Crystal Serenity: Luxury at Sea Without the Crowds

Spacious, refined accommodations

I stayed in the Sapphire Veranda Suite, and it was nothing short of impressive. Essentially two staterooms in one, the suite featured a separate living area, walk-in closet, a pass-through bathroom accessible from both the bedroom and living room, a vanity, double sinks and a double balcony. This room truly felt more like a luxury hotel than a cruise stateroom, offering plenty of space to relax in. And the perks! Butler service, complimentary laundry, dry cleaning, pressing and daily canapés were included, making the experience feel elevated and personal. I can't recommend this stateroom category enough for anyone seeking extra space and comfort at sea.

But don’t worry, the other staterooms on board are just as luxurious. Whether you opt for an ocean-view room, a veranda stateroom or a penthouse splurge, all rooms exude a sense of elegance and comfort that feels perfectly in line with Crystal's luxury cruise promise.

Who should sail Crystal?

In my opinion, Crystal is ideal for discerning couples aged 55 and up, singles aged 55 and up looking to meet like-minded travelers and groups of friends seeking a sophisticated, relaxing getaway. During my trip, I traveled with my best friend, and we saw many women enjoying similar trips together, highlighting how perfect Crystal is for those looking to travel in style.

However, if you're a family with young children or someone looking for party vibes, Crystal may not be for you. There are no waterslides, mini golf courses or rowdy nightlife. Instead, the ship offers an elegant, serene atmosphere that is anything but boring.

Dining: A gastronomic journey

Food and beverage aboard the Serenity are second to none. Having cruised extensively, I can confidently say that this is the best cruise cuisine I’ve experienced. The main dining room offers delicious, made-to-order meals with a variety of options. The additional standouts are Crystal's specialty dining venues. Aboard the Serenity, you’ll find a Nobu experience that rivals its land-based counterparts, along with an exquisite Italian restaurant, a grill and a fantastic breakfast and lunch buffet. Plus, the best part? Specialty dining (one time at Nobu and one time at the Italian venue) is included in your fare, so there’s no nickel-and-diming here.

Elevated onboard activities

For those who love learning and culture, Crystal offers a wide array of onboard activities. From computer classes to guest lectures, cooking lessons and dance classes, there’s always something to engage your mind. In the evenings, entertainment ranges from classy musical performances to evening shows and even a nightclub that manages to be fun without being overly rowdy.

Crystal's all-Inclusive philosophy

Crystal Cruises has a nearly all-inclusive fare. Your base rate includes WiFi, alcohol, gratuities and specialty dining — yes, even Nobu! The only exceptions are shore excursions and spa treatments, so you can rest easy knowing you're not going to be hit with a barrage of extra charges as you sail.

Where it fell short

Now, for my one critique: While the accommodations and service are nothing short of perfection, the ship’s overall design feels a bit dated. The common areas, such as the dining room, lounges and theater, lack the same modern aesthetic that you find in the newly refurbished staterooms. Abercrombie & Kent, the luxury operator behind the new Crystal Cruises, has already done a fantastic job updating the rooms, so I have faith that the rest of the ship will eventually follow suit. This didn’t affect my enjoyment, but I feel it’s important to note for those expecting cutting-edge design in every space. The common areas still offer a luxe atmosphere, but for those who prefer a more contemporary look, the contrast is noticeable.

Book Crystal with a travel advisor

When booking a luxury cruise like Crystal, working with a knowledgeable travel advisor is invaluable. Not only can I help you choose the perfect room layout — because there are distinct differences between the phases of renovations — I often have access to exclusive promotions or insights into the best times to book. For example, making refundable deposits can help you secure the best rates without a commitment. I can also ensure you’re placed in the ideal stateroom to maximize your enjoyment.

Final thoughts

Crystal Serenity offers an unparalleled luxury cruising experience that’s perfect for those seeking elegance, impeccable service, and gourmet dining in a serene atmosphere. While the décor may not be as cutting-edge in the common areas, the overall experience far exceeds expectations. If you're looking for a cruise that offers spacious accommodations, top-tier food and service and room to breathe, Crystal Serenity should be on your radar.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on cruise travel. In need of further inspiration? Check out my guide, Memorable Family Cruising in the Eastern Caribbean on Royal Caribbean's Symphony of the Seas.