The Costa Serena begins its annual program in April 2015 with Shanghai as its home port, joining the Costa Atlantica and the Costa Victoria
Distinguished guests from the local government, distribution partners, media, and Gao Yuanyuan, godmother of the Costa Serena, attended the inaugural stop to wish the Costa Serena well on its new voyage in China
Today's celebration follows Budhy Bok's official announcement about the addition of another new ship, the Costa Fortuna, to the Chinese fleet in April 2016
The highly anticipated Costa Serena, the elegant and exquisite Ship of the Gods in the Costa fleet, celebrated its maiden call today at the Shanghai Wusonku International Cruise Terminal. This eagerly awaited vessel, known for its evocation of Ancient Rome, will join the Costa Atlantica and Costa Victoria, establishing Shanghai as its year-round homeport. The inaugural event was attended by Budhy Bok, President of Costa Asia, Costa Cruises Pacific & China, and distinguished guests from the local government, as well as distribution and media partners.
The arrival of the Costa Serena perfectly embodies the concept of 'Italy at Sea,' with its distinctive Ancient Roman essence, and increases capacity in the region by 74%, thus meeting growing demand and further solidifying the cruise line's leadership in the Chinese market. The cruise departs today, April 24, and passengers can enjoy its wide range of onboard amenities. These latest plans for the Costa Serena align perfectly with the local government's initiatives to boost the maritime industry and tourism in the region.
“The addition of the Costa Serena reinforces Costa Crociere’s leading position in China’s growing cruise market. According to the latest CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) analysis, Costa Crociere holds a leading position in the cruise market, with four out of every ten bookings made on Costa ships. After nine years of successful operations, with the explicit support and encouragement of the Chinese government, Costa Crociere will continue to expand its offerings and meet the demands of the Chinese market,” commented Michael Thamm, CEO of Costa Crociere SpA.
Gao Yuanyan, a talented Chinese actress, was also present to bless the Costa Serena on its inaugural cruise. Gao Yuanyan was also named a brand ambassador for Costa Crociere, as she embodies the glamour and style of the Costa Serena. “It is an honor to have been named Godmother of the Costa Serena and to be part of its debut in Shanghai. My personal experience on the Costa Serena last summer truly left me with lasting memories of its exquisite and beautiful culture, with its exciting activities, delicate Italian cuisine, and relaxation within a European lifestyle. My best wishes to this elegant ship; I hope it can showcase the very best of Italy to China.”.
The Costa Serena's unique design is complemented by the quality and spaciousness of its onboard facilities, many of which have been customized to better suit Chinese tastes. The interiors are inspired by mythology and Ancient Rome, and passengers can experience a taste of Italy on board. Its traditional and imaginative magnificence will undoubtedly provide a remarkable and satisfying experience for passengers, with its many authentic Italian restaurants, some of the most elegant settings, offering delicious delicacies alongside Chinese dishes, including flavorful stews that will make Chinese diners feel a little closer to home.
Budhy Bok, President of Costa Asia, Costa Crociere Pacifica & China, noted that “the Costa Serena brings the taste of Italy, tailor-made to maximize luxury for our Chinese customers. Our success in China stems from ensuring that our guests' enjoyment on board extends as far as possible. The support of our partners and local authorities here in Shanghai has been key to our unparalleled growth, and we are very grateful for their invaluable assistance.”.
Today's celebration follows Budhy Bok's official announcement regarding the addition of another new ship to the Chinese fleet in April 2016. The Costa Fortuna, spectacular in every detail and successor to the Italian luxury cruise line, will be the fourth ship in Costa's investment plan in China, further increasing capacity by 38% in 2016. Together, these moves by the company underscore its strategy to strengthen its leadership and position in China, as well as its commitment and confidence in continuing to develop China as one of the world's leading cruise markets.
