Crystal Cruises goes All Inclusive

The two highest-rated luxury ships in the world “ Crystal Symphony” and “Crystal Serenity” will be making changes to meet new trends in cruise travel. Both ships will be offering complimentary fine wines and premium spirits throughout the ship in the bars and lounges. Their cruise price will now include prepaid gratuities for dining staff, penthouses butler service and specialty restaurants. Gratuity charges in the signature Silk Road and Prego restaurants will also be eliminated. Additionally airfare is likely to be complimentary from most gateway cities on their world-wide exceptional itineraries. This change to an “all-inclusive” vacation will take place beginning with sailings in March, 2012.

In reality, Crystal Cruises is known for innovation. It has changed what was already a special dining experience to something even more wonderful. Guests can now choose from three options in the main dining room - Classic Main Seating, Classic Late Seating or the new Open Dining by Reservations. The Open Dining option will allow passengers to reserve a table in the Crystal Dining Room each night at a time of the guests’ choice and with the number of passengers who wish to dine together. If your shore excursion returns late or you elect for a late spa appointment, guests simply make a reservation for dinner at their time of choice.

Speaking of food, the Crystal chefs are now offering hands-on cooking or baking classes on Crystal Wine and Food Festival sailings which take place throughout the year on a variety of itineraries. “Six ultra-luxury cruises will spotlight the artistry, craftsmanship and practiced palette of celebrated chefs, wine experts and mixologists that reflects each itinerary’s geographical region.” Sailings will feature chef’s demos, wine tastings, pairing sessions, cocktail-making classes, “Iron Bar Chef” competitions, and sushi-making.

You can create your perfect day on a Crystal Cruise by relaxing your mind and toning your muscles while enjoying yoga, Pilates or a tour de Spin class. Guests may also indulge in a superb treatment, a Hydralift Facial in the Feng Shui-inspired Spa and Salon which also features a dry sauna and steam room.

A Crystal Cruise day at sea will provide the opportunity to attend enrichment classes including language workshops or piano keyboard instruction. Or passengers may attend a class on photofinishing in the Computer University center.

Crystal Cruises is focused on self-awareness and enrichment experiences which are offered on their “Experiences of Discovery”. These cruises include all the standard cruise experiences enhanced by courses on Digital Filmmaking; Science and Technology; Mind, Body & Spirit; Food and Wine Festival; Golf, Creative Learning Institute; Jazz, and the list goes on.

On select itineraries this summer, Crystal Cruises has partnered with The Music Center – Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County – on seven theme cruises featuring 22 young gifted artists, including members of the San Francisco Ballet, accomplished composers and songwriters, students from Julliard and the Berklee College of Music, and an “America’s Most Talented Kid” TV show contestant. While sailing the beautiful ice-blue glaciers of Alaska guests will enjoy performances as well as observe a Master Class between artists and Music Center Master Class teachers. These seminars will provide the opportunity to view the intense training performers undergo to professionally perfect their craft.

Crystal Cruises recognizes the importance of being ecologically responsible and is committed to preventing pollution and complying with worldwide environmental regulations. Crystal guests share this passion for respecting our delicate world. As a result, this cruise line has created complimentary voluntourism shore excursions for those who are ready to roll up their sleeves and make a difference. On certain voyages, guests may participate in a humanitarian project and Crystal will donate a portion of the shore excursion proceeds to World Heritage Sites, to help preserve and restore them for generations to come.

Crystal Cruises is premier quality in every way – 100% Egyptian cotton linens and bath towels, Frette bathrobes, extensive wine cellar, Villeroy & Boch china along with Riedel crystal, featured entertainers such as Tony Award winners and acclaimed classical artists, extensive spa and salon, and the list goes on. It is a perfect choice for a cruise, Crystal Cruises simply has it all. Now they offer more options than ever before creating an atmosphere plentiful with options and memorable experiences.