July 6, 2009 - Carnival today announced that the 1,488-passenger Costa Europa has been chartered to British travel company Thomson Cruises for ten years from April 2010.
Under the agreement, Thomson has an option to purchase the ship any time after five years.
Costa Europa joined the Costa Cruises fleet in 2002 and was one of the first ships to operate on regular cruises in the Arabian Gulf, with departures from Dubai, and the Indian Ocean out of Mauritius.
The Costa Europa, acquired from Holland America Line, for which she operated under the name of Westerdam in the Caribbean and Alaska, joined the Costa fleet on March 23, 2002, arriving in the Genoese dry dock, where she was refurbished at a cost of approximately 5million euros.
Major alterations included the creation of the "Medusa Ball Room", with seating capacity for 450, named after a large fresco depicting the legend of the Gorgon; the "Delo Bar", an exclusive area with a cosy atmosphere ideal for enjoying a quiet cocktail; and the "Squok Club", reserved for Costa Crociere's youngest Guests and featuring a fresco that explains the legend of Europa. The refit also involved the substantial upgrading of the suites and the Casino as well as other important improvements in the crew spaces.
This vessel stands out on account of her classical and refined style, her high standard of comfort and her splendid works of art. The main feature is the clever combination of roomy lounges and cosy corners in a classy atmosphere. The outside areas are also vast and comfortable with two swimming pools, one with a sliding roof, two jacuzzis and a sports centre with two multi-purpose courts.
