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Costa Serena has marked a historic farewell visit to Sihanoukville Port as it prepares to embark on new adventures in South America. On February 4, 2026, the Italian-flagged ship docked at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, bringing nearly 2,900 guests to experience Cambodia’s coastal beauty. This visit is particularly significant, as it represents one of the final stops in Asia for the Costa Serena before it transitions to the Western Hemisphere for the 2026-2027 cruise season. After spending nearly a decade exploring Asia, the ship is now set to reposition to South America, where it will offer new itineraries, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in its journey. The visit to Sihanoukville serves as a fitting send-off for the vessel’s long-standing presence in Asia and a signal of the new horizons it will explore in South America.
The Costa Serena is currently offering a variety of voyages ranging from seven to 21 nights across Southeast Asia and the Far East. On its recent journey, the ship made a notable stop in Sihanoukville as part of an eight-night cruise that departed from Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Cruise Terminal in late January. This visit is significant as it marks one of the final port calls in Asia before the ship embarks on its repositioning to the Western Hemisphere for the 2026-2027 cruise season.
Sihanoukville has been steadily gaining popularity as a cruise destination in recent years, with more international cruise lines making port calls to this Cambodian gem. Alongside Costa Cruises, ships from brands such as Holland America Line and Norwegian Cruise Line have also visited the port, contributing to its growing stature in the region’s cruise market.
As the Costa Serena winds down its winter season in Asia, the ship is offering international travelers the opportunity to explore the Southeast Asian coastline, from the bustling markets to the tranquil beaches and historic landmarks. Following its time in Asia, the vessel will reposition to South America for the 2026-2027 season, where it will operate cruises from key ports including Buenos Aires, Argentina, Montevideo, Uruguay, and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
These South American itineraries will feature voyages ranging from three to nine nights, giving travelers a chance to discover the vibrant cultures and natural wonders of the region. With South America emerging as a popular cruising destination, the Costa Serena is poised to attract a mix of international and local guests eager to experience the continent’s exciting destinations.
In the summer of 2027, the ship will head back to Europe, where it will offer a range of Mediterranean itineraries from iconic ports in Italy, Spain, France, and Greece. These European cruises will be a key part of the Costa Serena’s summer schedule, providing travelers with the chance to visit some of the world’s most beloved destinations along the Mediterranean coast.
The Costa Serena has had a remarkable presence in Asia, particularly since it repositioned to the region in 2015. For nearly a decade, the vessel has been a familiar sight, offering a variety of itineraries that cater to both international travelers and local markets such as China, Japan, Taiwan, and India. Over the years, the Costa Serena has built a reputation for providing excellent service, incredible destinations, and a taste of Italian luxury to its passengers.
Ahead of its farewell season in Asia, the Costa Serena underwent an extensive refurbishment project in China. The 2007-built ship, which accommodates 3,000 guests, received a complete modernization to ensure that it remains competitive in the cruise market. The refurbishment brought in a fresh new look, including upgraded staterooms and new dining venues that reflect the diverse cuisines of the regions the ship visits.
The dining experience onboard the Costa Serena was a focal point of the renovations, with new restaurants offering a blend of traditional Italian flavors and international cuisine. This diversity ensures that all guests, no matter their taste preferences, can enjoy a memorable dining experience throughout their journey. Additionally, the updated staterooms were designed to provide more comfort and space, with modern amenities that enhance the overall guest experience.
The modernization of the ship ensures that the Costa Serena continues to meet the expectations of today’s discerning travelers while maintaining the same level of Italian hospitality and elegance that Costa Cruises is known for. These upgrades provide a more luxurious onboard experience, making the Costa Serena an even more attractive option for guests looking for a refined cruise vacation.
The Costa Serena has made its historic farewell visit to Sihanoukville Port, marking the end of its decade-long presence in Asia as it prepares to embark on exciting new adventures in South America for the 2026-2027 season.
As the Costa Serena prepares to bid farewell to Asia, it leaves behind a lasting legacy in the region. Its decade-long presence in Asian waters has introduced countless travelers to the region’s cultural wonders and natural beauty, while fostering stronger connections between international markets and local communities. The ship’s repositioning to South America and Europe signals the beginning of a new chapter, but its time in Asia will be remembered for its stellar itineraries, exceptional service, and memorable journeys.
