Ultimate Guide: Crystal

Reimagined to usher in a new era of unparalleled luxury cruising, Crystal offers discerning Aussie travellers and cruise enthusiasts a voyage of refined elegance and extraordinary adventure.

Known for its exceptional service, spacious accommodations, and a commitment to providing well-crafted itineraries, Crystal has definitely earned its spot as one of the leaders in luxury cruising.

Formerly known as Crystal Cruises, this cruise line was founded back in 1988 by Nippon Yusen Kaisha in Japan. The line suffered bankruptcy in 2022 and was bought by A&K Travel Group. In addition, Crystal Cruises’ vessels underwent major refurbishments and resumed operation in July 2023. 

Moreover, the brand is now simply known as Crystal and is set to embark on its first around-the-world-tour this 2024 with shore excursions curated by Abercrombie & Kent. 

For Australian cruise enthusiasts wanting to experience ‘luxury at sea’ via Crystal, here’s your ultimate guide. 

The Crystal fleet

The line has two ships namely: Serenity and Symphony. Both vessels have undergone major refurbishments upon acquisition by A&K Travel Group.

Serenity has a gross tonnage of 51, 400 and can accommodate 740 guests. The ship spans 238 metres and its beam measures 30.17 metres. In addition, Serenity travels with an average speed of 20 knots. 

On the other hand, Symphony weighs 51, 044 tons and can house 606 passengers. It has the same length and beam with Serenity and also travels with an average speed of 20 knots. 

The Crystal staterooms

The line features an array of accommodations ranging from 20-square metre stateroom to an impressive 117-square metre Penthouse Suite. Additionally, the line boasts spacious balconies ranging from three square metres to 15 square metres. 

There are seven cabin categories aboard Crystal ships. These are:

• Penthouse Suites
• Junior Penthouse Suites
• Sapphire Veranda Suites
• Aquamarine Veranda Suites
• Double Guest Room with Veranda
• Double Guest Room with Oceanview
• Single Guest Room with Oceanview

Both ships have ADA-certified wheelchair accessible staterooms and a good number of connecting cabins. The line also features a personal butler service in all cabin categories. Moreover, Wi-Fi access is also available in all cabins. 

The Crystal dining

This A&K-owned line features the first-ever Nobu restaurant at sea by world-renowned Chef Nobu Matsushisa. Chef Nobu is famous for his signature Japanese-Peruvian dishes and these dishes are served at Umi Uma restaurant. 

In keeping with its reputation as a cruise line that offers ‘luxury at sea’, Crystal boasts its nine distinct dining hubs to cater to every taste bud aboard the luxurious vessels. Aside from the Umi Uma that houses Nobu’s creations, there’s also the Italian restaurant Osteria d’Ovidio serving traditional cuisines. In addition, Waterside Restaurant serves American dishes with a contemporary twist. There’s also The Vintage Room which offers an educational dining experience, The Bistro which offers a taste of Paris, and the Trident Grill which offers al fresco dining beside the pool. 

Moreover, Tastes Kitchen & Bar offers a fusion of sophistication and casual style dining while the famed Scoops Gelato Bar serves the best authentic Italian gelato.  And of course, the highly luxurious buffet-style dining hub the Marketplace serves the best of global cuisines. 

Guests also enjoy a round the clock in-suite dining at the comfort of their own private spaces. 

What entertainment and activities can be found onboard?

The line’s vessels offer a wide array of amenities and activities that appeal to diverse cruisers’ interests. From lively and crowd-drawing entertainment to indulgent relaxation, there are a number of ways to experience ‘luxury at sea’ aboard Crystal ships.

One highlight is the expansive choice of fitness amenities, including a fully-equipped gym, sports courts for golf, pickleball and ping pong, and a broad selection of exercise classes ranging from yoga to dance lessons.

The line’s Life Spa provides pampering treatments like massages, body wraps, and facials. Guests can book appointments to look and feel their best out at sea. There are also tranquil lounge spaces to relax in before or after spa services.

As for entertainment, the amazing lineup onboard is truly noteworthy. There are tribute acts to Elton John in Symphony and the piano man Billy Joel at Serenity. In addition, Broadway Performances curated by Tony-award winning producer are sure hits among cruisers.

Stand-up comedy is also on the list where seasoned comics like Nick Page and Paul Adams bring the loudest laughter out of the cruisers. On the other hand, bars and lounges stay lively late into the night.

For younger cruisers, supervised kids’ clubs organize age-appropriate activities like video games, craftmaking and social events, so children can have fun while parents enjoy kid-free time. Teens also have their own lounge for mingling and activities.

With this diverse mix of amenities, entertainment and recreation, Crystal ensures guests of all ages have plenty to do day and night during their cruise.

Does Crystal have WI-FI and gratuities?

At Crystal, gratuities for service staff and bar and dining staff are all complimentary. Passengers on the other hand may present gratuities for other service personnel at their own discretion.

Moreover, the line also offers free unlimited Wi-Fi services via the line’s Computer University@Sea. Internet access is made available shipwide.