Crystal Cruises

Crystal has been synonymous with luxury travel for the last three decades. The company has led the way, primarily with its two ships, Symphony and Serenity, developing something of a cult following. Following A&K Travel acquiring the company, the subsequent renovation has pushed the ships to the next level. The vessels, which already had an impressive space-to-guest ratio, even for the ultra-luxury sector, now have even larger cabins and suites, reducing the capacity of the ships further. The new decor is sophisticated and elegant yet comfortable and it runs through the new public spaces including a cigar lounge, piano bar and even a kids’ club.

Five facts about Crystal 

• Crystal now only has a fleet of two ocean ships, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.
• Serenity is the larger of the two ships, with a guest capacity of 740. Symphony can hold 606 guests.
• Both ships boast a staff to guest ratio of almost one to one.
• Crystal is the only cruise line to have restaurant by the Michelin-starred chef Nobu Matsuhisa onboard.
• Crystal is now owned by A&K Travel (Abercrombie & Kent) one of the world’s most well-regarded luxury travel companies. 

Who is a Crystal cruise for? 

A Crystal cruise is for those who like to travel and travel well. Now that the company has been bought by A&K Travel, guests will benefit from Abercrombie & Kent’s vast experience and network of land arrangements, which is only going to excel their luxury credentials. 

The food onboard is superb – Nobu wouldn’t put his name to anything after all – while the service is among the best in the industry. There are some great spots onboard, too, like the Avenue Saloon onboard Serenity. It’s a small, intimate bar that wouldn’t look out of place in the Savoy. 

There aren’t many ultra-luxury cruise lines that have a kids club onboard, either. Meaning that well-heeled families can take that much-needed break onboard a Crystal cruise, too – knowing that every member of the family will be well catered for. 

Where can you sail to with Crystal? 

With just two ships, Crystal is slightly limited in its range of destinations. The company will typically have at least one ship stationed in the Mediterranean for the summer and one in the Caribbean for the winter. However, there are also some really ambitious plans afoot, including world cruises and bookable segments. So, the company will be sailing worldwide. 

What’s included onboard?

• Dining, including speciality dining (with the exception of The Vintage Room)
• Gratuities
• Select fine wine, champagne, premium spirits and all non-alcoholic drinks
• Wifi