CRUISE SHIP: Crystal Symphony, what guests can expect

The Crystal Symphony, part of Crystal Cruises’ luxury fleet, offers an elegant and intimate cruise experience, accommodating up to 606 passengers. Refurbished in 2023 under A&K Travel Group, this ship blends contemporary design with timeless sophistication, ideal for travellers seeking refined comfort and destination-focused exploration.

Guests can expect a cruise focused on luxury and cultural exploration, with access to unique ports and longer stays. The all-inclusive fare covers meals, select drinks, and gratuities, offering a hassle-free experience. Activities range from poolside lounging to enrichment classes, appealing to mature travellers and multigenerational families. The ship’s high space-to-guest ratio (84.2 cubic feet) ensures a spacious and relaxed atmosphere.

Reception Areas: A Stylish Welcome

Guests are greeted on Deck 5, where the Crystal Plaza atrium features a retro waterfall and kidney-shaped couches, creating a chic yet welcoming atmosphere. The reception, concierge, and shore excursion desks are centrally located, ensuring efficient service. The nearby Crystal Cove bar offers a relaxed setting for cocktails, while shops on Deck 6 sell high-end jewellery and clothing.

Dining: A Culinary Delight

The ship’s dining venues cater to diverse palates. Waterside Restaurant on Deck 5 serves international and regional dishes with open seating, included in the fare. Umi Uma, the only Nobu restaurant at sea, offers complimentary Japanese-Peruvian cuisine by chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. Osteria d’Ovidio on Deck 6 provides authentic Italian dishes, with vegan and vegetarian menus available. The Marketplace on Deck 11 delivers upscale buffet dining, while The Bistro offers light breakfasts and lunches. The Vintage Room provides an exclusive food and wine pairing for a fee.

Entertainment: Engaging and Diverse

Entertainment focuses on the Galaxy Lounge on Deck 6, hosting Broadway-style shows, live music, and guest performers like comedians and cabaret acts. The Stardust Club on Deck 6 offers dancing and cabaret, while the Avenue Saloon provides a piano bar setting. The Hollywood Theatre screens recent films and lectures. Daytime activities include golf clinics, art classes, and bridge, with a Casino de Monte-Carlo on Deck 6 for slots and table games.

Accommodation: Comfortable Sanctuaries

All 277 staterooms are suites, ranging from Double Guest Rooms (215 sq. ft ) to Crystal Penthouse Suites (982 sq. ft ). Options include Classic, Aquamarine, or Fully Refitted suites, with Decks 7 and 8 fully updated in 2023. All feature butler service, flat-screen TVs, minibars with complimentary drinks, and high-thread-count linens. Over 80% have private verandas. Sapphire Suites offer walk-in closets and marble bathrooms, while Penthouses include dining areas and Swarovski chandeliers. Five wheelchair-accessible suites ensure inclusivity.

Hospitality: Attentive and Personalised

The near 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio ensures exceptional service, with butlers catering to every suite’s needs, from unpacking to in-suite dining. The Aurōra Spa on Deck 12 offers massages, facials, and sauna facilities, with a fitness centre featuring Technogym equipment and yoga classes. Fantasia and Waves provide activities for children aged 3-17 on select sailings. Gratuities are included in the fare, and self-service laundromats are complimentary.

Standout Features

The Umi Uma restaurant, with its exclusive Nobu dining, elevates the culinary experience. The White Party on Deck 11, featuring al fresco dining and live music, creates a festive atmosphere. The Aurōra Spa’s sauna and steam rooms offer serene relaxation, while the high crew-to-guest ratio ensures personalised service. The ship’s ability to visit smaller ports, combined with its refined yet approachable design, makes the Crystal Symphony a distinctive choice for luxury cruising.