Costa's New Flagship, Costa Diadema Reaches a Milestone

Earlier this week at Fincantieri's Marghera, Italy, shipyard, Costa Diadema reached a construction milestone as its 432 ton fore-end block hull section was laid. The fore-end block section is certainly impressive—measuring approximately 26 feet high, 111 feet long, and 118 feet wide at its maximum beam. The future flagship of Costa Cruises' Italian-flagged fleet is scheduled for delivery Oct. 30, 2014, when its entry into service will boost the Costa fleet—already Europe's largest—up to a whopping 45,000 guests.

Costa Cruises is investing approximately 550 million euros to build Costa Diadema. It is the 10th cruise ship built in Italy by Fincantieri for Costa Cruises since 2000, representing a total investment of almost 5 billion euros. Among the many innovations onboard Costa Diadema are new wine-tasting venues including the Vinoteca and Proseccheria, the Bavarian Bierkeller for a wide selection of beers, and new dining choices such as Japanese Teppanyaki, Piazza Pizza and Gelateria for desserts.

The new flagship's interiors will offer spacious, split-level public rooms overlooking the sea that are conveniently interconnected, evoking the atmosphere of a vibrant seaside resort. For sun, sea and spectacular ocean vistas, there is a 1,640-square-foot open-air promenade with cabanas.

New entertainment offerings include the Country Rock Club featuring American music and arcade-style interactive games including Laser Maze. Portobello Market Piazza will be the heart of an 11,840-square-foot area consisting of designer stores and retail outlets. The three-level Samsara Spa—located on the upper decks—features an exclusive outdoor area and privileged access. The full-service facility offers guests an opportunity to enjoy the holistic regenerating experience that is the epitome of a "wellness cruise."

Image Courtesy Costa Cruises