Costa Fortuna Report

Just spent a week away on the Costa Fortuna. We took advantage of Costa's own flights with British Airways and flew directly from Gatwick to Venice.  A near seamless transfer was spoiled slightly by a very lengthy and disorganised check in procedure.

First impressions were good though of the ship. She is a large vessel accommodating well over 3000 guests in a variety of cabins. We took advantage of a late deal offer and were allocated a roomy inside cabin, with a jolly cabin steward who did everything he could to make our stay enjoyable.

Good points: An interesting itinerary-  Venice - Bari - Katakolon  for Olympia - Santorini  - Mykonos  - Rhodes - Dubrovnik - Venice.
The entertainment was different and varied each night with something for everyone.

The NOT so good points: A large number of children on board, surprising for this time of year, but we learned later that in Italy the children have about 3 months off in the summer which explains a lot.

The food was a disaster for the first 3 days and the service in the restaurant even worse. To be fair both improved greatly later in the week, but I was not really that impressed with the variety and quality of the food. As to the service, Costa charge a compulsory Euro 7.00 per person per day gratuity fee and I got the distinct impression had they not done so, this may have inspired staff in all areas of the ship to try that bit harder. Most were surly at best and chose sometimes even to ignore their customers. Of course there were exceptions but these were sadly few and far between.
On board prices are in Euros and were in my experience over priced, particularly soft drinks and photographs.
So, who would it suit? I had to rack my brains a little here, but I would suggest a family wanting a European holiday experience as opposed to a British experience would love it. That said, there were many honeymooners on board from across the World. Most had a great time from what I heard. I think on balance you have to look at the price you pay for the holiday and remember the old adage, 'you only get what you pay for.'

Did I enjoy the experience? Yes, I did despite my comments. If I could give one word of advice it would be to book a balcony cabin though. During the cruise the sun decks and pool areas get very busy and the crew create a lively atmosphere with different games and events taking place throughout the day. Combine this with the large numbers on board and it can get very noisy up top, with few areas to escape to a quiet corner. The advantage of the balcony - well worth paying the extra for in my opinion - gives you a bolt hole to escape to when you want to have that quiet time out doors, soaking up the sun or quietly reading. Would I do it again?
No. To be honest it was not my sort of cruise, but I can see the appeal for others and just because it was not my 'cup of tea' does not mean that others would not have a fantastic time.

Shore excursions are rather expensive on board, but in most ports of call a must, as the time in each port with the exception of Rhodes is only a few short hours. For reasons of safety and security therefore I would advise those wanting to go ashore to take these arranged excursions rather than go independently. You would not want to be late back to the ship as it would not wait for you if you were.

Stay focused on the price you are paying and you will not go far wrong. If you would like more details of this or any other cruise then please contact me for independent and free advice.