On this ship you can practice your backhand on the tennis court, shoot some baskets (Deck 11), or join in one of the many activities planned throughout the day by Atlantica's creative and energetic Animation Team. "Today," the daily newsletter delivered to your cabin each evening, outlines the activities available the following day.

If you're staying out of the sun, consider one of the many quiz games on board. Winners take home various Costa logo prizes. Perhaps you'd rather brush up on your cha-cha or your Italian; classes are available for those too. There's a small library on board (the bars on the ship may outnumber the volumes) with five computer stations if you'd like to check your email (fee applies per minute and response time is slow). There is also a Card Room on Deck Two for scheduled or impromptu bridge and other card games.

Onboard Shopping ©Ray Fischer 2005

Love to shop? The Via della Spiga, Deck Three, offers items from around the world, including Murano glass jewelry and authentic Italian pasta. You'll find competitive liquor prices on board plus a good selection of cosmetics and perfumes at duty free prices, along with Atlantica logo souvenirs.

Various theme nights take place during the evenings, one of which is "Italian Night," featuring music, games, dancing, and the highlight, the selection of "Mr. Pizza." As the audience cheers, contestants demonstrate the talents which make them worthy of the title. Bring your camera. Watch out for flying dough.

The Roman Bacchanal takes place the last night on board and has to be one of the most unusual activities ever to take place aboard a cruise ship. First, make sure you wear your toga (sheet) provided to you (along with instructions and wearing suggestions) by your room steward. You'll be glad you did. The highlight of this evening is the passenger talent show where the audience decides whether the performer will go to the midnight buffet or be fed to the lions. Yes, really. Don't miss this one. You'll be talking about it long after your cruise ends.

When Atlantica is in port, a wide variety of shore excursions are offered to accommodate different interests and activity levels. These are well planned by responsible tour operators and the popular ones tend to sell out quickly, so book early at the Tour Desk on Deck Two. These tours are planned to give passengers exposure to each port's high points in a relatively short period of time, enabling them to grasp the essence of each unique stop.

Page One | Page Two | Page Three | Page Four | Page Six