Costa Smeralda Cruises | CruiseHuddle - CruiseHuddle

Costa Smeralda Cruises: Your Ocean Adventure Awaits

Explore the Mediterranean aboard one of the world's largest and newest cruise ships, with 184 sailings to choose from.

CruiseHuddle Snapshot

140

Upcoming Sailings

2

Active Listings

$1,209

From

Costa Smeralda

The Story

The Costa Smeralda represents a bold leap forward for Costa Cruises, combining Italian style with impressive scale. Launched in 2019, this 183,900-gross-ton vessel ranks among the largest cruise ships at sea, welcoming up to 6,554 passengers. Built as part of the Excellence-Helios class (sharing DNA with Carnival's XL platform), the Smeralda brings contemporary design and expansive public spaces to the Costa fleet.

This ship calls the Mediterranean home, with sailings departing from iconic ports including Savona on Italy's Riviera, Marseille along France's sun-soaked coast, and Barcelona's vibrant waterfront. The Smeralda's itineraries showcase the best of Mediterranean cruising, blending historic cities, coastal gems, and island escapes. Onboard, you'll find the signature Costa experience elevated to match the ship's grand proportions—think multiple dining venues, entertainment options that cater to international tastes, and spaces designed for both lively socializing and quiet relaxation.

With 184 upcoming sailings and prices starting at $1,059, the Costa Smeralda offers plenty of opportunities to experience modern ocean cruising with a distinctly European flair. The ship appeals to families seeking variety and space, couples drawn to Mediterranean culture, and anyone who appreciates cruising on a vessel that balances size with character. Whether you're a Costa veteran or considering your first voyage with the line, the Smeralda delivers the amenities and atmosphere of a floating resort.

Ready to find your perfect sailing? Browse the Costa Smeralda's upcoming departures and connect with fellow cruisers who've experienced this remarkable ship firsthand.

Onboard Highlights

🎢

Whirlpool Galaxy Sky Trekking

Suspended sky-walk course lets guests trek above the top deck with harnessed adventure paths.

🍝

Archipelago Specialty Restaurant

Upscale dining venue serves refined Italian dishes crafted by onboard chefs in an elegant setting.

🌊

Poolside Solarium Deck

Expansive pool areas with retractable dome roofing offer swimming and lounging in any weather.

🎭

Theatre-Style Grand Show Lounge

Multi-level theater hosts elaborate Costa production shows, live music and evening entertainment.

🍹

Samsara Spa & Wellness Bar

Dedicated spa zone with thermal suites, sauna and a wellness bar for relaxation at sea.

🎰

Lively Casino Lounge

Vibrant casino deck offers slot machines, table games and a buzzing social atmosphere.

Departures

Upcoming Sailings

Active Listings

Find Your Crew

By the Numbers

Ship Specifications

📅 Year Built

2019

👥 Passengers

6,554

👨‍✈️ Crew

1,678

🏢 Decks

20

🛏️ Cabins

2,612

⚖️ Gross Tonnage

183900 gt

📏 Length

337 m / 1106 ft

↔️ Beam

42 m / 138 ft

⚡ Speed

23 kn / 43 km/h / 26 mph

🏳️ Flag

Italy

🔧 Builder

Meyer Werft (Turku, Finland)

🏷️ Ship Class

Excellence-Helios (Carnival XL)

🎀 Christened By

Penelope Cruz Sanchez

⚓ Sister Ships

Costa ToscanaCarnival (CelebrationJubileeFestivaleTropicale)AIDA (novacosma)P&O (IonaArvia)

Questions

Costa Smeralda was built in 2019, making it one of the newest ships in the Costa Cruises fleet. Its recent construction means modern amenities, updated safety features, and contemporary design throughout the vessel.
Costa Smeralda can accommodate up to 6,554 passengers at full capacity. This large passenger count means extensive onboard facilities and entertainment options, though the ship's design helps distribute crowds across multiple venues and deck spaces.
Costa Smeralda primarily departs from Mediterranean ports including Savona on Italy's Riviera, Marseille in southern France, and Barcelona in Spain. These homeports provide convenient access to Western Mediterranean itineraries and excellent pre- or post-cruise exploration opportunities.
Costa Smeralda focuses on Mediterranean cruising, visiting ports throughout this historic region. Itineraries typically feature a mix of Italian, French, and Spanish ports, along with island destinations that showcase the Mediterranean's diverse cultures and landscapes.
Costa Smeralda cruises start at $1,059 per person. Pricing varies based on sailing date, cabin category, itinerary length, and booking timing. Shoulder season sailings and inside cabins typically offer the most budget-friendly options.
Beyond the fare

What Costa Cruises actually costs

These rates apply fleetwide across Costa Cruises.

Verified July 2026
Gratuities
per person, per day

Published rates, not a quote. Cruise pricing changes frequently — confirm with the cruise line before booking.

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