Costa Concordia was the biggest Italian passenger ship ever built when she was christened on July 7, 2006, in Civitavecchia - the nearest port to Rome.

Costa Concordia has four swimming pools, two of which have retractable roofs for all weather cruising. The central pool is also surrounded by an elegant relaxation area extending over two decks.

The 290-metre long ship has 1,502 cabins, 571 of which (38 per cent) have balconies.

One of the main innovations was the "Samsara Spa", an exclusive 1,900 square metre wellness center, stretching over two decks, making it the largest of its kind ever built on a cruise ship.

Facilities include a gym, health spa, indoor thalassotherapy pool, treatment rooms, sauna, Turkish bath and solarium. In addition, 55 cabins and 12 suites on the ship have direct access to the spa.

As well as the wellness center, other innovations on board comprise a Formula 1 driving simulator and two swimming pools with sliding glass roofs, one of which has a giant 18 m2 video screen.