DELUXE CRUISING
by modern-day yardsticks and come complete with a veranda. Wardrobe space is generous and the marble bathrooms are a masterstroke of design, with twin sinks, powerful shower and bathtub. All staterooms have a lounge area where room-service breakfast can be enjoyed in private, although Bobby preferred to rise late and make his selection at the Lido Café. top-of-the-range Penthouse accommo- dation is just about the finest money can buy on the ocean waves, and I was lucky enough to reside in one for my indulgent week. Here, a butler took care of my every need, whether it was fixing a cocktail while I dressed for dinner or arranging a table in alternative restaurant Prego. For those guests who sail with the
Oscar Wilde quote whistling in the sea breezes – “My tastes are simple; I simply like the best” – the Penthouses suites and Crystal Penthouses fit the bill perfectly, but they don’t come cheap. When Crystal Cruises launched on to the cruising scene in 1988, many pundits believed the two-seating policy in the
26 WORLD OF CRUISING I Autumn 2010
SPOKEN LIKE AN EXPERT
As an arbiter of fine living and good taste, I welcomed Bobby’s views as we neared the end of the cruise.
“I think the ship is lovely and beautifully appointed; consequently, I’m surprised Crystal Cruises don’t have a stronger brand message. “The crew are courteous and friendly and seem to enjoy their employment – unlike some ships I could mention. “What I particularly liked was the fitness centre, with state-of-the-art equipment for Pilates and spinning. “Having said that, I also appreciated the liberal smoking policy and liked the friendly dealers in the casino. “With so many other passengers, I was concerned about having to queue and not be able to get a good seat for the shows but I needn’t have worried. “The food has certainly been above average, too. I really liked the themed
buffets at lunchtime and appreciated the thoughtful touches such as freshly- squeezed orange juice at breakfast.
“Our nightly cocktails in the Crystal Cove, listening to the superb pianist while people-watching, became an elegant way to start the evening.” Bobby also made an observation that had eluded me. “The $500 onboard credit per person almost makes the cruise all-inclusive, with passengers able to spend the credit on things they want, whether excursions, fine wines, spa treatments or in the boutique.”
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