Costa Cruises announced that its Costa Serena ship had returned to service in Asia.
After two voyages between Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, Serena departed Port Busan South Korea, heading to Japan's Nagasaki/Yatsushiro.
It is the first outbound sailing to resume in South Korea following the end of cruise travel restrictions.
Mario Zanetti (Costa's President) said that with the departure of Costa Serena from Busan, they celebrated a historic event for cruises in Asia.
"We are, in fact, the first company to resume outbound cruises dedicated to South Korea, and soon also to Taiwan, after the pause due to travel restrictions caused by the pandemic. It’s a very important moment for the recovery of the cruise industry in Asia. We achieved this significant result thanks to our historic presence in Asia and established relationship with local partners and institutions."
Costa Serena will be conducting a series of special cruises in Asia from June to October 2023, working in collaboration with local travel partners. In total, there will be 35 cruises. During June and October 2023, 8 cruises will specifically cater to the South Korean market. From July to October 2023, an additional 27 cruises are planned for the Taiwan market.
These cruises will offer itineraries lasting from 4 to 7 days, featuring some of the most stunning destinations in East Asia, particularly Japan. The destinations include Otaru, Muroran, Hakodate, Aomori, Fukuoka, Sasebo, Nagasaki, Yatsushiro, Kagoshima, Naha, Ishigaki, and Miyakojima. Departures are scheduled from the ports of Busan, Sokcho, and Pohang in South Korea, as well as from Keelung and Kaohsiung in Taiwan.
Costa Serena is an Italian ship constructed by Fincantieri and began operating in 2007. It has a gross tonnage of 114,000 tons and can accommodate up to 3,780 guests. On board Costa Serena, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of Italian-style culinary and entertainment experiences, enriched with local influences. Additionally, they will be able to explore the beautiful destinations included in the cruise itineraries.