Costa Serena

The Costa Serena is a breathtaking vessel that mixes Italian style and flair with the casual comfort and modern amenities found on the big American cruise ships. Built in 2007, it served as the Costa Cruises flagship until the Luminosa was launched in 2009.

It was the second of four Concordia class cruise ships to be built and - along with its sisters Pacifica, Favolosa and Concordia - it offers a combination of traditional cruise elegance, friendly service and plush comfort

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Costa is Europe's leading cruise line and the company has endeavoured to create a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Much of the entertainment is inspired by Mediterranean festivals and celebrations, while the enthusiastic staff members work tirelessly to ensure everyone has a good time.

Those wishing to take a cruise on the Costa Serena will have a number of fabulous itineraries to choose from - including the western Mediterranean, the eastern Mediterranean and the Canaries. Popular ports of call include Barcelona, Marseille, Tenerife, Naples, Rome, Jerusalem, Haifa and Izmir.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 3,780
Year entered service: 2007
Beam (ship width): 116.4 feet
Draught (ship depth): 27.2 feet
Length: 952.0 feet
Tonnage: 114,147
Crew: 1,090
Maximum speed: 20 knots
Number of passenger decks: 13
Number of lifts: 14
Number of swimming pools: 4
Number of cabins: 1,500

Food, cuisine and dining

The Serena has five restaurants and the two main dining rooms are called Vesta and Ceres. The menu in both locations is similar and there are two evening services for passengers to choose from. Breakfast and lunch are also offered in these locations on an open seating basis.

Another no-charge option is the restaurant located on the Lido deck. It offers a breakfast and lunch buffet, while in the evenings it becomes a pizzeria.

For a bit of fine dining, be sure to book a table at Club Bacco. This gourmet restaurant features gastronomic delights created by Chef Ettore Bocchia. The menu has been designed with a scientific twist, using unusual techniques and ingredients - such as flash freezing with liquid nitrogen.

Alternatively, there's the Samsara, which is affiliated with the spa and offers delicious and healthier options. Passengers in Spa class accommodation can eat Samsara for free, while everyone else can book a table for an added fee.

If you've got a sweet tooth, then the chocolate shop is a must - it has a variety of cakes, a scrumptious chocolate fountain and serves coffee drinks. Room service is also available.

On-board entertainment and activities

There are many different activities available on the Serena, so boredom should never be an issue. One popular attraction is the Formula One Grand Prix simulator ride, where guests can experience the thrill of race car driving in a championship race. The ship has really gone all-out with this area and there's even an F1 themed bar - Bar Scuderia.

Other options include a virtual reality zone and a state-of-the-art sports area. Or for something a bit more low-key, you could simply enjoy the view from one of the panoramic decks.

In addition, the ship plays host to a variety of more traditional cruise entertainment options. You could, for instance, see a show in the Giove Theatre. Films, sporting events and concerts are often shown on the giant screen over the Lido deck, while live music, acrobatics and other performances can be found around the ship throughout the day.

Spas and fitness facilities

There's a massive 6,000 square metres of space on the Serena specifically designated for helping passengers relax and improve their wellbeing. The Samsara Spa is one of the largest spas to be found on a cruise ship and it offers a huge range of facilities and treatment options, ensuring passengers are completely rejuvenated by the end of their voyage.

The space has a distinctive Asian feel and is lavishly decorated in a way intended to soothe all of your senses. Warm, earthy tones, cool blues and lovely ocean views all work together to make you feel completely at ease and in harmony with your surroundings.

A thermal suite and thalassotherapy pool are provided, as well as a range of specialist treatments. There's also a beauty salon where you can enjoy some extra pampering.

Of course, if you prefer to get your stress out with a vigorous workout, the gym and fitness studio are also available. Elsewhere on the vessel, you can find a jogging track and sports facilities, as well as five whirlpools. Meanwhile, the main pool is covered by a sliding-glass roof, so it's a fabulous place to go, rain or shine.

Cabins

If you're planning a voyage on the Serena, you'll have a wide range of options when it comes to accommodation. The ship has 1,500 rooms spread over 20 different price categories and over one-third of them have balconies.

Selecting the right room will depend on your personal preferences and your budget. Things to consider include the size, location and amenities provided by the room, as well as whether you want a balcony or ocean view.

Those seeking cruise deals may do well to consider a standard interior cabin. These have no view and are fairly small, but have plenty space to be comfortable. More lavish room options include the massive Grand suites, while the Samsara Spa Suites come with unlimited spa access.