Costa Cruises expands its distribution network in India market with three new PSAs

At a press conference held in New Delhi, Costa Cruises announced the expansion of its distribution network in the Indian market by appointing three new travel partners. Leveraging their extensive knowledge and expertise, Rayna Tours, Sharaf Travel, and Cruise Carrot, along with Lotus Aero Enterprise, which has already been representing Costa in India, will enhance access to Costa Cruises for local consumers.

Through its newly appointed team of four preferred sales agents, Costa aims to cater to both the incentive market and individual customers seeking an international-style holiday. These customers can explore Europe by visiting multiple countries and destinations in a single voyage—an experience that only a Costa cruise can offer.

Mirco Vassallo, International Sales Director Costa Cruises declared, “We are thrilled to be represented in the Indian market by our selected travel partners and cruise specialists. I am confident that through their collaboration and mutual exchange, we will be able to introduce more Indian guests to our product proposition made of hospitality, entertainment, and culinary offerings.”

Costa offers Indian travellers a wide range of opportunities with its itineraries in the Western Mediterranean (Italy, France, and Spain), the Eastern Mediterranean (Greece and Turkey), Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and the United Arab Emirates during the winter season. Onboard, guests can indulge in themed restaurants, including the renowned Teppanyaki and Archipelago, as well as a diverse gastronomic experience featuring international cuisine, vegetarian options, and Indian flavours. Guests can also enjoy world-class entertainment, including shows with international artists and live performances.

“As Costa Cruises’ General Sales Agent in India for over a decade, Lotus Aero Enterprise has been a driving force in shaping the Indian cruise market. Our dedication and innovative strategies have not only strengthened the Costa brand’s presence but have also encouraged other ocean liners to explore opportunities in the Indian market. We look forward to continuing our journey with Costa to elevate the cruising experience for Indian consumers.”

Senthil Velan, Chief Executive Officer, Rayna Tours, added, “We are excited to partner with Costa Crociere and bring their exceptional cruise experiences to the Indian market. Our deep understanding of the local market combined with Costa’s unparalleled offerings will undoubtedly create unforgettable journeys for our customers.”

Leena Brahme, Business Head, Sharaf Travel commented, “Partnering with Costa Crociere allows us to offer our clients a unique and luxurious cruise experience. We look forward to a successful collaboration that will enhance the travel options available to Indian customers.”

Neeraj Sharma, Director of Cruise Carrot added, “Joining forces with Costa Crociere is an exciting opportunity for us. We are eager to contribute to the success of Costa’s cruises on the Indian market and provide our clients with wonderful holiday experiences.”

Since 2024, Costa itineraries have been further enriched with an exciting new feature, making its cruises even more unique and unforgettable: the ‘Sea Destinations.’ These are new experiences to be discovered onboard the ship during navigation. It’s a voyage within a voyage, where the sea is not just a means of reaching cruise destinations but becomes a privileged perspective to experience evocative moments, highlighting iconic places included in the ship’s route.

On board Costa ships Indian customers will enjoy a range of opportunities, such as:

Entertainment: high-quality entertainment featuring international artists, music, and shows that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Culinary Delights: a wide variety of international dining options with a special focus on vegetarian cuisine and during the Emirates season also on Indian cuisine, ensuring that guests feel at home while exploring new flavors.

Sea Destinations: unforgettable experiences such as

• Desert on the Sea on Costa Smeralda: where guests can enjoy a desert oasis in the Persian Gulf with luxurious tents, belly dancers, desert-inspired music, and the soothing sounds of the sea for a truly immersive escape.
• Dervish Show on Costa Fortuna: where our guests can witness the mystical Dervish dance as the ship crosses the Dardanelles at sunset, offering a unique view of the Orient through the spiralling veils of authentic ritual dancers.
• Bay of Formentera – Sunset Party on Costa Toscana: where our guests can experience Formentera’s vibrant atmosphere at sunset with a hippy chic party on board Costa Toscana, featuring cocktails, top island DJs, and a “chiringuito” style setting.