Public Areas & Facilities

Crystal Symphony, despite being a relatively large ship with some big-ship features, is noteworthy in the luxury market for creating intimate spaces in understated, yet sophisticated surroundings. Generous per-passenger space ratios have become a Crystal trademark, along with forward-facing observation decks, a Palm Court lounge, and a wide teak promenade encircling the ship.

A complete makeover in 2004 refreshed nearly all interior spaces. The ship has emerged from its extensive refit with an expanded spa and enlarged area for Computer University@Sea classes.

Accented by a lovely waterfall, the focal point of the central two-deck atrium is a sculpture of two ballet dancers created especially for the space. Crystal Cove, the lobby lounge, is the spot to meet for cocktails as you make your way to the nearby dining room. Throughout the ship, public rooms shine with low-key contemporary style and flow easily from one to the next with complementary colors and decor.

Restaurants

The formal restaurant serves international cuisine in two assigned evening seatings. There's no additional charge for the intimate Asian and Italian specialty restaurants, but a gratuity is suggested and reservations required. Daytime dining choices include the Lido buffet, an outdoor grill, ice-cream bar, and the Bistro patisserie.

What Works & What Doesn't

Dedicated areas for children and teens take a back seat to what's offered for adults -- the Creative Learning Institute enrichment programs, complimentary Computer University@Sea instruction, and a full roster of distinguished guest speakers barely scratch the surface of what's at hand.

Accommodations

Layout: There are no inside cabins on Crystal Symphony. Still, relatively small stateroom sizes and dated designs are clues to the age of the ship; however, all cabins have ample closet and drawer-shelf storage, as well as bathroom shelves. Many have private balconies furnished with chairs and tables. Most suites and penthouses have a walk-in closet. Crystal Penthouse suites have guest powder rooms.

Amenities: Rich wood cabinetry, soft pastel fabrics, a small refrigerator filled with complimentary bottled water and soft drinks, a personal safe, a hair dryer, a television with a DVD player, and a sitting area with sofa, chair, and table are typical standard features in all cabins. Suite and penthouse extras vary, but many have a flat-screen television and CD player. All have butler service, personalized stationery, and stocked minibars with wine, beer, and choice of liquor.

Bathrooms: Every bathroom has a full-size tub, Aveda toiletries, plush towels, and bathrobes for use during the cruise. Many suites and penthouses have a whirlpool tub and separate shower.

Good to know: Seven staterooms are wheelchair-accessible.

Category	Size (square feet)
Crystal Penthouse	982
Penthouse Suites	491
Regular Penthouses	367
Deluxe Ocean View (w/balcony)	246
Deluxe Ocean View (regular)	202

Favorites

Best Added Value: If you feel the need to pack light and do laundry during your cruise or return home with clean clothing in your suitcases, passenger launderettes are complimentary.

Best Way to Take in a Film: The large theater seats almost as many movie buffs as an average multiplex ashore and serves free popcorn. Screenings alternate between recent releases and classic favorites.

Our Favorite Spot for a Nightcap: Happily, Crystal doesn't mess with a good thing. Just as on Serenity, the Avenue Saloon and its Connoisseur Club annex are winners for a quiet drink before bed.

Best Place to Relax: With no aft-facing passenger accommodations, Crystal Symphony's stern retains the traditional styling of open decks with plenty of lounge chairs, so you can relax and watch the ship's wake. For a bit more privacy, a canopy-covered sun deck is behind the spa.