If the name is any indication, then good fortune showered Costa with the Fortuna, launched in late 2003, followed by her twin, Magica, in 2004, as part of the line’s enormous expansion program that added four big ships in four years. Costa Fortuna and Costa Magica were the largest ships in Costa’s history and the largest ships in Italian maritime history when they were launched. They were also the first post-Panamax ship (a ship too wide to transit the Panama Canal) for a European cruise line and the first post-Panamax ships to sail in Europe year-round. Although the ships are not quite as large, their “footprint” is similar to Carnival Destiny’s, with a three-story show lounge, two main dining rooms, a casual Lido restaurant, large spa and fitness facilities, three swimming pools, shops, a chapel, Internet cafe, and children’s and teen’s areas. But there are differences, too. For example, the casino was made smaller to accommodate the Grand Bar with a large dance floor because Costa’s Italian and European passengers like to dance more than gamble. Also, in place of the sports bar on the Carnival ships, the ships have cigar bars. Costa Fortuna’s interiors pay tribute to the great Italian liners of yesteryear; public rooms are named for these classic ships and the year they entered service. The Michelangelo 1965 Restaurant has a 20- foot-long model of the liner Michelangelo in its foyer. Exhibited for years in Milan’s central railway station, it is believed to be the second-largest ship model in the world. Inverted scale models of Costa vessels, past and present, glide across a blue ceiling over the bar of the Costa Fortuna’s nine-deck atrium. The models are among 38 found on the vessel, which is awash in art and memorabilia, including a collection of antique nautical objects and antique globes. Costa Magica’s theme is the magic of Italy’s enchanting small villages.
Unofficial Guide © 2009
.jpg_thumb.jpg "Santorini sunset")
