What is the age policy on Costa Cruises?

Cruising with Costa Cruises combines Italian hospitality, European itineraries, and a family-friendly atmosphere. But before booking, it’s essential to understand Costa Cruises’ age policy, which affects everything from who can sail to what activities are available onboard.

Costa’s age policy outlines:

The minimum age for infants to sail.
Rules for children and teens.
Age requirements for solo travelers.
Legal drinking age onboard.
Senior guest considerations.

This 3,000-word guide will explain all the details so you can plan your cruise knowing what to expect for every member of your traveling party.

Minimum Age Requirements for Infants

Infants must be at least 6 months old at the time of sailing.
For transoceanic cruises (long repositioning voyages), infants must be 12 months old.
Proof of age (passport or birth certificate) is required.
No exceptions are made for younger infants due to safety concerns.

Why this policy exists: Cruise ships must be equipped to handle medical needs. Very young infants are at greater risk on long voyages far from emergency care.

Child Policy (Ages 2–11)

Costa Cruises is family-oriented, with generous policies for children:

Children under 2 years old may sail at reduced fares or free (depending on promotion).
Ages 2–11 are charged child fares, usually lower than adult rates.
Kids’ Clubs are available for ages 3–11, offering supervised activities, games, and entertainment.
Children must be toilet-trained to participate in certain kids’ programs.

Sleeping Arrangements for Children

Family cabins and adjoining rooms are available.
Parents must use approved cribs for infants, which Costa provides upon request.

Teen Policy (Ages 12–17)

Teens enjoy more independence, but Costa has clear rules:

Teen Club programs are divided into two groups:
- 12–14 years old
- 15–17 years old
Teens may roam the ship independently but must respect curfews if imposed by parents.
Teens cannot book their own cabins; they must share with an adult or be part of a group booking supervised by adults.

Adult Policy (Ages 18+)

Booking Rules

At least one passenger must be 18 or older in each cabin.
Guests under 18 cannot book or travel alone without adult supervision.

Drinking Age

The drinking age onboard is 18 years old on most Costa Cruises ships.
In U.S. waters, the minimum age may be 21, in compliance with U.S. law.
IDs are checked before serving alcohol.

Casino Age

Guests must be 18 years or older to enter or gamble in the onboard casino.

Senior Guest Policy (Ages 60+)

Costa Cruises is popular among older travelers. While there are no strict senior-specific restrictions, some considerations include:

Medical Requirements: Seniors with medical conditions should provide health information.
Mobility Assistance: Wheelchairs and scooters can be requested but should be arranged in advance.
Discounts: Costa occasionally offers senior promotions or discounts for guests over 60.

Pregnancy Policy

Costa Cruises has a strict policy for pregnant guests:

Pregnant women may sail only if they are less than 24 weeks pregnant at the end of the cruise.
A medical certificate confirming due date and fitness to travel may be required.

Solo Traveler Age Policy

Guests must be at least 18 years old to travel alone in a cabin.
Minors cannot sail without a parent or legal guardian.
Teenagers may not book solo cabins, even with parental permission.

Babysitting and Kids’ Club Rules

Kids’ Clubs: Open for ages 3–11 with age-appropriate games.
Teen Clubs: For ages 12–17 with social activities.
Babysitting: Available in some cases for children over 3 years old, usually in group settings.

Excursion Age Policies

Certain shore excursions may have minimum age requirements (e.g., adventure tours, scuba diving, zip-lining).
Parents must accompany minors on excursions requiring waivers.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Costa’s age policy is shaped by:

International maritime law.
Health and safety requirements.
Local port regulations.

This ensures passenger safety while balancing family-friendly inclusivity.

Real Passenger Scenarios

Family with an Infant: A couple tried to book with a 4-month-old but were denied because of the 6-month minimum rule.
Teen Group: A 16-year-old wanted to cruise with friends. Costa required an adult chaperone in their booking.
Pregnant Traveler: A guest at 27 weeks was not permitted to board due to pregnancy policy.
Senior Guest: An 80-year-old booked with Costa and received mobility assistance pre-arranged through guest services.

Expert Tips for Families and Age Policies

Book Early: Family cabins sell out quickly.
Carry Proof of Age: Especially important for infants, teens, and young adults near drinking age.
Plan Kids’ Club Participation: Ensure children meet eligibility requirements.
Consider Travel Insurance: Covers medical and pregnancy-related cancellations.
Check Itinerary Laws: Rules can change depending on the region (e.g., drinking age in U.S. ports).

FAQs

Q1: Can infants under 6 months sail on Costa Cruises?

No, the minimum age is 6 months, or 12 months on transoceanic voyages.

Q2: What is the minimum drinking age?

18 years old on most itineraries, 21 in U.S. waters.

Q3: Can a 17-year-old book a cruise cabin?

No, at least one passenger must be 18 or older.

Q4: Is babysitting available?

Yes, but only for children over 3, and usually in group settings.

Q5: Are there senior discounts?

Sometimes, depending on promotions and availability.