Crystal Cruises

Families considering a summer vacation at sea can’t choose a better option than the stylish Crystal Symphony. One of two ultra-luxury ships operated by Crystal Cruises, the 922-guest Symphony is fresh from a $25 million dollar makeover that included the complete redo of its two top Crystal Penthouses. The 1,000-square-foot penthouses now boast a plush residential feel, larger living and bedroom spaces, dual walk-in closets, large private balconies, separate study/living/dining areas, a high-tech audio/visual system, and a master bath with sunken Philippe Starck Jacuzzi bathtub, ocean views, rare marble finishings, heated floors, rainfall showers, and a recessed television to enjoy from the tub.

The renovation also encompassed a redesign of the ship’s 61 butler-serviced Penthouse and Penthouse suites, while the Lido Café has been transformed into an upscale dining spot inspired by the Hamptons seashore. The pool area has also been upgraded with new al fresco dining and seating options and new larger whirlpools.

One of our favorite lines for families for its large accommodations (each stateroom has a sofa that doubles as a third berth) and extensive kid-friendly activities, Crystal has taken it a step further with the introduction of new sophisticated (and free) options for teens. Starting this summer, teens can take sushi-making lessons with a Nobu-trained chef, golf with PGA pro instructors, and learn a foreign language with Berlitz teachers as well as enjoy dance lessons and evening DJ-hosted parties. Both the Crystal Symphony and the Crystal Serenity have expanded the hours and variety of supervised activities for junior cruisers from three to 17.

“Like their parents, our younger guests are well-traveled and curious about the places they’re visiting,” says Bret Bullock, VP of entertainment. “Younger travelers enjoy the camaraderie and friendships they cultivate with their peers from around the world.”

Those pressed for time or couples looking for an ultra-easy way to sample the newly renovated Crystal Symphony can do so from Los Angeles on one of the four 7-day Mexican Riviera itineraries offered between November 21 and December 12. Fares for these shorter voyages start at less than $3,000 per person, and “2-for-1” fares are offered in every category, including the Crystal Penthouses. It’s an fun way to experience Crystal’s award-winning service and food (onboard restaurants include sushi by Nobu and Italian cuisine by Piero Selvaggio of L.A.’s Valentino restaurant). The itinerary includes full-day stops in Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. Come holiday time, Crystal offers an incredible program aboard its 14-day Hawaiian island cruise, with itineraries spanning the globe throughout the rest of the year.

Cruise Contacts

It’s not always what you know but who you know that ensures your luxury travels will be smooth sailing. For more information on any of the cruise lines mentioned and to plan your next luxury vacation, contact the experts at Los Angeles-based Elite Travel International. Not only will you be taken care of by top experts in the field, but you’ll enjoy special VIP perks and privileges such as pre-paid gratuities (on Crystal), shipboard credits, complimentary shore excursions, plus the 24/7 services of a concierge-style luxury travel firm. As an added bonus, Haute Living readers who book luxury cruises through Elite Travel International in 2010 will enjoy an additional $150 worth of shipboard credit applied to their account. For more information, call 310.979.9036, email elitetravelgal@gmail.com or visit www.elitetravelinternational.com.