Costa Cruises Eyes US Growth with New Itineraries
Costa Cruises is stepping up its push into the North American market by spotlighting its popular Western Mediterranean and Caribbean sailings alongside immersive onboard experiences and the upcoming 2027 World Cruise. At CLIA’s Cruise360 event in late April at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, TravelPulse spoke with Dario Rustico, general manager–Americas for Costa Cruises, about how the line plans to capture more U.S. travelers. Rustico emphasized that although Costa does not currently homeport in the United States, the region is rapidly becoming a key source market for the Italy-based brand.
“North America is a complementary market for us, but its importance is growing,” Rustico said. “That is why we are here talking with our key partners. We believe that Costa, with our product and programs, has the potential to grow exponentially in this region.” To showcase that potential, Costa is promoting its seven-night Western Mediterranean cruises, which depart from Barcelona or Civitavecchia/Rome and visit France, Spain and Italy in a single week. According to Rustico, the ability to explore three countries in seven nights offers U.S. travelers a genuine taste of Europe’s Mediterranean lifestyle.
On the Caribbean front, Costa is highlighting departures from the Dominican Republic that bypass the typical South Florida embarkation points. Costa Fascinosa sails from Santo Domingo on itineraries that include Martinique, Guadeloupe, St. Maarten, St. Kitts and Costa’s private beach on Catalina Island. Rustico noted that these less-common ports of call help the brand stand out for American guests seeking new island experiences. “Our Caribbean departures have great growth potential, because they introduce U.S. clients to destinations they may never have considered when cruising from Miami or Fort Lauderdale,” he said.
Beyond intriguing ports, Costa’s international passenger mix serves as a major selling point. Cruises themed for Brazil attract large numbers of Brazilians and Argentinians, creating a South American atmosphere onboard. Likewise, Caribbean sailings populated with Mexicans and Colombians deliver a distinctly Latin vibe. European cruises, meanwhile, feature a high proportion of Europeans, allowing North American guests to immerse themselves fully in local customs and culture as they travel.
Costa’s Italian heritage also shapes its gourmet offerings at sea. Rustico highlighted partnerships with Michelin-starred chefs Bruno Barbieri of Italy, Hélène Darroze of France and Ángel León of Spain. Guests can sample three exclusive menus crafted by these culinary masters in Costa’s Archipelago restaurant, which celebrates the brand’s commitment to elevated dining experiences.
A centerpiece of Costa’s North American marketing will be its 2027 World Cruise on Costa Deliziosa. The 139-day voyage departs Savona, Italy, on November 25, 2026, and returns on April 12, 2027, after crossing five continents and visiting 47 destinations. The itinerary includes iconic U.S. ports such as New York, Miami (Port Everglades), San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco, as well as stops in Hawaii, Australia, Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, the Maldives, South Africa and more. Advisors may also book clients on a 100-day segment beginning in San Francisco. “It’s a very beautiful itinerary, and we hope to see a lot of Americans onboard this very special World Cruise,” Rustico said.
With its blend of classic Mediterranean charm, fresh Caribbean adventures, a party-style international ambience and world-class gastronomy, Costa Cruises aims to win over North American travelers seeking both variety and authenticity. Travel advisors and prospective guests can learn more by visiting Costa Cruises online or reaching out to their preferred travel professional. As the line ramps up its engagement with U.S. partners and highlights its distinctive offerings, Costa is poised to transform North American interest into robust bookings and lasting loyalty.
Related News : https://airguide.info/?s=Costa+Cruises