Crystal Cruises: A Lavish Cruise Lifestyle

For a cruise line that has not yet reached 30, Crystal Cruises has spent an impressive 26 years on the top of Condé Nast Traveler’s list of world’s best cruise lines. Such accolades are not surprising when the company has built its pillars of distinction around spacious comfort, lavish accommodations, Michelin-inspired cuisine, and bespoke service.

Boasting six-star luxury, the all-inclusive Crystal Cruises ships ply the world’s oceans and rivers, pampering guests with gourmet dining, fine Champagnes, premium wines and spirits, 24-hour in-suite dining, unlimited Wi-Fi, and prepaid gratuities.

Sailing the seven seas are the 980-guest Crystal Serenity and 848-guest Crystal Symphony. Although not quite twins, both ships share similar spaces and venues, such as the delightful Waterside Restaurant, Italian eatery Prego, and Asian Silk Kitchen & Bar. Other signature venues include the Palm Court which hosts afternoon tea and The Bistro casual café. Capping off the gastronomic tour is Umi Uma & Sushi Bar, the only sea-going restaurant of Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa.

Rounding the ocean fleet is the all-suite Crystal Esprit. More private yacht than cruise ship, the Esprit’s staff of 90 caters to just 62 guests. It features luxurious suites and elegant spaces and includes a host of active and cultural complimentary shore excursions at each port. Crystal Esprit spends her time cruising the Dalmatian Coast, the glorious Greek Isles, the Arabian Peninsula, and the idyllic Seychelles.

In 2020, Crystal will celebrate its 30^th anniversary with a collection of 30 special sailings. Guests on these voyages will be privy to exclusive shipboard events, commemorative gifts, and anniversary savings. Sample itineraries include the seven-night departure on May 31^st from Rome to Venice, and the nine-night departure on July 31st from Rome to Barcelona, both onboard the Crystal Serenity.

2020 will also see Crystal bring its six-star luxury onboard their first true expedition yacht - the custom-built Crystal Endeavor. With a fleet of Zodiacs, two helicopters, a submersible, and all of its hallmark finery, Crystal aims to embark on a whole new realm of bold adventures.

Looking ahead to 2021, Crystal Serenity will once again traverse the globe on a 139-night world cruise, calling at 56 ports on six continents. Departing January 5th from Miami, she will sail to the South Pacific via the Panama Canal, then cruise through Asia, India, the Middle East, and Europe. Full world cruise guests will experience exclusive shoreside events in Brisbane and Abu Dhabi, and a complimentary two-night Crystal Overland Adventure in Beijing.

And in 2022, Crystal will welcome the first of its “Diamond Class” ocean vessels. Accommodating approximately 800 guests, the yet unnamed ship will join her sisters in globetrotting around the world.

“Our ocean ships are the heart of the Crystal brand and have been loved by our guests for more than 29 years,” says Crystal president and CEO, Tom Wolber. “We are delighted to expand this celebrated fleet with amenities and spaces that our guests have come to love along with more choices and new experiences that will take luxury to the next level.”