Fuel

Fuel Guarantee: Transparency and Commitment

First differentiating element, and probably the most impactful today in the customer journey: the guarantee of no fuel-related price increase after booking on the maritime portion. In a context where energy fluctuations remain on everyone’s minds, Costa chooses transparency and commitment. Specifically, for Mediterranean departures this summer, the price displayed at the time of booking is final for departures through September 30, 2026. No surcharge will be added as departure approaches. For travel agents, this promise radically changes the commercial dialogue. It immediately removes a frequent objection and builds a climate of trust. The customer knows where they are going, and, most importantly, how much it will cost, with no surprises. In a competitive market, this price stability becomes a strong competitive advantage capable of tipping the decision.

Alongside this price control, there is a direct answer to another key traveler need: flexibility. Costa thus offers free changes up to 31 days before departure. A flexibility that fits perfectly with current expectations, especially among hesitant clients or those planning ahead. Booking no longer means rigid commitment, but securing an opportunity while keeping the ability to adjust the plan. For sellers, this approach greatly facilitates conversion: it helps encourage immediate decision-making by reducing the sense of risk.

“Today, the true value when choosing a vacation lies in the ability to plan it with complete serenity. Travelers who book in advance seek both simple solutions and the freedom to adapt their plans if circumstances evolve. This is what our ‘Modify without fees’ offer makes possible,” says Aurélie SOULAT, France Commercial Director of Costa Croisières. “This flexibility is part of a broader approach of transparency and reassurance, with notably our guarantee of a locked-in price, with no fuel-related increases after booking. In a context where budget control is essential, it is fundamental to be able to offer our clients a clear view of the final price of their holidays, with no surprises.”

But beyond price and flexibility, Costa also provides a concrete answer to a very operational constraint: access to the departure port. On this point, the cruise line enriches its offering with simple and attractive solutions, notably around the Costa Pacifica. For certain departures from La Seyne-sur-Mer, a free train option is offered from Paris and Lyon. An initiative particularly relevant to broaden the catchment area, attract an urban clientele or meet the expectations of travelers who want to avoid driving. This ease of transportation fits into a seamless customer journey mindset, where every step of the trip is designed to be simple.

Simultaneously, departures from Marseille also enjoy excellent accessibility. The port is easily reachable by train, with direct connections from many French cities, and also by car, providing great scheduling freedom. This plurality of options lets agents tailor their messaging to the client profiles, highlighting the most relevant solution according to their travel habits.

Ultimately, Costa builds a coherent and especially effective proposition: a secured price, flexible booking, and simplified access. Three elements that directly meet market expectations and give travel agents tangible, immediately actionable arguments at the point of sale. In a context where reassurance has become a key conversion factor, this approach not only facilitates the sale but also positions cruising as a clear, calm, and controlled choice.

Beyond the fuel guarantee, Costa also strengthens its appeal with a powerful promotional offer: -50% off the second passenger until June 8, 2026.

This promotion helps reposition cruising as a product that is both competitive and transparent. The client perceives real value: a fair and controlled price.

By combining a guaranteed price on the cruise portion, an immediate discount, and flexibility, Costa offers a pricing narrative that is clear, reassuring, and engaging. A strategy that perfectly meets current market expectations and makes the act of purchasing easier than ever.