Barbara Patenaude

Age: 63
Occupation: Retired
Number of Cruises: 9
Cruise Line: Costa
Name of Ship: CostaAtlantica
Sailing Date: March 16th, 2003
Itinerary: Western Caribbean

My husband and I just returned from a most enjoyable cruise on the CostaAtlantica. We have been on a number of cruises with Carnival, Royal Caribbean., and Princess, and found this cruise to be quite compatible . First of all, the crew couldn't have been more polite and quick to want to please. Most of the crew were of Pilipino descent, and were very affluent in the English language, as well as a number of other languages. Embarking and debarking was a breeze. Very professional. Even though the cruise is listed as "Italian style", there was a good selection of different main dishes, (besides pasta), on the lunch and dinner menus in the main dining room. The food itself was excellent. We were most impressed with the family-oriented meals, (meatloaf, pork chops, lamb chops, mashed potatoes, french fries, etc.) compared to other cruise ship fares that we have encountered.

We had a very nice tour in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, that entailed riding down a lazy river (Martha Bray) on a bamboo raft with a poleman. It was great. We had already gone to Dunn's Falls on a previous cruise, so this was a great alternative. Now for a little bit of negative input-- the one big disappointment that we had, was, the Club Atlantica (Restaurant w/ reservations only). The menu was terrible! First of all, we expected at least one item on the menu to be something that we would be familiar with. We did not eat one thing, from the appetizer to the main course. In fact, we left there and sought out something to eat on the buffet deck. The only other thing I would have to comment on is, the entertainment. It was okay, but, did not come near any shows that we have seen on other ships. All in all, we had a very nice time on our 7 day cruise. I do have to admit, that I am still partial to the Carnival Line for overall cruising. See you on the next cruise. Bon Voyage. Barbara Patenaude Orlando, Florida

Ask a Question About Costa Cruises