Costa Cruises offers affordable and immersive travel across Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond.
With the right strategy, you can enjoy these experiences without overspending.
This guide will help you find the best deals through smart booking, perfect timing, and loyalty rewards.
Understanding Costa Cruises: What Makes It Stand Out
Costa Cruises combines affordability with a strong Italian influence, offering both short and long voyages tailored to a variety of travelers.
You’ll find itineraries across Europe, South America, Asia, and the Middle East—plus onboard activities suited for all ages.
Key Features of Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises stands out for its blend of affordability, European charm, and a wide range of itineraries.
Here are the key features that define the Costa cruising experience:
- Diverse Destinations: Cruises to the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia, and South America
- Italian-Style Hospitality: Onboard service and cuisine inspired by Italian culture
- Family and Group Friendly: Activities, cabins, and packages suitable for families and large parties
- Flexible Packages: Options including cruise-only, flight-inclusive, and excursion bundles
- Onboard Entertainment: Shows, music, spa services, pools, and kids’ programs
- Multilingual Crew and Services: Staff and announcements in multiple languages
- Costa Club Loyalty Program: Exclusive deals and perks for returning guests
- Sustainable Practices: Modern ships with a focus on energy efficiency and eco-friendly technologies
When to Book: Timing Matters
Booking your Costa Cruise at the right time can make a significant difference in the amount you pay.
Certain months, seasons, and promotional periods offer significantly lower prices and better perks.
Here are the best times to book if you want to maximize savings:
- Wave Season (January to March)
Most cruise lines, including Costa, offer deep discounts, upgrades, and onboard credit during this peak booking season.
- Last-Minute Deals (1–4 Weeks Before Departure)
If you have flexible dates and destinations, booking close to the departure date can result in significant price cuts.
- Shoulder Seasons (April–May and September–October)
Cruises during these less crowded months are often cheaper, with better cabin availability and fewer tourists at ports.
- Holiday Sales (Black Friday, Cyber Monday, New Year)
Costa frequently offers limited-time promotions during major holidays, accompanied by added perks such as free upgrades or reduced deposits.
- Costa Club Member Offers
Loyalty members get early access to select deals, exclusive discounts, and special rates throughout the year.
Where to Find Costa Cruise Deals
Finding the best Costa Cruise deals isn’t just about timing—it’s also about knowing where to look.
Different platforms offer unique perks, and some sources may provide lower rates or added benefits.
Here’s where you should check when searching for the best offers:
- Official Costa Cruises Website: Offers direct promos, early booking discounts, and bundles with flights or excursions.
- Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Sites like CruiseDirect, Expedia, and VacationsToGo often offer perks such as onboard credit.
- Cruise Comparison Sites: Platforms like Cruise Critic or CruiseWatch help compare prices across multiple providers.
- Mobile Apps and Price Alerts: Use the Costa app or Cruise Deals to receive alerts and flash deal notifications.
- Social Media and Newsletters: Costa shares surprise deals on Facebook, Instagram, or through email updates.
Costa Club: Loyalty Has Its Perks
Joining Costa Club gives you rewards starting from your first cruise.
You earn points through travel and spending, unlocking tiered perks that save money and upgrade your experience.
Here’s what each membership level offers:
Ambra (0 points)
- Welcome gift aboard your first cruise
- Access to Costa Club help desk and cabin card
- 5 % off selected sailings
- Complimentary birthday cake and shipboard photo
Acquamarina (1–2,000 points)
- All Ambra perks
- 10 % off select sailings
- Free bottle of water in the cabin
- Cabin upgrade for frequent cruisers
- Gala-night chocolate & welcome-back cocktail
Corallo (2,001–5,000 points)
- All Acquamarina perks (except water)
- 12 % off select sailings
- Complimentary sparkling wine, specialty coffee & cake onboard
Perla (5,001–13,000 points)
- All Corallo perks
- 15 % off select sailings
- Business-class upgrade on Costa flights
- Fruit basket, extra sparkling wine, €20 onboard credit
Perla Oro (13,001–26,000 points)
- All Perla perks
- 17 % off select sailings
- Suite upgrades & fast-track airport security
- €50 onboard credit, spa extras, VIP cocktail party access
Perla Diamante (26,001+ points)
- All Perla Oro perks
- 20 % off select sailings
- Priority boarding/disembarkation and special luggage service
- Private lounge access, pillow menu, personal staff, free spa day
- €75 onboard credit, front-row theater seats & minibar service
Earn and Level Up
- Earn 100–450 points per cruise day, depending on cabin type
- Plus, earn 2 points per € spent onboard or on Costa flights/extras
- Points are valid for 3 years; opt-ins for suites or higher-tier cabins earn extra points
Tips to Maximize Your Cruise Savings
Saving on a Costa Cruise isn’t just about booking early or finding a discount.
With the right strategies, you can effectively combine offers and minimize additional costs throughout your trip.
Here are the most effective tips to help you cruise for less:
- Book During Sales Periods: Watch for Wave Season, holiday promos, or Costa Club offers to catch the best prices.
- Be Flexible with Dates and Destinations: Traveling during off-peak months or choosing less popular routes often results in lower fares.
- Use Travel Credit Cards: Redeem points for cruises or earn cashback on your booking and onboard expenses.
- Look for Kids Sail Free Promotions: Costa occasionally offers deals where children under a particular age cruise for free with their accompanying adults.
- Join the Costa Club: Loyalty members get early access to discounts, upgrades, and personalized offers.
- Book Group Travel: Larger groups can qualify for bulk discounts, bonus perks, or even a free cabin.
- Avoid Unnecessary Add-Ons: Skip premium drink packages or excursions you won’t use to keep your total cost low.
- Use Cruise Comparison Tools: Compare prices on sites like CruiseDirect or CruiseCritic to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Extra Costs to Plan For
Even with a great deal, cruises often come with additional costs that aren’t included in the base fare.
Being aware of these expenses helps you budget more accurately and avoid surprises.
Here are the most common extra costs you should plan for:
- Gratuities and Service Charges: Daily tips for staff are typically added automatically and vary depending on the cruise length and cabin type.
- Specialty Dining Fees: Some restaurants on board charge an additional fee for premium menus or à la carte dishes.
- Wi-Fi and Internet Packages: Internet access is not always included and can be costly depending on the speed and package.
- Shore Excursions: Guided tours at ports are optional but often come at a high price if booked through the cruise line.
- Spa and Wellness Services: Massages, beauty treatments, and access to thermal areas typically incur additional costs.
- Drinks Not Included in Your Package: Unless you have a beverage package, alcohol, and some soft drinks will be charged separately.
- Currency Exchange and ATM Fees: Onboard withdrawals or foreign currency transactions may include added fees.
- Travel Insurance: Highly recommended but not included—this coverage protects against cancellations, delays, and medical issues.
Conclusion: Save More, Sail Better With Costa Cruises
Costa Cruises offers a rewarding way to explore the world without overspending.
By booking smartly, utilizing loyalty perks, and planning for potential extra costs, you can enjoy greater value on every trip.
Start comparing deals today and book your Costa Cruise with confidence.
