Costa Cruises' new flagship, powered by liquefied natural gas, represents a giant leap forward for the Italian cruise line, and also for the cruise industry as a whole. Cruisers are no longer just focused on providing the best and most hedonistic experiences, but also on the essential sustainability challenges necessary for the industry to continue growing. Welcome, not just to the double happiness promised in their advertisements, but to a truly 21st-century ship.
Article from CruisesNews magazine no. 52 – June 2020
If, as we write these lines, the industry (and the world in general) weren't shaken by the Covid-19 pandemic, we could confidently say that the Costa Smeralda would be a smash hit on its Mediterranean routes. Since its winter debut, the ship has been sailing at full capacity and with extremely high demand, as both Costa Cruises fans and cruise enthusiasts in general know that this is a ship that has broken the mold for the Italian company and opened up very ambitious horizons.
But the surreal situation of lockdown in much of the world's major passenger-generating countries and the closure of borders and ports meant that the star of this article was temporarily docked in the port of Marseille, where it suspended operations, awaiting its return to Italy and the resumption of normal service as soon as possible. However, this circumstance would only be a brief interlude in what promises to be a history of success. Because the Smeralda not only marks a turning point (for the better) in terms of design and entertainment for the company, but also exemplifies an environmental awareness that has now been maximized and will be a hallmark of all its future ships.
Pre-Pandemic Amenities:
Curiously, the ship has inadvertently anticipated the global health crisis and its effects on future social and travel life by offering a concept of spaces and onboard living perfectly suited to times of imminent reopening and social distancing. This includes spacious areas and a multitude of activities taking place simultaneously, as well as (of course) a buffet restaurant designed from the outset with the highest standards of food safety and zero handling of food by passengers, as we will describe later.
The spaces are multipurpose and have different functions day and night: the indoor pool hosts parties; the theater becomes a 'disco'.
The newest prodigal son of the Italian brand (its cities and monuments lend their names to the ship's most iconic bridges, squares, and spaces) boasts 185,000 gross tons, resulting in a length of 337 meters, a beam of 42 meters, and 2,612 passenger cabins. A fabulous space to enjoy 12 entertainment venues, 17 bars, 15 restaurants, shopping areas, sports facilities, wellness centers, and swimming pools, and above all, a vast array of quiet corners where you can find a moment of tranquility, even when traveling at maximum capacity with up to 6,500 fellow passengers.
Costa Cruises' 15 ships have evolved aesthetically, incorporating some influences from the international market, which may have appealed to varying degrees depending on personal taste. But perhaps the Smeralda is the ship from this renowned brand, with over 80 years of experience in passenger transport, that appeals to a wider audience (those who love large ships) and has undergone the most significant changes in recent times. And for the better. The spaces are more open and flowing, the décor more elegant and relaxed (without losing the spectacular and colorful signature of the brand), the cuisine takes a necessary step forward, representing a leap in quality in terms of variety and presentation, the cabins are oases that are as functional as they are—simply—beautiful, and the sailing is quieter and more graceful. And, above all, the ship itself is an exercise in respecting the environment, an increasingly valued aspect in the sector that now goes beyond theory to become evident in multiple ways: its fuel, its recycling systems, its treatment of surplus food, its water management, its energy savings…
Unseen Virtues:
It's unusual in an article about one of the season's major cruise ship launches to dwell on elements that aren't visible or readily apparent. Some readers might find them tedious, given that sustainability, for years, seemed at odds with the ambitions of these large floating resort cities. But the growing and essential environmental awareness of the public and the shared responsibility of companies are finally translating, in this sector, into a new generation of ships where the aesthetics are just as important as the environmental impact.
Costa Cruises now features a more elegant and Mediterranean interior design, with fluid spaces that avoid overcrowding and too many focal points
What does using liquefied natural gas entail? This so-called cleanest fossil fuel eliminates sulfur dioxide emissions and reduces particulate matter by more than 95%, in addition to reducing nitrogen oxide emissions by 85% and CO2 emissions by up to 20%. The ship's polluting footprint is therefore significantly smaller, both in the ports it visits and simply in the experience of breathing the fresh air on the upper decks.
This exercise undoubtedly entails a higher economic cost for shipping companies. But the International Maritime Organization (IMO) itself has set CO2 emissions reduction targets for 2030, which several companies are striving to achieve. Costa Cruises committed to achieving this 40% reduction this year and aims to improve upon it with the addition of five LNG-powered ships before 2023. With the same goal in mind, the new cruise ship has already been recognized by the international certification body RINA for incorporating the highest standards for wastewater, greenhouse gas emissions, and hazardous materials. Company sources confirm that energy efficiency was a key consideration from the design stage. A hull with a slightly inclined bow optimized for speed, and electric propulsion motors that can rotate 360 degrees vertically, saving energy, are some of its key features. Optimization applied to all areas can be understood with the example of zero-energy elevators that recover and "return to the system" the energy they have consumed to operate. Or even kitchen ovens that reuse waste heat.
Decisive reduction of plastics:
The company estimates that its efforts in recent years to eliminate single-use plastics have resulted in a reduction of 50 tons of this waste annually. In this regard, the Smeralda will be the first in the fleet to use condiment dispensers instead of single-use packaged products, from sauces to sweeteners. The same policy applies to spa items.
This eco-conscious philosophy provides the perfect backdrop for the almost instant feeling, upon boarding, that the Smeralda is the most modern and thoughtfully designed ship the cruise line has ever launched. Adam D. Tihany spearheaded the creative project, supported by four architectural firms and boasting a wealth of Italian-made furniture and interior design from top to bottom. The crowning touch to this national pride is its own museum, The CoDe, a 400-square-meter space that reflects the evolution and significance of Italian design. Among its 470 exhibited works are the iconic Vespa, the Alessi juicer designed by Philippe Starck, and the famous Olivetti Lettera 22 typewriter, created in 1950. It is estimated to attract a staggering 300,000 visitors annually.
The Ship has numerous examples of cutting-edge technology focused on sustainability, including the reuse of engine heat for ovens, or the generation of energy from elevators.
Immersing yourself in Costa Cruises' new flagship quickly reveals two defining characteristics. The first is the fantastic Colosseo, a circular atrium that rises across three decks (6, 7, and 8) and serves as the ship's vibrant epicenter, like a grand plaza where something is always happening. This helps to alleviate congestion in other entertainment areas, embodying what they call "liquid entertainment" without a fixed stage. There's no need to go to the theater to see a show, because in the Colosseo (as in other spaces) at all hours you can discover acrobatics, pop choreography, or rehearsals by artists that involve the audience. Not to mention the flash mobs, with the impressive support of enormous LED screens on the sides and dome, and a dazzling array of video displays.
This meeting point is also perfect for discovering some of the many themed bars that give the ship its personality, starting (from top to bottom) with Ferrari's Spazio Bollicine, for wine lovers who appreciate recommendations before a proper toast, with or without food pairings. On decks 7 and 6, respectively, the vibrant Italian atmosphere is further enhanced by the Campari bar's red aperitif and cocktail bar and the Illy Bar, a must for serious coffee lovers.
At the Piazza di Spagna,
higher above the sea, the other central hub is the Piazza di Spagna, which spans three decks at the stern (from the 16th to the 18th) and serves as an amphitheater, viewpoint, solarium, and public square—perfect for relaxing with a drink or gazing at the sea. For the latter, however, the best option is to go up to the top deck and stroll along its glass-floored balcony, designed to create the sensation of flying above the waves.
On this route highlighting the Smeralda's vital organs, another hub reminiscent of Rome is the Piazza del Trastevere, located at the bow of the 8 and surrounded by bars (from the Venetian-style Il Bacaro to the Sports Bar – perfect for watching matches with a good beer), the tempting Amarillo ice cream parlor, and a few shops. But here, too, keep an eye out for live music performances and other attractions.
Especially if you're traveling during the warmer months, the ship offers numerous sunbathing areas perfect for soaking up the sun and enjoying a swim. The AcquaPark on deck 17 features their largest water slide, a spacious splash zone flanked by another very Italian bar, the Aperol Spritz Bar, where DJs provide the perfect soundtrack for their cocktails at sunset.
With 2,612 cabins, the Smeralda can accommodate up to 6,554 passengers and incorporates a new formula of glass-enclosed terraces.
But the aquatic repertoire extends to other points on board, from the exclusive adults-only pool reserved for suites on deck 19, to Settimo Cielo, at the bow of deck 18, a more spa-like space with incredibly comfortable sun loungers practically overlooking the sea and a casual salad bar for those who want to keep their diet in check without straying far from the sunbathing area. One deck below, we find two more pools: the Lido Caracalla, adjacent to the AquaPark, and the impressive Spiaggia Beach Club, with a transparent roof that allows for year-round heated saltwater swimming. This generous space again demonstrates the ship's versatility, where, instead of creating areas with a single purpose, multifunctionality has been prioritized. Thus, the Beach Club transforms into a Silent Party area at night, where you can dance for hours while wearing headphones, allowing each night owl to choose their own rhythm. It also works very well as a venue for live music.
Liquid leisure and multipurpose venues.
The same concept of multipurpose leisure space is followed in a theater adapted for a double (or triple) life, the Sanremo Show Lounge. Smaller than traditional theaters, it offers comfortable sofas where you can enjoy singers, comedians, and digital activities in various languages and for all audiences. As a multipurpose hub, after 11 p.m. it transforms into the ship's main nightclub, hosting themed parties and non-stop music, a much more fun concept than the conventional, isolated nightclubs that many travelers never even visit.
But what would a ship aiming to usher in a new era for its founders be without a cuisine to match? In this regard, Costa is making a three-pronged approach: first, by expanding the range of flavors and experiences; second, by reducing crowds by eliminating the traditional, enormous main restaurants, which are being reinvented with four dining rooms filled with spacious, airy lounges; and third, by elevating the main buffet experience, which on large cruise ships always risks becoming overcrowded and disorganized.
Regarding the first point, the 15 onboard restaurants offer (for a fee) experiences such as the exquisite Teppanyaki on deck 8, where Asian flavors are combined with the spectacle of live cooking at the counter. Every night (with prior reservation) it's packed with sashimi and sushi enthusiasts. The other standout option is Ristorante Lab, where, in addition to developing your palate, you'll learn sustainable cooking habits. This promotes responsible consumption through preparations that don't generate food waste or leftovers. Activities include Mystery Box workshops, where you create dishes with specific ingredients; Chef's Kitchen for preparing innovative dishes and delicacies; and family cooking sessions where everyone cooks and tastes the results. The program has been designed in collaboration with the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Pollenzo, with a focus on food education. A visit to Pizzeria Pummid'Oro, in a more casual setting, is also a must.
The shipping company is increasing its sustainable practices with liquefied natural gas fuel and an ambitious waste reduction program.
The four main complimentary restaurants—La Colombina (note its round tables with benches, ideal for families), Il Meneghino, Arlecchino (a large Italian bistro with different ambiances), and Il Rugantino—offer excellent Italian and international cuisine at various times, with the added benefit of self-service areas for quicker meals. Those traveling with young children will love Tutti a Tavola, an appealing buffet located at the stern of deck 16. Designed for families with children aged 3 to 6, it caters to children's tastes and preferences, but also includes dishes for adults, who can enjoy themselves while the kids play in the adjacent Kids' play area.
Self-service with many advantages
. What would a mega-cruise ship be without a fantastic buffet, bustling for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? With the Sagra dei Sapori, Costa has substantially improved its buffets at sea, not only in terms of variety and format, but also in presentation: succulent, showcasing the quality of the ingredients, and impeccably presented. At a time when social habits will inevitably change after the easing of lockdown restrictions, travelers will find a self-service 2.0 experience, where food is protected behind large glass screens, and diners choose to try whatever they like, but a server plates it for them. In this way, the presentation of the culinary offerings is always impeccable, and hygiene is paramount, as there is no handling of the food by passengers. Desserts are already plated and also prepared without the use of knives or other utensils.
In response to the demands of the new market, the buffet is structured around meats, vegetables, seafood, and pasta. Vegans and those with celiac disease will easily find dishes to suit their needs. Another important feature for avoiding overcrowding is the interactive screens distributed throughout this 'smart city,' where you can see the current occupancy levels at each restaurant and decide when to visit, with features designed to facilitate social distancing.
Loyal CostaClub guests in the Diamond Pearl category will, for the first time, have an exclusive restaurant just for them: the Bellavista Club, located at the bow of deck 8, with panoramic views. And those staying in a suite, whether returning guests or not, will enjoy the added benefit of a private dining space reserved exclusively for them, with a very intimate atmosphere, in the same area: the Panorama Elite, whose name speaks for itself.
On a more casual level, the temptation of high-calorie treats unfolds in the form of tapas or snacks (at an extra charge) in many other locations, such as the fun Nutella at Costa bar, unique on a cruise ship, where you can indulge in the chocolate spread on crepes, waffles, bread, or croissants. But if you're looking for an al fresco aperitif, our recommendation is undoubtedly to take advantage of one of the ship's best summer bars, Superba Bar, for tapas and drinks at the stern of deck 7, overlooking the sea below and enjoying the intimate atmosphere of its cabanas at sunset.
The Colosseum stands at the epicenter of the ship, which spans three bridges in the central section, with training facilities, bars, and plenty of life.
The ship's exterior, with its flowing design and numerous secluded spots like a sun deck, offers a unique and inviting experience. One of its main attractions is the Passeggiata Volare, a circular promenade on deck 18 in the heart of the ship, 65 meters above the water. This luxurious observation deck is ideal for early risers who want to watch the sunrise or those who want to witness the sunset over the horizon. Just two decks below, the cruise line has doubled down on one of its most cherished features: the spas. At Solemio Spa, far more Zen-like than other ships in the fleet, the existing 16 treatment rooms, sauna, and hammam now include a thalassotherapy pool with suspended chairs that sway over the water, a unique room at -10°C with invigorating dry snow, a purifying salt room, and treatments with sand and quartz—even a limoncello scrub!—among other new additions.
Shopping Without Leaving the Ship:
Beyond entertainment, bars, toasts, gastronomy, sun, and water, no cruise is complete without some shopping. On the Smeralda, this is located from the center to the bow of deck 7, where you can find handicrafts, jewelry, fashion, sportswear, eyewear, and cosmetics. Right next to it is the reception area, quite different from its layout on other cruise ships, both for its verdant aesthetic (the area is surrounded by plants) and comfortable seating, and for the crew's commitment to avoiding tedious queues for procedures. They achieve this with the help of technology and by prioritizing guest service and streamlining their requests.
Costa Cruises' new floating city has achieved another remarkable feat: functioning equally well as a family destination and a perfect setting for couples or celebrations. In fact, the Baby Squok Club has been added for children aged 1 to 3, offering a nursery service that gives parents time to relax and unwind. This is made even easier by the new cabin design.
With a cleaner design and the aim of creating a sense of spaciousness, the designers have opted for natural, Mediterranean-inspired wood tones. The glass shower walls, designed to enhance the visual space, and the televisions integrated into photographic panels are particularly striking, although perhaps the most surprising feature is the double terrace-balcony, called Terrazza sul Mare.
Thus, the accommodation is distributed among 8 large suites (up to 46.5 square meters) and 20 corner suites at the bow and stern (from deck 8 onwards), 106 cabins with verandas, 1,522 with balconies (up to 20.4 square meters), 168 outside cabins (decks 4 and 5), and 788 inside cabins. But even these latter cabins stand out for their spaciousness, with comfortable sofas and a good distribution of usable space.
The double terraces we mentioned offer an original layout. Following the bathroom and cabin, a first terrace or chill-out area is arranged linearly. This area is glazed and climate-controlled, offering plenty of natural light and ocean views that can be enjoyed in any weather. Beyond this is a small, traditional balcony, providing a cool and airy feel. This new intermediate space is ideal for relaxing, having breakfast, reading a good book, and more
The Smeralda's gigantic dimensions also allow for a functional, very well-equipped gym (with numerous guided activities at an additional cost), the modern Laguna casino (between the Colosseum and the design museum), a sports court on bridge 18, and many other attractions scattered here and there, which will be a challenge to discover on week-long routes.
The buffet protocols had already evolved before the Covid-19 pandemic, with protective screens and food handling only by the crew.
In both ports, the new cruise ship aims to support local organizations. Therefore, in addition to bringing tourists and generating economic impact, it will donate its surplus food thanks to an agreement with the European Federation of Food Banks, signed by the cruise line in 2017, which has allowed it to donate 160,000 meals during this period. In Spain, the Smeralda will contribute to the Acogida y Esperanza Foundation in Barcelona. Furthermore, the onboard philosophy already prioritizes reducing food waste (by half this year) through the 4GOODFOOD program, which helps make the enjoyment of cruising increasingly sustainable.
Barcelona Gains Prominence in Costa Cruises' New Sustainable Strategy.
Orders for hybrid ships or those powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) have steadily increased in recent years, as ports have stepped up their efforts to accommodate these less polluting cruise ships. Barcelona is a prime example, leading the way in supplying this clean fuel, initially via barges and later through its own refueling station. For this reason, the Catalan capital has become a key port of call (and starting and ending point) for the Smeralda, as it will be for the future Costa Toscana. Before the temporary suspension of cruise activity in the Mediterranean, more than one hundred port calls were scheduled until the end of 2021, some coinciding (for the same reason) with the AidaNova, also part of the Carnival Corporation family.
This is a major acquisition for the city, because it's worth remembering that Costa estimates its passengers spend around €74.60 per day in its ports of call, with an economic impact of €1.1 billion in Spain alone, which receives 3.4 million passengers. In Barcelona, where the new ship was also presented, the impact is €239 million. And that doesn't even take into account the project for its new Helix Cruise Center terminal for the next generation of LNG cruise ships, which will complement the existing Palacruceros terminal.
