Costa Fortuna Launches Eastern Mediterranean Summer Season

The Costa Fortuna, a 103,000-ton cruise ship built in 2003, officially commenced its summer deployment at Piraeus on June 13, 2025, after a spring season in the Canary Islands and Western Europe.

It will now sail a series of seven-night voyages from both Piraeus and Istanbul, highlighting renowned Aegean and Greek island destinations.

Itinerary Highlights & Onboard Experience

Its Eastern Med schedule features ports including Mykonos, Heraklion, Santorini, Kos, Rhodes, and more. Piraeus departures linger late, typically until 23:00, allowing for late-night exploration near Athens.

The ship offers diverse amenities across its 13 decks: 1,358 cabins (including 522 balconies), four restaurants, 11 lounges and bars, diverse pools, spas, and a grand Art Deco atrium.

Seasonal Deployment Strategy

Costa Fortuna sails through late September in the Eastern Mediterranean before relocating to the Western Med for longer 14-night cruises departing from Spain, France, and Italy.

During winter, it repositions to the Canary Islands (Tenerife and Gran Canaria), offering regional cruises including Madeira’s Funchal through early April. After that, it will return to the Eastern and Western Mediterranean for its final Costa seasons into early 2026.

Transition to Margaritaville at Sea

Costa Cruises announced in May 2025 that the ship would leave its fleet by September 2026, transitioning to Margaritaville at Sea.

Margaritaville confirms it will become the brand’s largest vessel (~102,500 GT), accommodating up to 3,450 guests across 1,340+ staterooms.

A significant interior overhaul is planned to incorporate signature island-themed bars, lounges, and the relaxed ambiance synonymous with the Margaritaville brand.

Future Homeport & Fleet Strategy

Margaritaville at Sea CEO Christopher Ivy confirmed the ship will inaugurate a new U.S. homeport, their third when it enters service in late 2026.

This continues their trend of acquiring and transforming former Costa vessels, following successful conversions of Costa Classica (now Paradise) and Costa Atlantica (now Islander).

In Summary

Current deployment (Jun-Sep 2025): 7-night Eastern Med cruises from Piraeus/Istanbul to Greek islands.

Fall 2025: 14-night Western Med cruises from Spain, France, Italy.

Winter 2025-early 2026: Shorter cruises from the Canary Islands, including Madeira.

Mid 2026: Final Costa itineraries.

Late 2026: Relaunch under Margaritaville at Sea after refurbishment, marking their largest and third homeport vessel.