After having read many negative reviews about Costa and the Concordia, we went on our cruise with no real expectations. Were we surprised and pleasantly so! Our balcony cabin was spacious and even on chilly days, we used the balcony and got the added bonus of a sunny day at sea on the return trip when we could sit out and enjoy the weather.

Costa service crew members frequently asked if we were enjoying the cruise, how was the food, etc., so I believe management monitors the forums and has been making improvements. We found no smoking signs on many tables in the various bars and I don't recall any smoking in the dining room, so they have addressed that issue there were plenty of smoke-free areas on board.

The food was far better than we were lead to believe. Soups still are a bit thin (but some were tasty nevertheless) and mixed drinks could use additional alcohol, but as for the food itself, we always found something we liked on the menu. Steaks were properly done and tasty. Read more