Costa Cruises is introducing a new stateroom categorization plan beginning on December 2012 sailings that provides new benefits for both travel sellers and guests. Cabin categories will be reduced to four — Classic, Premium, Samsara and Suites — offering a price point and amenity level for every cruiser.

“By reducing our cabin categories down to four, we’re hoping to eliminate a lot of the frustration and confusion that can happen when there are too many options and levels of accommodation,” said Scott Knutson, vice president of sales and marketing for Costa Cruises North America. “With the enhanced cabin categorization plan our guests can select to new added-value benefits, while our travel partners have higher available earning potential.”

The Classic category includes standard-size cabins where guests enjoy all of the standard services of the ship. They offer the most affordable prices and are located on the lower decks of the ship.

Premium staterooms are on the upper decks and provide the best choice of cabin location, confirmed dining times, complimentary in-room breakfast, 24/7 room service and double Costa Club points, plus a 10 percent future cruise discount.

Samara cabins and suites are located inside or near the spa area and feature unlimited access to the spa, an exclusive restaurant, welcome ritual and a series of wellness treatments. This category also receives all benefits of a Premium cabin.

Suites provide first-class services for a luxury vacation. Suite guests receive all Premium benefits plus many other exclusive services and amenities. Guests in Suites also are entitled to priority boarding, a dedicated valet (excluding Mini Suites) and a bottle of sparkling wine.

Members of Costa Club, Costa’s complimentary loyalty program for past guests, also qualify for tailor-made privileges including complimentary cabin amenities, on-board discounts, preferential boarding and disembarkation, luggage delivery and shore tour privileges, plus priority restaurant seating.