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The all-inclusive Crystal Experience represents the highest levels of quality, service, and choices in all of luxury travel. In addition to our award-winning roster of complimentary entertainment, enrichment, and culinary offerings, our all-inclusive program also features pre-paid gratuities and free alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout all Crystal ships at all times.

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The $3,699 USD non-refundable Advance Purchase Savings (APS) fare is cruise only per guest and based on double occupancy, and does not include taxes, fees and port charges, which vary by departure. Available on new bookings when booked by September 2, 2020. APS fares are applicable to new bookings in categories S5-S1 on select APS voyages, based on availability at the time of reservation. Full payment is due on or before the option expiration date. Based on availability guests may change to an alternate APS 2021 voyage at any time prior to December 31, 2020 at no charge. Reservations are handled on a first-come, first-served basis. Combinable with strategic partner amenities. Not combinable with any percentage discounts, Crystal Assured Savings Program and Future Cruise Credits (FCCs). Future Cruise Payments (FCPs) may be applied. Not available to groups. All offers may not be combinable with other promotions, apply to first two full-fare guests in stateroom or suite, are capacity-controlled and subject to availability and may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. eGift card component not valid for Albania, Belarus, Bosnia Herzegovina, Brazil, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Lebanon, Libya, Macedonia, Montenegro, North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea), Serbia, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria (Syrian Arab Republic), Turkey, Ukraine, Venezuela, Yemen, and Zimbabwe based agents. Qualifying bookings must be made on any Crystal River Cruise on APS select sailings. All eligible bookings must be claimed in the ‘Rewards’ section of Crystal Academy at Crystalcruisesspecialist.com in order to receive $250 USD gift card per eligible booking. International based agents will receive a $250 USD eGift Card. The eGift Card carries a 3% currency charge for use in currencies other than USD. Restrictions apply. Ask for details. ©2020 Crystal Cruises, LLC. Ships’ Registries: Malta

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Crystal Cruises Review — Ships, Destinations, Dining, and More

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Katie Seemann

Senior Content Contributor and News Editor

Countries Visited: 28 U.S. States Visited: 29

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

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Director of Operations & Compliance

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Crystal Cruises Review — Ships, Destinations, Dining, and More

Basic Information

Crystal cruises ocean ships, crystal cruises river ships, crystal cruises yacht, crystal cruises expedition ship, departure ports, private ships/islands, complimentary dining, specialty restaurants, bars and beverages, crystal ocean cruises, crystal river cruises, crystal yacht cruises, crystal expedition cruises, crystal society, final thoughts.

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Crystal Cruises has been offering luxury cruise vacations since 1990. This all-inclusive cruise line doesn’t have a large fleet, but what they do have focuses on total luxury and intimate, small ship sailings.

With Crystal Cruises you won’t find mega-ships like Royal Caribbean or discount party ships like Carnival . What you will find are luxury ocean and river ships along with a yacht and an expedition ship.

Let’s explore what makes Crystal Cruises a unique experience.

Name: Crystal Ltd.

Parent Company: Genting Hong Kong

Number of Ships: 8

Destinations: 800+

Loyalty Program: Crystal Society

Credit Card: None

Crystal Cruises operates 2 ocean ships, 4 river ships, 1 yacht, and 1 expedition ship.

Crystal Bach

  • Crystal Serenity
  • Crystal Symphony
  • Crystal Bach
  • Crystal Debussy
  • Crystal Mahler
  • Crystal Ravel
  • Crystal Esprit
  • Crystal Endeavor

Crystal Endeavor

Crystal Cruises sails to over 800 destinations on all 7 continents from 84 departure ports.

Crystal Cruises does not have a private island or port.

Onboard Activities

Here are some of the activities you may experience on a Crystal Cruises ship (not all activities are available on every ship).

  • 360 Degree promenade deck
  • Afternoon tea
  • Computer University@Sea
  • Crystal Life Sauna
  • Crystal Life Spa & Salon
  • Fitness center
  • Golf driving nets
  • Junior activities program (seasonal)
  • Paddle tennis courts
  • Personal training
  • Photography workshops
  • Resorts World at Sea Casino

You’ll be able to find the dress code for your ocean or expedition voyage, either Crystal Casual or black tie optional, for each day at sea in your Personal Cruise Calendar.

Crystal River Ships Dress Code

  • Comfortable and casual attire is appropriate during the day, however, swimsuits, cover-ups, and baseball hats are not permitted in the dining rooms.
  • Crystal Casual attire is appropriate for evenings on board. This is a slightly dressed up version of daytime wear.

Crystal Esprit (Yacht) Dress Code

  • Tasteful swimwear, sandals, shorts, casual short sleeves, and cover-ups are appropriate during the day.
  • Stylish resort wear should be worn for nights on board. This includes capri pants, blouses, sundresses, and sandals for women. Men should wear khakis, Bermuda shorts, short-sleeve button-down shirts, or golf shirts.

Hot Tip: Be prepared for your cruise’s action-packed days and fun-filled nights — check out our printable cruise packing list!

Dining and Beverages

Dining is a little different on Crystal Cruises because everything is included . There are 3 specialty restaurants across the fleet and each guest is entitled to dine at each of these once or twice per cruise (depending on cruise length) at no extra cost. All beverages in the restaurants, including alcohol, are included as well.

Look out for these restaurants on your next cruise; not all locations are available on every ship.

  • 24-hour room service
  • Bistro Bach
  • Bistro Debussy
  • Bistro Endeavor
  • Bistro Mahler
  • Bistro Ravel
  • Churrascaria
  • Marketplace
  • Scoops Ice Cream Bar
  • Silk Kitchen & Bar
  • Sunset Grill
  • The Vintage Room*
  • Trident Grill
  • Umi Uma & Sushi Bar*

*Denotes a specialty restaurant that requires reservations.

All locations with the exception of specialty restaurants Umi Uma, Prego, and The Vintage Room have open seating. That means you can dine anytime (usually between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. for dinner) you wish without reservations.

Silk Kitchen and Bar on Crystal Serenity

Umi Uma & Sushi Bar, Prego, and The Vintage Room are considered specialty restaurants and require reservations. You can dine at each of the specialty restaurants once per cruise for free. Each additional reservation you make at a specialty restaurant will incur a $30 per person fee.

For any cruise that is 14 days or longer, each guest is allowed 2 complimentary visits to each specialty restaurant before the $30 fee is charged. The Vintage Room wine pairing dining experience is also subject to additional charges.

All beverages are included on your Crystal cruise. Wine, Champagne, premium spirits, and specialty coffees? Yes, they’re all included!

Look out for these bars and lounges on your next cruise; not all locations are available on every ship.

  • Avenue Saloon
  • Connoisseur Club
  • Crystal Cove
  • Galaxy Lounge
  • Starlite Club

Bottom Line: Crystal Cruises goes the all-inclusive route. Beverages (including wines, Champagne, and specialty coffees), specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, and gratuities are all included.

Accommodations

No matter which room type you choose or what type of ship you’re sailing on, you’ll find luxury accommodations across the Crystal Cruises fleet.

Every stateroom on a Crystal ocean cruise comes with standard amenities including:

  • Sitting area
  • Double-vanity bathroom
  • Full bathtub/shower
  • Bathrobes, kimonos, and slippers for onboard use
  • Luxury bath products
  • Twice-daily housekeeping
  • Evening turndown service

Here are some of the highlights:

The Seabreeze Penthouse with Verandah features butler service, a walk-in closet, private verandah, in-suite tea or cocktails, plus canapés and dining from specialty restaurants Umi Uma and Prego.

Crystal Penthouse with Verandah bathroom

For the ultimate in luxury, choose the Crystal Penthouse with Verandah. This amazing room features over 1,300 square feet of living space. You’ll find a separate living and dining area featuring a custom entertainment center. The master bathroom includes a Jacuzzi tub, flat-screen TV, heated floor, and bidet. There’s also a guest bathroom with a shower.

Sailing on a river cruise is so different than a more traditional ocean cruise. Crystal river cruises are a great way to travel if you’re looking for luxury because every room on each river ship is a suite!

The “basic” room on a Crystal river cruise is anything but basic. The Petite Suite with Panoramic Balcony-Window features a king-size bed with Egyptian cotton linens, glass shower with 2 shower heads, single vanity with halo-lit mirror, and a huge panoramic window so you won’t miss the spectacular views.

The Two-Bedroom Crystal Suite with Panoramic Balcony-Window sleeps up to 5 guests and comes with butler service. This elegant room features 2 bedrooms with en suite bathrooms, a fireplace with ambient lighting, a separate dining area, and an extra powder room.

Two bedroom crystal suite with panoramic balcony window

Cruising on a yacht is a special treat. Crystal Cruise’s yacht, Crystal Esprit, accommodates only 62 guests, so you’ll enjoy personalized service along with deluxe accommodations.

The Yacht Suite features a king-size bed, bed-side iPads, and large picture window. The bathroom has a glass-enclosed shower, double sink, and a natural stone floor. Personalized butler service and twice-daily housekeeping will round out your luxurious experience.

The 500+ square foot Owner’s Suite features a living area with sofa and chairs, flat-screen TV, and dining table. The bathroom includes a glass-enclosed rain shower and double vanity with a backlit mirror and integrated TV.

Owners Suite on Crystal Esprit

On the Crystal Endeavor Expedition ship, all rooms are suites and every suite has a private verandah.

The Penthouse Suite with Verandah features a king-size bed, living area, and a heated storage closet for expedition gear. The bathroom features a glass-enclosed shower with dual shower heads, double vanity, and a separate water closet.

For even more space and luxury, check out the Expedition Suite with Verandah. This expansive suite features 2 bedrooms in over 1,200 square feet of space. Each bedroom features a king-size bed, bedside iPads, and interactive TVs. Each bedroom has an en suite bathroom with dual sinks, heated floors, Jacuzzis, and separate water closets.

Expedition Suite with Verandah bedroom

The Crystal Society is Crystal Cruise’s loyalty program. It’s free to join , and you’ll be automatically enrolled after you complete your first full-revenue cruise. As a member, you’ll receive special offers, upgrades, onboard credits, special events, and savings on future cruises.

Every member receives benefits including:

  • 2.5% savings on all voyages
  • 2.5% onboard booking savings when you book your next cruise on board
  • Exclusive onboard cocktail party

Plus, you’ll earn cruise credits each time you sail. Each time you hit a new milestone, you’ll be eligible for even more benefits like unlimited free reservations at specialty restaurants, credits towards future sailings, and recognition pins.

Hot Tip: Not sure which credit card to use to get the most bang for your cruise buck? Check out our guide to the best credit cards to book cruises for some guidance.

Crystal Cruises is a luxury cruise line offering ocean, river, yacht, and expedition cruises. Each of its 8 ships is designed for the luxury traveler and includes elegant accommodations and exquisite cuisine.

On Crystal Cruises, everything is included. You won’t pay extra for specialty restaurants, beverages, gratuities, or Wi-Fi.

If you’re looking for mega-ships with endless activities, check out other lines like Disney Cruises , Norwegian , or Princess. However, if you prefer smaller ships or the intimacy of a river or yacht cruise, Crystal Cruises has a lot to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a crystal cruise all-inclusive.

Yes, Crystal Cruises is an all-inclusive line. You won’t have to pay extra for beverages like wine, Champagne, spirits, or specialty coffees. The specialty restaurants are included as is Wi-Fi, room service, and gratuities.

Do Crystal Cruises include excursions in the price?

If you’re sailing on Crystal Cruises’ yacht, Crystal Esprit, Crystal Cruises’ Expedition ship, Crystal Endeavor, or a Crystal Cruises river ship, some shore excursions are included. However, if you’re sailing on a Crystal Cruises ocean ship, shore excursions will come with an additional charge.

Are children allowed on Crystal Cruise ships?

Yes, children aged 6 months and older are welcome on any Crystal Cruises ship with a few exceptions. When traveling on the Crystal Esprit, children younger than 7 are not allowed on the Zodiacs. Some ports require Zodiac transportation to disembark the yacht, so young children would have to stay on board with an adult in those situations. Children under 6 years old are not allowed on Crystal Endeavor expeditions to the Arctic or Antarctic.

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About Katie Seemann

Katie has been in the points and miles game since 2015 and started her own blog in 2016. She’s been freelance writing since then and her work has been featured in publications like Travel + Leisure, Forbes Advisor, and Fortune Recommends.

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Crystal Cruises will set sail again this summer with new name, 'personalized service'

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Crystal Cruises is back with a new name and a new look.

After  suspending operations  last year, the cruise line is relaunching as Crystal and will set sail again on July 31, the brand said Wednesday.

The A&K Travel Group, which owns the luxury travel company Abercrombie & Kent, acquired the Crystal Cruises brand last year along with its Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity ships, which have been refurbished with larger suites and revamped amenities.

"I am delighted to announce that Crystal is reborn, with Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony reimagined and enhancements made to every part of our guests' journey," Crystal president Jack Anderson said in a news release .

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Crystal Cruises  reportedly shut down  at least its U.S. operations last year after an arrest warrant had been issued for the Crystal Symphony because of unpaid fuel bills. The cruise line had previously suspended sailings for several months after its parent company, Genting Hong Kong, declared bankruptcy in January 2022.

Royal Caribbean Group also acquired another former Crystal Cruises ship , Crystal Endeavor, which joined the Silversea Cruises fleet as Silver Endeavour.

Where will Crystal sail?

With the tagline, "Exceptional at Sea," Crystal will sail to destinations around the world, including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Alaska, Canada and New England and more.

The relaunched line's first sailing on July 31 will be a 12-night voyage from Marseille, France, to Lisbon, Portugal , on Crystal Serenity.

What can guests expect from Crystal?

Travelers can expect larger accommodations and upgraded features on board.

"Palatial suites, spacious verandas and guest rooms have been rolled out on both ships, reducing overall guest capacity," Anderson said in the release. "Personalized service – long a Crystal signature – has been elevated further."

Anderson said the line's eateries – there are nine on each ship – would serve "authentic food from around the globe," while Abercrombie & Kent's local experts would offer destination-specific experiences.

The ships will also have updated spas and gyms.

How much does a Crystal cruise cost?

A nine-night voyage from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Miami departing Nov. 23 starts at $3,800 per guest based on double occupancy, according to the line's website , but prices vary by cruise and room category, and include food and drinks on board.

Bookings open Wednesday for travel advisors and travelers who have made $500 open deposits . Other past passengers can book a cruise starting on Feb. 13, and bookings will open to the general public Feb. 22.

Crystal Serenity cruise ship review: What to expect on this transformed luxury vessel

Gene Sloan

Call it the once and future queen of luxury cruising.

For years, Crystal Serenity was one of the world's most beloved luxury ships. Some would even say it was at the pinnacle of luxury cruising: The ship that delivered the ultimate luxury cruise experience.

But then, in early 2022, it was unexpectedly gone — a victim of the collapse of the parent company of Crystal Cruises .

Now, after an 18-month absence from the luxury cruising scene, Crystal Serenity is back and — dare I say — better than before.

The company that bought Crystal Serenity and the rights to the Crystal brand name from the liquidators of the former company has relaunched the vessel. But not before it poured millions of dollars into a massive overhaul of the ship that has left it sparkling — almost as if it were new.

King Arthur may not yet have returned to rule his kingdom. But Crystal Serenity is back to rule hers, and she is looking better than ever.

If you're a luxury cruise lover (or a Crystal fan), that's exciting news.

Overview of Crystal Serenity

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Crystal Serenity is the new flagship for Crystal, a luxury cruise brand that is at the same time all-new and decades old.

Crystal is technically a start-up luxury cruise company — one that just debuted this year and is being built from the ground up. Its owners have nothing to do with the old owners of Crystal Cruises. That company ceased to exist when its parent company, Genting Hong Kong, collapsed in early 2022 and was liquidated.

And yet the new owners of Crystal Serenity and the rights to the Crystal Cruises brand are creating a new cruise line that is about as close to the old Crystal Cruises as can be. Its name is just slightly different (note it's just Crystal, not Crystal Cruises), and it's operating the same two main ships that once sailed for Crystal Cruises. You'll also find many of the same senior staff and crew on those ships as before.

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If it's not a rebirth of Crystal Cruises, it's at least a reincarnation. The old soul of Crystal Cruises is back in a new form.

Still, it's a reincarnation that comes, as noted above, with a massive transformation for Crystal Serenity and the other former Crystal Cruises ship that is relaunching — Crystal Symphony.

Unveiled in 2003, the 68,870-ton Crystal Serenity has been made even more luxurious during an overhaul in dry dock that was so long — around six months — that it allowed for an almost complete rebuilding of significant parts of the ships.

For starters, two whole cabin decks were completely gutted to rip out relatively small cabins and replace them with much bigger suites. This was on top of an overhaul of other cabin areas several years ago. As a result, the ship now has far fewer but far bigger cabins than it once did.

Originally built for 1,080 passengers, Crystal Serenity is now configured to hold just 740 passengers — even as the size of its public areas (lounges, bars, restaurants, etc.) hasn't changed. That means its "space ratio" — a fancy cruise world term that refers to the amount of space on the ship per passenger — is at an almost unprecedented level for a cruise vessel. Specifically, it's at 93, far above the 60 to 75 that is typical for luxury ships.

With its passenger count down, its crew-to-passenger ratio is also through the roof at around 1-to-1.

These are the building blocks on which true luxury cruising is built.

What I loved about Crystal Serenity

The remarkable crew.

There was always something special about the crew on Crystal ships. It was what made the line. And the big news for Crystal fans as the line restarts is that more than 80% of the crew has returned.

If you book a cruise on Crystal Serenity, you'll mostly find the same butlers, room stewardesses, wait staff and front desk workers that have wowed customers for years with their next-level service — a service level so exquisite and intuitive that it has long been the talk of the cruise world. It is the interplay of this crew with Crystal's regular customers — and 80% of Crystal's customers are regulars, according to its new owners — that creates an onboard experience that many luxury cruise lovers find unrivaled.

For longtime Crystal fans, one of the great joys in returning to the brand's ships, again and again, is to see the same crew members they have come to know and love over the years. I experienced this myself upon boarding Crystal Serenity in July as I bumped into one crew member after another with whom I had sailed before and, at times, developed deep bonds.

In fact, one of the first staffers I met after boarding, the butler for my room, was Prince Jose, who I called out by name for his great service in the last story I wrote from a Crystal ship in 2021. That was nearly two years ago, but he recognized me, and I recognized him, and we immediately got to talking as if no time had gone by.

My all-time favorite bartender from any ship at sea, Ana, also is on board, now promoted to a position at the front desk. We hugged when we saw each other — it's that kind of crew.

The spacious suites

The old knock on Crystal ships was that many of their cabins weren't big enough — at least for an ultra-luxury ship. Newer luxury ships in recent years have been built with more big cabins and suites, which put Crystal's older vessels at a disadvantage.

That's no longer the case, thanks to the overhaul of the cabin decks mentioned above. The two decks were completely gutted, with smaller cabins replaced by suites that are twice as large. I'll go into more detail on this below in the cabins section, but the result is a game-changing transformation for Crystal Serenity's accommodations that give it some of the best luxury cabins in the business.

The promenade

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It's a little thing, but the promenade on Crystal Serenity is gorgeous. It wraps all the way around the ship — something that is increasingly rare on cruise vessels. It's lined with beautiful teak boards that have been refinished to look almost brand new.

On Deck 7, not far above the waterline, the promenade also is wide and blissfully uncluttered. If you end up on board Crystal Serenity, do not miss a morning walk around it — 3.35 laps equals a mile — or an evening stroll to soak in the salty air and watch the waves. It's what promenades used to be in the grand old days of cruising.

What I didn't love about Crystal Serenity

The lack of a casino.

I am not a gambler, and you won't ever find me in a cruise ship casino. For me, personally, a lack of a casino is no loss at all. But Crystal has traditionally drawn a lively crowd that likes to stay up late drinking, dancing and soaking in the onboard entertainment, and for some, at least, that includes dropping a little money at a casino.

Crystal Serenity used to have a modest casino area just outside the main theater on Deck 6. Theatergoers would spill out of the theater into the casino on their way to the ship's other entertainment venues on the opposite side of the deck, with some lingering for a game or two. But the casino was taken out during the 2023 overhaul.

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For now, the old casino space has been revamped as a lounge. However, it's a lounge without a bar, and it comes off as a dead space on the ship — a room that is rarely used. Over six days on board, I hardly saw a soul sitting in it.

Crystal executives say they still are figuring out what to do with the space, and it could become something different over time. One proposal called for it to become a cooking classroom, though executives said that would be hard to do properly in the space. One Crystal executive mentioned to me there was talk of using the space for an onboard distillery.

Whatever happens, my take is that the casino's removal was one of the rare misses of the ship's overhaul.

Sapphire suite storage space

It's difficult to find fault with much on Crystal Serenity in the wake of its makeover. It's that great a ship. A relatively minor quibble is that the many big (and lovely) new Sapphire Verandah Suites the line added to Crystal Serenity don't have quite as much storage space as I would have expected. These are huge suites at more than 500 square feet, so there is no lack of space to add shelving, drawers and other storage units. But the amount of storage space put into the rooms seems modest, given their size.

That isn't to say that there isn't a good amount of storage in these rooms. There's enough for a typical seven-night cruise, but this is a ship that will often sail longer cruises where you will want extra storage.

Crystal Serenity cabins and suites

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Crystal Serenity's array of cabins and suites is relatively simple to understand. It features just nine categories of rooms, with just two of those categories accounting for the vast majority of accommodations.

About 40% of the ship's accommodations (151 out of 377) are Sapphire Verandah Suites. Measuring a whopping 537 square feet including balcony space, these are unusually spacious suites for a main cabin category on a cruise ship. Each of these suites, notably, has a separate sitting room and bedroom, a walk-in closet and a large bathroom, as well as a 107-square-foot balcony.

The somewhat smaller but still spacious Aquamarine Verandah Suites make up another 28% of the ship's accommodations (106 suites). Measuring 409 square feet, including balcony space, these suites lack the separate sitting rooms found in Sapphire Verandah Suites but still are impressively large.

Add in four more Aquamarine Verandah Suites with balconies that are ADA compliant and four Aquamarine Suites without balconies that are ADA-compliant (both sets of which are considered their own cabin categories), and that's 70% of all accommodations on the ship.

The remaining 30% of accommodations include a handful of larger penthouse and junior penthouse suites, and roughly 100 smaller double and single rooms (more on these in a moment).

For longtime Crystal fans, the thing to know is that a large percentage of all these accommodations were massively overhauled and enlarged in advance of the line's relaunch this year. In fact, two of Crystal Serenity's four main cabin decks — decks 8 and 9 — were essentially gutted and rebuilt, with nearly all their smaller cabins ripped out and replaced with the much larger Sapphire Verandah Suites.

It was a massive undertaking that involved knocking out dozens of walls — and one that has profoundly changed the vessel. Once criticized for not having big enough rooms, Crystal Serenity now offers one of the most impressive arrays of big suites of any luxury ship.

My own cabin was one of these all-new Sapphire Veranda Suites on Deck 9, and it was among the most lovely cruise ship suites I have stayed in in recent years. In addition to being wonderfully spacious, it had a sophisticated, contemporary vibe with soothing light gray and beige furnishings, fabrics and wall coverings sprinkled with ocean-inspired blue velvet accents.

As one would expect on a luxury ship, the bedding on my Sapphire Veranda Suite bed was ridiculously luscious, with super-high-end, embroidered Italian-made Jesurum 1870 sheets that were so soft and comfortable that I just wanted to snuggle under them all day. Generously sized, Fior di Pesco marble-topped nightstands flanked the bed, with perfectly placed task lighting floating off the wall just above them.

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I also appreciated the tidy cluster of electrical outlets (both U.S.- and European-style) and USB ports on both sides of the beds. On some ships, you only find these on one side of the bed — if at all.

In addition, the bathroom in my Sapphire Verandah Suite was spacious and elegant, with a Fior di Pesco marble-topped vanity embedded with two upscale Duravit sinks on one side and an unusually large walk-in shower on the other side. The shower itself was a showpiece, with high-end Grohe fixtures that spouted water from three directions. These included a massive rain shower head on the ceiling that shot water straight down, two back-wall shower heads that shot out horizontally (hitting you midbody) and a separate hand-held wand. There were separate controls for each of these, so I could mix and match the water delivery devices to my liking.

One small gripe: In a perfect world, the hand-held wand would have been placed higher on the shower wall, so it could double as a main shower head for those who aren't fans of ceiling-mounted rain showers.

The bathroom toiletries, too, were high-end, made by Italian luxury purveyor Ortigia Sicilia with scents of Italian wildflowers.

I particularly liked that the bathroom had an unusually large amount of storage space, with two long open shelves built into the marble vanity under the sinks and a floor-to-ceiling tower of matching marble shelves next to the shower (some of which house the bathroom's towels).

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All that extra storage space in the bathroom was in contrast to what some may consider a lack of enough storage space outside the bathroom. While the suite featured a walk-in closet for storage, as I mentioned above, I found it oddly small for a suite of this size, at around six feet by six feet.

The storage available in Sapphire Verandah Suites is surely adequate for the storage needs of a couple on one of the ship's occasional week-long sailings. But this is a vessel that often does much longer sailings of 10 nights or more, including around-the-world trips that last more than four months.

Given that, there would have been logic to using more of the suite's ample room for storage. I might have tucked another built-in storage unit along the wall in the seating area that currently houses a television, with the television inset into it, or in the narrow inset area at the entrance to the room where there currently is a second door to the bathroom (a door that is a "nice to have" for those rare times when a guest is visiting but not critical).

Notably, the walk-in closet is so small that the four pull-out drawers along one of its walls can't be opened all the way unless the inward-swinging door to the closet is at least partially closed. This makes for an awkward time trying to access items put in these draws.

The walk-in closet also is tucked away in an odd location in a corner of the sitting room instead of adjacent to the bedroom. Still, that's just another small quibble.

Overall, the new Sapphire Verandah Suites are a delightful addition to Crystal Serenity, which has long needed a bigger array of suites to please its well-heeled passengers.

Those who want something even bigger than a Sapphire Verandah Suite will find four massive, 1,372-square-foot Crystal Penthouses on the vessel and six 806-square-foot Junior Crystal Penthouses. The latter is an all-new category of cabin for the line.

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The four Crystal Penthouses, one of which I toured, are truly over-the-top. Each has an elegant bedroom, an enormous bathroom with mosaic-inlaid floors and walls that evoke a Roman bath, two separate living room areas, a dining area and a butler's pantry that is essentially a miniature private kitchen with its own sink, dishwasher and microwave.

The six Junior Crystal Penthouses offer separate dining and living areas looking out over a private balcony, a bedroom with a large walk-in closet, a spacious primary bathroom, and a half-bath near the entrance for visitors.

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Rounding out the ship's accommodations are 46 smaller cabins for two with balconies that measure 269 square feet. There are also 42 cabins for two without balconies that measure 215 square feet. Both cabin categories are officially called Double Occupancy Suites, though, in my book, cabins of that size aren't really suites and shouldn't be labeled as such.

The final cabin category on Crystal Serenity is its 14 Classic Staterooms, which are sold as solo cabins. At 215 square feet, they're essentially the same layout as the Double Occupancy Suites without balconies but only meant for one passenger.

The solo cabins, which I wasn't able to see, are also an entirely new category of cabin for the ship.

Other Crystal Serenity cabin tidbits:

  • Every cabin has a small hair dryer and a personal safe in the closet.
  • There are flat-screen televisions on the walls in bedrooms that offer a wide range of movies on demand for no extra charge. The televisions also receive live feeds from a limited number of cable networks, including CNBC, MSNBC, BBC World News, Fox News, HGTV, Food Network and Travel Channel.
  • Every cabin and suite on Crystal Serenity comes with butler service (a change with the new line, as previously only higher-level cabins received butler service).
  • Cabins come with pull-out minibars stocked with beer, wine, water and sodas.

Crystal Serenity restaurants and bars

As is typical for a (relatively) small luxury vessel, Crystal Serenity doesn't have a huge number of eateries. Nor are there so many bars that you won't have time to get to them all on a typical cruise. That sort of too-much-is-never-enough excess is the realm of the big mass-market ships.

But what Crystal Serenity lacks in quantity, it makes up for in quality. The vessel has one main dining room and two main specialty restaurants that each are about as classy and upscale as you'll find at sea — all included in the fare. There are also several casual eateries in the vicinity of the main pool on the Lido Deck. Crystal Serenity's handful of bars and lounges also are classy and refined.

In general, Crystal's cuisine and drinks offerings are high-end, as you'd expect for a luxury product, and served with the sort of elegance and flair that is only found at the best luxury resorts on land or sea.

Restaurants

While I was only on Crystal Serenity for six nights, I was able to visit every food outlet on board — something made possible by the ship's relatively intimate size.

The main dining room on the vessel, and the spot where you'll eat at least a few, if not most, of your dinners, is Waterside. On Deck 5, just off the ship's central plaza, it serves up what the line calls modern international cuisine for dinner in an elegant setting.

We're talking such dishes as sauteed tiger prawns with creamed orzo, broccolini and candied bacon; or broiled lemon sole floating in a shallow dill-and-cockles chowder with snow peas and confit potatoes. More traditional items, such as grilled black Angus sirloin steak with Bearnaise sauce, also appear on the menu, which changes nightly.

Waterside is also open for breakfast and lunch — the place to go when you want something a little more formal for breakfast or lunch than a quick bite at one of the casual eateries on the Lido Deck. The breakfast menu offers everything from eggs Benedict, Belgian waffles and other breakfast classics to a crab omelet (a Waterside breakfast signature). Lunch brings its own enticing array of mouth-watering dishes, from pan-fried rainbow trout with almond-caper butter to lamb kofte.

Still, as wonderful as Waterside is (and for a main restaurant on a cruise ship, it truly is wonderful), the culinary star of Crystal Serenity always has been and remains Umi Uma, the innovative Japanese-Peruvian restaurant created by legendary master chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa. It's an eatery that was on Crystal Serenity for many years before its overhaul, and it has thankfully made a comeback under the ship's new owners — albeit with an all-new look.

Luckily, the overhaul did not extend to the menu. All of the insanely fabulous, melt-in-your-mouth Nobu specialties, such as Matsuhisa's signature Nobu-style black cod marinated in Saikyo miso, baby peach and young ginger, and Wagyu beef filet steak, are all still there.

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Note that while unlimited dining at Waterside on Crystal Serenity is included in the fare, passengers only get to visit Umi Uma once per cruise for free for sailings of 11 days or fewer. For sailings of more than 11 days, two complimentary reservations are included.

If you want additional reservations at Umi Uma, you can sign up for another turn, on a space-available basis, for $50 per person. This is basically a crowd-control measure, as otherwise, everyone on board would want to eat there every night. It's that good. If you can get a second or third reservation, grab it. Matsuhisa's restaurants on land can easily set you back $300 or more a couple, so even a $50 per person charge here is an incredible bargain.

The new entrant to Crystal's scene is Osteria d'Ovidio, a high-end Italian eatery that takes the place of Prego, another Italian restaurant that was in the same location for years leading up to the line's shutdown in 2022. Like Umi Uma, it was completely gutted and rebuilt during the ship's overhaul in early 2023 and looks brand new. It also has a new menu focused on Northern Italian cuisine.

I sampled half a dozen of Osteria d'Ovidio's new dishes during a special night of tastings, and there wasn't a bad item in the bunch. The standout, if I had to choose, was the tortello di stracotto di manzo, a wrapped pasta filled with braised beef, fig vincotto (a type of fig molasses) and gorgonzola cheese. It may be my new favorite pasta.

Also, whatever you do if you dine here, order the caffe nocciola e caramello salato dessert. Run that through the Google translator if you must know what it is in advance — or trust me. It'll melt in your mouth.

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Crystal Serenity trivia: Osteria d'Ovidio is named after Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the new controlling owner of Crystal. A familiar name in the cruise business, Lefebvre d'Ovidio owned luxury line Silversea Cruises for many years, until he sold it to Royal Caribbean Group (the parent company of Royal Caribbean).

Notably, Lefebvre d'Ovidio already has a series of restaurants on ships named after him, but not on Crystal or Silversea ships. Lefebvre d'Ovidio's friend Torstein Hagen, chairman of upscale cruise line Viking , has named the high-end Italian eateries on all of Viking's ocean ships Manfredi's in honor of him.

My take: Any restaurant with at least a portion of Lefebvre d'Ovidio's name in it must be destined to be a star. The Manfredi's eateries on Viking ships (which Lefebvre d'Ovidio had a hand in creating with Hagen) were until now my favorite Italian eateries at sea. Now the new Osteria d'Ovidio on Crystal Serenity joins them atop my pantheon of all-time great Italian restaurants on ships. It's an Italian eatery that even my judgy Italian grandmother would have loved.

Like Umi Uma, Osteria d'Ovidio only can be visited once per cruise for free for sailings of 11 days or fewer. After that, there's a $50 per person charge to dine there on a space-available basis. Again, this is mostly for crowd control.

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Other eateries on Crystal Serenity include Marketplace, a casual buffet, and The Trident Grill, serving cooked-to-order burgers and hot sandwiches. Both are steps away from the ship's main pool on Deck 12, as is Tastes Kitchen & Bar. The latter serves a mix of classic lunch dishes from around the world at lunchtime — everything from stir-fried egg noodles and a grilled Reuben sandwich to chicken quesadillas and a shrimp Caesar salad. Dinnertime is when the eatery really shines, though.

Designed as a casual alternative to the more formal dining spots on the ship, Tastes offers a dinner menu of elevated, globally inspired dishes in a relaxed, top-of-the-ship setting. All of the dishes, which include ahi tuna poke, hamachi crudo, oven-roasted cauliflower, ricotta gnocchi, California street tacos and chimichurri steak, are placed in the middle of the table and meant to be shared.

There's also a nearby counter serving handmade Italian gelato.

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Trident Grill and Tastes are side-by-side on a top deck covered with a glass magrodome that can slide open when the weather is pleasant.

In addition, on Deck 6, just off the central atrium, passengers will find a Parisian-inspired cafe serving espresso drinks and light snacks throughout the day (this is the place to get your coffee fix). In the morning, there's a self-serve continental breakfast here, arrayed along a buffet on one end of the room. The afternoon brings a spread of cold cuts, scrumptious cakes, cannoli and other desserts, and fruit.

Finally, Crystal Serenity has a special 14-seat dining room called the Vintage Room that guests can book for exclusive private dinners that combine an elegant set menu of five to seven dishes with wine pairings for each course. Seven-course meals in the room, including wines, are presented over about three hours in the room and cost $300 per person.

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A shorter five-course food and wine pairing in the Vintage Room is available for $220 per person. Occasional seven-course meals overseen by celebrity chefs that sail on the ship cost $1,100 per person, including wine pairings.

Bars and lounges

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Some cruise ships have so many bars and lounges that you have trouble visiting them all on a typical seven-night cruise. Crystal Serenity isn't one of them. If you're out for a drink on Crystal Serenity, you're probably heading to just one of three places: Crystal Cove, Avenue Saloon or the Palm Court & Sunset Bar.

At the base of Crystal Serenity's two-deck-high atrium, Crystal Cove is the ultimate social hub for the ship, the place you go when you want to meet all the new friends you're making on board for a pre-dinner cocktail or a nightcap afterward. Open from late morning until the wee hours, it offers live music for much of the day, starting as early as lunchtime and continuing through midnight. The entertainment is low-key enough that you can maintain a conversation with your companions.

On a typical night at Crystal Cove, you might find a saxophonist playing in the early evening, followed by a pianist and a violinist and then a pianist and a singer, capped off by a singer with a guitar.

Avenue Saloon, at the back of the ship on Deck 6, is a cozy venue. Its dark wood and leather-lined walls, heavy red-upholstered barrel chairs and turned-down lights create the air of a speakeasy. You feel like you want to order a whiskey drink here, and indeed, it's home to both a special Manhattan menu and a Negroni menu. It also serves as the ship's piano bar, with a pianist playing most nights.

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If you're a cigar smoker, the adjacent Connoisseur Club is the place for you. The clubby hideaway is the cliche of a cigar and pipe smoking den with dark-wood paneling, leather sofas, paisley fabric-covered wingback chairs and high-end single-malt Scotch, Armagnac and Cognac for sale as well as hand-rolled cigars from around the world. Sinatra plays in the background. It is, notably, the only place on the ship you can smoke a cigar or pipe.

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For a bar with a view, you'll want to head up to the faux palm tree-filled Palm Court & Sunset Bar, which is at the top of the ship on Deck 12 overlooking the bow.

While not staffed nearly as many hours as the other bars (on my voyage, bar service was only available from 5 to 10:30 p.m.), the Palm Court offers sweeping views of the ocean from floor-to-ceiling windows that wrap around 270 degrees. Palm Court also is where Crystal offers a formal afternoon tea service on sea days accompanied by a pianist and a violinist.

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Home to one of the ship's biggest dance floors, the Palm Court often has live entertainment and dancing at night. One night on my sailing, an old-timey crooner sang Sinatra tunes for a half hour, accompanied by a pianist.

Crystal Serenity activities and shows

Among the major luxury lines, the original Crystal Cruises was always known for a stepped-up level of entertainment (it's long been a Crystal thing), and the new Crystal is no different. From the day of its relaunch, Crystal Serenity has been a ship that gets lively at night in a way that many luxury ships don't.

The entertainment hubs on Crystal Serenity include Galaxy Pavilion, a full-blown theater at the front of the ship on Deck 6 that offers all sorts of relatively big entertainment productions in the evening. During my sailing, for instance, it was the site of a Billy Joel tribute concert and a show by a comedian who flew in for the performance.

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At the back of the same deck is yet another major entertainment venue, the Stardust Club. It's a more versatile entertainment lounge with a stage and large dance floor that offers a mix of dancing, cabaret performances and other themed events. Additionally, on select nights, Stardust opens its doors as a reservations-only Supper Club that offers an evening show with both dining and dancing.

Speaking of dancing, Crystal is one of the few cruise lines in the world that still sails with "ambassador hosts" — older gentlemen who are on hand to dance with single ladies on board. The word is they're always in hot demand. If only I knew how to dance, this would be my retirement plan.

A third entertainment space on the same deck as the Stardust Club, the Hollywood Theatre is a traditional cinema playing recently released movies and also broadcasting live sporting events at times. It's also used as a lecture hall.

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For the late-night crowd, there's a small nightclub with a semi-circular bar tucked back behind the Stardust Club. Called Pulse, it doesn't get going until around midnight, assuming anyone on board is still up for it.

Combine all that with the live music at bars and lounges mentioned in the section above, and Crystal Serenity is a luxury ship where passengers can — and do — head out for a big "night on the town," so to speak. Guests usually get quite dolled up when they hit the entertainment areas of the ship at night, looking glamorous and expensive.

On plenty of luxury ships, nearly everyone is in bed by 9 o'clock in the evening. Crystal Serenity isn't one of them.

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During the day, the onboard scene is more laid back. As is typical for luxury ships, the top decks of Crystal Serenity aren't loaded with the amusements you'll find on large mass-market ships. You won't find climbing walls or waterslides. Instead, what you get atop Crystal Serenity is a stylish, refined pool deck experience. If you're the kind of person who likes to lounge next to a Four Seasons hotel pool, you know what I'm talking about.

At the center of the top of the ship, a main pool area sports a large pool (the Seahorse Pool — a nod to Crystal's seahorse branding), two large hot tubs and rows of plush loungers of the sort you'd expect on a luxury vessel. Elegant modern white rattan sofas and chairs are sprinkled around under shading umbrellas.

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This main pool deck was completely redone during the overhaul of the ship in 2023, with its classic teak flooring resanded, and its pool refurbished with new mosaic tile work. When you're up top on Crystal Serenity, as at so many other areas of the ship, you'll feel like you're on an all-new vessel.

The top decks of Crystal Serenity also are home to two paddle tennis courts that can double as pickleball courts, a complex known as Wimbledon Court. Six decks down, hidden at the back of the ship, you'll also find a golf lover's hideaway with driving nets, a small putting green and table tennis. Even if you don't want to use it, go in search of it, just as a game. It's tucked away so well that it's a bit of a treasure hunt to find it.

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Other activity areas on the ship include a large library staffed throughout the day, a computer classroom, a shopping area that wraps around the central atrium on Deck 7 and a bridge lounge for bridge playing, tournaments and classes. (Bridge is big on Crystal ships.) The ship's entertainment staff also offers dance classes at times.

While Crystal Serenity isn't particularly focused on families, it does offer a small teen center and children's playroom on Deck 12, just off the main pool area.

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In addition, the ship has a luxurious spa with 12 treatment rooms that was completely revamped in 2023.

Renamed Aurora, the spa has been recast with light-bright neutral colors, an illuminated fiber optic starlight ceiling and organic materials such as Selenite (a natural salt crystal) and silk-brushed slate stone to create a serene feel.

In addition to treatment rooms, the spa is home to a hair salon, men's and women's saunas and steam rooms, and a relaxation room.

Crystal Serenity itineraries and pricing

From September 2023 through January 2024, Crystal Serenity will be based in North America for sailings to New England, Canada and the Caribbean. After that, it'll set off on an epic, 141-day, around-the-world cruise from Miami that will continue through June 2024.

The ship will then spend the summer of 2024 sailing to Alaska out of Vancouver, British Columbia, and Seward, Alaska, before returning to the East Coast of North America for another season of sailings to New England, Canada and the Caribbean.

The 2023 and 2024 sailings to New England, Canada and the Caribbean will depart from various North American home ports, including Quebec City, Quebec; New York; Miami; Bridgetown, Barbados; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

As of the publishing of this guide, fares for Crystal Serenity sailings were starting at $3,200 per person for the least expensive cabin on a six-night sailing from Vancouver to Los Angeles. Nine-night Caribbean sailings were starting at $3,900 per person. These fares are based on double occupancy — that is, they are valid when two passengers share a room. Solo passengers pay a higher amount.

Unlike many cruise lines, Crystal doesn't charge extra for taxes, fees and port charges assessed by government agencies and port authorities (to which we say: Bravo, Crystal). Such charges are folded into its base fares.

What to know before you go

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Required documents

All passengers must have valid government-issued citizenship documentation to sail. For U.S. residents, that would mean either a U.S. passport or a U.S.-issued Permanent Resident Card (also known as an Alien Registration Card). You'll also need visas for any country you'll be visiting that requires one.

Passports must be valid for at least six months and have blank pages available for entry and exit stamps. Note that it is important that the name on your reservation be exactly as it is stated on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Crystal includes gratuities for housekeeping staff (including butlers) and bar and restaurant staff in its fares. No additional tipping is expected.

Wi-Fi service on Crystal Serenity is relatively fast for a cruise ship and included in the fare.

Carry-on drinks policy

Unlike many cruise lines, Crystal does not restrict the amount of alcoholic or nonalcoholic drinks passengers can bring on board for personal consumption. That said, some restrictions may apply based on specific countries that the ship visits.

Smoking policy

Cigarette smoking (including electronic cigarettes and personal vaporizers) is only allowed outdoors in designated areas at the back of decks 8, 9, 10 and 11; in a small corner of the main Seahorse Pool area on Deck 12; and at the Connoisseur Club on Deck 6.

Cigar and tobacco pipe smoking is only permitted at the Connoisseur Club on Deck 6.

Smoking is forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies.

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Crystal Serenity has self-serve launderettes on every cabin deck with washing machines, dryers, irons and ironing boards. You also can pay to send out your clothes to be washed and/or pressed. As of the publishing of this guide, the cost of washing and pressing a men's dress shirt was $7; the cost of cleaning a women's long-sleeve blouse was $6. The cost of dry-cleaning slacks or pants was $9.

Electrical outlets

Crystal Serenity's cabins and suites offer both U.S.-style 110V outlets and European-style 220V outlets and USB ports at built-in cabin desks. You'll also find both types of outlets and USB ports above the nightstands on both sides of cabin beds. Americans may want to bring an adapter for charging devices in public rooms where the outlets are all European-style.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar.

As is typical for cruise ships, Crystal Serenity operates on a cashless system, with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a plastic keycard upon embarkation that you can use to make charges. This same card also gets you into your cabin.

Drinking age

You generally must be 21 or older to consume alcohol on Crystal Serenity. One exception: During sailings in Europe, passengers as young as 18 are allowed to consume beer and wine.

During the day, the dress code is "day casual," which for Crystal means sundresses, elegant shorts, jeans; T-shirts, polo shirts or blouses; or linen clothing. Swimsuits with cover-ups also are acceptable when dining near the pool at the Trident Grill, Tastes and Marketplace eateries.

Note that swimwear on its own, wet swimwear, revealing clothing, bathrobes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and clothes bearing any offensive messages are not permitted.

During the evenings, the official dress code steps up to what Crystal calls "evening resort." For women, that means dresses, skirts, pants, blouses or sweaters, dark-wash jeans with no rips, or tailored dress shorts. For men, it's button-down shirts, collared polo shirts, sweaters or smart designer sweatshirts, dark-wash jeans with no rips (only when accompanied by a jacket), chinos, and a sports jacket or blazer (the latter being optional). In addition, men can wear tailored shorts but only when dining in the casual Tastes restaurant.

Flip-flops, swimwear and hats are not allowed in the evenings.

In addition, on cruises of seven nights or more, there will be at least one optional ship-wide formal night where women are expected to turn out in cocktail dresses, gowns, pantsuits or elegant skirts and blouses. For men, the formal night dress guideline is a suit or tuxedo, with a tie being optional.

Related: The ultimate guide to packing for a cruise

Bottom line

Crystal Serenity isn't the newest luxury cruise ship on the market. But after a major overhaul in early 2023, part of a relaunch of the Crystal brand under new owners, it's back to being one of the leading luxury ships at sea.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
  • The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
  • The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

CRYSTAL website allows you to create an account now

USCAdventurer

By USCAdventurer , June 2, 2023 in Crystal

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Cool Cruiser

USCAdventurer

I just went to the Crystal website and it allowed me to create my account and it had my saling informaition.  Now I just have to fill in the blanks for my personal information.

Just thought I'd let everyone know you can do this too!

Thanks

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I think I appreciate the info, BUT, I just went to the Crystal website and could not find any evidence of a place to create/update my account.  We are fully paid for Serenity BTB in Sept-Oct.

When is your cruise ?  Perhaps the account function is available only to those booked on the first few cruises ??  Bob S.

I likewise cannot find a link to creating an account. Also, the site does not know what cruise you booked unless it has your info. Therefore, it necessitates setting up an account. Frustrating!

Earlier announcement said accounts would be available for booking restaurants etc 60 days before sailing. 

I went to the Crystal website this morning.  In the upper right hand corner of the screen, it says login and I clicked on login and it took me to the passender dashboard. I completed all the required information like login name and password.  Then I completed my personal information lkes address and phone number.  Then I went to the passport screen and put in that information.

Arouind two weeks ago I had called Crystal to find out when I could create my account and they told me the site would be ready June 1, 2023 and it was for me.  My sailing date is May 9, 2024 on Symphony.

Leejnd4

Do you need to have a cruise booked to be able to create an account? I do not have one yet. Out of curiosity I gave it a try, and it didn't work. 

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I entered all my information, but got this:

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On the top right hand corner of the Crystal Web Page there is 'LOG IN / REGISTER'

First: Register

Second: Sign In

A Welcome Page appears.

On the left: My Bookings

On the right: Account Settings

From 'My Bookings' find your bookings with your name, booking number and CS number.

Thereafter complete all the mandatory information about yourself and your preferences.

Quite straightforward.     

gwesq

Got It!  I assumed my prior account was carried over - it's not.

So signed up, but now the descriptions of the tours that I was able to see before I signed up are no longer there on the sign up page.  It shows what tours I can sign up for, but with only a 1 or 2 sentence overview. Previously, there was a longer more detailed description.

I did reserve Umi!  🙂   

This is very strange.

We’ve been trying to find this on our IPad, and the sign in link is not there.

We just went to the desk top, and it IS there….

hopefully, they’ll fix this glitch!

I would call Crystal and let them know what issues you are having.  They are very friendly and seem to want to know of any glitches.

On the screen that shows my booking and ship itinerary, it says that shore excursions and dining reservations can be made 60 days prior to saling.  

Keith1010

It is right in the top right hand corner.

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When you create your account it will ask you to verify the email by sending you an email. Mine was right there but if you don't see it check your spam folder.

When you provide your passenger details take your time and when you save changes sometimes it takes three or four times clicking on the button.

When you make restaurant reservations take your time.

Summer Time

59 minutes ago, Leejnd4 said: Do you need to have a cruise booked to be able to create an account? I do not have one yet. Out of curiosity I gave it a try, and it didn't work.          I entered all my information, but got this:  

I figured out how to get the log in info appear.

if you don’t see “login” in the upper right hand corner, on your devices/computer you MUST resize the web page to a smaller size. Then the log in info will appear.

My iPad is set to 115%. Once I reduced to 85% the entire home page page appears, including missing the login info.

Like

Thank you Kate!

learn something new every day….

I am very frustrated by all of this.  I am at the same point I was in post #2 above and as was bayonejoe.

I am working on a desktop PC running Windows 10 -- no "i" - anything.  This is my only computer.

The whole line with phone #, login/register, etc., which people have reproduced above in screen shots does NOT appear on my screen.  If changing screen size worked for someone on an iPad,  that's fine.  I'm happy for them.  If this can be done on a PC, it's a mystery to me.  Is my only solution to call Crystal??   Bob S.

URGENT UPDATE  -- success on a PC !!

Clicked on the 3 dots (for settings) in upper right corner of my Google Chrome screen.

Found "Zoom"   Reduced size of font to 80% --  wanted line appeared !!  (very small type, legible but not too easy to read 2 1/2 weeks short of age 81).  Bob S.

2bobs    you might try changing brownsers.    if you're using chrome, try using microsoft edge or another browser

just read your last post.  congratulations on getting online with crystal!!!!

Reducing worked on Firefox on a Mac also - but what % of people would even think of doing this.  Crystal needs to fix - so far the NC isn't better at web site than the OC was.

So, I was able to finally log in. However, a message came up saying that my documentation is incomplete. Started adding information required. Got to additional information required, at this point it would not open.

just got off the phone with Crystal and was told that the site was having problems.

And to try again tomorrow. Frustrating.

FLcruiser2011

Well, it took me under 60 seconds to find the link, and sign up.  All pretty simple.  But unfortunately, when I signed in, no trace of my world cruise booking.  Not sure what to try next.

My cruise is in 59 days and I can't get past this:

If I try clicking on my bookings in the first image, I get a big nothing. 

When I go to update profile I get the second picture.

The only other thing I can do is change my PW or sign up for emails. 

And it's not showing my September cruise at all.

I signed up, got the email from them and signed in. 

Screen Shot 2023-06-02 at 10.10.43 PM copy.jpg

No place for me to give my passenger details!

And it says documentation incomplete but nowhere to fill in incomplete documentation.

 I'm on an iMac and using Safari.

3 hours ago, AtA said: No place for me to give my passenger details! And it says documentation incomplete but nowhere to fill in incomplete documentation.  I'm on an iMac and using Safari.

I would like to help you but struggling to understand what your screen looks like.

After I sign in I have two large boxes that looks like this.

I then click on the left and go from there.

I did close the browser without logging off and when I went back in the box on the left automatically goes voyages by voyage and doesn't say documentation incomplete but rather shows a photo for each voyages and and start and end location and how many days before it begins.

Using Safari and a iMac.

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Keith, the top picture above is exactly what I see. It is not a box. It is that long rectangle that says on it documentation incomplete. But if I try and click on any of it, I can't. Nothing happens.

37 minutes ago, AtA said: Keith, the top picture above is exactly what I see. It is not a box. It is that long rectangle that says on it documentation incomplete. But if I try and click on any of it, I can't. Nothing happens.

Got it. Not sure why you can't go further. Do you see a spinning circle. If you do and once it stops you should be able to get in.

If you can't try to restart your computer but before you do make sure Safari is truly closed by clicking on the apple icon in the top left hand corner and clicking on force quit and highlighting safari to force it to quit if it is showing.

History&Wine

History&Wine

1 hour ago, AtA said: Keith, the top picture above is exactly what I see. It is not a box. It is that long rectangle that says on it documentation incomplete. But if I try and click on any of it, I can't. Nothing happens.

Suggest you remove all Crystal cookies from your computer and start over.

If on Ipad, click the two lines in the upper left portion of the screen.  "Log in register" will appear at the bottom left.

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A revived luxury cruise line wants you to spend more than 4 months at sea sailing to 27 countries for $84,000

  • Crystal says its around-the-world cruise in 2026 will sail to 72 ports in 27 countries.
  • Luxury travel company Abercrombie and Kent acquired Crystal in 2022 following the latter's tumultuous demise.
  • Crystal's first world cruise following its revival and rebrand departed in February. 

Insider Today

Recently relaunched luxury cruise line Crystal wants to woo you back. How does a 135-day around-the-world sailing sound?

In 2026, Crystal says one of its two ships will sail from Los Angeles to Rome on a 4 ½ -month cruise. Along the way, travelers can expect to see 72 ports in 27 countries, from Australia's recognizable Sydney Opera House to Monaco's legendary Grand Prix.

On January 11, 2026, the cruise line says its Crystal Serenity will head west from California to Pacific Islands like Bora Bora.

crystal cruises sign in

Then, it's off to New Zealand and Australia before hitting destinations like Hong Kong, Mumbai, and Bali, Indonesia.

Let’s not forget stops in Athens, Greece, and the Mediterranean before an exciting call in Monaco.

crystal cruises sign in

From there, about 4 ½ months at sea later, the global journey would finally conclude in Rome on May 26, 2026.

Bookings for a double occupancy cabin will open on March 19 at $84,000 per person.

Throughout the journey, travelers will get to luxuriate in Crystal Serenity's venues, which include a piano bar and cognac and cigar club.

crystal cruises sign in

Active guests can spend their afternoons at the putting green or pickleball court.

Travelers seeking a relaxing vacation can instead head to the spa or sip on afternoon tea at the floor-to-ceiling window-lined lounge.

The only thing more dramatic than this global cruise? The journey Crystal took to get here.

crystal cruises sign in

It wasn't always smooth sailing for the luxury cruise line. In early 2022, Crystal, then Crystal Cruises, made a big splash — and not the good kind.

At the time, the company — then owned by Genting Hong Kong — was facing bankruptcy, the sudden shutdown of its US operations, and the arrest of two of its cruise ships over millions of dollars in unpaid fuel bills.

A few months later, luxury travel group Abercrombie and Kent acquired the cruise line and its previously arrested ships.

crystal cruises sign in

Abercrombie and Kent, like the luxury travel company that organizes around-the-world trips via private jets .

Not the clothing store that smells like cologne (that's Abercombie and Fitch).

These days, Crystal and its ships look a bit different.

crystal cruises sign in

Like your best friend post-breakup, Crystal has taken on a new identity: The company dropped "cruises" from its name and spent $150 million refreshing its two ships , the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Both resumed service in 2023.

In February, the company’s first world cruise since its revival departed San Diego on a 125-night sailing.

crystal cruises sign in

The Crystal Serenity is now traveling around the globe with almost 200 guests, a company spokesperson told Business Insider. (Baby steps: The ship has a guest capacity of 740, though the company points out that some segments of the around-the-world itinerary have actually been fully booked.)

However, the spokesperson said bookings for its 2025 around-the-world sailing are "even stronger, with a significant portion" of its 2024 world cruise guests having also booked the 2025 itinerary.

Crystal’s upcoming sailings currently start at five nights long.

crystal cruises sign in

But like other premium operators, it looks like Crystal will continue leaning into its around-the-world itineraries , as signaled by its recently announced 2026 global sailing.

crystal cruises sign in

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SUITE DREAMS UPGRADE OFFER

For a limited time only, based on availability, you’ll receive an exclusive complimentary suite upgrade on new reservations for 2024 Crystal voyages booked before March 31, 2024.

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CRYSTAL EXPLORER FARE OFFER

Book early to get up to 20% off voyages in 2025 and beyond with our new Crystal Explorer Fare. Terms and conditions apply.

EXCEPTIONAL AT SEA

Sail onboard our newly refurbished ships Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony and travel on cruises that have been designed for deep destination discovery.

FIND YOUR NEXT VOYAGE

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WELCOME TO CRYSTAL

Join us on Crystal for the voyage of a lifetime, where days are spent immersed in the world’s most breathtaking destinations, and evenings are elegant affairs filled with fine-dining, entertainment, and captivating company. Step aboard and be warmly welcomed into a world of comfort and sophistication on our reimagined ships, where the crew know you by name and your every nuanced wish is taken care of. Together with Abercrombie & Kent, we get closer to the unseen side of each destination and create memories guaranteed to last a lifetime. Simply put, Crystal is Exceptional at Sea.

THE CRYSTAL DIFFERENCE

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UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Our onshore experiences are curated by Abercrombie & Kent, leaders in global travel for over 60 years.

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PERFECTLY AT HOME

Warm, intuitive service; spacious and comfortable suites and social areas… all that’s left for you to do is relax.

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WORLD-CLASS DINING

Unparalleled choice, including the only Nobu restaurant at sea, dining aboard Crystal is an unforgettable experience.

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OUTSTANDING ENTERTAINMENT

From Broadway shows and comedy, to live music and lectures, we have a world of options to keep you amused.

Together, let’s make it happen.

Are you ready to become exceptional at sea? Start your travel adventures with Crystal today.

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START YOUR ADVENTURE

Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony now sail to 281 destinations in 112 countries. Where will you go next?

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DESTINATIONS

Search our selection of the world’s most iconic and unusual destinations and find your dream voyage.

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In it for the long-haul? Join us on one of our World Cruises and travel the world in style.

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If you crave deep exploration, our Grand Journeys offer an immersive travel experience.

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"Crystal is back in all its glory. And even if they won’t describe themselves as luxurious, their guests almost certainly will"

- Condé Nast Traveller

“What Crystal Symphony is – and what makes it so special – is something less tangible. It’s the same reason a Patek Philippe watch is desirable, or an Hermès bag: it offers timeless elegance that is continually appealing to those who appreciate both style and value. Crystal just happens to offer both of those things in spades.”

- Cruise Critic

"The real star of the show, however, is Crystal’s exceptional dining, anchored by the only Nobu restaurant at sea, Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa Restaurant and Sushi Bar, which can be found on both ships."

Explore our two beautifully reimagined ships, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, and discover a world of timeless elegance at sea.

DINING ONBOARD

Crystal offers endless choices to suit every taste and mood.

crystal cruises umi uma

UMI UMA BY NOBU MATSUHISA

Lose yourself in the beautiful décor and signature dishes of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

crystal cruises osteria

OSTERIA D'OVIDIO

Named for our owner, this restaurant specializes in show-stopping Italian fine dining.

crystal cruises waterside restaurant

WATERSIDE RESTAURANT

Enjoy fine-dining with a daily changing menu surrounded by sweeping ocean views.

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THE VINTAGE ROOM

A gourmet food and wine pairing restaurant that offers some of the best vintages at sea.

crystal cruises bistro

Indulge in delicious patisseries and light bites in this spacious, airy café.

crystal cruises trident grill

TRIDENT GRILL

Our pool restaurant and grill is the perfect spot for relaxed dining.

crystal cruises tastes kitchen bar

TASTES KITCHEN & BAR

Sumptuous, regionally inspired tapas-style cuisine for sophisticated, casual dining.

crystal cruises scoops ice cream bar

SCOOPS ICE CREAM BAR

Choose from innovative flavors or traditional delights in our Italian gelateria.

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MARKETPLACE

This buffet-style restaurant features a vast array of choices for those who like a little of everything.

crystal cruises aurora spa

SPA AND FITNESS

Elevate your journey with holistic wellness tailored to you. Our onboard fitness facilities offer invigorating workouts using state-of-the-art Technogym equipment, while our beautiful Aurōra spa will leave you relaxed and renewed with a comprehensive range of revitalizing treatments.

EXPLORE OUR SPA

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Soak up the health benefits or just steal a moment to relax with a purifying sauna.

crystal cruises fitness center

FITNESS CENTER

Work up a sweat in our gym, equipped with the latest facilities, personalized training, and group classes.

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Soak up the sunshine in style, then go for a refreshing dip on our beautiful pool deck.

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From pickleball and paddle tennis, to golf practice and dance classes, our ships offer a host of activities from dawn to dusk.

SUITES & GUEST ROOMS

Our suites and guest rooms artfully pair comfort with the exceptionally elegant design. Elevated details, contemporary craftsmanship, and artisanal finishing embody modern refinement, while the spacious layouts maximize in-room relaxation.

CRYSTAL SERENITY - CRYSTAL PENTHOUSE SUITE

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CHOOSE A COMPLIMENTARY BROCHURE AND BEGIN YOUR EXCEPTIONAL JOURNEY.

VIEW ALL OUR E-BROCHURES

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TAKE A LOOK AT CRYSTAL'S EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCE

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  • CruiseMapper
  • Cruise news
  • Cruise Industry
  • Bookings on Crystal Serenity ship's World Cruise 2026 open on...

Bookings on Crystal Serenity ship's World Cruise 2026 open on March 19th

CruiseMapper logo

Crystal has announced the opening of bookings for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cruise aboard Crystal Serenity , with a waitlist now available.

The 2026 World Cruise promises an extraordinary 135-day journey, visiting 72 destinations across 27 countries, offering unparalleled experiences and cultural exploration.

Departing from Los Angeles CA on January 11, 2026, Crystal Serenity will navigate the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific, showcasing the stunning landscapes of the Marquesas Islands, Bora Bora 's turquoise lagoons, and the verdant scenery of New Zealand.

The itinerary continues with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House in Australia and the vibrant streets of Hong Kong . Guests will immerse themselves in the rich history of Mumbai and admire the architectural marvels of Dubai . From the sun-drenched beaches of Bali to the cultural richness of Athens , the voyage transits the Suez Canal , traverses the Mediterranean (with a stop in Monaco for Grand Prix 2026) and ends in Rome on May 26th.

The 2026 World Cruise offers an array of wanderlust-inspired destinations, revived overland experiences, reimagined spaces, award-winning dining, and unparalleled service onboard, promising a masterpiece of experiences.

Guests booking the World Cruise 2026 can expect tailor-made celebrations and exclusive benefits, including exclusive events, Business Class Airfare allowance or credit, US$1,500 'As You Wish' shipboard credit, unlimited dining at select venues, themed onboard events, private transfers, luggage valet, and more.

Crystal's Chairman and Brand Ambassador, Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, will once again play an integral role in this extraordinary journey, offering expertise and guidance throughout the cruise.

Pricing for the 2026 World Cruise starts at US$84,000 per person based on double occupancy.

TravelPulse

Crystal Cruises Offering New Themed Voyages in 2024

Crystal Cruises is launching new themed cruises designed specifically for lovers of golf, Broadway, film and theater. The new voyages depart throughout 2024, whisking travelers to an array of ports around the world.

“We are thrilled to bring back our themed cruises, each tailored to provide an immersive and enriching experience for our guests and were extremely popular in the past," says Keith Cox, the cruise line’s vice president of entertainment. "Whether you're a fan of film and theater, a golf aficionado or a Broadway enthusiast, these voyages are designed to exceed expectations and create lasting memories for our guests."

The first cruise in the lineup is focused on film and theater. Running Feb. 16-28, the cruise aboard Crystal Symphony will start in Bangkok and end in Hong Kong. Along the way, guests will get to watch performances and mingle with experts, including musical theater actor Christine Allado and Broadway musical historian Steven Friedman.

Then, from July 18-30, Crystal Symphony will transport golf lovers from Lisbon to Dover aboard. That itinerary features golf instructors David Leadbetter and Roberto Borgatti, who will help guests work on their swings.

The final themed voyages of the year are designed with Broadway enthusiasts in mind. Crystal will offer two sailings in October aboard Crystal Serenity—one from Quebec City to New York City, and the other from New York City to Quebec City. Joining the sailing will be American actress and singer Rachel York, plus other to-be-announced guests.

This article may contain affiliate links that Microsoft and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links.

Crystal Symphony sailing out of New York City.

IMAGES

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  2. Crystal Cruises Announces The World’s Largest Megayacht ’Crystal Endeavor’

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  4. Crystal Cruises

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  5. Crystal Cruises unveils another epic world cruise for 2021

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  6. Crystal Cruises · Crystal Symphony · Ship Overview and Itineraries

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COMMENTS

  1. Crystal Cruises

    WELCOME TO CRYSTAL. Join us on Crystal for the voyage of a lifetime, where days are spent immersed in the world's most breathtaking destinations, and evenings are elegant affairs filled with fine-dining, entertainment, and captivating company. Step aboard and be warmly welcomed into a world of comfort and sophistication on our reimagined ...

  2. Crystal Cruises

    Crystal Cruises LLC (CrystalCruises.com) was founded in 1988 (headquartered in Los Angeles' Century City neighborhood) ... (during the preview cruise/for VIP guests only from Trieste), Cristina Levis announced that A&K has plans to sign an MoA (memorandum of agreement) with two shipbuilders (Fincantieri-Trieste, and Meyer Werft-Papenburg) for ...

  3. Crystal Cruises

    Qualifying bookings must be made on any Crystal River Cruise on APS select sailings. All eligible bookings must be claimed in the 'Rewards' section of Crystal Academy at Crystalcruisesspecialist.com in order to receive $250 USD gift card per eligible booking. International based agents will receive a $250 USD eGift Card.

  4. Upcoming Crystal Cruises: 2024 Prices, Itineraries

    Ends Soon: Up to 40% Off Cruises & More. Up to 40% Off Cruises. Drinks & Wi-Fi Included. Up to $400 Onboard Credit. Save on cruises to the Caribbean, The Bahamas, Europe & more. Show more. Book ...

  5. Crystal Cruises

    Crystal Cruises is an American cruise line.It was founded in 1988 by Japanese shipping company Nippon Yusen Kaisha, and sold to Hong Kong-headquartered conglomerate Genting Hong Kong in 2015. Following insolvency in 2022, the Crystal Cruises brand and two cruise ships were bought by A&K Travel Group, to recommence operations in 2023, with headquarters in Hallandale Beach, Florida.

  6. Crystal Cruises Reservations

    Crystal Cruises Discounts. [email protected]. Crystal Ocean Cruises. USA +1 323 908 1623. Australia +61 02 8417 2788. South Africa +27 32 300 3601. Singapore +65 3163 2411. UK +44 20 3468 1211. Hong Kong +852 5808 3772.

  7. Crystal Cruises Review

    Crystal Cruises is a luxury cruise line offering ocean, river, yacht, and expedition cruises. Each of its 8 ships is designed for the luxury traveler and includes elegant accommodations and exquisite cuisine. On Crystal Cruises, everything is included. You won't pay extra for specialty restaurants, beverages, gratuities, or Wi-Fi.

  8. Crystal Cruises

    740 Guests - Nearly One Staff Member Per Guest. With an industry-leading space-to-guest ratio across an array of social areas, Crystal Serenity offers the utmost comfort, quality, personalization, and choice. Welcome on board Crystal: curated voyages, where your every experience is exceptional.

  9. Crystal Cruises Line Review

    Fodor's Expert Review. Cruise Style Luxury. Ship Size Midsize. Prince Range $$$. Crystal is back, under new ownership and minus the word "Cruises" in its name, but still very much the ...

  10. Crystal Cruises relaunches with new name, look

    Crystal Cruises is back with a new name and a new look. After suspending operations last year, the cruise line is relaunching as Crystal and will set sail again on July 31, the brand said ...

  11. The Rebirth of Crystal Cruises

    Crystal Cruises' Jack Anderson on The Rebirth of A Beloved Cruise Line. This year didn't start off kindly for Crystal Cruises. The beloved luxury line, which was founded in 1988, was pulled under ...

  12. Crystal Serenity Cruise Ship Review

    Crystal Cruises went bankrupt in 2022, but it was acquired by the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group in 2023. New ownership prioritized keeping in place many of the things the line's fan base loved ...

  13. Crystal Cruises

    Voyage Offers Guests an Exceptional Opportunity to Sail with Industry Legends. MIAMI (Feb. 26, 2024) - Crystal has announced a new date for the Crystal Chairmen's Cruise, now sailing Nov. 14-24, 2024, aboard Crystal Symphony from Venice to Athens. Guests will have the rare opportunity to sail alongside travel industry titans, A&K Travel Group ...

  14. Crystal Serenity cruise ship review: What to expect on board

    Crystal Serenity is the new flagship for Crystal, a luxury cruise brand that is at the same time all-new and decades old. Crystal is technically a start-up luxury cruise company — one that just debuted this year and is being built from the ground up. Its owners have nothing to do with the old owners of Crystal Cruises.

  15. Crystal Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Crystal

    Sail Date: January 2024. Helpful. Wonderful time down under on Crystal Symphony. Review for a Australia & New Zealand Cruise on Crystal Symphony. DaisyUK. 10+ Cruises • Age 60s. Read More ...

  16. Progress made in Crystal claims process, but travel advisors must wait

    The company plans to revive the brand this year, although the new Crystal Cruises has yet to publicly share itineraries or launch dates. The line is instead encouraging guests to make an open ...

  17. CRYSTAL website allows you to create an account now

    546. March 17, 2016. Scottsdale, AZ. #1. Posted 2 hours ago. I just went to the Crystal website and it allowed me to create my account and it had my saling informaition. Now I just have to fill in the blanks for my personal information. Just thought I'd let everyone know you can do this too! 1.

  18. Crystal Sets 2026 World Cruise to 27 Countries on Luxury Ship: See the

    Mar 7, 2024, 2:00 AM PST. Crystal announced a 2026 world cruise itinerary with 72 ports across 27 countries. Crystal. Crystal says its around-the-world cruise in 2026 will sail to 72 ports in 27 ...

  19. Crystal Cruises

    Cruise companies. Embark on the journey of a lifetime with our luxury cruise vacations to exotic destinations around the world. Discover the best cruise deals, family-friendly cruise options, and top-notch cruise lines and ships. Experience the thrill of travel at sea with our curated cruise experiences. Book your dream cruise adventure today!

  20. Crystal Cruises

    Welcome on board Crystal: curated voyages, where your every experience is exceptional. +1-800-446-6620. Request an e-Brochure. Sign up for newsletter. LOG IN/REGISTER. FIND A CRUISE. DESTINATIONS. ONBOARD. STORIES. WHY CRYSTAL. REQUEST A QUOTE. EXCEPTIONAL AT SEA. ... VIEW CRUISES. WELCOME TO CRYSTAL.

  21. Crystal

    Watch the changing fall foliage on a voyage through Canada and New England. Basque in the balmy breezes of the Caribbean visiting ports like chic St. Barts, lively Barbados, and lush St. Lucia. FARES FROM $3,200 PER GUEST *. Asia & Australia / New Zealand. Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific form a vast and diverse region.

  22. Bookings on Crystal Serenity ship's World Cruise 2026 ...

    Crystal has announced the opening of bookings for the highly anticipated 2026 World Cruise aboard Crystal Serenity, with a waitlist now available. The 2026 World Cruise promises an extraordinary 135-day journey, visiting 72 destinations across 27 countries, offering unparalleled experiences and cultural exploration.

  23. Crystal Cruises Offering New Themed Voyages in 2024

    Crystal Cruises is launching new themed cruises designed specifically for lovers of golf, Broadway, film and theater. The new voyages depart throughout 2024, whisking travelers to an array of ...