Costa Cruises Transfers Costa Fortuna, Modernizes Serena in Fleet Overhaul

Costa Cruises, the Italian cruise brand under Carnival Corporation, has announced the transfer of its oldest vessel, the Costa Fortuna, to a new owner in September 2026. Simultaneously, the company is proceeding with an extensive refurbishment of its sister ship, the Costa Serena, under a multi-year €200 million modernization program that was launched in 2021. These updates form part of Costa Cruises’ broader plan to optimize its fleet and cater to evolving market demands.

Costa Fortuna Transfer in September 2026

Delivered by Fincantieri in 2003, the 102,669-gross-ton Costa Fortuna has long been a mainstay in Costa Cruises’ operations, offering Mediterranean sailings and, more recently, itineraries to Greece, Turkey, and the Canary Islands. According to company statements, the ship will continue its Mediterranean and Canary Islands voyages through the winter of 2025–26 before completing its transfer. While details of the buyer remain undisclosed, it has been indicated that Costa Fortuna may operate from U.S. ports following its delivery in September 2026.

This transfer is part of Costa Cruises’ strategic fleet reduction efforts, aimed at focusing on newer ships and reallocating resources to high-potential vessels. The move follows other recent adjustments to Costa’s lineup, including the departure of older ships and the introduction of the Costa by Carnival concept in North America.

Costa Serena Overhaul and Repositioning

Costa Serena, launched in 2007, is scheduled for an extensive refit by November 2025. The modernization will include a new food court featuring restaurants developed in collaboration with Michelin-star chefs, redesigned bars and pools, updated staterooms, and refreshed dining areas. These enhancements constitute the final stage of Costa Cruises’ €200 million investment in its fleetwide upgrades.

After its refurbishment, Costa Serena will embark on a world cruise from Tokyo to Buenos Aires in late 2026, sailing between October and December. Subsequently, the ship will operate in South America for the 2026–27 winter season before returning to the Mediterranean in early 2027. This itinerary marks Costa Serena’s renewed presence in Western markets after several years in Asia.

Fleet Downsizing and Market Strategy

In recent years, Costa Cruises has reduced its fleet by transferring or retiring six ships, including the newer Costa Venezia and Costa Firenze to Carnival Cruise Line under the Costa by Carnival umbrella. Other vessels, such as Costa Victoria and Costa Romantica, were sold or scrapped as part of a broader restructuring. As of 2026, Costa’s fleet will consist of eight ships, including two LNG-powered vessels, Costa Toscana and Costa Smeralda. These strategic moves aim to streamline operations, boost profitability, and maintain a strong presence in key regions like Europe, South America, and Asia.

Industry Perspective

In a statement regarding these developments, Mario Zanetti, President of Costa Cruises, said, “Our strategic path is designed to strengthen our presence in key markets and offer unique vacation options for guests. The transfer of Costa Fortuna and the upgrades to Costa Serena reflect our commitment to operational excellence and sustainable growth.”

By combining fleet optimization with innovative onboard experiences, Costa Cruises seeks to remain competitive, control costs, and adapt to changing passenger preferences. The company aims to maintain a balanced focus on high-demand regions and longer, more immersive itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why is Costa transferring the Costa Fortuna to a new owner in 2026?

The move aligns with Costa Cruises’ strategic fleet optimization plan, which focuses on newer vessels and reallocating resources to ships with high market potential. Although the buyer remains undisclosed, Costa Fortuna is expected to shift to U.S. ports after the transfer.

What upgrades are planned for Costa Serena?

Costa Serena’s overhaul includes a signature food court with Michelin-star collaborations, redesigned bars and pools, refreshed staterooms, and modernized dining areas. This renovation is part of Costa Cruises’ €200 million fleetwide enhancement initiative.

Where will Costa Serena operate after its refurbishment?

Upon completing its multi-month world cruise from Tokyo to Buenos Aires in late 2026, Costa Serena will spend the 2026–27 winter season in South America before returning to Mediterranean itineraries in early 2027.

How has Costa Cruises adjusted its fleet since the pandemic?

The company has downsized significantly by transferring or retiring six ships, modernizing existing vessels, and focusing on a smaller yet more advanced fleet in key markets. This approach is designed to improve operational efficiency and passenger demand alignment.

What is the "Costa by Carnival" concept?

Costa by Carnival involves ships like Carnival Venezia and Carnival Firenze, which offer Italian-inspired cruise experiences for the American market. These vessels operate from U.S. ports, providing travelers with Costa’s signature Italian flair under the Carnival Cruise Line banner.

These strategic moves underscore Costa Cruises’ commitment to evolving with market trends while preserving its distinct brand identity. By prioritizing modernization, streamlining capacities, and introducing new itineraries, the company seeks to bolster its competitiveness and broaden its global footprint.