Experienced cruisers and keen observers will be able to spot similarities between Costa Luminosa and Australia’s Carnival Spirit.

Although there are differences in the vacations offered, the ships were built to accommodate passengers from different countries. However, the plans are very similar. If you have ever taken a cruise on either or both of these ships, it will provide comfort. There are many sailings for different lines around the globe.

Costa Luminosa is a ten-strong cruising brand that makes up Carnival Corporation. Costa is more of a distant relative than a sister brand. However, Costa is related to Australia’s P&O Cruises and its stable-mates, Princess Cruises Holland America Line, Cunard, and many others.

This 2,260-passenger vessel, although a few years older than Carnival Spirit, incorporates design elements from Carnival Vista, which was launched last year. They are making it something of a hybrid.

Costa Luminosa is geared towards its core Italian clients’ needs and travel style. It employs many multilingual crew members, even though English remains the primary language. It features a skyscraper atrium, an expansive indoor swimming pool, and a dual-level nightclub. There is even a Formula 1 simulator that a Ferrari inspired. The ship wouldn’t be Italian if it didn’t have an iconic Italian car manufacturer somewhere onboard.

Family-friendly amenities include a Kids Club based on the Peppa Pig cartoon series. There are all the characters available for little cruisers to enjoy. Several specialty restaurants are open, including Club Luminosa, which is a restaurant that caters to its most loyal customers.

After a 98-day, “round the globe” trip that saw it travel as far as Australia and New Zealand and an Asian tour, the ship returned to Italy. Although not widely available locally, Costa Cruises is an option for many travel agents. They make a compelling case to spend part of your next European or Asian vacation onboard.