The Costa Fortuna has recently arrived in the historic port city of Piraeus, officially marking the launch of its summer season in the Eastern Mediterranean. This arrival signals the beginning of a fresh chapter for the vessel as it transitions from its spring itinerary in the Canary Islands and Western Europe to its new homeport in Greece, starting on June thirteenth, two thousand twenty-five.
Following a successful spring schedule, the Costa Cruises ship is poised to deliver a captivating cruising experience throughout the warmer months, offering a series of seven-night voyages that also depart from Istanbul, Turkey. This expansion to include Istanbul as an additional embarkation point enhances options for travelers seeking to explore the culturally rich and geographically stunning Eastern Mediterranean basin.
The itineraries for this season place a strong emphasis on the allure of the Greek Islands, showcasing some of the most sought-after destinations in the region. Passengers aboard the Costa Fortuna will enjoy stops at Santorini, famed for its iconic whitewashed buildings and breathtaking sunsets; Rhodes, known for its medieval Old Town and vibrant beach scene; Heraklion, a gateway to the ancient Minoan civilization; as well as Kos and Mykonos, each offering their own unique blend of history, charm, and lively nightlife.
One of the defining features of the ship’s schedule is its extended visits to Piraeus, the principal port serving Athens and one of the largest in Europe. Here, the ship anchors for longer periods, allowing guests ample opportunity to explore the rich history, culture, and cuisine of Greece’s capital city. The Costa Fortuna typically departs Piraeus late in the evening, around eleven o’clock, giving travelers flexibility to enjoy full days ashore and return comfortably to the ship.
With a gross tonnage of one hundred three thousand, the Costa Fortuna is well-equipped to navigate the diverse waters of the Eastern Mediterranean, combining spacious accommodations with a wide range of onboard amenities designed to ensure a memorable cruise experience. The ship’s continued presence in this region is scheduled through late September, after which it will shift focus back to the Western Mediterranean.
During the fall season, the vessel is set to offer longer fourteen-night cruises departing from prominent ports across Spain, France, and Italy. These voyages will provide travelers with a comprehensive exploration of the Western Mediterranean’s famed coastal cities, historic sites, and vibrant cultures, catering to those who seek an extended luxury cruise experience.
As the year closes, the Costa Fortuna is slated to reposition once again, this time returning to the Canary Islands for a winter itinerary. Starting in December, the ship will offer regional cruises through the mild and inviting climate of the islands, which remain a popular year-round destination for European travelers and visitors from around the world.
This winter deployment will continue into early April of two thousand twenty-six, marking nearly a full year of diverse cruising opportunities spanning two of Europe’s most beloved maritime regions. Following this, the ship is scheduled to complete farewell seasons in both the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, allowing travelers one final chance to experience the vessel before it exits Costa Cruises’ fleet.
Costa Cruises recently announced the sale of the Costa Fortuna, with plans for the ship to leave the company next year. This move is part of a broader fleet renewal strategy, ensuring the brand maintains a modern and efficient lineup of vessels to meet evolving traveler expectations.
The Fortuna’s next chapter will see it join Margaritaville at Sea, following in the wake of two former Costa Cruises ships—the ex-Costa Classica and the ex-Costa Atlantica—that have also been acquired by Margaritaville. This acquisition represents a strategic expansion for Margaritaville’s cruise offerings and its growing presence in the North American market.
While detailed plans for the Fortuna’s transformation are still forthcoming, the vessel is expected to become Margaritaville at Sea’s third homeport in the United States, a development that will broaden the company’s reach and appeal to new audiences.
The ship, capable of accommodating two thousand seven hundred twenty guests, will undergo a significant refurbishment prior to its relaunch. This refurbishment aims to infuse the ship with Margaritaville’s distinctive style and signature venues, blending relaxation, entertainment, and tropical flair to create a unique cruising environment aligned with the brand’s vibrant lifestyle ethos.
Set to welcome its first Margaritaville guests in late two thousand twenty-six, the Costa Fortuna’s new role marks a notable milestone for both the vessel and its new operator, promising fresh experiences for travelers eager to explore cruise vacations with a laid-back yet lively atmosphere.
Costa Fortuna begins its 2025 summer season with immersive cruises through Italy, France, Turkey, Spain, and Greece, offering travelers unforgettable Mediterranean experiences. These voyages combine iconic ports, extended stays, and rich cultural exploration across the region.
In summary, the Costa Fortuna’s arrival in Piraeus sets the stage for an exciting summer season rich with cultural exploration across the Eastern Mediterranean’s famed islands and historic ports. Its upcoming transitions—from extended itineraries in the Western Mediterranean to winter voyages in the Canary Islands, and ultimately its sale and transformation under Margaritaville at Sea—illustrate the dynamic lifecycle of cruise vessels as they adapt to changing market demands and brand strategies. Passengers can look forward to a well-rounded cruising experience this season, enriched by the beauty of the Mediterranean and the promise of the ship’s future reinvention.
Tags: Eastern Mediterranean, Costa Cruises, Costa Fortuna, Piraeus, cruise vacations
