Opalescent and glorious, the Costa Favolosa is a 3,000-passenger vessel constructed at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard in Venice, Italy. Weighing in at 114,500 tons, this extraordinary ship dominates the ocean waves.
Boasting amenities including the Asian-themed Samsara Spa, a pool area with giant movie screen and sliding glass roof, and a Grand Prix driving simulator, the Favolosa doesn't fail to impress. But there are also six new suites with private verandahs and jacuzzis, as well as a new area for teens with a 4D cinema and ice cream bar as part of Costa's ongoing effort to appeal to families with children of all ages.
You can expect to hear a variety of European languages aboard the vessel, particularly during peak season. A diverse passenger base means that announcements are made in Italian, English, Spanish, French and German. During the summer months, dress code is very much 'anything goes', and only a handful of tuxedos ever come out for the formal night. It's a party atmosphere all day every day, and people tend to go to bed late, whatever their age.
One benefit to holidaying on the Favolosa is that you have plenty of eating options. There are an impressive nine venues in all, the majority of which serve food at 6:30pm and 9pm to reflect various European lifestyles. Of particular note is the Ca' d'Oro Restaurant Buffet, which serves up an Italian-style breakfast, lunch and dinner.
If you're looking for something a little more interesting, the Club Favolosa has come up with a number of unusual food combinations worthy of Heston Blumenthal himself. Restaurant Samsara is also available for those who are looking for lighter and healthier cuisine.
Finally, a self-service grill and burger bar can be found on deck ten - it's open throughout the day.
The pool will likely be your first port of call once you've boarded the ship and settled in. There are separate aqua areas for both children and adults, but the rules are fairly lax and you'll find families enjoying themselves everywhere.
For those seeking something a little more sporting, virtual golf facilities and sports courts are available, including a jogging track. But if you're looking to recuperate on your holiday, you can't beat the Samsara Spa, which includes a jacuzzi, beauty salon, sauna and steam room. Head to the jacuzzi HydroMassage pools for an education in relaxation.