COSTA CRUISES TO SEND THREE SHIPS TO SOUTH AMERICA IN 2008/2009 SEASON

South America is a great place to cruise, and Costa Cruises will increase its presence in South America in the 2008/2009 cruise season by sailing three ships in the area. First, Costa Cruises will send the 86,000-ton Costa Mediterranea to South America with 44 new, exclusive spa accommodations.


The Costa Mediterranea will sail routes to Argentina and will feature a new spa program.


Passengers who book one of 44 exclusive accommodations on the Costa Mediterranea will enjoy privileges including 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, passengers with these accommodations will be offered priority spa reservation times. The Costa Mediterranea, which has been operating since 2003, features decor inspired by 17th and 18th century Italian noble palazzos. It has a double occupancy capacity of 2,114.


In addition, the Costa Magica and Costa Marina will also sail the region on routes throughout Brazil and Argentina. The 105,000-ton Costa Magica will return to the region on itineraries out of Brazil with weekly routes to Bahia and cruises throughout the Southeastern coast while the intimate, 25,600-ton Costa Marina will sail routes out of Buenos Aires. The Costa Magica entered into service in 2004 and features an interior design that pays homage to the most beautiful Italian places as well as the largest dance floor at sea. It has a double occupancy capacity of 2,720.


The Costa Marina entered service in 1990 and was refurbished in 2002. It features wide windows, skylights and flawless glass atriums that reflect her contemporary design and has a double occupancy capacity of 776.