Cruise passengers are threatening a boycott after Costa Cruises introduced a new fee for taking food out of buffet areas. The Italian cruise line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, has announced that on 'select sailings', removing food from buffet and restaurant areas could result in a €60 (approximately £51) cleaning fee. This policy, detailed in a letter sent to guests, states that 'all food must be consumed exclusively in designated dining areas', citing health and hygiene as the primary reasons.
Details of the New Policy
The letter reportedly explains that the measure is intended to encourage responsible behavior among guests. A Costa Cruises spokesperson told Metro: 'Guest safety and wellbeing are our top priority. On a limited number of specific sailings, an onboard communication was shared as a preventive and deterrent measure, in line with our existing policies, to encourage guests to a responsible behavior.' The spokesperson also confirmed that room service remains available upon request but did not specify which sailings are affected by the new policy.
Passenger Reactions
The announcement has sparked widespread anger online, particularly among parents. TikTok user @e_adeline_3 commented, 'I would never sail with this cruise line knowing this,' while others described it as 'the worst idea ever.' Parent @LaurenC0808 called it 'the most insane policy I've ever heard,' explaining, 'It's common for me to go to the buffet and get food for breakfast for everyone while the kids are sleeping.' Another parent, @Merissa, added, 'As a mom to young kids, sometimes it's easier to eat in your cabin versus fighting for a table.'
Impact on Cruise Popularity
Cruises have become increasingly popular among Brits, with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reporting that passengers from the UK and Ireland took 2.54 million ocean cruises in 2025, surpassing the previous record of 2.4 million in 2024. However, this new fee could deter some passengers, particularly families, who are a key demographic for cruise lines. The policy may push some travelers back to air travel, as they seek to avoid additional charges.
Costa Cruises Fleet and Operations
Costa Cruises currently operates nine active ships, sailing to destinations across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and South America. Its largest liner, Costa Toscana, can accommodate over 6,500 passengers and features 17 restaurants, 16 bars, and four swimming pools. The company has not specified which 'select sailings' are affected by the new policy, but the move has already generated significant negative publicity.
In related news, Royal Caribbean recently unveiled its new ship, Hero of the Seas, which boasts 20 decks, 2,814 staterooms, nine swimming pools, and 28 dining spots. The ship also features a waterpark with six slides, a sky-high obstacle course, and immersive dining experiences, highlighting the competitive nature of the cruise industry.
As the backlash continues, Costa Cruises faces the challenge of balancing health and hygiene concerns with customer satisfaction. The company's commitment to a 'high-quality, safe and enjoyable experience' will be tested as passengers voice their displeasure and consider alternative travel options.
