Last weekend, we went onboard Costa Venezia as the cruise made its maiden call to Singapore. It was an exclusive media tour we attended which allowed us to view the interior of the ship and discover what are the unique offerings of Costa Venezia.
It’s been quite some time ago ever since I last board a cruise ship for a holiday. Going for a short cruise getaway has been an annual family tradition when I was still a kid. I always remembered the energetic crew members, dazzling evening performances, fun kids-friendly activities and endless buffets that kept me occupied throughout the trip even though in reality, I was stuck in a ship. Back then, we also had the freedom to roam around the ship as kids since it is impossible to get lost on a ship.
And stepping foot on Costa Venezia did bring back some happy memories of my previous cruise trips.
Costa Venezia
Costa Venezia is part of Costa Cruises’ family of holiday cruises. In fact, Costa Cruises is Italy’s largest tourism group and Europe’s number one cruise company.
Costa Venezia, as the name suggests, is inspired by Venice, one of Italy’s most iconic cities. This ship is designed specifically for the Asian market as such there are signages which are written in both English and Mandarin. There are even Asian restaurants catered for those who prefer Asian food like hotpot, teppanyaki, dim sum and noodles.
This ship will be the largest ship to be introduced by Costa to Asia as well. It has a gross tonnage of 135,500 tons and a capacity for over 5,200 guests! (It’s almost twice as heavy as Titanic).
Onboard Costa Venezia, you will get a taste and experience of Italian culture, lifestyle and excellence. In other words, it’s like being in Italy without physically being there.
Costa Venezia’s inaugural voyage
This ship will sail across three continents, four seas, and eighteen countries over a period of 53 days, following the tracks of Marco Polo. Starting from Trieste in Italy through the Mediterranean to the Middle East, South East Asia and the Far East before disembarking at Tokyo.
Cruise Interior
Play along with the theme of this ship and get ready to be transported to Venice!
Firstly, let’s start with the main atrium.
Piazza San Marco (St.Mark’s Square)
We were greeted by the grand and opulent facade of the main atrium which is reminiscent of St. Mark’s square. The golden-winged lion of St.Mark that towers over us made this space looked truly stunning and luxurious.
Cost Venezia’s Crew
Most of the crew members, if not all, seemed to be dressed like a gondolier.
Card Room for Mahjong
These hi-tech mahjong tables are electronic! Talking about innovation!
Casino Dea Bendata
There’s also an exclusive private gambling table for VIP guests who prefer to have more privacy.
Duty-free Shopping Gallery
There is also an 8,000 square-foot duty-free shopping gallery that spans across two decks. You will find luxury designer boutiques like Max Mara, Salvatore Ferragamo, Bvlgari and other international brands.
Interestingly, Bvlgari has also collaborated with Costa Cruises to present their first jewellery show at sea. This fashion jewellery show debuts at Costa Venezia.
Another highlight onboard Costa Venezia is the Juventus Football Club retail shop that sells limited edition Juventus commemorative merchandise.
Teatro Rosso Veneziano (Red Theatre)
This theatre is inspired by the world-renowned Venetian La Venice opera house in Venice, Italy.
Gondola Lounge
This actual gondola is crafted by the artisans from Squero di San Trovaso, a boatyard in Italy where gondolas are made.
Lounge Delle Stelle (Lounge of the Stars)
Lounge Delle Stelle is a premium lounge where you will feel just like a celebrity as you walk down the red carpet.
Lido Market Place Restaurant
Entertainment
The ship has both outdoor and indoor swimming pools, jacuzzis, an aqua park with water slides, a mini-golf course, high-rope garden, outdoor fitness facilities as well as a wellness complex with gym and spa.
Burano Sunshine Deck
Lido Deck
La Laguna (Water Park)
High-rope Garden
Teen zone (club for teens and kids)
Bellezza (Spa and fitness)
Cabin Suites
All in all, there are a total of 2,116 cabins including 44 cabins which catered for the handicapped.
View from the Ocean View Cabin Suite with balcony
Lunch at Canal Grande Restaurant
Lastly, we had our media lunch at Canal Grande Restaurant where we enjoyed a 5-course lunch menu. This is one of the main restaurants on Costa Venezia. In fact, there are a total of 3 main restaurants and 10 speciality restaurants to choose from. If you needed just a drink or a light snack, you can visit any of their 11 lounges and bars.
Venetian Cuisine
During our media lunch, we got to try out some traditional Venetian dishes like Masorin col
This cruise is nothing short of restaurants. In fact, there are five speciality restaurants. One of which menu is curated by Michelin-star awarded chef Umberto Bombana who is hailed as the ‘King of White Truffles’.
Tired of doing land travels? Sea travel is another great option.
