Costa Smeralda Cruises

The Costa Smeralda, or “Emerald Coast,” is a picturesque area located in the northeastern part of Sardinia, Italy. Renowned for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious resorts, this exclusive destination has attracted high-profile visitors and celebrities from around the world. Fun fact: Costa Smeralda was developed in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan, who envisioned a high-end vacation destination that would preserve the beauty of Sardinia while offering luxury amenities. Cruising to Costa Smeralda is an ideal way to experience the breathtaking coastline, indulge in sumptuous culinary delights, and explore charming coastal towns—all from the comfort of your cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Costa Smeralda

• MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 6 that include itineraries featuring Costa Smeralda. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Poesia stand out for their exceptional onboard experiences, family-friendly amenities, and a variety of dining options that showcase regional flavours. The MSC Virtuosa also features state-of-the-art entertainment facilities, including a rooftop garden. Most departures occur from Miami or Barcelona, ensuring seamless access to the captivating coastal charms of Costa Smeralda.
• P&O Cruises has a fleet size of 7, with 5 focused on itineraries that highlight Costa Smeralda. The Azura and Britannia are particularly appreciated for their relaxed atmosphere and diverse dining choices, from casual eateries to fine dining. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Valletta, making it easy for guests to embark on their adventure while exploring stunning Mediterranean vistas.
• Cunard consists of a fleet of 4 luxury ships, with 1 dedicated to cruises in Costa Smeralda. The Queen Victoria provides an elegant experience for guests, showcasing Cunard’s legendary style and impeccable service, including lavish afternoon tea and refined dining options. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Rome, offering smooth transitions into the beauty of the Italian coastline.
• Princess Cruises features a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 that focus on itineraries to Costa Smeralda. The Island Princess and Majestic Princess are especially popular, offering an array of entertainment options and luxurious amenities, including spa services and themed dining experiences. Departures most often occur from Rome or Southampton, ensuring ease of embarkation for your Italian escape.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises operates a fleet of 29 ships, with 6 offering itineraries that include Costa Smeralda. The Anthem of the Seas and Brilliance of the Seas are highlights for their excellent onboard activities like surf simulators and Broadway-style performances that appeal to families and adventure-seekers alike. Most departures occur from Barcelona or Rome, providing wonderful accessibility to this stunning region.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for Costa Smeralda

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 featuring itineraries to Costa Smeralda. The Marina and Sirena are known for their elegant atmosphere, exceptional service, and culinary excellence, ensuring guests experience a truly luxurious cruise. Departures frequently occur from Miami or Barcelona, facilitating an easy transition to explore the enticing archipelago.
• Azamara Cruises has a fleet of 4 ships, with all focused on itineraries including Costa Smeralda. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are valued for their immersive, destination-focused approach, allowing guests to enjoy late-night stays and local experiences. Most departures take place from Lisbon or Athens, creating smooth navigations into this coastal jewel.
• Seabourn features a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 dedicated to itineraries in Costa Smeralda. The Seabourn Ovation is celebrated for its all-inclusive offerings and top-notch service, providing an intimate and lavish experience. Most departures commonly occur from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring a stylish entry into this scenic region.
• Explora Journeys consists of 2 unique ships, both offering itineraries to Costa Smeralda. The EXPLORA I and II are designed for luxury and wellness, featuring upscale amenities and exquisite dining tailored to Italian cuisine. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring an elegant start to your exploration along the stunning coastline.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 offering itineraries to Costa Smeralda. The Bolette is known for its welcoming atmosphere and personal service, catering to cruisers who appreciate a traditional cruising experience. Departures commonly happen from Southampton, providing convenient access for UK travellers looking to explore this beautiful region.

Top Harbours to Experience Along the Costa Smeralda

• Porto Cervo – A glamorous resort town, Porto Cervo is known for its luxury yachts and exclusive designer shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the marina, admiring the stunning boats and breathtaking views. Dine at one of the upscale waterfront restaurants where you can sample delicious Sardinian specialities while soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
• Olbia – This bustling town is your gateway to Costa Smeralda, and it offers a delightful mix of historical landmarks and modern amenities. Explore the Basilica di San Simplicio, a Romanesque church dating back to the 11th century, or spend time at the local markets where you can find fresh ingredients and handmade goods. Visit nearby beaches like Pittulongu for a relaxing day under the sun.
• Golfo Aranci – Renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Golfo Aranci is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or engaging in various watersports. Paola Beach offers fine sand and shallow waters ideal for families, while the nearby Spiaggia di Capo Figari boasts breathtaking views. Relax at beach clubs or enjoy local seafood at the shoreline restaurants.
• Palau – This charming village is famous for its stunning natural landscapes. From here, you can take a boat trip to the stunning La Maddalena Archipelago, with its serene beaches and crystal-clear waters. Explore the local shops and indulge in traditional Sardinian cuisine at a local trattoria, enjoying dishes made from fresh produce and regional ingredients.
• La Maddalena – An archipelago of islands known for their rugged beauty, La Maddalena offers stunning beaches and pristine nature. Enjoy swimming in the turquoise waters and sunbathing on the soft sands. Visitors can explore charming coastal villages and indulge in local cuisine at one of the food stalls or restaurants, often showcasing seafood caught that day.

Best Times to Cruise to the Costa Smeralda

The Costa Smeralda enjoys a Mediterranean climate that makes it appealing all year round. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 8°C to 16°C, making it a pleasant time for cultural exploration without high tourist crowds. Spring (April to June) brings warmer temperatures between 15°C and 25°C, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the colourful blooms of the region. Summer months (July to September) can be hot, reaching up to 30°C; this period is peak tourist season, bustling with life and vibrant local events. Autumn (October to December) cools down to about 10°C to 20°C, providing a lovely experience with beautiful autumn colours and harvest celebrations across the region.

Costs of Cruising to the Costa Smeralda

A typical one-week cruise to Costa Smeralda generally costs between £800 and £1,600, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation chosen. Luxury cruises often start around £3,500 and can vary significantly based on the level of service provided. Onshore, expect to spend approximately £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks usually cost around £3 to £8, ensuring you can enjoy the delightful flavours of Sardinian cuisine during your visit.

With its stunning vistas, rich cultural offerings, and exquisite local cuisine, the Costa Smeralda is a destination that every traveller should experience. Now is the perfect time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st to uncover the breathtaking beauty and enduring charm of this wonderful coastal escape!