Costa’s first megaship made her debut in 1996. Designed by wellknown naval architect Robert Tillberg, she was the largest passenger liner built in Germany when she was launched. Despite her large size, her shallow draft provides exceptional maneuverability and gives the
ship access to smaller ports and the Suez Canal. Her size also made possible more choices in dining and entertainment.
Ultramodern and sophisticated, the circular Planetarium Atrium spans seven decks and has four glass elevators connecting the lobby with the pool deck above. It’s capped by a large glass dome admitting sunlight that reflects off a colored glass sculpture by Milanese artist Gianfranco Pardi on the Boheme Deck (Deck 5). Deck 5 also has the
purser’s office, shore excursion desk, and a piano bar. All but one of the ten passenger decks are named after Italian operas. The most dramatic room is the Concorde Plaza, an observation lounge at the bow. It spans four decks; a floor-to-ceiling glass wall provides spectacular ocean views. Opposite the windows is a marble dance
floor adjoining a center stage; its backdrop is a waterfall inspired by
Leonardo da Vinci’s drawings of the moon eclipsing the sun. Decorated
in blues, silver, and gold, the lounge serves as an elegant area for socializing,
special events, and evening entertainment, including cabaret
shows, games, bingo, and port lectures.
Unofficial Guide © 2009
.jpg_thumb.jpg "Santorini sunset")
