Tag Archives: Italy

Costa Cruises Marking Solar Eclipse with Special Med Voyage

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Costa Cruises Marking Solar Eclipse with Special Med Voyage

Costa Cruises has unveiled a special itinerary centered around the solar eclipse that is returning to the Mediterranean in August after 20 years.

The cruise line said in a press release that there will be two departures for its eight-day Eclipse Cruise aboard the Costa Pacifica, one from Civitavecchia (Rome) on August 8 and the other from Savona on August 9.

“Experiencing a total solar eclipse from the path of totality at sea is truly an extraordinary event we’re thrilled to offer our guests,” said Priscilla Reyes, head of sales for Costa Cruises North America.

“Witnessing this awe-inspiring celestial event from the open water, surrounded by clear horizon views and the shared excitement of fellow travelers, transforms this natural phenomenon into a truly unforgettable moment.”

After visiting destinations such as St. Tropez, Palma and Valencia, the ship will reach the Balearic Sea on August 12, 2026.

At Costa’s eclipse-focused sea destination: “Balearic Sea – Solar Eclipse,” guests equipped with safety glasses will observe the phenomenon from the outer decks.

A subject-matter expert from the Astronomical Observatory of Genoa, Italy, will provide narration to make the experience complete.

The ship will then continue to Olbia and Aranci Gulf, before returning to Civitavecchia and Savona on August 15 and 16, respectively.

Norwegian Aura Floated Out at Fincantieri

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Norwegian Aura Floated Out at Fincantieri

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) floated out the Norwegian Aura during a ceremony held on April 16 at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

Now that the external hull construction is complete and the ship has touched water for the first time, work will continue on the ship’s interior development, according to a statement.

Said to be the largest vessel in company’s history, the ship is set to debut in May 2027.

“Norwegian Aura’s float out is a proud and meaningful moment for our entire team. She builds on the legacy of our award-winning Prima Class while taking our commitment to thoughtfully designed guest‑first experiences even further,” said NCL President Marc Kazlauskas.

“Created in close partnership with Fincantieri, the ship is purposefully constructed to deliver an elevated, multi‑generational vacation experience, with expansive outdoor spaces like Ocean Heights, that bring families and friends together for fun-filled days.”

Nearly 1,130 feet long and weighing approximately 170,000 tons, the ship will feature over 1,970 staterooms accommodating around 3,880 guests at double occupancy.

“Norwegian Aura’s float out marks a highly symbolic and operationally significant milestone in our shared journey with Norwegian Cruise Line,” noted Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division.

“This vessel reflects the strength of a long-standing partnership and our ability to turn design vision and innovation into tangible solutions, helping to redefine onboard experience for future generations of guests.”

The Norwegian Aura will set sail on her maiden voyage on May 21, 2027, with a seven-day Mediterranean voyage departing from Trieste, Italy and calling to ports in Italy and Malta.

After that, she will embark on a 14-day transatlantic crossing to the United States.

Starting June 10, 2027, she will homeport in Miami and offer seven-day voyages to the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean during her inaugural season.

Norwegian Luna Opens Doors to First Guests in Rome

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Norwegian Luna Opens Doors to First Guests in Rome

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Norwegian Luna, welcomed her first guests in Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.

The ship is scheduled to make her U.S. debut in Miami on March 23, 2026, followed by a christening ceremony on March 27.

Following Fincantieri’s delivery of the vessel to Norwegian last week, the company shared new images of the ship, featuring what it calls a bold and modern design, in a press release.

“Norwegian Luna is an absolutely beautiful ship and the true definition of what it means to cruise with NCL,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.

“After getting a first look at the ship, I am so excited for guests to enjoy the wide-open, outdoor spaces bringing them closer to the sea, the intimate yet thoughtful areas to retreat to and the electrifying entertainment and mouth watering cuisine,”

In addition to the Aqua Slide coaster, which was recently named the “Best Water Park Ride/Attraction,” the Luna will feature Luna Midway, an amusement park-style outdoor area featuring carnival-inspired games.

There will also be Moon Climber, a multi-level obstacle course designed for kids and adults; and Horizon Park, a complimentary recreational area featuring lawn-style games, all located across the ship’s top decks.

Guests looking for relaxation can visit the two-story Mandara Spa with its of saunas, treatment rooms and an expansive Thermal Suite with 180-degree views of the ocean.

In the entertainment section there’s the “Elton: A Celebration of Elton John” a concert-style experience honoring the music of Sir Elton John, and “HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder,” a multimedia production blending cirque-style acrobatics and contemporary dance.

After reaching Miami, the Norwegian Luna will sail her inaugural season to the Caribbean, before debuting in New York City on April 6, 2027.