Costa Toscana in Dry Dock: Maintenance Instead of Winter Sun

Von Gérard - Eigenes Werk, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
The Costa Toscana, the LNG flagship of Costa Crociere, has temporarily suspended its regular service and has been located in the port of Marseille since January 28, 2026. The ship is undergoing comprehensive maintenance in the massive "Forme 10" dry dock at the Chantier Naval de Marseille (CNM) until February 15, 2026. This scheduled shipyard stay marks the transition from operational service to a short but intensive phase of maintenance before the vessel welcomes passengers back on board.

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The stay in France is the result of a strategic adjustment. Originally, the ship was scheduled for a winter season in the Arabian Gulf, but due to the unstable security situation in the Middle East, the cruise line decided to cancel the Orient program. This geopolitical necessity was used operationally to pull forward the due "Special Survey"—the major 5-year classification inspection. Thus, the time is being used efficiently instead of exposing the ship to risky routes.

Technically, important work is pending in the dry dock that would not be possible during ongoing operations. This includes hull inspection, maintenance of the Azipod propulsion systems and valves, as well as updates to the complex LNG and safety systems. Visually, the ship is also receiving a refresh: after the shipyard period, passengers can look forward to "soft refurbishments," including new carpets and freshly coated pools, ensuring the high standard of the Excellence Class.

The Costa Toscana will resume service punctually on February 15, 2026, starting the season with a mini-cruise from Marseille. In the future, the ship will sail the Western Mediterranean, featuring new concepts such as the "Sea of Stars" cruises, which allow for astronomical observations on the open sea. The shipyard stay thus ensures that the vessel is technically and visually perfectly equipped for upcoming voyages.