Crystal Symphony

I was invited to look around the ship while docked in Liverpool and my first impression was of a luxury, superior product. Comtemparory style and very elegant. Crystal have 2 ships the other being the Serenity which is slightly larger at 68,000 tons but both are very similar in style. Crystal is regularly voted 'World's Best' by the readers of Conde Nast Traveler. Crystal is not an 'all-inclusive' product but they offer generous on board credit on every sailing to spend onboard as you wish. From shore excursions, drinks at the bar, spa treatments, wine with dinner...with the exception of the casino, it can be spent on anything that you wish. Therefore, if you are not a big drinker for example you could spend the credit on some shore excursions or spa treatments. They call it 'All-inclusive - As You Wish'. Crystal Symphony : 51,044 tons. Guest capacity is 940 and 545 crew (per guest staff ration in 0.57). This is one of the highest per - guest space rations in the cruise industry. 70% of clients are aged 60 plus and 25% are aged 45-59. Here are some of the highlights: Crystal Plaza : Spectacular two-storey atrium accented by a spiral waterfall. Dining : Plenty of choice Open seating announced for 2011 in the Crystal Dining Room, 500-seat main dining room. Bistro, Trident Bar & Grill and Lido Cafe & Gardens Speciality dining (no extra charge but reservation required however a tip is expected) Prego - Italian dining Silk Road - Oriental Cinema - dedicated movie theatre Nightclub - Luxe. modern new nightclub Galaxy Lounge - 500 seat showroom for shows Staterooms : No insides. Some outsides have restricted views, some have clear views and most have balconies. Average sizes for this category of ship (smallest cabin is 202 sq ft upwards). TV and DVD player, internet access, as standard. We viewed a Category A verandah on Deck 9 which included all the standard amenities. The bathroom was well appointed and included a small bath/shower and a double sink. Plentiful storage. Verandah had table and two chairs. Usual casino, library, several bars, couple of shops, Bistro, Connoisseur Club, Piano bar, internet cafe, golf putting green, Paddle Tennis Court, Pools, Spa and Gym Children : Waves video arcade for teens and Fantasia playroom for the younger cruisers but as a rule not too many children on board. I feel that Crystal is of superior quality and for those wishing to experience cruising in luxurious surroundings. Feel free to give me a call if you have any questions regarding Crystal or other cruise lines.