Costa Classica

Launched in 1991, the Costa Classica is the sister ship of the Costa Romantica. The vessel is Italian through-and-through: it was built by Fincantieri in Trieste, sails under the flag of Italy and is operated by the Costa Cruises - an Italian line.

In addition, everything about the vessel exudes Italian style and panache: from the contemporary decor, through to the delicious food and the white-gloved cabin attendants. An art collection worth several million pounds adorns the walls, while sculptures and other works are scattered around the ship.

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The Classica is typically found in Asia, offering cruises to popular destinations including Shanghai, Nagasaki, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Phuket and Singapore. Other popular ports of call include Colombo, Goa, Mumbai and Dubai.

In addition, the vessel occasionally returns to European waters via the Suez Canal and sails on voyages around the Mediterranean, stopping at places like Corfu, Dubrovnik, Venice, Mykonos, Malta, Naples and Savona.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 1,766
Year entered service: 1991
Beam (ship width): 98.4 feet
Draught (ship depth): 25 feet
Length: 718.5 feet
Tonnage: 52,950
Crew: 650
Maximum speed: 18.5 knots
Number of passenger decks: 10
Number of lifts: 8
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 654

Food, cuisine and dining

There are two restaurants on the Classica. The main dining room is called the Tivoli and it's elegantly decorated with white linens, chic chairs and an illuminated ceiling that gives the room a sense of spaciousness.

Three meals a day are served in this location: breakfast and lunch are open-seating and dinner is offered in two services. Dress is typically resort-casual and there are two formal nights on each cruise. Most tables seat six or eight, while others are available for two or four guests.

If you enjoy eating outside, then the Al Fresco Cafe might be a good alternative for some meals. It serves breakfast and lunch buffets and the space is covered by a broad awning.

Most of the food served is European or American in style, with a significant portion of menu items being traditional Italian specialties. There's also always a fabulous variety of mouth-watering desserts to choose from.

Costa maintains the cruise ship tradition of midnight buffets and passengers seeking a late-night snack will have a nice variety of tasty treats to choose from.

Meanwhile, for a snack or a warm drink, the various bars and lounges offer pastries, coffee and tea throughout the day. Room service is also available.

On-board entertainment and activities

If you enjoy watching shows on cruises, then the Colosseo Theatre is sure to be a delight. It is two decks in height and decorated in a luscious red colour. The seating area includes small cocktail tables, giving the venue a more relaxed feeling. Shows are typically cabaret and musical revues.

The Classica is home to seven bars, so passengers can easily find a lounge that suits their personal tastes. If you enjoy the atmosphere of a trendy piano bar, then the Puccini Ballroom is ideal. There's also the Galileo Disco, which is the place to go for late-night dancing. During the day, however, it's the observation lounge.

Other options include the Sanremo Casino, a games room, a library with an internet area and a duty-free shop selling clothing, souvenirs, jewellery, perfumes and other items.

In addition, there's Squok Club for kids - it includes age-specific programmes, entertainment and activities including PlayStation consoles. Babysitting services are also available.

Spas and fitness facilities

For most people, cruises are all about relaxation, and what better way to get all of your tension and stress out than with a trip to the tranquil Caracalla Spa? The space is equipped with everything needed to leave you feeling pampered and rejuvenated - and maybe even looking a few years younger!

The fitness centre includes modern Technogym equipment and staff can help you to set up a customised workout that you can continue to use once your voyage is over.

A large thermal suite includes steam rooms and saunas, as well as a Roman bath. There are also several treatment rooms where you can book a massage, body wrap, aromatherapy session or other therapy.

If you want some pampering, then the beauty salon offers manicures and pedicures, as well as facials and anti-aging treatments and there are also services available for men.

A juice bar is also available in the spa area, serving up tasty smoothies and healthy treats.

Elsewhere on the vessel, you can swim some laps in one of the two pools or go for a run on the jogging track. There are also four whirlpools, perfect for relaxing sore or tired muscles.

Cabins

The Classica has 654 cabins and 11 price grades, with the cost of accommodation depending on factors like the size, location and amenities provided.

There are ten suites, which are very spacious, with separate bedrooms and sitting areas. They have large private balconies and the bathrooms include a jacuzzi tub.

If you're looking for great cruise deals, then the standard rooms may be the right choice. These are fairly large rooms - bigger than the industry norm and are practical and comfortable.

Most rooms are provided with two double beds, which can be pushed together to make a queen. They also include a television, vanity/desk unit and plenty of storage space.