In travel news for September 5, 2023 we talk about the Crystal Symphony returning to service after an extensive refurbishment.
After an extensive makeover, Crystal Symphony, now a part of the Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, has returned to the seas for travelers looking for a Luxury Cruise experience. The ship set off on its first voyage from Athens, Greece on September 1, marking a new era for the Crystal brand alongside its sister ship, Crystal Serenity.
New Levels of Luxury: Space and Staff
The Crystal Symphony isn't just any Cruise ship; it stands out for its nearly one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. The ship now features larger, newly designed suites, high-end restaurants, and bigger public areas. This refurbishment is a part of a $150 million investment aimed to revitalize two Crystal ships. More than 80% of the crew are also back, ensuring high-quality service.
Refined Accommodation Options
Travelers can now enjoy updated guest rooms and suites that reflect the colors of the ocean. Two new room categories have been introduced: the Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite and the Single Guest Room with Ocean View. The former is a spacious option, offering up to 645 square feet of space, including separate living and dining areas and even a private veranda. The Single Guest Room, an ideal choice for solo travelers, is also generously sized at up to 215 square feet.
Food and Dining: An Experience in Itself
The Cruise line has not cut corners when it comes to food. Among its 10 dining options, the ship includes a 24-hour in-suite service. Japanese-Peruvian dishes are served at Umi Uma, while Osteria D'Ovidio specializes in classic Italian cuisine. The main dining room, Waterside Restaurant, offers open seating, and Marketplace provides a buffet-style dining experience with amazing views. In addition, Tastes Kitchen & Bar and Tastes feature globally inspired and tapas-style cuisine respectively.
Revamped Amenities and Wellness
Wellness and recreation haven't been overlooked. The ship now has a full-sized paddle tennis and pickleball court. The redesigned fitness center is more spacious and better equipped. The new spa concept, called Aurōra, elevates relaxation with a fiber-optic starlight ceiling and organic materials such as natural salt Crystal and silk-brushed slate stone.
Exotic Travel Destinations: Sail to the Unexplored
Post its maiden voyage from Athens to Istanbul, the ship will venture to exotic travel destinations such as Santorini, Greece, Istanbul, Turkey, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, and Mumbai, India. Throughout 2023, it will sail in the Oceania region visiting cities including Sydney, Australia, Auckland, New Zealand, and spots in Papua New Guinea and Bali, Indonesia.
Future Plans
With the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity back at sea, the brand has shared plans for further expansion. They are in talks with two European shipbuilders for the development of four new ships in the next six years, covering both classic and expedition-style vessels.
The Crystal Symphony's return to service marks not only the reinvention of a ship but also sets a new standard for luxury cruising. Whether you are looking for exquisite dining options, exceptional amenities, or journeys to exotic travel destinations, this refurbished Luxury Cruise is setting a high bar.
