Costa Cruises introduces Japan to Far East programme

European cruise giant Costa Cruises has extended its Far East programme to introduce Japan with 14 and 15-night sailings for 2008. The operator is offering a choice of two sailings on board Costa Allegra – 21 June 2008 for 15 nights or 12 October 2008 for 14 nights.

The 15-night June itinerary starts from Hong Kong and then calls at Keelung, Naha Okinawa, Kobe, Tokyo, Nagasaki and Cheju before ending in Tianjin. Prices start from £1,119 per person excluding flights.

The 14-night journey, departing in October, begins in Shanghai and then sails to Cheju, Nagasaki, Tokyo, Kobe, Naha Okinawa, Keelung and finally, Hong Kong. Prices start from £1029 per person excluding flights.

Costa Cruises was the first international cruise company authorised to operate in the Chinese market and repositioned its Costa Allegra in Hong Kong last year. The operator firmly believes with the increased interest in the Far East in general and the increased volume of UK visitors to the region the addition of Japan will be a big hit.

Costa Cruises’ UK Managing Director, Marco Rosa said: “We’re hoping the addition of Japan will bring extra appeal to our Far East itineraries. The region is increasingly popular and very exciting as a destination. We know that UK cruisers are very adventurous and are always looking for the next new destination as demonstrated by the popularity of our China, Dubai and Indian Ocean itineraries with the UK market.”

For more information or to book go to Costacruises.co.uk.