By
Rebecca Gibson |
Spanish operator Iberocruceros’ 48,200 gt Grand Mistral is to be operated by its parent company Costa Cruises from November 2013, following an extensive renovation project.
Following the refit, during which the ship's exterior decks and interior public areas will be renovated to reflect an Italian and French riviera theme, the 1,600-passenger ship will be relaunched as Costa NeoRiviera and sail in the in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) region. The vessel, which was completely refurbished in 2005 and fitted with additional accommodation in 2007, features three restaurants, six bars, two shopping arcades, three swimming pools and jacuzzis. It also has a beauty and wellness centre, hydrotherapy and massage facilities, fitness centre, show lounge and disco.
Starting from 24 November, Costa NeoRiviera will embark on seven-day roundtrip itineraries from Dubai calling at Oman and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). All of the vessel’s ‘The Emirates in Style’ voyages feature overnight stays and late departures from the ports, enabling passengers to spend two nights in each destination.
As part of the itineraries, passengers will be able to participate in a range of small-group shore excursions including visits to the world’s tallest skyscraper Burj Khalifa, the largest mandmade island Palma Jumeirah and the royal stables in Sharjah, Dubai. When calling at Oman’s capital Muscat, cruise guests can also tour Muttarah souk, the Mirani and Nizwa Forts and Al Hamra village, before heading to the Wahiba Sands desert to enjoy dune bashing and an overnight stay in a Bedouin tented camp. In Abu Dhabi, passengers can visit the Al Maya private island resort, spend a night in the desert and have breakfast at an Arabian village, or take a trip to Ferrari World, the world’s first Ferrari theme park.
Costa Fortuna will also homeport in the UAE from 20 December 2013 until 21 March 2014, offering seven-day roundtrips from Dubai with calls at Muscat, Kashab, Oman and Abu Dhabi.