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Crystal Cruises

MS Crystal Symphony

Your Rating:
Reviewed by: Dr. J Robert Benson
# previous cruises: 3
Date of Trip: December 6, 2001
Itinerary: Transcanal

The best words to describe the Symphony are understated elegance. This is luxury cruising at it's best.

There was never a crowded feeling and only a few children on the ship. The forward observation lounge is called the Palm Court with beautiful views and dancing starting at 7:30 PM. Casual dining is available at the Trident Grill poolside where individually prepared hamburgers and fries are available rather than being served in trays. Your order is carried to your table by eager waiters who will satisfy your drink order. Two swimming pools are available with daytime entertainment at the main pool.

The level of service that Crystal Cruises has achieved must be experienced to believe. The lady is individually escorted to your table and napkins laid in his and her laps. If you think you might like something else it suddenly appears as if by magic. The cuisine is excellent, especially at the Prego alternative dining restaurant.

The cabin was adequate in size with the main cabin being 202 square feet and the verandah 44 square feet. His and her marble vanities in the marble bathroom. Closet space was adequate for a 15 day cruise.

Crystal Cruises is headquartered in Los Angeles and the shows are "Hollywood" in calibre. The costumes are elaborate. The specialty entertainers were excellent.

Ports of call included Cozumel, Cartagena, Panama Canal, Puntarenas and Acapulco. Crystal emphasizes days at sea which suits our cruising preference just right. We feel that the ship is the main destination, especially given the limited time in port with most cruises.

The passengers are mostly well heeled and subdued, the average age 50 or over. This is not for family cruising.