Today at Fincantieri's Marghera, Italy, shipyard, Costa Diadema's fore-end block hull section was laid. The future flagship of Costa Cruises' Italian-flagged fleet is scheduled for delivery Oct. 30, 2014. With Costa Diadema's entry into service, the Costa fleet -- Europe's largest -- will accommodate up to 45,000 guests.
The fore-end block section is approximately 26 feet high, 111 feet long, 118 feet wide at its maximum beam and weighs 432 tons.
Costa Cruises is investing approximately $721 million to build Costa Diadema. It is the 10th cruise ship built in Italy by Fincantieri for Costa Cruises since 2000, representing a total investment of almost $6.5 billion.
Among the many innovations onboard Costa Diadema are new wine-tasting venues including the Vinoteca and Proseccheria, the Bavarian Bierkeller for a wide selection of beers, and new dining choices such as Japanese Teppanyaki, Piazza Pizza and Gelateria for desserts.
The new flagship's interiors will offer split-level public rooms overlooking the sea that are interconnected. For sun, sea and ocean vistas, there is a 1,640-square-foot open-air promenade with cabanas.
New entertainment offerings include the Country Rock Club with American music and arcade-style interactive games including Laser Maze.
Portobello Market Piazza will be the heart of an 11,840-square-foot area consisting of designer stores and retail outlets. The three-level Samsara Spa -- located on the upper decks -- has an exclusive outdoor area and privileged access. The full-service facility offers guests an opportunity to enjoy the holistic regenerating experience.
For more information, visit www.costacruise.com.