Costa Cruises has unveiled details of two wide-reaching Asia 2026 cruise itineraries – taking in Japan, South Korea, China and beyond.
After announcing iconic destinations between November 2025 and early 2026, Costa Cruises expands its portfolio with these two new 11-day itineraries aboard Costa Serena, reaffirming its role as a leading player in Asian cruises. Costa describes the new itineraries as being “an invitation to explore fascinating destinations, from timeless classics to hidden gems, spectacular landscapes, ancient cultures, and cutting-edge cities.”
The first itinerary, departing June 1, 2026, is a journey through past and future across three emblematic countries of the Far East: South Korea, Japan, and China. After leaving vibrant Seoul (Incheon), the ship heads to Busan, a seaside city where temples overlook the ocean and fish markets tell the story of everyday Korean life. The voyage continues to captivating Japan, with stops in Sasebo, nestled among green hills and tranquil bays; Yatsushiro, known for its castles and local crafts; Kagoshima, the “Naples of Japan,” dominated by the Sakurajima volcano; and Nagasaki, a symbol of resilience and cultural exchange. The journey concludes with an overnight stay in Shanghai, a futuristic metropolis where skyscrapers reflect on the Bund and temples hide among avant-garde architecture.
The second itinerary, departing October 7, 2026, offers an immersive experience in the heart of Japan, from south to north, revealing all its nuances. Starting from Tokyo (Yokohama), the country’s beating heart and city of the future, the ship sails to Kobe, an elegant port city at the foot of the Rokko mountains, where guests enjoy an overnight stay. The cruise continues to Kochi, overlooking the sea and rich in local markets, and Kagoshima, famous for its onsen—traditional Japanese hot springs—and Kyushu cuisine. In Nagasaki, history and spirituality blend in a unique landscape, while a stop in Busan, Korea, completes the experience. The route then moves on to Kanazawa, the “Kyoto of the Sea of Japan,” with its gardens and samurai districts, and ends in Hokkaido (Hakodate), known for its night views and timeless atmosphere. An itinerary designed for those seeking authenticity, beauty, and discovery, during a season when Japan is dressed in its most vibrant colors. Unmissable opportunity to be enchanted by a country that never ceases to surprise—experienced with the comfort and style of Costa.
“Our offering in Asia with Costa Serena for 2026 is truly unique in today’s travel landscape: an exclusive opportunity to discover the wonders of the East, from iconic destinations to lesser-known gems. From Korea to Japan and Southeast Asia, we provide itineraries that combine authenticity, charm, and comfort, making extraordinary experiences accessible thanks to our ‘fly & cruise’ formula, which allows guests to reach Asia effortlessly. Moreover, following its recent restyling, Costa Serena now boasts an even more contemporary, vibrant look, designed to deliver a travel experience full of wonder, signed Costa Cruises,” said Luigi Stefanelli, Vice President Worldwide Sales Costa Cruises.
On board, Costa Serena welcomes guests with spectacular spaces, new culinary experiences, and environments designed to inspire wonder. Fresh from a major restyling, the ship is now a true floating stage, with redesigned areas for an even more immersive and contemporary experience: a new food court featuring innovative dining options, revamped pools and outdoor lounges, and cabins and suites renewed for comfort and elegance. Completing the offer are new areas dedicated to relaxation and entertainment, designed to provide guests with moments of discovery and well-being throughout the journey.
The evolution of Costa Serena into a vibrant, contemporary ship was celebrated on November 12, 2025, with a 10-day inaugural cruise between Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan. Following this special departure, the ship will continue operating in Asia throughout 2026, alternating two 14-day itineraries: one between Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea; the other between Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines. For those seeking an even deeper immersion in Asia, the two itineraries can be combined into a single 28-day cruise.
In October 2026, Costa Serena will star in a truly extraordinary World Cruise. Departing from Tokyo on October 18, this 66-day journey will cross three continents—Asia, Oceania, and South America—visiting 15 countries, 26 destinations, and 14 dream islands before concluding in Buenos Aires. An epic itinerary for those who dream of exploring the world in style.
Costa Serena cruises are easily accessible thanks to the fly & cruise formula, available from major European cities, making the travel experience even more convenient for all guests.
To round off this extraordinary Asian season, and for the first time in its history, Costa Serena will also be the official floating hotel for a major international sporting event to be held in Japan in the fall. Moored at the port of Nagoya, the ship will welcome athletes and delegations from across the continent.
