Chillout & Relaxation · Italy
Mediterranean Cruising Italian Style with WingsItaly
Arrive on your own; Claire and a group of about 9 are with you the whole way.
6 May 2027 – 14 May 2027 8 nights from £1,679pp own travel
A Roman Story & Mediterranean Journey
This isn’t just another Mediterranean cruise. This is WingsItaly and Spice Escapes — sharing Costa with you!
Raised between the Eternal City and Sicily, Andrea Moro of Wings Italy isn’t simply hosting this journey… he’s inviting you into the places that shaped him. The streets he knows by heart. The sea that once connected an empire.
This adventures follows the very routes that once connected the ancient world:
- Savona — Roman Liguria and imperial trade routes
- Marseille — A Greek port later woven into Roman culture
- Barcelona — Once Roman Barcino, where ancient walls still stand
- La Goulette (Tunis) — Gateway to mighty Carthage, Rome’s greatest rival
- Palermo, Sicily — Rome’s first overseas province after the Punic Wars
Highlight of the Cruise and unique to Costa!
A Signature Moment: Sea of Stars
After Barcelona something magical happens. Far from city lights, Costa Toscana stops beneath the Mediterranean sky. For one unforgettable hour, the decks grow quieter. The sea becomes darker. The stars shine as they did for Roman sailors thousands of years ago.
With a drink in hand (your drinks package is included), soft music playing, and warm night air around you — this becomes more than a highlight. It becomes a memory!
During this “Sea Destination” moment:
• The ship navigates to a darker open-sea point
• Deck lighting may be reduced to enhance visibility
• Guests gather for stargazing in minimal light pollution
• The focus is on the night sky and the magic of being surrounded by open sea
It’s simple. Atmospheric. Emotional.
Why This Launch Is So Special
This is not a standard group departure — it is a personally hosted WingsItaly experience.
From the streets of Rome to the heart of the Mediterranean, this journey blends ancient history with modern Italian style. It’s not simply a cruise itinerary — it’s a story, guided by Andrea Moro and Claire Dymond, sharing the places, culture and spirit that shaped them.
What makes it a special sailing with Costa? Well, Costa is proudly Italian — vibrant, social, warm and full of Mediterranean energy. From the cuisine and aperitivo culture to the lively evenings and elegant design, the atmosphere on board feels authentically European. You’re not just observing Italy — you’re immersed in it.
This is more than a cruise.
It’s Italy at sea — hosted, personal, and shared with you.
An Authentic Mediterranean Atmosphere On Board
One of the unique aspects of sailing with Costa Cruises is the authentic atmosphere.
Costa is predominantly enjoyed by Italian and Spanish guests, creating a vibrant, warm and truly Mediterranean energy throughout the ship.
It’s lively piazza-style evenings.
It’s late dinners filled with laughter.
It’s aperitivo culture at sunset.
For guests, this means:
- Immersion in real Mediterranean culture
- A ship filled with Italian, cuisine and style
- A social, energetic and welcoming environment
All staff speak English and the programmes and excursions are available in English .
WingsItaly will be there to guide and there will be possibilities for free hosted tours in certain cities and/or the option to book a Costa excursion !
Availability and pricing
| Option | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Cruising Italian Style with WingsItaly | ||
| Own flight without transfers | £1679.00 | 3 places left |
| Glasgow | £1939.00 | 9 places left |
| London Gatwick | £1939.00 | 10 places left |
| London Heathrow | £1939.00 | 10 places left |
| Birmingham | £1969.00 | 2 places left |
| Manchester | £1969.00 | 8 places left |
| Mediterranean Cruising Italian Style with WingsItaly - Accommodation | ||
| Place in a twin share room/Interior cabin | No supplement | 1 place left |
| Place in a twin share room/sea view cabin | £249.00 | 4 places left |
| Place in a twin share room/balcony cabin | £449.00 | 4 places left |
| Place in a single room/interior cabin | £549.00 | 1 place left |
| Place in a single room/sea view cabin | £749.00 | 2 places left |
| Place in a single room/balcony cabin | £1099.00 | 3 places left |
Booking conditions for this holiday
Our booking conditions apply to this holiday, including the deposit and the cancellation scale. Read the booking conditions
Quote this reference if you call the team about it: SH0000736
Who else is going
The question everyone asks and nobody wants to.
- On this departure
- 9 people booked The operator's own count for this trip — you'd make 10. It can still grow before you travel.
- Travelling alone
- Most people book on their own
Why you'll love this holiday
- You fly to Rome a day early, so a delay cannot cost you the ship.
- An optional first dinner prepared by the sisters at Palazzo Lante, near the Pantheon.
- Andrea and Claire host throughout; drinks and gratuities included on board.
Where you'll go
What to expect
Your Journey Begins in The Eternal City Rome
Day 1 Thu 6 May
Departing the UK the day before the cruise begins takes the stress of delayed flights out of the equation and you can just concentrate on enjoying your trip!
Your adventure starts in the heart of Rome — not simply as a destination on a map, but the beginning of your adventure. From the moment you land, you are not navigating Rome alone but fully hosted with WingsItaly who will personally meet and greet at the airport, welcoming you not as tourists — but as friends and fellow adventurers.
A short transfer (well the distance is short but this is Rome so traffic rules here!) brings you into downtown Rome, where ancient ruins elegant piazzas and golden evening light set the scene. After checking into your centrally located downtown hotel, time to breathe, refresh and perhaps enjoy your first gentle stroll through the Eternal City (subject to arrival times).
Enjoy a coffee in a nearby café, listen to the distant sound of church bells with the quiet thrill of knowing something special has just begun.
A hosted informal orientation walk will gently introduce you to your surroundings.
As evening falls, your journey truly begins. You’ll gather for your first optional group dinner booking (not included) in a peaceful residence — often described as a hidden sanctuary within the city. Managed by the religious sisters, this serene setting offers a rare contrast to Rome’s streets. Please note this group optional meal adventure will include a walk from the Hotel to the Restaurant , if you wish to take a taxi this can be arranged at your own costs.
The restaurant is a simple & elegant. & authentic & established in 1969 its located within the historic Palazzo Lante in Piazza dei Caprettari. The restaurant is just a few metres from the Church of San Eustachio, close to the Pantheon.
Over a prepared meal by the sisters in a quiet corner of downtown Rome, that many visitors never see, you’ll share stories — as Romans and friends alike. Stories of local traditions, of history woven into everyday life, of what it truly means to belong to Italy. Tomorrow, you set sail, but tonight you belong to Rome.
Day 2 Fri 7 May
From Rome to the Sea
After breakfast, check-out, enjoy free time to explore Rome at your own pace. Time to explore more and then you’ll travel together to Civitavecchia — the ancient Roman port built by Emperor Trajan — where your ship awaits.
From city streets… to open sea.
You will board the magnificent Costa Toscana, and your Mediterranean voyage begins. You’re not just travelling, you’re moving through chapters of history — with a Roman host bringing it all to life.
Embarking Civitavecchia, Rome
Departure: 07:00 PM
Day 3 Sat 8 May
Savona
Arrival: 08:30 AM Departure: 06:00 PM
Day 4 Sun 9 May
Marseilles
Arrival: 08:30 AM Departure: 06:30 PM
Day 5 Mon 10 May
Barcelona
Arrival: 08:00 AM Departure: 06:00 PM
Day 6 Tue 11 May
At Sea. Balearic sea darkest spot
From: 12:01 AM To: 12:30 AM
Day 7 Wed 12 May
La Goulette
Arrival: 08:00 AM Departure: 04:00 PM
Day 8 Thu 13 May
Palermo
Arrival: 08:00 AM Departure: 04:30 PM
Day 9 Fri 14 May
08:30 AM Disembarking and returning home.
Optional excursions during the cruise will be made available to pre-book closer to the cruise departure.
What's included
- International flights if required
- Meet & Greet in Rome by WingsItaly
- 1 night Bed & Breakfast in central min 3* Rome hotel (local rating)
- 7 nights full board on board
- Michelin-star chef designed evening Destination Dishes
- My Drinks Package on board (wines, beers, cocktails, soft drinks & coffees)
- Port taxes
- Gratuities on board
- Transfers airport to Rome Hotel
- Transfers from the Hotel to the Port for embarkation
- Transfer Port to Airport
- Fully hosted by WingsItaly
- Daily activities & themed evenings
- Pools, theatre shows & fitness facilities
- Your Spice host, Claire Dymond
Not included
- Room/cabin supplements if selected
- Personal travel insurance
- Some meals & drinks
- Personal extras
Travel and where you'll stay
Your Ship - Costa Toscana — Modern Italy at Sea!
Inspired by colours, creativity and elegance of Tuscany, Costa Toscana is Costa’s stunning LNG-powered flagship — vibrant, stylish and proudly Italian.
Ship Highlights
- The spectacular Colosseo central entertainment atrium
- The thrilling Volare Skywalk glass walkway
- Infinity pools & whirlpools overlooking the sea
- Splash Aqua Park
- Samsara Spa for ultimate relaxation
- Elegant theatre shows & themed evenings
- Italian-designed lounges and social spaces
Designed for energy and atmosphere, the ship combines modern sustainability with unmistakable Italian flair.
Your Home at Sea
Choose the cabin that suits your style:
- Interior
- Ocean View
- Balcony
Whatever you choose, you are part of one hosted family — travelling together, sharing stories, laughter and unforgettable views.
Check out the ship on the link below and do be sure to watch the video to really get a feel for the ship and it's quality!
https://www.costacruises.eu/fleet/toscana.html
Getting there — flights to Rome
Departing from London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Birmingham, Manchester or Glasgow.
London Gatwick
London Heathrow
Birmingham
Manchester
Glasgow
These are the times currently scheduled. Airlines change them, sometimes months before departure, so please treat them as provisional rather than final.
Luggage, transfers and flight notes
Included Hold luggage 22kg
NB - all flights will be transferred together
Before you travel
Passport validity
For UK passport holders your passport must be:
- issued less than 10 years before the day you enter (check the "date of issue")
- valid for at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave (check the "expiry date")
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
Entry rules for EU travel — EES, ETIAS and your GHIC
EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
The Entry/Exit System (EES) is being introduced gradually across the external borders of the European countries that use it, including the collection of biometric data such as a facial image and fingerprints. Passports continue to be stamped as usual in the meantime.
Further information: travel-europe.europa.eu/ees
ETIAS
UK citizens will eventually need a travel authorisation (ETIAS) to enter the European countries that require it for short stays. It is linked to your passport and valid for up to three years. There is no confirmed start date yet — we will let everyone know when it is required and how to apply.
Global Health Insurance Card
A UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), or a still-valid EHIC, gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in the EU. It is not a replacement for travel insurance.
Travel insurance
Please ensure that you have adequate personal travel insurance to suit your requirements in place before you travel.
Gallery
Everything else
Food and meals
Italian Cuisine at Sea — As It Should Be
WingsItaly likes Costa many reasons and the main ones are - Food is the soul of Italy and they know this ship!
On board, you’ll enjoy:
- Michelin-star “Destination Dishes” inspired by each port
- Elegant multi-course dinners
- Wine bars, cocktail lounges & Italian cafés
- My Drinks Package included
- Group dining each evening in the main à la carte restaurant
- The freedom to enjoy the buffet whenever you wish
Each meal connects you to Italy, France, Spain, Tunisia and Sicily through flavour.
Optional meal Day 1 Rome
Please note the set menu will be at Eau Vive Roma, will include 3 courses and dietary can be accommodated for approx. costs of £40 and is a set 3 course meal with 1 glass of wine and water. Eau Vive is entirely managed by the Missionary Workers of the Immaculate, who are highly regarded for their warm hospitality, attentive service, and dedication to continuing their spiritual mission through their work. Closer to the cruise we will share the menu being offered and you can choose to book or do your own thing.
Booking Confirmation
If you book this trip it will not be confirmed until you have received a confirmation email from us, normally within 72 hours, however If we are waiting for another booking to match you with in a cabin confirmation may take longer. If we cannot confirm your booking you will of course be able to get a full refund.
Before you book
Will I be the only one on my own?
No. Almost everyone books on their own — that is the whole point of the trip. Nobody has to pair up and nobody sits on their own at dinner unless they want to.
Do I have to share a room?
Only if you want to. Sharing a twin with another solo traveller of the same sex costs nothing extra, and it is how most people keep the price down. If you would rather have a room to yourself, you can — see the single-room price on the trip you are looking at.
Is there a single supplement?
There is a charge for a room of your own and it varies a great deal by trip, so the honest answer is the figure on the holiday you are looking at rather than an average. What there is not is any obligation to pay it: sharing a twin with another solo traveller of the same sex costs nothing extra, and it is a genuine option rather than a token one.
Every holiday with a single room available, and what each one costs, is listed on single rooms and single supplements.
How big is the group?
Small enough to learn everyone’s name in the first day or two. Group sizes vary by trip and are listed on each holiday.
What does the host actually do?
Your host is there to make your holiday feel easy, welcoming and fun. They travel with the group throughout the trip, help everyone get to know each other, keep things running smoothly and are there if you need anything along the way.
They’re not a traditional holiday rep — they’re part of the group, sharing the experience with you and helping make sure nobody feels left out.
Is my money protected?
Yes. Payments are held in a bonded trust account, and every holiday booked with flights is ATOL protected under licence 9046. If you arrange your own flights, your money for the holiday is still protected by the bonded trust account, but the flights you buy elsewhere are not covered by our ATOL.
What age are the other travellers?
It varies by trip. Most groups span a wide range of ages with a shared interest in the destination rather than a shared birth year.
Is there a minimum age?
Yes — 18. Spice Escapes holidays are adults only.
Most people who travel with us are in their forties and beyond, but that is who books rather than a rule. There is no upper age limit, and two people travelling together do not need to be a similar age: a daughter in her thirties travelling with her mother in her sixties is an ordinary booking.
Is Spice Escapes a singles or dating holiday company?
No. Spice Escapes is a hosted holiday company for people who travel on their own. Almost everyone books alone, groups are small and adults only (mostly forties to sixties), and a named host travels with every departure so nobody is the odd one out. It is about the destination and the company, not matchmaking.
What travellers say
4.9/5 from 63 reviews on Google
Questions about this holiday?
Ring the office, send us a question, or chat any hour. A real person, not a call centre.
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