The announcement was made in Barcelona during the 23rd edition of "Protagonistas del Mar," the annual event that this year brought together more than 1,500 travel agents aboard the Costa Favolosa.
Costa Cruises also announced that it will enhance its offerings with two innovative proposals: a new, exclusive Indian Ocean itinerary and new onboard Wi-Fi packages.
Costa Cruises has announced its commitment to growth in the coming years through the addition of new ships, the launch of new itineraries, and the signing of strategic agreements that enhance and improve its comprehensive range of products and services. The presentation took place during "Protagonistas del Mar" (Protagonists of the Sea), the traditional annual event that this year brought together more than 1,500 travel agents from around the world aboard the Costa Favolosa.
Among the main announcements, the Costa Cruises Group confirmed the order for seven new ships , which will allow it to increase its capacity from the current 72,000 berths to more than 110,000 by 2021. The group also announced the signing of two strategic agreements with Iberia and PortAventura World, which will strengthen the product it offers its customers. Furthermore, Costa Cruises presented its most exclusive itinerary in the Indian Ocean, visiting the Maldives , India , and Sri Lanka , and its innovative onboard services, which include a new children's entertainment program starring Peppa Pig and the talent competition " The Voice of the Sea ," based on the popular television format " The Voice ." The new Wi-Fi connectivity option was also unveiled , making it easier and more affordable for passengers to stay connected onboard 24/7.
New agreements with Iberia and PortAventura World.
During today's event, Costa Cruises and Iberia presented their most ambitious collaboration agreement yet. This alliance will generate over 130,000 seats to and from Spain by 2018 and represents a significant improvement in connectivity with Costa Cruises' embarkation ports, with up to 10 connection points in Europe and another 13 in Spain. Furthermore, the cruise line's guests will have access to the exclusive luggage delivery service directly to their cabins.
Meanwhile, Costa Cruises and PortAventura World , one of Europe's most popular theme parks, signed a Memorandum of Understanding today aboard the Costa Favolosa. This agreement grants passengers arriving in Barcelona on any Costa Cruises ship exclusive access to the park, where the highly anticipated Ferrari Land is scheduled to open in early 2017 .
Costa Group Orders Seven New Ships.
Costa Group has also confirmed an order for seven ships to be delivered over the next five years, further solidifying its leadership in the European cruise market. These seven new vessels will offer a total of 41,000 beds, allowing the Group to increase its capacity from the current 72,000 to approximately 110,000 by 2021.
Two of the new ships will join the Italian brand Costa Cruises, two others will operate under the Costa Asia banner in China and Asia, and the remaining three will be assigned to the German company AIDA Cruises.
24/7 Onboard Wi-Fi.
The more than 1,500 travel agents gathered for "Protagonists of the Sea" also learned about Costa's new products and services for the coming years. The Italian company unveiled its new onboard Wi-Fi offering, which includes various connection options and will allow all its customers to stay connected 24/7. The new service includes three different packages that vary according to data usage: Plan M (250MB), Plan L (500MB), and Plan XL (3GB). In addition, a "Pay Per Use" option is also available, perfect for passengers who need to connect to the internet occasionally.
These improvements are complemented by the launch of Costa Social, a new connection option created for those who want to keep their social media up to date. This new service is offered for 24-hour use (Costa Social 24h) or for the entire voyage (Costa Social Cruise).
An exclusive Indian Ocean experience:
Costa Cruises sets its sights on the Indian Ocean with the announcement of a brand-new itinerary adding to its cruise and tour package offerings in this destination. From December 15, 2016, to March 10, 2017, the Costa neoClassica will depart from Bombay (now Mumbai) for an exclusive two-week voyage through the Indian Ocean, calling at the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and India.
Designed for travelers who prefer exotic and captivating destinations and seek new worlds and cultures, this itinerary will provide a unique and immersive experience for anyone wishing to rediscover the connection with nature and the spirituality of ancient and exotic cultures, all from the comfort and safety of a cruise. This journey is not merely an escape from the winter chill to warm, sunny beaches, but rather a truly authentic cultural experience.
The international presentation of Costa's new products for the upcoming seasons took place within the framework of "Protagonistas del Mar", which in its twenty-third edition, set a record for attendance with more than 1,500 travel agents present.
