: There are many spots to sit in the warm sand and watch the blue waves.
Ships feature massive pool decks, mid-ship atriums, and extensive wellness spas. Dining and Socializing
The first and most immediate of these charms is the landscape itself. Imagine shores where the golden sand meets waters of a deep, inviting cerulean, framed not by concrete high-rises but by rolling hills of cork oak and olive groves. The air carries a complex perfume: the salt of the sea mingled with the wild, herbaceous scent of rosemary and thyme baking on sun-scorched rocks. This is a coast of dramatic contrasts—cliffs that plunge into hidden coves, long, languid beaches that stretch for miles, and small, whitewashed fishing villages that cling to the edges of the land as if for dear life. The light here is a painter’s treasure, shifting from the soft gold of dawn to the fiery ochre and rose of dusk, casting long shadows and turning the water into a sheet of molten metal. This natural beauty is not a backdrop; it is a protagonist, demanding contemplation and rewarding those who pause to witness it.
Beyond the landscape, the southern coastal charm is deeply rooted in a tangible, living history. These areas have been crossroads of civilization for millennia, shaped by Phoenician traders, Roman conquerors, Moorish scholars, and Norman knights. The charm lies in the accumulation of this past in everyday spaces. Whitewashed hill towns with labyrinthine streets, ancient watchtowers built to ward off Barbary pirates, and Baroque church domes glinting in the sun are not museum pieces but active community centers. This history is most deliciously expressed in the local gastronomy. The cuisine is a testament to resourcefulness and proximity to land and sea: dishes like Andalusian gazpacho (a cold tomato soup), Neapolitan pizza with its San Marzano tomatoes, or Lowcountry shrimp and grits from the American South. These are simple recipes, perfected over generations, using ingredients caught that morning or harvested from a nearby orchard, representing a direct, unbroken link to the past. Costa Southern Charms
After a day of walking through historic districts, passengers can retreat to world-class spas, adults-only solariums, and refreshing pools. Attentive service ensures that the legendary "Southern hospitality" is felt both on land and at sea. Best Time to Sail
From the vibrant energy of to the hidden gems of Palermo and the stunning shores of Savona , this journey is a love letter to the Southern Mediterranean. 🍋☀️ Why you’ll love it:
: Perfect for those who want "Old Florida" charm without the high-rise shadows. 3. The Lowcountry Lifestyle : There are many spots to sit in
Sailing on a Costa Cruises vessel means stepping directly into a vibrant, high-energy environment modeled after Italian lifestyle and culture. The onboard atmosphere sets this itinerary apart from its more reserved North American counterparts. Ambiance and Design
What interest you most (e.g., history tours, food tastings, nature walks)?
The story goes that the spot began as a convenience store with a sandwich counter called “Bagel N’ Beans” in the early 1990s, rebranding as Costa Southern Charms in 2000 when it added live music and a full bar. The menu is said to include burgers, sandwiches, pizza, salads, and seafood, along with original craft cocktails and local craft beer. Imagine shores where the golden sand meets waters
A hidden gem of the Lowcountry, Beaufort (pronounced BYOO-furt ) offers a quieter, highly cinematic experience. The entire downtown district is designated as a National Historic Landmark. It has served as the backdrop for iconic movies like Forrest Gump and The Prince of Tides .
This trip is all about exploring warm and beautiful coastal spots. It is run by Costa Cruises , a famous Italian vacation company. They use the slogan "Live Your Wonder" to describe the fun on their trips.
Clear turquoise waters, hidden coves, volcanic backdrops, or lush coastal hillsides that meet the sand. 2. Iconic Ports of Call in the South