Costa Cruises held a naming event for Costa Diadema in its headquarters city of Genoa, Italy.
Costa's new flagship was built at Fincantieri's Marghera shipyard at a total investment of $688 million. Costa Diadema arrived at Genoa at the end of its first or "Vernissage Cruise," which departed Trieste, Italy, Nov. 1.
Costa Diadema's naming ceremony began with a parade of the godmother, Italian travel agent Carolina Miceli who was selected in a worldwide contest, and her international maids of honor representing Germany, France, Spain and China.
Following a light show and fireworks that illuminated the skies over Genoa, celebrations continue onboard with a gala dinner including a menu created by Costa's Michelin-star chef Fabio Cucchelli.
Costa Diadema departs Genoa tonight, arriving at Savona, Italy, on Saturday, Nov. 8, for the inauguration of the second terminal at the Palacrociere, Savona Cruise Terminal, managed by Costa Cruises.
From Nov. 8 until the end of 2015 summer Mediterranean season, Costa Diadema will depart Savona on seven-night cruises calling at Marseille, France; Barcelona and Palma de Mallorca, Spain; and Naples and La Spezia, Italy.
For more information, visit www.costacruise.com.