Costa Cruises Celebrates North American Travel Partners at 30th Edition of ‘Protagonisti del Mare’ 

Costa Cruises held the 30th edition of “Protagonisti del Mare” (Protagonists of the Sea) on Dec. 13, 2025, aboard Costa Smeralda. The event honoured Costa’s international network of travel advisors, including three North American partners, reinforcing the Italian company’s strong relationship with global agencies.

The 2025 edition welcomed 1,600 guests, including distribution partners and media representatives from around the world. The ceremony honored 76 agencies, both nominated and awarded, for their performance and ongoing contribution to the brand’s growth.

Among the honourees were three North American partners: inCruises’ with the “Over the Top” award; and Expedia’s and International Voyager both receiving “Top Producers” recognition.

Dario Rustico, Costa Cruises’ general manager of North and South America, said: “Our North American travel advisors are an essential part of Costa’s global success, and it was an honour to see partners from our region recognized among the very best worldwide.”

And Rustico continued: “Their passion for the Costa product and collaborative spirit reflect exactly what Protagonisti del Mare stands for. As we look toward 2026, we remain deeply committed to supporting our North American partners with dedicated tools, shared vision and unforgettable experiences that help us grow together.”

This year, the “Protagonisti del Mare” event was once again held as part of the Costa Global Summit, where Costa shared its latest developments and vision for the future with an international audience.

Costa emphasized its strategic focus on “experiences” as it looks toward 2026. Travel partners had the opportunity to experience the company’s product firsthand, immersing themselves in the onboard atmosphere, services and offerings that define the Costa Cruises style.

The relationship between Costa Cruises and its global travel agency network continues to evolve and strengthen. Built on value, reciprocity and dedicated services – the pillars of the 2026 Commercial Agreement – the on-board celebration reaffirmed a shared commitment to building the future of Costa Cruises together while facing market challenges with a common vision.

The Costa Global Summit and the “Protagonisti del Mare” awards reinforce this collaboration and look to the future with passion and confidence.

Riccardo Fantoni, commercial director of Costa Cruises, said: “We have reached the 30th edition of an event that recognizes a very solid and long-standing partnership with travel agents. This is a unique event, eagerly awaited, that celebrates the best results, the fruit of a year of hard work and intense collaboration.”

Fantoni continued: “Our partner travel agents have always represented the ultimate ambassadors of our brand, its unique features, and our vision of a holiday. For this reason, we will continue to offer them innovative tools and a unique travel experience, differentiating ourselves in the market and creating value for everyone.”

And he added: “This fantastic event, for over 30 years, does not represent a point of arrival but, on the contrary, a stimulus to look to the future with enthusiasm, ambition, and innovation. A precious moment of listening, discussion, and celebration, to renew together our commitment to continue creating wonder for our customers.”

Go to www.costacruises.com for more.