Costa Cruises says guests on certain sailings could be charged 60 euros (about $70) if they take food from buffet and restaurant areas to eat in staterooms or other public spaces. The company framed the policy as a cleanliness and safety measure, and said no f
Costa Cruises passengers expecting a casual “grab-and-go” meal may find their choices suddenly come with a bill.
On May 17, a letter sent to guests was shared in a Facebook group for Costa Deliziosa passengers. In it, the cruise line told passengers they are forbidden from taking food from buffet areas and onboard restaurants to eat in their staterooms, at the pool, or in other public or internal areas.
The consequences, according to a translated copy of the letter posted by the Facebook user, can include a 60-euro charge for cleaning—about $70.
The letter’s language ties the restrictions to onboard health and hygiene. It says the rule is intended to prevent food contamination. the presence of parasites. and to maintain high standards of cleanliness on board. It also states that all food must be consumed exclusively in the designated restaurant areas.
Room service gets special treatment. The cruise line said only room service personnel are permitted to bring food to guests’ cabins, separating delivery to a stateroom from any guest-led carrying of meals.
The Facebook user who shared the letter did not respond right away to a request for comment.
Costa later confirmed that. during a limited number of specific sailings. an onboard communication was shared as a preventive and deterrent measure. in line with its existing policies. to encourage guests to behave responsibly. The Italian cruise line said it remains committed to ensuring a “high-quality. safe and enjoyable experience for all guests on board. ” and added that room service remains available upon request.
Costa also emphasized that no fee has ever been added to a guest’s account for that purpose.
Underneath the policy is a straightforward message: the line is policing where food can go on board—up to and including a guest’s own cabin—while leaving the permitted option clearly defined through room service.
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