Costa Cruises in Move to Offer 'Security and Peace of Mind'

Holidaymakers can expect even more quality from Costa Cruises, which has now joined ABTA - The Travel Association in a bid to offer more "security and peace of mind" to customers.

Founded in 1950, the association currently has 1,351 members, who include travel agents, tour operators and support services covering everything from small family-owned businesses to the largest organisations.

According to ABTA chief executive Mark Tanzer, Costa Cruises is recognised for its high-quality services "with its distinctive Italian flair".

He expressed his delight with the new membership, saying the association looked forward to helping raise the cruise operator's profile with both members and holidaymakers.

Marco Rosa, managing director of Costa Cruises, said: "As the leading cruise line in Europe, Costa Cruises is delighted to announce its membership of ABTA, the leading voice in the travel industry.

"ABTA represents security and peace of mind for many consumers and our decision to add the association to our existing bonds with ATOL and the PSA is part of our continuous efforts to offer industry-leading service to our passengers."

Costa Cruises recently expanded its choice of ships and itineraries with the launch of its latest vessel - Costa Deliziosa - at a glitzy ceremony held in Dubai.

Meanwhile, the cruise industry appears to be on the rebound, following a slump brought about by the recession, which has led to an "unprecedented" year-to-date increase in booking volumes for Norwegian Cruise Lines.

Company chief executive Kevin Sheehan said: "Our first quarter wave season promotion definitely persuaded consumers to book a Norwegian cruise vacation as we saw heavy call volumes translating to exceptional bookings."

He went on to say that as business improves the company will review its fares upwards, warning people to "expect to see our prices rise across the fleet", especially in its new and "highly anticipated" vessel the Norwegian Epic.