seven-night voyages. Drawing inspiration from the beautiful Italian liners of yesteryear, the Costa Fortuna combines nostalgia and a refined atmosphere into a marvelous modern framework. Gorgeous scale models of historic ships are weaved into the style and design of the ship’s various restaurants and other public areas. For a step into the present, guests may enjoy modern amenities including a retractable magrodome over the ship’s main pool deck, a state-of-the-art spa and ocean-view fitness center, 11 bars and four restaurants and a theatre expanding over three decks. All elements blend together to perfectly evoke the charm and refinement of yesteryear translated into modern day times.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
For reservations or more information regarding Costa Cruises, guests may contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com.
MIAMI (September 23, 2009) — Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line, is offering “Italy in the Tropics” at an upgrade during its winter Caribbean season from Ft. Lauderdale. Guests in North America may enjoy the “love, laughter, and la dolce vita” of Italy without crossing the pond, complete with some of the best deals Costa has offered in its 60 year history aboard both the Costa Atlantica and Costa Fortuna. Specials are also available during holiday sailings.
One of Costa’s richest Caribbean deals is a “Free Upgrade” promotion with veranda accommodations available at the price of an ocean view (fares from $699), ocean view at the price of an inside (fares from $549) and inside cabins available at specially reduced fares from $399. Additionally, throughout the season Costa is offering “Kids Sail Free” specials with parents sailing from only $499. During the holidays, kids sail for just $199 while staterooms for adults are from $599 with an up to four-category upgrade during this time. Deposits have been reduced to $150 on all Caribbean sailings for a limited time as well.
“I can’t think of a better way to take a winter vacation than on a veritable floating Italian villa in the tropics, which is what the Costa Caribbean experience is all about,” said Maurice Zarmati, president and ceo of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. “We’ve made the ‘sweet life’ even sweeter by offering amazing upgrades and value-packed fares on our cruises from Ft. Lauderdale, allowing travelers to experience Italy close to home.”
Costa’s unique and authentic onboard Italian flair provides guests with a feeling of “Italy in the tropics” on its Caribbean routes. For many, sailing Costa offers a “new” way of experiencing the Caribbean ports of call they know and love – bringing to mind the romance and warmth of Italy that is universally beloved. From homemade pastas and delectable desserts, to Italian greetings including “buongiorno” in the morning and “buonasera” in the evening, the “amore” of the old world stays with guests long after they disembark from their cruise. Festive onboard activities include everything from on-deck bocce ball games, tarantella dancing under the stars and Italian cooking lessons during “Festa Italiana,” to the famous “Roman Bacchanal” soirée, where guests don tasteful togas and celebrate as the Romans did centuries ago.
In November 2009, the 86,000-ton (2,114 double occupancy) Costa Atlantica will make her much anticipated return to Ft. Lauderdale, sailing seven-night voyages each Saturday through April 2010. The ship boasts 44 exclusive spa cabins that create a true “vacation within a vacation.” Guests who reserve these spa accommodations, appropriately located on Deck “8 ½” in honor of the famous Federico Fellini film of the same name (Fellini inspired design elements of the ship), will enjoy a variety of special privileges. These include a personalized wellness consultation, three complimentary treatments, two fitness or meditation classes and complimentary access to the Wellness Restaurant, offering a wide array of spa-friendly cuisine. Spa cabins, available in ocean view, veranda and suite categories, will feature aromatherapy diffusers, special shower and air filters, and a mini bar stocked with healthy food and beverage selections. In addition, guests with these accommodations will be offered priority spa reservation times.
The grand 110,000-ton (2,720 double occupancy) Costa Fortuna will once again return to the Caribbean from December 2009 through March 2010, departing every Sunday on seven-night voyages. Drawing inspiration from the beautiful Italian liners of yesteryear, the Costa Fortuna combines nostalgia and a refined atmosphere into a marvelous modern framework. Gorgeous scale models of historic ships are weaved into the style and design of the ship’s various restaurants and other public areas. For a step into the present, guests may enjoy modern amenities including a retractable magrodome over the ship’s main pool deck, a state-of-the-art spa and ocean-view fitness center, 11 bars and four restaurants and a theatre expanding over three decks. All elements blend together to perfectly evoke the charm and refinement of yesteryear translated into modern day times.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
For reservations or more information regarding Costa Cruises, guests may contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com.
Monday, September 21, 2009
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS: SAIL EUROPE AND THE CARIBBEAN FOR $40 A DAY ON COSTA’S TRANSATLANTIC ROUTES
15-Night Transatlantic Sailing on the Costa Fortuna from $599
MIAMI (September 21, 2009) — Travelers can experience the romantic charm of Europe and the tropical beauty of the Caribbean all at once, and for just $40 a day, with Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. Fares on the December 5, 2009 15-night sailing aboard the Costa Fortuna from Savona to Ft. Lauderdale begin at just $599 per person. A return 17-night sailing on the Costa Fortuna from Ft. Lauderdale to Savona on March 28, 2010 features fares from just $799 per person.
The Costa Fortuna December 5, 2009 transatlantic sailing will depart from Savona (Italy), and call on Malaga (Spain), Funchal (Madeira), Pointe-A-Pitre (Guadeloupe), St. Maarten, Catalina Island (Dominican Republic) and Nassau, Bahamas before arriving in Ft. Lauderdale on December 20. A return 17-night voyage departs on March 28, 2010 from Ft. Lauderdale with stops in Nassau, Catalina Island (Dominican Republic), St. Maarten, Pointe-A-Pitre, Barbados, St. Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands), Funchal (Madeira) and Barcelona before arriving in Savona on April 14.
Drawing inspiration from the grand Italian liners of yesteryear that provided regular passenger service between Italy and the Americas, the 105,000-ton Costa Fortuna combines nostalgia and a refined atmosphere into a stunning modern framework. With a double capacity of 2,720, the Costa Fortuna features 1,359 cabins—857 ocean view and 458 with large verandas. The ship offers guests a stunning array of facilities including 11 bars, 4 restaurants, a theater extending over three floors, three swimming pools, a casino, disco, ballroom and a gym.
For complete information regarding Costa’s transatlantic voyages, guests may contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14
fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
MIAMI (September 21, 2009) — Travelers can experience the romantic charm of Europe and the tropical beauty of the Caribbean all at once, and for just $40 a day, with Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. Fares on the December 5, 2009 15-night sailing aboard the Costa Fortuna from Savona to Ft. Lauderdale begin at just $599 per person. A return 17-night sailing on the Costa Fortuna from Ft. Lauderdale to Savona on March 28, 2010 features fares from just $799 per person.
The Costa Fortuna December 5, 2009 transatlantic sailing will depart from Savona (Italy), and call on Malaga (Spain), Funchal (Madeira), Pointe-A-Pitre (Guadeloupe), St. Maarten, Catalina Island (Dominican Republic) and Nassau, Bahamas before arriving in Ft. Lauderdale on December 20. A return 17-night voyage departs on March 28, 2010 from Ft. Lauderdale with stops in Nassau, Catalina Island (Dominican Republic), St. Maarten, Pointe-A-Pitre, Barbados, St. Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands), Funchal (Madeira) and Barcelona before arriving in Savona on April 14.
Drawing inspiration from the grand Italian liners of yesteryear that provided regular passenger service between Italy and the Americas, the 105,000-ton Costa Fortuna combines nostalgia and a refined atmosphere into a stunning modern framework. With a double capacity of 2,720, the Costa Fortuna features 1,359 cabins—857 ocean view and 458 with large verandas. The ship offers guests a stunning array of facilities including 11 bars, 4 restaurants, a theater extending over three floors, three swimming pools, a casino, disco, ballroom and a gym.
For complete information regarding Costa’s transatlantic voyages, guests may contact a travel agent, call (800) GO-COSTA or visit www.costacruises.com.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14
fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
COSTA NORTH AMERICA AWARDED FOUR TRAVEL WEEKLY MAGELLAN AWARDS FOR MARKETING CAMPAIGNS
One Gold and Three Silver Travel Weekly Magellan Awards Awarded to Costa North America Marketing Team
MIAMI (September 16, 2009) – Costa North America has received four Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly, the national newspaper of the U.S. travel industry. From design to marketing services, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honors the best in travel and salutes the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.
The Costa North America marketing team, in collaboration with Beber Silverstein Group, won four awards in the cruise ship division. A “Gold Magellan Award” was won for the direct mail “Pizza Delivery” campaign whereby travel agents received Costa’s newest European brochure delivered in a vibrantly styled pizza box. A “Silver Magellan Award” was won for the team’s “Amenitoni Pasta Box” campaign highlighting group promotions. Travel agents received specially branded Costa pasta, called “Amenitoni,” a twist on the word “amenities.” Group amenities were highlighted on the box along with “cooking instructions” on how to create group business. The marketing team also won a “Silver Magellan Award” for its “Land vs. Sea” advertising campaign, highlighting the benefits of taking a cruise versus a land-based vacation. Rounding out the group of four awards was a “Silver Magellan Award” for the “That’s Amore” print advertising campaign, a variation of the “Cruising Italian Style…that’s Amore” North America branding.
“Our entire marketing team is so honored to receive these accolades, especially from the group of esteemed travel experts judging the Magellan Awards,” said Linda Parrotta, vice president of marketing for Costa North America. “Over the past year, we had to work harder and smarter than ever before to come up with creative ways of conveying our message to both travel agents and consumers. It’s a great feeling to have our hard work rewarded in this way.”
The Magellan Awards are judged and overseen by a one-of-a-kind panel of top travel professionals representing the best names and most accomplished leaders from the industry. In determining winners, entries do not compete with one another, instead they are judged against a standard of excellence based on the long experience of Travel Weekly. To uphold this high standard of excellence, a category may have multiple winners, or may have no winners at all. For more information on the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, please visit www.travelweeklyawards.com.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
MIAMI (September 16, 2009) – Costa North America has received four Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly, the national newspaper of the U.S. travel industry. From design to marketing services, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honors the best in travel and salutes the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.
The Costa North America marketing team, in collaboration with Beber Silverstein Group, won four awards in the cruise ship division. A “Gold Magellan Award” was won for the direct mail “Pizza Delivery” campaign whereby travel agents received Costa’s newest European brochure delivered in a vibrantly styled pizza box. A “Silver Magellan Award” was won for the team’s “Amenitoni Pasta Box” campaign highlighting group promotions. Travel agents received specially branded Costa pasta, called “Amenitoni,” a twist on the word “amenities.” Group amenities were highlighted on the box along with “cooking instructions” on how to create group business. The marketing team also won a “Silver Magellan Award” for its “Land vs. Sea” advertising campaign, highlighting the benefits of taking a cruise versus a land-based vacation. Rounding out the group of four awards was a “Silver Magellan Award” for the “That’s Amore” print advertising campaign, a variation of the “Cruising Italian Style…that’s Amore” North America branding.
“Our entire marketing team is so honored to receive these accolades, especially from the group of esteemed travel experts judging the Magellan Awards,” said Linda Parrotta, vice president of marketing for Costa North America. “Over the past year, we had to work harder and smarter than ever before to come up with creative ways of conveying our message to both travel agents and consumers. It’s a great feeling to have our hard work rewarded in this way.”
The Magellan Awards are judged and overseen by a one-of-a-kind panel of top travel professionals representing the best names and most accomplished leaders from the industry. In determining winners, entries do not compete with one another, instead they are judged against a standard of excellence based on the long experience of Travel Weekly. To uphold this high standard of excellence, a category may have multiple winners, or may have no winners at all. For more information on the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, please visit www.travelweeklyawards.com.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
COSTA CRUISES RECEIVES ACCOLADES FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FROM CONDE NAST TRAVELER
Only Major Cruise Line to Receive Recognition in 2009 World Savers Awards
MIAMI (September 15, 2009) — Costa, Europe’s Number One Cruise Line, is the only major cruise line to receive recognition in the 2009 Condé Nast Traveler “World Savers Awards.” Highlighted in the September 2009 issue, the “World Savers Awards” honor eight different sectors of the travel industry on how they exhibit social responsibility in five different areas: education programs, wildlife conservation, poverty alleviation, preservation (environmental/cultural) and health initiatives.
In particular, Costa was noted in a cumulative category for cruise lines called “Doing it All,” with a second-place score of 76. The first place winner in the category with a score of 90 was Ecoventura while the third place in the category with a score of 63 was Aqua Expeditions. Additionally, Costa was highlighted in the “Wildlife Conservation” section in the “judges also loved” area for its support of the World Wildlife Fund in the Mediterranean, Antilles and Brazil as well as for the guest educational program that is part of the line’s support of WWF.
“Costa has long been a leader in sustainability efforts, which is reflected by our dedication to supporting and implementing environmental protection programs, among many other measures,” said Maurice Zarmati, president and ceo of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. “We’re honored to receive recognition from the Condé Nast Traveler World Savers Awards for the work we do every day to ensure sustainable tourism.”
Eight travel industry sectors were featured in the “World Savers Awards” including small hotel chains, large hotel chains, city hotels, small lodges and resorts, large lodges and resorts, tour operators, cruise lines and airlines. After being assessed in the five areas noted above, 36 finalists were chosen by the editors from almost 100 applicants.
Since July 2005, Costa has supported the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) for the protection of three of the most endangered marine Ecoregions in the world including areas of the Mediterranean Sea, the Greater Antilles and Northeastern Brazil. Targeted operations to assist these regions are carried out by WWF Italy via the generous donations of Costa guests and the company. Costa also provides its guests with informative and educational onboard material to highlight WWF’s efforts, including information for children who participate in Squok Club activities.
Costa’s commitment to safeguarding the environment and to corporate social responsibility in general is reflected in the company’s Sustainability Report (available online at www.costacruises.com), a purely voluntary form of reporting designed to provide comprehensive and transparent information on the effects of corporate activity on the environment and the community.
The Sustainability Report has its roots in the application of the “B.E.S.T. 4” (Business Excellence Sustainable Task), an integrated management system that encompasses four types of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards in the areas of quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, issued in 2000), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and social accountability (SA 8000, 2001), guaranteeing the measurement of company performance and continuous improvement. Costa obtained the B.E.S.T. 4 from RINA (the Italian Shipping Register) in 2004, becoming the first company in the world to do so.
Costa is the only cruise fleet flying the Italian flag and therefore is the only line whose cruise ships are subject to more restrictive environmental, safety and social accountability regulations. Costa Cruises not only operates in accordance with the prevailing laws but also, where possible, seeks to preempt legislation, setting higher standards for itself and more ambitious objectives by means of internal procedures that go beyond the scope of mandatory requirements of local, national and international regulations.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
Monday, September 14, 2009
COSTA’S SAMSARA SPA RECEIVES GOLD MAGELLAN AWARD FROM TRAVEL WEEKLY
Innovative Spa Continues to Receive Top Industry Honors
MIAMI (September 14, 2009) – Costa’s award-winning Samsara Spa continues to receive top industry praise, most recently with a “Gold Magellan Award” from Travel Weekly for “best spa design” in the cruise ship category. From design to marketing services, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honors the best in travel and salutes the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.
Costa’s Samsara Spa continually receives accolades for being one of the best and most innovative spa concepts in the hospitality industry. It debuted in 2006 on the Costa Concordia and is now featured on all of Costa’s newest ships including the Costa Serena, Costa Pacifica and Costa Luminosa. It will also be featured on the Costa Deliziosa when the ship enters service in January 2010.
“Anyone who has experienced or just visited the Samsara Spa knows that hands-down there is nothing that compares to it in the travel industry. This is something we always hear from both our guests and travel agent partners,” said Maurice Zarmati, president and ceo of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. “We are honored to receive this award from Travel Weekly’s Magellan Award judges, a group comprised of some of the best and brightest in the business.”
Extending over two decks and boasting panoramic views of the ocean, the 23,000 square-foot Samsara Spa offers travelers the ultimate wellness experience at sea. Spa amenities include a Thalassotherapy bath, a rock sauna, a Turkish bath, a Tepidarium, a solarium and tea room as well as various spa treatment rooms and VIP treatment suites. An expansive fitness center and wide variety of wellness classes complete the spa’s facilities. For those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the Samsara Spa ambience, exclusive spa cabins and suites provide a veritable extension of the experience at all times with direct access to the spa via an elevator and stairs. Guests who reserve these accommodations will have access to exclusive privileges including flat screen televisions, a special set of Elemis bath accessories and select complimentary treatments. Spa guests also have access to a dedicated spa restaurant.
Costa’s Samsara Spa has been awarded numerous accolades including being named “one of the top five cruise ships spas” by MSNBC.com as well as “best spa” and the “most beautiful spa at sea” by Cruise Critic. Additional awards received include “best health and wellness program” and “best overall spa facilities on a cruise ship” from Travel Age West magazine and “best spa facilities” from Porthole magazine.
The Magellan Awards are judged and overseen by a one-of-a-kind panel of top travel professionals representing the best names and most accomplished leaders from the industry. In determining winners, entries do not compete with one another. Instead they are judged against a standard of excellence based on the long experience of Travel Weekly. To uphold this high standard of excellence, a category may have multiple winners, or may have no winners at all. For more information on the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, please visit www.travelweeklyawards.com.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14
fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
MIAMI (September 14, 2009) – Costa’s award-winning Samsara Spa continues to receive top industry praise, most recently with a “Gold Magellan Award” from Travel Weekly for “best spa design” in the cruise ship category. From design to marketing services, the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards honors the best in travel and salutes the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.
Costa’s Samsara Spa continually receives accolades for being one of the best and most innovative spa concepts in the hospitality industry. It debuted in 2006 on the Costa Concordia and is now featured on all of Costa’s newest ships including the Costa Serena, Costa Pacifica and Costa Luminosa. It will also be featured on the Costa Deliziosa when the ship enters service in January 2010.
“Anyone who has experienced or just visited the Samsara Spa knows that hands-down there is nothing that compares to it in the travel industry. This is something we always hear from both our guests and travel agent partners,” said Maurice Zarmati, president and ceo of Costa Cruise Lines—North America. “We are honored to receive this award from Travel Weekly’s Magellan Award judges, a group comprised of some of the best and brightest in the business.”
Extending over two decks and boasting panoramic views of the ocean, the 23,000 square-foot Samsara Spa offers travelers the ultimate wellness experience at sea. Spa amenities include a Thalassotherapy bath, a rock sauna, a Turkish bath, a Tepidarium, a solarium and tea room as well as various spa treatment rooms and VIP treatment suites. An expansive fitness center and wide variety of wellness classes complete the spa’s facilities. For those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the Samsara Spa ambience, exclusive spa cabins and suites provide a veritable extension of the experience at all times with direct access to the spa via an elevator and stairs. Guests who reserve these accommodations will have access to exclusive privileges including flat screen televisions, a special set of Elemis bath accessories and select complimentary treatments. Spa guests also have access to a dedicated spa restaurant.
Costa’s Samsara Spa has been awarded numerous accolades including being named “one of the top five cruise ships spas” by MSNBC.com as well as “best spa” and the “most beautiful spa at sea” by Cruise Critic. Additional awards received include “best health and wellness program” and “best overall spa facilities on a cruise ship” from Travel Age West magazine and “best spa facilities” from Porthole magazine.
The Magellan Awards are judged and overseen by a one-of-a-kind panel of top travel professionals representing the best names and most accomplished leaders from the industry. In determining winners, entries do not compete with one another. Instead they are judged against a standard of excellence based on the long experience of Travel Weekly. To uphold this high standard of excellence, a category may have multiple winners, or may have no winners at all. For more information on the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, please visit www.travelweeklyawards.com.
Costa Cruises is Italy and Europe’s Number One Cruise Line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing dream vacations with the best in fun and relaxation. In 2008, 1.2 million guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The company’s 14
fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail each year to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Three additional ships are on order through 2012.
Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 2004), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All ships in the Costa fleet have been assigned RINA’s Green Star notation certifying that they are operated in compliance with the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil. In Mediobanca’s 2008 survey of over 3,700 Italian enterprises that recorded revenue of at least 50 million euros the previous fiscal year, Costa Crociere S.p.A. ranks 72nd in terms of sales and in 12th place in regards to profitability.
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