Crystal Symphony

Crystal Symphony September 18 through September 26, 2023

September

Pros: Welcoming atmosphere, attention to detail, officers, genuine effort by all staff to make us feel special, ambience, cabin, main dining room, new "Tastes" dining, quality of food and wine all inclusive, nicely refurnished throughout, Catholic Mass as well as services for other denominations

Cons: Aurora Spa - bad experience

Recommended: Yes

We wish we had known more ahead of time about the "White Dress Party", which will be a part of every Crystal Cruise going forward. Although we perused the document "Before You Sail" twice, we didn't realize the white dress party was such a big deal, including the dining room and main area near the fountain and grand staircase being lavishly decorated in white. We would have brought white attire with us. After realizing we were suppose to dress in white attire that evening for the white dress party, we purchased white attire in a shop onboard. We thoroughly enjoyed listening to the band and dancing near the fountain and grand staircase along with the other guests dressed in white.

Cruise from Rome to Venice

September

Pros: Good itinerary, especially Santorini and stops in Croatia. The ship was lovely. The food was delicious and the service was wonderful.

Cons: The choice of excursions were only ok in some of the Greek Islands. Maybe a few more stops in Croatia?

Recommended: Yes

Unfortunately, one of our group of 6 came down with Covid on day 7 and several of our group came down with it shortly after. We were quarantined in our rooms until departure on Friday. Even those of us who tested negative and lived with someone who tested positive had to stay in the room. It really ruined our trip since we were not able to use the ship’s facilities or go ashore for the remainder of our trip. So most of us missed seeing Croatia and that was one of the main places we wanted to visit on this cruise. So not the best experience unfortunately.