After undergoing a $28.1 million restyling, Costa Cruises' Classica cruise ship will join the line's Costa neoCollection as the neoClassica.
In a press release this week, the Carnival Corporation subsidiary announced that the new-and-improved vessel will join the Costa neoRomantica and Costa neoRiviera in offering "slow cruise" style itineraries designed to allow guests to "enjoy the culture, scenery and flavors of each port of call along the route."
Refurbishment of the neoClassica began last month in Genoa, Italy, and involved roughly 1,000 technicians and crew members. In addition to the hull, engine and hotel areas, the ship's public areas and 650-plus cabins were renovated with new interiors and colors:
"In their cabins, guests can taste authentic espresso thanks to a personal Illy brand coffee pod machine, and pampering Elemis beauty products and amenities are provided as well. Suite balconies received new furniture so guests can enjoy the view of the sea in total comfort."
Here's a look at the renovated neoClassica courtesy of Dream Blog Cruise Magazine:
With the restyling now complete, the 53,000-ton cruise ship is ready to offer Costa neoCollection itineraries, taking passengers to less-visited destinations featuring longer calls.
The vessel's first cruise will be a 25-day voyage from Italy.
The "From Egypt to the Spice Islands" cruise departs on Thursday and continues through the start of the new year, with passengers able to explore Jerusalem, Egypt and even the island of Madagascar in the process.
Costa neoClassica will offer four 14-day cruises of parts of the Indian Ocean from its homeport Port Louis, Mauritius, from Jan. 12 to Feb. 23.
The ship will then return to the Mediterranean in March, where it will continue to sail "slow cruise" voyages throughout 2015.
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