Costa Serena Returns to Shanghai, Marking Costa Cruises’ China Comeback

Costa Cruises has officially returned to mainland China after a five-year hiatus, marking a significant development for the cruise provider’s operations. On June 12, 2025, the 2007-built Costa Serena docked in Shanghai as part of a multi-homeport initiative in Asia. This milestone follows a decade-long focus on Asian markets by Costa Cruises, which paused mainland China sailings in early 2020 due to global disruptions.

Costa Serena’s New Itineraries in Asia

With a capacity for 3,000 passengers, the Costa Serena is currently operating four-night cruises featuring key destinations in China, Japan, and South Korea. These itineraries include stops at Shanghai, Fukuoka, and Seogwipo-si, offering travelers three similar journey options through late June. The voyages also include sea days for passengers to traverse the East China Sea and the Yellow Sea.

After this initial deployment in mainland China, the Costa Serena will reposition to Taiwan later in the year. Sailing from Taiwanese ports, it will continue short cruises with calls in Japan and South Korea, reinforcing Costa Cruises’ strategic focus on East Asia.

Future Plans: Western Hemisphere Transition

Costa Cruises has revealed longer-term plans for the Costa Serena, indicating a transition to the Western Hemisphere beginning in late 2026. This shift coincides with the sale of Costa Fortuna to Margaritaville at Sea and reflects the company’s evolving vessel strategies. Upon returning to South America, the Costa Serena is also slated for Mediterranean cruises.

The ship’s deployment strategy will culminate in a world cruise between October and December 2026, carrying passengers on a far-reaching journey from Japan to Argentina. This ambitious itinerary underscores Costa Cruises’ commitment to expanding both regional and global offerings.

Scheduled Refurbishment and Upgrades

In December 2025, the Costa Serena is scheduled for a comprehensive refurbishment aimed at upgrading the onboard experience. Improvements will enhance dining venues and refresh staterooms and suites. Costa Cruises has hinted at other innovative features that will align with the evolving preferences of its passengers, with further details expected to be announced closer to the refurbishment date.

A Decade of Exclusivity in Asia

Since its initial transfer to China in 2015, the Costa Serena has served exclusively in Asian waters, contributing significantly to Costa Cruises’ regional expansion. Before its Asian stint, the vessel offered itineraries across Europe, South America, and the Middle East. Built in Italy at the Fincantieri shipyard, the Costa Serena exemplifies the cruise line’s adaptable global approach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why did Costa Cruises pause its operations in mainland China?

Costa Cruises temporarily ceased operations from mainland China ports in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted global travel and tourism industries.

What itineraries does the Costa Serena currently offer in Asia?

The Costa Serena provides four-night cruises from Shanghai, featuring destinations in China, Japan, and South Korea. Passengers can board in Shanghai, Fukuoka, and Seogwipo-si, with routes through the East China Sea and Yellow Sea.

What is the significance of the Costa Serena’s 2026 world cruise?

The world cruise, planned from October to December 2026, will connect Japan to Argentina, offering unique itineraries across multiple regions as part of Costa Cruises’ global market strategy.

What enhancements are expected from the Costa Serena’s refurbishment?

The refurbishment project scheduled for late 2025 will upgrade dining experiences and refresh staterooms and suites. Additional onboard features will be introduced to meet evolving passenger demands.

Where was the Costa Serena built, and what regions has it sailed?

The Costa Serena was built in Italy at the Fincantieri shipyard. Before its exclusive focus on Asian waters, it sailed in Europe, South America, and the Middle East.

As Costa Cruises reinvigorates its presence in China, this return spotlights broader efforts to reestablish important regional connections while exploring opportunities for growth in other markets. The Costa Serena’s evolving route network reflects the industry’s ongoing drive to balance local demand with innovative global offerings.