Costa Classica (photo by PINGGOT ZULUETA)

"As I was driving along Roxas Blvd., I was overwhelmed to see this majestic ship docked at the pier. The Costa Classica was such an inspiring sight.” –Department of Tourism Sec. Ace Durano
And indeed, it was. Costa Cruises, Italy’s largest tourism group and cruise company, has included Manila in Costa Classica’s itinerary. Last Oct. 26, Costa Classica made its maiden call at the port of Manila, bringing more than 1,000 passengers to the city. This signals the start of their regular calls in the city’s port, a decision that was welcomed by Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and Department of Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

“We hope that the arrival of Costa Classica will strengthen the bond between the two countries. We are more than happy to welcome guests from all over the world,” said Mayor Lim.

Costa Classica is one of the most popular ships in the fleet. It has a total of 654 cabins that can house a maximum of 1,680 guests. Built in 1991 and refurbished in 2001 and 2005, the interior of the ship is a fusion of modern and Renaissance art. Exquisite murals and other art forms can be seen inside the vessel. Upon entering the ship, guests will see a sculpture by artist Arnaldo Pomodoro. Meanwhile, a mosaic based on Emilio Tadini’s artworks adds an artsy feel to the Colosseo Theatre. Even the tabletops at the Puccini Ballroom illustrate scenes from Puccini operas.

Eat, breathe, and speak Italian — for the whole duration of the cruise that is. You wouldn’t get bored when you are onboard, as there are many amenities that can cater to your needs. Diners are greeted in Italian when they dine at Tivoli and at the Trattoria Buffet. Passengers may dine al fresco on the terrace overlooking the sea at the Trattoria Buffet. There are seven bars inside the ship where one can unwind and drink. Health buffs can hit the gym anytime and there are treatment rooms, spa, sauna, Turkish bath, and jacuzzis. Of course, there are swimming pools at the Piazza Trevi. One can either sunbathe or swim during the daytime or night time. There is even an outdoor jogging track on the ship.

Shopaholics can always visit the shops onboard that offer branded goods. Meanwhile, guests can socialize with other passengers at the Piazza Navona or at the Puccini Ballroom. During the evening, one can relax and enjoy the show at the Colosseo Theatre. If you’re feeling lucky, you can take your chances at their casino. If one wants a quiet time, simply marvel at the stars at the Piazza Trevi or read a book at the library.

According to Dario Rustico, sales and marketing director of Costa Cruises Pacific Asia Operations, despite the global crisis, Costa Cruises is still expanding its market. He noted that cruising is starting to become a trend especially in Asia. Costa Classica’s usual route includes Shanghai (China), Fukuoka (Japan), Nagasaki (Japan), and Cheju (Korea). But starting this year, Manila will be a part of the ship’s itinerary and this is expected to make a positive impact on the local economy. It also means additional employment and livelihood opportunities for Filipinos. To date, 25 percent of Costa Classica’s work force is composed of Filipinos.

Rustico added that 80 percent of their passengers are from Europe and they look forward to visiting the Philippines, which to them is a must-see exotic place. In a recent survey conducted by Costa Cruises, the Philippines was voted by the passengers as the country with the best welcoming reception. Because of the warm response by the passengers, Costa Cruises decided to include Manila in Costa Classica’s destinations.

For 12 hours, passengers are free to explore the city and experience the beauty of Manila. In the coming year, 22,000 passengers are scheduled to arrive in Manila via Costa Classica, Costa Allegra, and Costa Romantica.