I was in same group as MchrisD and would echo everything that was said. In addition, I pre booked bought a drinks-package Pranzo & Cena for €237.86 which entitles you to wine and beer only at lunch and dinner times. On getting on cruise, Costa offered a package of 6 bottles of wine and 7 bottles of water over €113 cheaper. I asked to change but they would not let me. The wine on the Pranzo package is truly awful. So my advice to everyone, do not pre book, there is no advantage

I wrote a complaint while on the ship which was totally ignored. I followed this up via e mail, only to be informed curtly that the bar manager was right in refusing to swap, there was no explanation. It’s very poor customer care. This is only my third cruise, but would not recommend Costa.

The organised trips are ridiculously expensive, undertake some research prior to you trip so you know what you want to see (the Costa itinerary can help) and negotiate with the taxi drivers waiting outside the docks. Read more