Western Mediterranean Cruise with Costa Cruises

The next Western Mediterranean cruise with Costa Cruises aboard the Costa Pacifica combines interesting ports, historical sites alongside hiking trails, and mesmerizing landscapes. The cruise gives vacationers the opportunity to visit special locations, all combined with a cruise on a beautiful and lively ship.

 

Below is a description of a 7-day cruise aboard the Costa Pacifica by Costa Cruises. At each of the ship's destinations, you can take independent tours or join tours organized by the ship.
In most destinations, you can travel independently, easily, and cheaply.

The ship visits the ports:

In Italy: Civitavecchia - close to Rome
La Spezia - in northwestern Italy
Savona - in northwestern Italy
Marseilles - in France: Marseille
In Spain: Barcelona Barcelona -
and Palma de Mallorca - Palma de Mallorca

Ship Itinerary:

Additionally, the voyage includes one sea day, where the ship sails from Palma to Rome.
Unlike other cruise lines, Costa allows passengers to board the ship from almost any port. Therefore, you can choose whether you want to embark in Rome, Barcelona, or any other port. It is recommended, of course, to combine a multi-day trip in the area where you choose to board the ship, before or after the cruise, especially in Rome or Barcelona, where you can spend several interesting days.  

The Costa Pacifica ship, launched in 2009, is about 114,000 tons and designed for about 3,000 passengers. The ship is nicknamed the "Music Ship", and for good reason. The ship is gorgeous and magnificent, with all its elements related to music—ranging from the invested design in the elevators, staircases, and public spaces, to the entertainment shows, various and diverse activities, and unique attractions, such as a recording studio where you can record yourself singing your favorite song.
Usually, the crowd on board is very diverse and consists of young people, young families, and honeymoon couples, but the ship is suitable for everyone, and older adults will certainly enjoy it and the activities offered on board.

Information About Costa Cruises

Costa is a very veteran company, founded back in 1854 as a cargo shipping company. In 1924, the company began operating passenger ships.
In 2000, the company was acquired by Carnival Corporation, and today it is its largest subsidiary and essentially the main European arm of the company (today Carnival itself has stopped sailing in Europe, and voyages are carried out only by its subsidiaries in the region—led by Costa, as well as other companies targeted at specific audiences such as Germans or Spaniards).
In fact, the company is the third largest in the world in terms of passenger volume.
The company operates ships that sail mainly in Europe but also to many other destinations – the Caribbean, the Far East, South America, and the Middle East.
The company's ships are of a high standard and very reminiscent of those of Carnival – designed and sparkling.

The uniqueness of the company is the cheerful Italian-Mediterranean atmosphere on board – featuring a wide range of activities, music, and dancing during the day and into the night.

The cruise is suitable both for couples, including young couples and honeymoons, and for families. The company's ships have plenty of facilities for children and youth, including children's pools, water slides, electronic games, playrooms, and activities.
All announcements on the company's ships are made in both Italian and English, and usually in additional languages as well – German, Spanish, and French, in order to allow passengers speaking all languages to participate in activities and enjoy themselves.

Booking Tours and Attractions for Travelers in Rome:

 

♦ Day One: Departure from Rome to the Port of Civitavecchia and Boarding the Ship

If you choose to depart for the cruise from the port of Civitavecchia, it is recommended to get to the port via private transfer. You can also get there by train, but you must take into account about an hour and a half ride, followed by about a 15-minute walk to the port itself with your luggage. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the train station to the port, but it is sometimes difficult to catch a taxi for this short distance.  The port is located about an hour's drive from the airport area and about an hour and a half from the city center.

Transfers and Tours Tailored for Cruise Passengers in Rome:

These are tours intended for cruise passengers. They depart from and return to the port. Keep in mind that the port is about 80 km away from the city of Rome.

Guided Tours

♦ Successful Tour of Orvieto and Civita:

Best Of Civitavecchia Shore Tour: Orvieto & Civita Di Bagnoregio Tour A 7-9 hour tour departing from the cruise pier and visiting two impressive ancient cities: Orvieto and Civita, both of which have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

♦ Private Tour with a Dedicated Driver to Rome from the Port for Cruise Passengers:

Civitavecchia Port: 9 Hours Luxury Private Full-Day Shore excursion of Rome

Pickup and drop-off at the port, tailored for cruise passengers. A tour of Rome's famous attractions with a private driver.

♦ Private Transfer from Rome Airport to Hotel or Vice Versa:

Rome Airport Transfer - ONE WAY

 

For those staying in Rome before or after the cruise, plenty of information about the city is available in my articles: Walking Tours in Rome , Shopping in Rome including recommendations for hotels, guided tours, shopping, and more.

 

You can board the ship starting from 13:00. It is recommended to arrive at the port a little earlier to board as the gates open and enjoy this day on the ship. Upon arrival at the passenger terminal, luggage is handed over to the ship's crew, who take care of bringing it to your room by evening time. Please note, sometimes luggage is received after dinner time, so it is recommended to keep a side bag with you containing a change of clothes, swimsuits, toiletries, etc. Rooms are available immediately after boarding the ship, where room keys, a ship orientation map, a daily program detailing the day's activities, and a catalog of tours offered by the company in various ports await you.
After boarding the ship, it is recommended to take a tour of its various parts, get to know the decks and attractions, as well as get an impression of the various options. You can have lunch at the rich buffet, La Paloma, located on deck 9.
Before sailing, a short safety drill takes place in which all passengers must take part. The drill is usually held about half an hour before sailing.
The ship offers diverse and fun entertainment options for all ages. Every evening you can enjoy shows taking place in the main theater, The Stardust Theater, located on decks 3-5.

In addition, you can spend time in cafes, smaller lounges offering various cultural programs every evening (dance classes, piano and guitar lessons, trivia quizzes, bingo games, etc.), pubs, the casino, spa, jacuzzi, pools, gym, jewelry, clothing, and souvenir shops, and much more. As mentioned, the emphasis on this ship is on music, and every evening there are live performances in the various public spaces, ranging from pop, jazz, rock to classical music, so everyone will find what they are looking for.
The ship has 5 restaurants, including two paid restaurants, Club Blue Moon and Samsara Restaurant. In addition, there are two stunning and large dining rooms offering dinner and lunch: My Way restaurant and New York New York restaurant, both of which have two floors. Alongside this, on the ship you will find 13 bars and cafes, including Chocolate Bar, which offers high-quality pralines for an additional fee alongside coffee and chocolate drinks.

Sports enthusiasts will find a water slide and four swimming pools on the ship. In the winter months, there is a canopy allowing swimming in two pools even in cool weather. Giant screens hang next to the pools where movies are projected. In addition, the ship features a basketball court, ping pong tables, and foosball. The luxurious spa complex on the ship, Samsara spa, offers a small private pool, treatment and massage rooms, a sauna, and a Turkish bath (for an additional fee, of course).  

The ship offers two unique attractions: a recording studio where you can record your favorite song and play it to friends back home, as well as a driving simulator, Grand Prix simulator, offering an extreme experience for an additional fee.
For children and teenagers, a video arcade is offered, where PlayStation consoles are also available. In addition, there are special programs for these age groups, including parties and various games.

 

 

♦ Second Day of the Cruise, La Spezia

La Spezia is a port city on the Italian Riviera. The port is mostly a cargo port and therefore walking in it is prohibited. If you want to tour the city or its surroundings independently, you can use the port's free shuttle service.

 

♦ Third Day of the Cruise, Savona

The port in Savona is the home port of Costa Cruises. The city itself is located in the Liguria region, in the northwestern part of Italy about 50 km southwest of Genoa.

Private transfers between Genoa and Savona:

In the summer months, many tourists arrive in Savona, which is known for its sandy and wide beaches. However, Savona is a very nice destination for a daily walking tour, regardless of the season, thanks to the pleasant Mediterranean climate. The port is located right in the center of the old town and a very short walk will lead you to many attractions, including restaurants, shops, historical sites, ancient streets, small squares, and more. In addition, Savona is also known as the city of popes, since two Renaissance popes were born there – Sixtus IV and his nephew, Julius II. Before becoming pope, moving to the Vatican, and building the famous Sistine Chapel there, he built the Sistine Chapel in Savona, which has today become one of the city's main attractions.

Guided Tours and Food Workshops in Savona from Viator:

 

Below is a suggested walking route in the city. The route is circular – starting and returning to the port – and lasts about two hours. It is also recommended to enter the visitor center located right at the exit of the passenger terminal, grab a city map, and hear tour recommendations.
Right as you enter the port, you will notice the clock tower, La Torretta. The tower, from the 16th century, was part of a defense structure for the city. Afterward, art lovers can visit the Pinacoteca Civic gallery. It is also worth touring the Palazzo Della Rovere palace, an unfinished palace built by Pope Julius II. The main square of the city is Piazza Memeli, where a monument to the fallen of World War I is located. From there, it is of course worth visiting Piazza del Duomo, where Savona's Sistine Chapel is located – smaller and more modest, and admission is free. The structure was built inside a festive mausoleum for the parents of Pope Sixtus IV. The main architectural style of the building is Rococo, with curved stone facades, prayer rooms, and a well-kept entrance courtyard. The main charm point is the decorated ceiling, which was entirely painted by hand.
Another religious and historical structure in Savona is the special cathedral, The Cathedral, located in the center of the old town. Construction of the cathedral began in the late 16th century. Among the various doors and passages, you can notice several unique relics preserved in the sanctuary, including carved wooden objects and a rare gold relief of the saint "Our Lady of Mercy",.
The streets are very pleasant for walking, so it is nice to "get lost" among them. Before returning to the port, it is also worth visiting the ancient Priamar Fortress located near the city center. This is a fortress from the period when the Republic of Genoa ruled the place. The fortress was built in 1542 in order to protect the city. The location of the fortress served as a strategic point in the past, but today you can enjoy a viewpoint of the port, the city, the surrounding mountains, and the sea. Over the years, the fortress also served as a military center and a prison. Today, a museum is located on the site, displaying a number of exhibitions and galleries. Admission is free.

If you want to tour outside the city, the main destinations are the city of Genoa, located about a 45-minute drive east, or alternatively a trip to the Principality of Monaco, located about an hour and a half drive west.
The duration of stay in this port is relatively short, so if you go outside the city, it is recommended to do so on a ship excursion and not take risks.

♦ Genoa Port

On the current cruise we did not dock in Genoa port, but some cruise ships visit Genoa port near Savona, and for them I am attaching recommendations for tours in Genoa port here.

♦  Private guided day tour (up to 8 hours) on the Italian Riviera in the famous cities of Portofino, Rapallo, and Santa Margherita:

Private Tour to Portofino and Santa Margherita from Genoa

♦ Recommended guided tours in the city of Genoa, your choice of walking, Segway, or rickshaw tours:

♦ For lovers of Italian food and cooking -Italian food cooking workshops and food tours in Genoa:

♦ Fourth Day of the Cruise, Marseilles

Marseille, the capital of Provence, is the second largest city in France. The port in Marseille is very central, with dozens of cargo and tourist ships passing through it.

On a day trip I took in the city recently around the port and the neighborhoods bordering it, I was pleasantly surprised; I discovered an interesting city that is pleasant to tour.

 

On the Viator website you can book the following tours, some of which are tailored for cruise passengers in Marseille (port pickup and drop-off):

Or a variety of guided tours in Marseille and its surroundings from GetYourGuide.com:

Port of Marseille:

♦ Fifth Day of the Cruise, Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia and the city of art, culture, food, and shopping.  The city attracts about 58 million tourists every year. And the millions are not wrong... Barcelona is a charming port city and there is a lot to see and do in it and its surroundings. No one can remain indifferent to what Barcelona offers – sports, good food, markets, shopping, art, architecture, culture, nightlife, just ask and you shall receive!

Guided Tours on Wheels in Barcelona from Viator:

 

Destinations and Attractions in Barcelona

The port in Barcelona is very close to the city and center, and can be reached by a walk of about 20 minutes (up to the Columbus Monument at the end of Las Ramblas) or by a short bus ride departing from the passenger terminal in the port and arriving at the Ramblas. The bus arrives very frequently, the ride is cheap, and there is a combined ticket for a round-trip ride. Usually, cruise ships offer a paid shuttle, but it is significantly more expensive than riding the bus.
Those arriving in Barcelona for a cruise have only one day trip ahead of them, so of course it's impossible to see everything. Below are suggestions for several recommended attractions and pleasant spots. Touring them depends on the number of hours you can spend in the city.
Las Ramblas – Las Ramblas, 1800 meters long, is the central axis of the city. The avenue starts at Plaza de Catalunya, Palca Catalunya, and continues to the beach and promenade, ending with the Columbus Monument. Along the entire avenue you will find restaurants, cafes, shops, souvenir stalls, street performers, and more. In addition, in the middle of the avenue you will find the famous colorful market, La Boqueria. In the market you will find fruits, vegetables, cheeses, mushrooms, meats, natural juices, candies, chocolates, and what not! It is highly recommended to stroll along the avenue and reach Plaza de Catalunya. This is the central square of the city spanning an area of over 5000 square meters.

Another impressive district in Barcelona is the Gothic Quarter, Barri Gotic. This is an ancient quarter with historical buildings from the Middle Ages and the Roman Empire. Located in the quarter is Barcelona Cathedral, Catedral De Barcelona. The cathedral is the seat of the local archbishop and is located in an ancient structure whose construction began in the late 13th century.

For art lovers, it is highly recommended to visit Park Guell, Parc Guell. The park, designed and styled by Antoni Gaudi in the early 20th century, is the most famous park in the city. The park features impressive statues, many works of art, paths, and decorated staircases. The climb to the park may not be light, but at the end a beautiful view of the entire city is guaranteed. Another famous work by Gaudi is the Sagrada Familia church, La Sagrada Familia. The large and impressive church is unlike any other church. The colorful statues, unimaginable size, and unique structure make the church a must-see attraction in the city. Admission is for a fee, but it is highly recommended to go inside and get an impression of the interior as well.

As mentioned, sports enthusiasts are not shortchanged in the city either... In fact, in recent years Barcelona has become one of the most preferred destinations for Israelis, largely thanks to the football team of Messi and Neymar.

 

 
Children will also find a lot of interest in the city. Barcelona Zoo is ranked among the best zoos in Spain. You will find open areas with a variety of animals. Mainly suitable for small children.

Another attraction for kids is Barcelona Aquarium. In the aquarium you will find over 11,000 different animals and 450 different species that make up this successful and large aquarium. The aquarium opened 20 years ago and since then over 14 million people have visited it. 

For those interested in accommodation in Barcelona: Recommendations for Accommodation in Barcelona

♦ Sixth Day of the Cruise, Palma de Mallorca

The island of Mallorca is the largest of the Balearic Islands, located east of Spain. The city of Palma de Mallorca is the capital city of the island. The city is known mainly for its beaches, which have made it a destination for belly-flop vacations, but all year round the city offers breathtaking landscapes, cultural and art buildings, alongside other interesting sites.
Upon arrival on the island, you cannot miss the large Gothic cathedral, La Seu. Construction of the cathedral began in the 13th century and ended only in the early 17th century. The church stands on a site where an Arab mosque once stood. The church is very impressive from the outside, and even more so from the inside. Therefore, it is worth starting the visit with a view of the church from the park located beneath it, Parc de la mar. The park features street performers, cafes, and a tourist info kiosk.

 

Booking recommended tours suitable for cruise passengers (departing and returning from the port in Palma) from Viator:

 

After the viewpoint, it is highly recommended to enter the church. Admission is paid. Not only is the church impressive, but also the entrances to it, especially the entrance from the sea side, Portal del Mirador. The foyers display statues, paintings, and other decorations expressing the wealth and elegance of past periods, but the true treasure is in the central space of the church. The stained glass windows in the church are among the largest of their kind in the world. In the early afternoon, the sun's rays shining on the stained glass paint the entire church in vibrant colors, giving it an even more magnificent look. The church is heavily decorated and impressive, partly built by Gaudi. The church has giant pillars soaring to a height of 44 m. Very impressive, not to be missed.

Near the cathedral and opposite one of its entrances is the Almudaina Palace, Palau de l’Almudaina. The palace was once a Muslim palace and over the years also served as a summer palace for the Spanish royal dynasty. You can tour the palace, most of whose contents have been preserved. Admission is paid.
The city streets are full of particularly impressive buildings so wandering among them is pleasant and worthwhile. It is also recommended to enter the Arab Baths, Banys Arabs, which include a variety of architectural styles from different periods. The baths are a remnant of the Moorish period of the city, when the buildings were built, according to estimates, back in the 11th century. Admission is paid.
Palma is known not only for its rich culture and art, but also for its shopping streets. The recommended streets are Passeig des Born and Avinguda Jaume III. In these streets you will find many designer shops, alongside department stores and more familiar shops like Zara, H&M, C&A, and more.
From the shopping streets it is recommended to take a taxi to the ancient castle, Bellver Castle. This is the first circular castle in Europe, located on a hill near the port. The castle – impressive in its own right – offers a beautiful view of the entire bay of Palma. The castle was built in the 14th century. Admission is paid. From the castle you can reach the port with a walk of about 25 minutes, including descending about 500 steps.  
Another way to get to know the city is by riding the tour bus, Hop on hop off bus. The bus departs every 20-25 minutes and has 16 stops throughout the city. Stop no. 12 is at the entrance to the port, where you can also board the bus.

 

Seventh Day of the Cruise, Fun Day at Sea

Take advantage of the sea day for relaxation, pampering in the spa or pools, sports activities in the gym, extreme activity in the driving simulator, shows in the public areas and theater, and much more.

 

Eighth Day of the Cruise, Rome

After seven enjoyable and experiential days, return to Rome. As mentioned, you can spend a few days in Rome before returning home, or travel from the port to the airport.

 

Article by: O. E. Bar

 

 

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