Take your maiden voyage on a ‘Costa’ cruise

Cruising has come a long way since the days of on deck shuffleboard and Captain’s cocktails parties. There is now a wealth of activities from the moment you set sail to some of the most culturally rich and visually beautiful places on earth.

Costa Cruises has a range of itineraries ideal for holidaymakers who want to give cruising a go, from three or four night mini-cruises to sailings with hotel stays at either end of the cruise.

Four days on the high seas is a good length for first-time cruisers to sample the Costa Cruises on board lifestyle. You’ll soon discover the delectable Italian-influenced cuisine, the fabulous entertainment, the relaxing treatments in the spa, the choice of shore excursions and the sheer ease of a holiday at sea.

If holidaymakers are hesitant to spend all their time at sea, then they can combine a few days at sea with a hotel stay at the beginning and end of the cruise. Exploring a US city before cruising to the Caribbean or exploring the vibrant cities of China or Singapore should float most travellers’ boats.

The following short voyages are perfect for those who are on a tight time schedule or want to give cruising a try. Think of them as city breaks with a difference, as you will wake up each day to a new horizon.

Costa Fortuna, “Autumn Jewels on Costa Fortuna” - Italy, Greece & Malta
Five nights from only £299 per person, saving £200

This five-night cruise will take you to the heart of the Mediterranean. Departing from Venice, you reach the historic city of Bari, followed the beautiful Ionian island of Corfu, the colourful Maltese capital of La Valletta and the cultural hotspot of Naples. This cruise ends in Savona, renowned for enterprise and character.

Departs Venice, Italy on 1 December 2008
Prices start from £299 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside cabin, cruise-only, for five nights, including all meals.

Costa Serena, “Spring Break on Costa Serena” - Italy, Spain & Corsica
Three nights from only £269 per person, saving £110

Depart on this mini-cruise that will take you to the fascinating history and stunning landscapes of three top European destinations. Setting sail from Savona, you’ll stop at the dazzling city of Barcelona and then the relaxing island of Corsica to visit Ajaccio. As you cruise back to Savona, we’re sure you’ll be wishing you were onboard for longer.

Departs Venice, Italy on 18 April 2009
Prices start from £269 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside cabin, cruise-only, for three nights, including all meals.

Any Costa cruise can be combined with a relaxing hotel stay if you choose a cruise-only itinerary. How long you choose to stay for is flexible too, so your trip can last as long or be as brief as you wish. The following itineraries are perfect for extended stays with a cruise forming just part of your holiday experience.

Costa Classica, “Japan & South Korea” – China, Japan & South Korea
Four nights from only £269 per person, saving £70

Discover age-old civilisations, varied landscapes, unspoilt beaches, metropolitan cities and sparkling rice paddies as you take a cruise in the Far East. This mini-cruise departs from Shanghai for the cosmopolitan city of Fukuoka in Japan and the beautiful island of Cheju in South Korea, before returning you to Shanghai to continue your oriental adventure.

Departs Shanghai, China on 28 August 2009
Prices start from £269 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside cabin, cruise-only, for four nights, including all meals.

Costa Fortuna, “Virgin Islands II” - Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands & Bahamas
Seven nights from only £499 per person, saving £170

Imagine waking to a shimmering sunrise as it casts a warm pink glow over the glistening waters of the tropics. You'll find exotic landscapes, beautiful white-sand beaches and the world's clearest waters on this cruise itinerary. The cruise departs from Fort Lauderdale and stops at San Juan, St Thomas, Tortola and Nassau, before heading back to Fort Lauderdale where you can explore the attractive Floridian city.

Departs Fort Lauderdale, USA on 1 February 2009
Prices start from £499 per person, based on two adults sharing an inside cabin, cruise-only, for seven nights, including all meals.

For more information, visit Costacruises.co.uk.