Costa Smeralda

[wishIwascruising]

We will be cruising on Costa Smeralda on what I heard was her maiden voyage, Nov. 14, 2019.  I'm having second thoughts about choosing cruising on such a new ship.  I just know from staying at new hotels, there are always some hiccups, some serious.  Anyone have any experience or thoughts?  This is our first Costa Cruise.  We normally cruise on Princess.  I know this will be different and that's okay.  One thing I have read is that smoking is allowed in many public areas or balconies.  Hoping that's not true. The itinerary is very good and looking forward to the experience, just wondering if I should book a later cruise instead.  Thanks for your thoughts. 

[alicat58]

Hi

 

Smoking is allowed on balconies. There is also usually an enclosed cigar bar on the ship and you might smell smoke just on passing it. Otherwise all the smoking areas are outside on deck. Some are quite close to doors but that has never bothered us and hubby is an ex-smoker and totally anti-smoking. One side of the aft pool deck is usually smoking. Varies from ship to ship.

 

We've never been on such a new ship so cannot comment on what glitzes there might be.

 

Riana

[panamapd]

You will be fine!  We are embarking the Costa Smeralda for her christening on 2nd November for 4 nights, so she will be even "newer" than your sailing.

 

We have done maiden cruises before - Quantum of the Seas (TA to New York), Ovation of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas,  Majestic Princess and Harmony of the Seas.  Apart from the "disaster" that was inaugural Harmony, they have all been great and I can honestly say, did not experience any problems that tainted the cruise itself.

 

You state that it is the maiden but I am sure that is 21st October 2019 from Hamburg to Savona so am sure that by the time you sail on her, any wrinkles will be ironed out!

[InVelvetSlumber]

I was on the 'disaster' inaugural Harmony trips and I don't know what all the fuss was about 😄 I had a great time, the only thing that affected me was that the dive show I'd booked to watch wasn't ready.

 

Smeralda will be a huge ship, so even if couple of things aren't finished or perfect, you can avoid them and do something else!