It’s no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating and maddening metropolis of Athens. Lift your eyes 200 feet above the city to the Parthenon, its honey-color marble columns rising from a massive limestone base, and you behold architectural perfection that has not been surpassed in 2,500 years. But, today, this shrine of classical form dominates a 21st-century boomtown. To experience Athens—Athína in Greek—fully is to understand the essence of Greece: ancient monuments surviving in a sea of cement, startling beauty amid the squalor, tradition juxtaposed with modernity. Locals depend on humor and flexibility to deal with the chaos; you should do the same. The rewards are immense. Although Athens covers a huge area, the major landmarks of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods are close to the modern city center. You can easily walk from the Acropolis to many other key sites, taking time to browse in shops and relax in cafés and tavernas along the way. From many quarters of the city you can glimpse “the glory that was Greece” in the form of the Acropolis looming above the horizon, but only by actually climbing that rocky precipice can you feel the impact of the ancient settlement. The Acropolis and Filopappou, two craggy hills sitting side by side; the ancient Agora (marketplace); and Kerameikos, the first cemetery, form the core of ancient and Roman Athens. Along the Unification of Archaeological Sites promenade, you can follow stone-paved, tree-lined walkways from site to site, undisturbed by traffic. Cars have also been banned or reduced in other streets in the historical center. In the National Archaeological Museum, vast numbers of artifacts illustrate the many millennia of Greek civilization; smaller museums such as the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art Museum and the Byzantine and Christian Museum illuminate the history of particular regions or periods. Athens may seem like one huge city, but it is really a conglomeration of neighborhoods with distinctive characters. The Eastern influences that prevailed during the 400-year rule of the Ottoman Empire are still evident in Monastiraki, the bazaar area near the foot of the Acropolis. On the northern slope of the Acropolis, stroll through Plaka (if possible by moonlight), an area of tranquil streets lined with renovated mansions, to get the flavor of the 19th-century’s gracious lifestyle. The narrow lanes of Anafiotika, a section of Plaka, thread past tiny churches and small, color-washed houses with wooden upper stories, recalling a Cycladic island village. In this maze of winding streets, vestiges of the older city are everywhere: crumbling stairways lined with festive tavernas; dank cellars filled with wine vats; occasionally a court or diminutive garden, enclosed within high walls and filled with magnolia trees and the flaming trumpet-shaped flowers of hibiscus bushes. Formerly run-down old quarters, such as Thission, Gazi and Psirri, popular nightlife areas filled with bars and mezedopoleia (similar to tapas bars), are now in the process of gentrification, although they still retain much of their original charm, as does the colorful produce and meat market on Athinas. The area around Syntagma Square, the tourist hub, and Omonia Square, the commercial heart of the city about 1 km (½ mi) northwest, is distinctly European, having been designed by the court architects of King Otho, a Bavarian, in the 19th century. The chic shops and bistros of ritzy Kolonaki nestle at the foot of Mt. Lycabettus, Athens’s highest hill (909 feet). Each of Athens’s outlying suburbs has a distinctive character: in the north is wealthy, tree-lined Kifissia, once a summer resort for aristocratic Athenians, and in the south and southeast lie Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni, with their sandy beaches, seaside bars, and lively summer nightlife. Just beyond the city’s southern fringes is Piraeus, a bustling port city of waterside fish tavernas and Saronic Gulf views.
Home to the Museo Regionale of Messina, known for featuring two of Caravaggio’s paintings, the city is also famous for having been the capital of the ancient kingdom of Sicily.
Naples, in the Campania region, is Italy’s third largest city. Its claim to fame is the spectacular location along one of the world’s most splendid bays, backed by the perfect cone of Mount Vesuvius. In addition to its beautiful setting, Naples’ surprises with other outstanding attractions such as the Royal Palace, San Carlos Opera House, the impressive National Archaeological Museum and the Castel Nuovo, dating from the 13th-century. The city’s central area is best explored on foot. Chaotic traffic conditions make driving around the city a very frustrating experience. Naples provides a convenient starting point for trips to such favored destinations as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius. The Isle of Capri can be reached via a 45-minute hydrofoil service. The region of Campania was home to Greeks settlers some 300 years before Rome was founded. Pompeii, too, was a Greek town before being conquered by the Romans during the 5th century BC. It was under the Romans that Pompeii flourished and grew prosperous. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the population of 20,000 was wiped out, but dozens of buildings were preserved under layers of cinder more than 20 feet deep. The most important finds from Pompeii are displayed in Naples’ National Archaeological Museum. A visit here will no doubt enhance a visit to ancient Pompeii.
Amid the resorts of Sardinia’s northeastern coast, Olbia, a town of about 60,000, is a lively little seaport and port of call for mainland ferries at the head of a long, wide bay.San SimplicioOlbia’s little Catholic basilica, a short walk behind the main Corso Umberto and past the train station, is worth searching out if you have any spare time in Olbia. The simple granite structure dates from the 11th century, part of the great Pisan church-building program, using pillars and columns recycled from Roman buildings. The basilica has a bare, somewhat somber interior, its three naves separated by a series of arches.
One of the most photographed villages along the coast, with a decidedly romantic and affluent aura, Portofino has long been a popular destination for the rich and famous. Once an ancient Roman colony and taken by the Republic of Genoa in 1229, it’s also been ruled by the French, English, Spanish, and Austrians, as well as by marauding bands of 16th-century pirates. Elite British tourists first flocked to the lush harbor in the mid-1800s. Some of Europe’s wealthiest drop anchor in Portofino in summer, but they stay out of sight by day, appearing in the evening after buses and boats have carried off the day-trippers.There’s not actually much to do in Portofino other than stroll around the wee harbor, see the castle, walk to Punta del Capo, browse at the pricey boutiques, and sip a coffee while people-watching. However, weaving through picture-perfect cliffside gardens and gazing at yachts framed by the sapphire Ligurian Sea and the cliffs of Santa Margherita can make for quite a relaxing afternoon. There are also several tame, photo-friendly hikes into the hills to nearby villages.Unless you’re traveling on a deluxe budget, you may want to stay in Camogli or Santa Margherita Ligure rather than at one of Portofino’s few very expensive hotels. Restaurants and cafés are good but also pricey (don’t expect to have a beer here for much under €10).
Villefranche-Sur-Mer is located on the Côte d’Azur in Provence – known for its fields of lavender and warm weather – and is highly appreciated for its 14th Century architecture.
Italy’s vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de’ Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.
Our largest suite, with expansive living areas, a private veranda, sumptuous finishings and attentive butler service.
DETAILS
SERVICES
24 hour in-suite dining
AMENITIES
Redesigned in 2023, this large suite includes spacious rooms with separate dining and living areas, looking onto a private veranda, and accompanied by attentive butler service. Includes complimentary laundry.
DETAILS
SERVICES
AMENITIES
Spacious suite, with living area, elegant finishings and private veranda, accompanied by attentive butler service. Sapphire suites are available to book in new and classic design. Includes complimentary laundry.
DETAILS
SERVICES
AMENITIES
Suite offering comfortable living area, private veranda and perfect for grand yet intimate moments, accompanied by attentive butler service. Aquamarine suites are available to book in new and classic design.
DETAILS
SERVICES
AMENITIES
Contemporary classic bedroom redesigned in 2023, with butler service and comfortable seating constellations opening onto a private veranda.
DETAILS
SERVICES
AMENITIES
Contemporary classic bedroom redesigned in 2023, with butler service and impressive windows onto ocean views.
DETAILS
SERVICES
AMENITIES
Cozy bedroom redesigned in 2023, with welcoming and comfortable detailing, butler service and ocean views.
DETAILS
SERVICES
AMENITIES
The main dining room, features open seating as well as tables for two and four guests. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. No reservations are required.
Created by legendary Master Chef Nobuyki (Nobu) Matusuhisa, Umi Uma is an innovative Japanese-Peruvian restaurant inspired by the rich culture of Japanese cuisine and Peruvian ingredients. Reservations required and limited per sailing
All inclusive – however its one complimentary reservation in each specialty restaurant (Umi Uma and Osteria) is included on sailings of 11 days or less, two reservations on sailings between 12 and 22 days, three reservations on sailings 23 days or more, and unlimited reservations for all full World Cruise guests”. However guests can pay to dine outside of their allowance at £50 pp which is great value for these 2 specialist restaurants
The most exciting flavors from the global street-food scene – Beef, Reef and Leaf – are fashioned from the freshest ingredients by creative chefs and served for sharing in stylish surroundings.
Beefbar’s curated menu features prime cuts from renowned regions, including Wagyu from Australia, Black Angus from the United States and and the flavorful Kobe beef from Japan. Each cut is meticulously chosen for its quality and flavor profile, ensuring a unique dining experience for every meat lover. Join us at sea to savor the finest beef, prepared with expert craftsmanship and served the Beefbar way, onboard Crystal’s ships.
Open for lunch & dinner (reservations required in the evening), everyday
Our pool restaurant featuring favorite classics such as Burgers, melts, salads and quick snacks for an indulgent poolside snack.
Fine Italian cuisine, featuring original menus and dishes created by talented Crystal chefs. Reservations required and limited per sailing.
All inclusive – however its one complimentary reservation in each specialty restaurant (Umi Uma and Osteria) is included on sailings of 11 days or less, two reservations on sailings between 12 and 22 days, three reservations on sailings 23 days or more, and unlimited reservations for all full World Cruise guests”. However guests can pay to dine outside of their allowance at £50 pp which is great value for these 2 specialist restaurants
Parisian-inspired café and coffee bar with light snacks such as fresh pastries, bagels and fruit in the morning and a selection of international cheeses, pâtés, prosciutto, smoked salmon and dessert delicacies through late afternoon.
The Vintage Room offers guided pairings and dinners highlighting the vast selection of wines in the ship’s onboard cellar. This intimate, innovative concept offers guests an education in fine wine and cuisine, allowing them to gain privileged insights into the art of enology. In addition to daytime tastings and discussions, guests may enjoy a variety of private wine-themed lunches and dinners by special arrangement with the Head Sommelier.
A sumptuous ice cream bar featuring fresh toppings and homemade cookies, with frozen yoghurt accompanying classics from Ben & Jerry’s.
Buffet style dining wrapped in floor to ceiling windows and a chic open air dining area. This venue offers breakfast and lunch with a variety of choices from appetizers to desserts. Itinerary driven food selections keep the menu’s fresh, while carving stations and individual a la minute cooking add a dynamic element. Open seating.
Dine in the comfort of your own suite, 24 hours a day. Savor the extensive selection of delicious dishes from Waterside’s menu. Guests staying in the Crystal Penthouse can also enjoy in-suite dining from our specialty restaurants, during opening hours.Service includes afternoon snacks and our Connoisseur Caviar Menu, for a epicurean treat (for an additional charge).
More information coming soon.
Visit the Shore Excursions desk to learn about our unique on shore experiences. Each experience is created in partnership with our sister company, A&K Travel.
Bridging shoreside discovery with onboard elegance — the lauded Crystal experience was voted #1 in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards, and the very best for food, service, nightlife and romance in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards — both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity will offer extended seasons throughout the Mediterranean and Europe. Crystal Symphony will spend the entire year sailing abroad, exploring places from Vietnam, Cambodia, and India to destinations including Qatar, Kuwait, the UAE and Egypt. Crystal Serenity will also navigate the shores of North America, with routes revealing treasures from Canada to the Caribbean.
Enjoy lectures and enriching experiences in this intimate classroom setting.
Le Casino de Monte-Carlo is offering a new and unique experience onboard. Place your bets on table games with the unique savoir-faire of Monaco’s world-famous casino or get excited to a dynamic range of slots to hit the jackpot. An ultimate way to embrace the thrill of the game in an elegant atmosphere adorned in the hues of the historical building.
An ideal refreshment stop any time of the day, and the perfect place to meet friends for a pre-dinner cocktail. Enjoy a variety of musical styles as the day turns into night.
A well-stocked library containing over 2,000 books on a range of subjects from classics to popular biographies, history to contemporary mysteries. Plus enjoy an ample selection of magazines and board games perfect for poolside reading
Featuring large sky lights, floor-to-ceiling windows and a fabulous 270-degree forward view, this venue is perfect for afternoon tea, social gatherings and dancing.
Our lap pool with plenty of surrounding deck space to sunbathe, relax and read while enjoying a cool drink in the afternoon.
Heighten the experience on board with a selection of fine jewelry, watches and cruise wear available in our arcade, alongside designer apparel. Make the most of being at sea with a selection of duty free items available.
On selected evenings before and after dinner, this entertainment lounge features dancing, production spot shows, cabaret performances and other themed events. Additionally, on select nights, Stardust will open the doors for Supper Club for up to 116 guests to enjoy an evening show where they can dine and dance at the same time. Supper Club is by reservations only.
An intimate lounge for a late-night drink, dancing or a place to let loose with karaoke.
Performances are the focal point here, with appearances by fantastic Broadway-style performers and headline entertainers. Drink service provided before each show.
The ship’s sleek cinema for recent-released movies, live sport events, guest lectures and religious services.
An elegant space to indulge in the finest cigars and cognacs.
Our innovative Computer lab onboard led by a team of tech experts.
Crystal Plaza can be found on Deck 5.
Signature piano bar with an intimate ambience. The perfect setting for a cocktail before and after dinner.
The Bridge Lounge can be found on Deck 7.
The Reception can be found on Deck 5.
More information coming soon.
Our spa offers a wide range of health and beauty services for ladies and gentlemen. There is a complete sauna and steam room facilities, as well as a variety of treatments, including aromatherapy, aqua meditation, exfoliation, reflexology and Swedish massage. Treatments are by appointment only.
Our 3,000+ square-foot Fitness Center, Weight Room and Aerobics Studio feature an extensive line of professional weights and Technogym® exercise equipment, along with panoramic views. We also offer Wellness program with classes in yoga, mat pilates and spinning classes. Our ships’ full-time Fitness Director offers fitness advice and a variety of stretch and aerobic instruction.
Hit the full-sized paddle tennis and pickle ball court for a friendly game. Crystal Serenity has two courts available.
Practice your golf-game with the expert coaching of our qualified PGA golf pro (available on most cruises). TaylorMade® clubs are available from the sports director or golf pro, and for personal use in port, you can head to the concierge desk to rent a set of clubs.
Challenge a friend to a fun game of ping-pong on one of our tennis tables.
Specialized fun for junior cruisers.
Guests with limited mobility should ideally be able to navigate the ship independently. Alternatively, they may opt to travel with a companion who can provide assistance if needed.
Service animals will be permitted on select voyages. Animals that are not trained to do work or perform tasks are not considered to be service animals. Emotional support animals, which provide emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship to an individual with disabilities but are not trained to do work or perform tasks, are not considered to be service animals. Pets and other animals who are not service animals are not allowed on board.
For more details, please contact obgs@crystalcruises.com
At Crystal, we recognise that some of our guests smoke and others do not. While most areas of the ship are non-smoking, there will be designated smoking areas throughout. Please note that pipe and cigar smoking is only allowed in the Connoisseurs Club and all suites/guest rooms are non-smoking, including on the verandas.
At Crystal, we want guests to feel confident and relaxed throughout their stay, so we have compiled the following guide to the different dress codes on board. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us by calling 1.888.617.0110 or +1.786.464.4420.
Day Casual
A less formal look allows guests to feel comfortable during the day; Day Casual attire may be worn everywhere, including our restaurants, until 18:00.
Suggestions for a Day Casual look:
Women
Men
NOTE: Swimwear on its own, wet swimwear, revealing clothing, bathrobes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and clothes bearing any offensive messaging are not permitted. Covered swimsuits may only be worn at Trident Grill, Tastes, and Marketplace.
Evening Resort
A step up from Day Casual, after 18:00, we ask that guests adopt the more refined Evening Resort dress code.
Suggestions for an Evening Resort look:
Women
Men
NOTE: Please avoid flip-flops/sliders, swimwear, and hats.
Formal Evening
On sailings over seven days, there will be at least one optional ship-wide formal night (depending on the length of the segment), which will require more formal cocktail chic attire. These special events will be defined in your personal pre-sailing guide.
Suggestions for a Formal Evening look:
Women
Men
*Formal evening attire should be adhered to in the specialty restaurants, during a captain or officer dinner, and during a recognition dinner
As always, dress for the climate and conditions of any destination we visit.
WHICH RESTAURANTS ARE INCLUDED AND WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO AN UPCHARGE?
Our restaurants are complimentary, except for The Vintage Room. For our specialty restaurants, Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa Restaurant and Sushi Bar and Osteria d’Ovidio, guests will be allotted one complimentary reservation for two people per voyage of up to 11 days (more than one for more extended stays – see below). In addition, guests staying in Crystal Penthouse or Junior Crystal Penthouse Suites can enjoy unlimited free visits.
WHAT AMENITIES ARE INCLUDED IN SUITES AND GUEST ROOMS?
• Beverages including select fine wines, champagne, premium spirits, and all nonalcoholic beverages such as bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty coffees
• Gratuities for housekeeping, dining, and bar staff
• One complimentary reservation to Osteria d’ Ovidio and one complimentary reservation to our second Asian specialty restaurant (not yet announced)
• Butler service in all suites and guest rooms
• Wi-Fi/Internet access in-room and throughout the ship, signal permitting
IS DRY CLEANING INCLUDED WITH ALL ROOM CATEGORIES, OR JUST SUITES. OR WILL IT DEPEND ON THE TRAVEL TIER?
Dry cleaning will be included in select suite categories and detailed on your itinerary.
IS ROOM SERVICE INCLUDED?
An expansive, complimentary in-suite dining menu will be available. Select suite categories will also be able to order from specialty dining venues via their butler.
CAN I BRING OXYGEN ON BOARD?
If you are dependent on oxygen or require oxygen therapy, you must supply your own oxygen.
CAN I BRING A CPAP MACHINE?
The following devices are permitted on board:
The official language spoken on board is English. All officers, staff, and crew as well as local guides and regional specialists speak fluent English. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English.
In most cases, we can accommodate special requirements. Please provide details about any allergies or food requirements to our Reservations team or your travel advisor prior to your cruise departure.
You may bring your own nonalcoholic or alcoholic drinks aboard. Please note that certain restrictions apply by country or destination.
Launderette
Suites & Guest Rooms Beyond The Forward Elevators Are Subject To Alternative Pricing
Launderette
Suites & Guest Rooms Beyond The Forward Elevators Are Subject To Alternative Pricing
Suites & Guest Rooms Beyond The Forward Elevators Are Subject To Alternative Pricing
Suites & Guest Rooms Beyond The Forward Elevators Are Subject To Alternative Pricing
Suites & Guest Rooms Beyond The Forward Elevators Are Subject To Alternative Pricing