Costa Cruises Winter 2026–27 Brings Spectacular Island Escapes, Historic Cities and Tropical Adventures

Costa Cruises has launched a programme of six themed experiences which form part of its 2026/27 winter cruise programme, taking in some of the Mediterranean’s most diverse cities, the volcanic Canary Islands and tropical Caribbean islands. The 66 cruises across the six themes take in three Mediterranean itineraries, two Caribbean itineraries and one Canary Islands itinerary.

This announcement means a greater change to Costa’s holiday approach. Instead of promoting cruises predominantly through ports and departure dates, each cruise will be a sense of place story. Costa’s Sea & Land will be a combination of on-shore excursions and the on-board experience with the programme of the surrounding sea.

How Will Costa Cruises Transform Winter Holidays Across Three Popular Regions

Costa Cruises winter programme consists of six itinerary themes, to suit various interests. Mediterranean departures highlight historic sights, authentic districts and cultural activities. Canary Islands sailings will explore volcanic scenery, rugged coasts and natural attractions.

Caribbean, with routes focused on island discovery, beaches and lush tropical environments. The company is developing special sailings at sea which can be added to the destinations being visited.

This approach allows holidaymakers to compare cruises based on their desired activities rather than just the point of departure.

This destination-led concept will be rolled out through summer 2027, to include Western Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean and Northern Europe.

Mediterranean Cruises Bring Together Historic Cities, Local Markets and Coastal Culture

The Mediterranean forms the largest part of Costa’s highlighted winter collection, with the Costa Cruises itinerary concepts.

Costa Toscana operates the Iconic Mediterranean experience, featuring destinations associated with Rome, Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca and Palermo. Travellers can explore historic architecture, Mediterranean waterfronts and regional food traditions.

Costa Pacifica features Mediterranean Soul, an itinerary that places particular emphasis on local culture. Barcelona’s lively Ramblas, Tunis through La Goulette, Naples and Palermo provide contrasting urban experiences.

Naples offers access to San Gregorio Armeno, a street celebrated for its traditional craft workshops. Palermo introduces travellers to the energetic Ballarò market, where food stalls and everyday Sicilian life create a distinctive atmosphere.

The Exotic Mediterranean concept connects southern Europe with North Africa. Malaga, La Goulette, Tangier and Valencia introduce travellers to different architectural styles, culinary traditions and cultural influences.

These routes appeal particularly to passengers who prefer sightseeing, walking tours, local markets and heritage attractions over beach-focused holidays.

Canary Islands Cruises Highlight Volcanic Landscapes and Atlantic Adventures

Costa Smeralda introduces travellers to the Canary Islands through an itinerary focused on nature and coastal scenery. Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerteventura offer volcanic terrain, distinctive beaches and dramatic Atlantic landscapes.

Tenerife’s Mount Teide provides one of the region’s most recognisable natural attractions. Lanzarote offers striking lava formations, while Fuerteventura attracts visitors with its extensive sandy coastline.

Costa also highlights two maritime experiences: Canary Sea Darkest Spot and Atlantis Crest. These concepts aim to turn time at sea into an additional attraction rather than simply a journey between islands.

Caribbean Cruises Showcase Tropical Islands and Coastal Escapes

Costa Fascinosa provides you with two different Caribbean themes.

Antilles Collection concentrates on the Lesser Antilles, inviting passengers to explore the personality of each islands. The Caribbean Heart concept has the Dominican Republic as the centre of a lush, tropical holiday.

Costa also pinpoints some of the world’s most extraordinary maritime sites, such as Caribbean Sea Darkest Spot, Guadeloupe Bay, Catalina Bay and the Turks and Caicos archipelago.

These steps enhance the integration of onboard programs and surrounding destinations.

Essential Travel Guide for Passengers Planning Winter Cruises

Travellers considering Costa’s winter sailings should examine the practical details before confirming reservations.

• Compare itineraries: Choose Mediterranean cruises for culture, Canary Islands voyages for landscapes and Caribbean sailings for tropical experiences.
• Check documentation: Review passport validity and entry requirements for every country on the itinerary.
• Review total costs: Compare cruise fares, service charges, excursions and transport to departure ports.
• Prepare for seasonal conditions: Pack layers for Mediterranean winter weather and suitable clothing for warmer island destinations.
• Confirm excursion arrangements: Check departure times, accessibility requirements and the distance between ports and attractions.

Passengers should also verify whether individual Sea Destinations experiences appear on their selected departure. Availability may vary between sailings.

Costa’s official 2027 cruise programme provides current itinerary information, while its published booking conditions explain additional charges.

What Does Costa’s New Strategy Mean for Cruise Tourism in 2027

Costa’s destination-led approach is also an attempt to build more unique cruise holidays by destination – through culture and nature, and through the sea.

These six winter concepts offer travellers a new reason to travel to the Mediterranean, Canary Islands and Caribbean regions, and offer Costa a better way to differentiate its itineraries aside from the simple port itinerary.

The model will continue into summer 2027 along with more Mediterranean and Northern European programmes.

There is nothing to compare with on a holiday of your choosing, all based on your own preference and passion; from its destinations, its charm of historical centers, to the tempting grace of volcanic archipelagos.