If I had to put it all in a few words I would have to say that the "Italian Style" atmosphere made for one of the most relaxed cruises that I have ever experienced. There was a calm feeling everywhere on the ship, and the staff and crew were very friendly and pleasant to be around. Announcements were almost non-existent.

Food: Everybody always asks "How Was The Food?" I am happy to report that the "Italian Style" cuisine was great! Please understand that "Italian Style" does not mean spaghetti and pizza at every meal. At every meal there was a special menu item called "Best of Italy". This was usually some sort of unusual pasta dish. The other traditional menu items were prepared wonderfully, often with an Italian flair! There were plenty of choices at each meal, and every-one that we spoke to was very pleased.

Cabin Facilities: Our cabin was a Cat.9 with a private balcony, located on the "I Clowns" deck (deck 5). Because of the shape of the ship just forward of the life boats, our balcony was larger than most others on the ship. (ask us about one of these when booking your Costa cruise). The cabin was very comfortable, and well laid out. There was ample closet space, a safe, and a small refrigerator, too! I believe the cabin was supposed to be around 200 sq. ft. The TV carried the usual fare of on-board information, as well as ABC, CBS & NBC programming. Movies were provided in five languages! (honest!)

Itinerary: This sailing was an Eastern Caribbean cruise. We sailed from Ft. Lauderdale and visited San Juan, St. Thomas, Catalina Island (located at Casa de Campo; Dominician Republic), and Nassau. Catalina Island is a private island experience operated by Costa Cruise Line. The beach was very clean, and the Bar-B-Q lunch was better than on most other private islands. The ship was close by, so tender service was very quick. Costa Cruise Line has built a new pier and terminal facility at Casa de Campo for it's ships.

Entertainment: The Caruso Theater aboard the Costa Atlantica will knock your socks off! It is a beautiful three - story high masterpiece of cruise ship design. The balcony is huge, and the seating is actually more comfortable than the seats on the main floor. The shows were a combination of the usual musical routines, but with a definite European flavor. There were none of the 50's & 60's oldies shows that you get on most ships. Instead the variety spanned several types of entertainment; including balancing acts, Broadway style musicals, and even a tribute to Italian movies (which is the theme of the decor of the ship, by the way). The final night's "Talent Night" was a real hoot! Each volunteer contestant had to subject himself to the approval or disapproval of the audience and Caesar himself! I have never seen such a production before for a talent show. Don't miss it!