Categories: Cruise News

Costa Cruises announces new features for Costa Serena following refurbishment

Costa Cruises has revealed new details about the forthcoming refit of Costa Serena, which will mark the final phase of its US$230 million fleet modernisation programme launched in 2021. 

The project, scheduled for completion in November 2025, will coincide with the ship’s redeployment to Southeast Asia and the Far East for the 2025/26 season.

Built in 2007, Costa Serena will undergo a major technical and interior refurbishment during drydock in Southeast Asia between late October and mid-November 2025. 

Costa Serena

The works will include redesigned accommodation, upgraded public areas and a comprehensive refresh of the ship’s original interiors, created by architect Joe Farcus. 

While maintaining the existing Olympian gods theme, the new design will introduce contemporary elements inspired by pop art, with updated materials, colours, and furnishings to create a lighter and more modern look throughout.

The refit will also include significant changes to the ship’s dining and recreation spaces. A new food court will be introduced alongside modernised main restaurants and bars. 

Additions include Archipelago, a dining venue featuring menus created by three Michelin-starred chefs, as well as Pizzeria Pummid’Oro and Sushino@Costa. 

Pizzeria Pummid’Oro

The pool decks and suites will also be fully renovated, with updates to layout and design aimed at improving functionality and guest flow.

Costa Serena’s renovation marks the conclusion of Costa Cruises’ five-year revitalisation project, which has included fleet optimisation, sustainability initiatives, and the retirement of its oldest vessel, Costa Fortuna, which will soon launch under the Margaritaville at Sea brand. 

Sushino@Costa

The programme reflects a broader shift across the cruise line toward offering varied deployment across global regions and aligning onboard product standards across its fleet.

Following her refit, Costa Serena will continue operating in Asia before undertaking a 65-night world cruise from Tokyo to Buenos Aires, departing on October 18th, 2026. The voyage will visit 24 ports across 15 countries before the ship begins a South American season in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. 

In summer 2027, she will return to Europe to assume Costa Fortuna’s former Mediterranean itineraries.The refurbishment of Costa Serena brings Costa Cruises’ current transformation plan to its conclusion, completing a period of substantial investment in the renewal and repositioning of its fleet ahead of the 2026 season.

Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com.

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