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Costa Cruise Line

MS CostaAllegra

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Reviewed by: Paolo Degrandi
# previous cruises: 10+
Date of Trip: October 26, 1997
Itinerary: Mediterranean

The Costa Allegra is a very elegant medium size ship that offers the unforgettable opportunities to explore the most fascinating places in the Mediterranean and South America in a comfortable surrounding at a very interesting price.

The Costa Allegra is called the " Crystal Ship " for her many glass walled surfaces that offers spectacular panoramic views on the sea.There are many lounges on board, from the larger ones as the Follies Bergeres Theater and the Flamenco Ballroom, to the more intimate as a well equipped library, a winter garden and the spectacular Murano Bar.The most spectacular place is the glass domed disco Crystal Club. There is a small swimming pool plus three jacuzzis. The fitness center includes also a sauna and a turkish bath but it's often cramped during many cruises.

The cuisine was the strongest point of the cruise, with excellent choices in quality and quantity.Each evenings there was a regional italian dish in the menu, excellent for the persons who love this cuisine.The service was attentive and warm.There is also a large buffet, the Yacht Club, with outdoor sections, that offers a wide selections of hot and cold dishes.

The cabins are a good sized and fully equipped with a functional bathroom, tv, safe and phon.The soundproof was good.The in cabin service was very attentive, even if at extra charge.There are also 8 large mini suites with private balconies and 3 wonderful suites equipped with a walk in wardrobe, a large bathroom with a jacuzzi bathtub, and a living area.

The entertainment was excellent performed by very talented and nice italian animators.The shows in the theater were truly in Broadway style, quite a rarity for Costa Cruises.

The itinerary was "unique" but couldn't be repeated in the next future due to the political situation in the Middle Est. In 11 days the ship stopped at Port Said ( Egypt ), Beruit ( Lebanon ), Tartous ( Syria ), Limassol ( Cyprus ) and Heraklion ( Greece ).There was a wide choice of excursions. The tours to Palmyra and Baalbeeck were simply unforgettable.

Costa Cruises is a family oriented company so the children enjoy special cruise fares, dedicated spaces on board and professional animators just for them.

There was a good mix of nationalities, with many Germans and French, and two small groups of Italians and English speaking passengers (British and Canadians ). I'm yet in contact with many nice persons met during this cruise.