Costa Cruises is preparing to celebrate its 50th Caribbean cruise season this Sunday (December 21st).
The cruise line began offering scheduled voyages 50 years ago from Port Evaglades with the Franca C.
Costa president and chief executive Maurice Zarmatti said he was proud to bring a little bit of Italy to the Caribbean each year.
"Our modern, state-of-the-art ships may differ from the smaller vessels that set sail in these waters 50 years ago, but one thing remains the same - our warm, authentic and genuine Italian hospitality and flair that keeps guests sailing with us year after year," he added.
The Franca C, which sailed to the region in 1959, was a single class 552-berth ship, with an interior designed by Nino Zoncado.
This year, the 2,720-passenger ship will make the journey, with its three swimming pools, theatre, ballroom and casino demonstrating how much the cruise line has evolved over the years.
Other vessels operated by Costa Cruises include the
Costa Luminosa and
Costa Serena .
Written by Fiona Mayers