Costa Cruises has warned passengers that they could face a €60 (£55) fee for taking buffet food back to their cabins, citing sanitation and hygiene concerns. The Italian cruise line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, recently informed guests on select sailings that removing food from buffet areas and restaurants is prohibited, according to the cruise blog Crew Center.
In a statement to The Independent, a Costa Cruises spokesperson said: “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 behaviour.” The spokesperson added that room service remains available upon request.
The letter reportedly given to passengers stated that “all food must be consumed exclusively in designated dining areas” and that only room service workers trained in sanitation and hygiene procedures are permitted to deliver food to cabins. The move has sparked debate among cruise travellers, with some supporting the rule due to dirty dishes left in hallways, while others argue it is too restrictive, particularly for those who enjoy breakfast on private balconies or snacks during downtime.
One supporter commented on Instagram: “Umm, I say good, nothing worse than plates and cups lining the hallways, it's not a good look. Never ever in 47 cruises needed to take food to my cabin…” However, a frustrated passenger said: “They just be making up rules as they go.” Another added: “Zero chance I’d pay that fine. Make breakfast in bed for my wife every morning by bringing food back. Who cares where you eat the included food.”
