Crystal Cruises
Crystal Serenity Cruise Review to Europe - Mediterranean
7 Night Iberian Images (Monte Carlo To Lisbon)
Sail date: November 06, 2015
Ship: Crystal Serenity
Cabin type: Balcony
Cabin number: 8105
Traveled as: Couple
Reviewed: 9 years ago
Review summary
This was our first experience with Crystal Cruises. Everything was just perfect. The ship is first class, though it is quite understated. Nothing gaudy here. The rooms were nicely appointed. We appreciated the orchid, for example, and the room refrigerator with complementary drinks. But most of all my wife loved the fairly spacious bathroom with a real bathtub.
Of course, the food was exceptional. Every night in the main dining room was terrific, with the one exception of the paella we ordered. The upgrade restaurants were also good, especially Nobu. You must order the black cod dish if you go there.
This is a medium sized ship, which is still substantial. At no time did we ever have any problem finding a seat--either in dining, evening entertainment, bars, special events. At check in we encountered no line whatsoever. This is a big difference from other cruise lines we have experienced.
The service was terrific, as one would expect. Never ostentatious but always available.
The evening entertainment was fairly good, maybe not quite up to the standard of the larger ships. However, we really appreciated the afternoon "teas" during which a Russian string quartet played classical music; very civilized was to spend our time. We especially enjoyed the "Mozart Tea" during which the staff dressed in Vienna period costume. Best pastry by far was the sacer tort, which my wife feels is actually superior to the original served in Vienna's finest bakery--so hats off to the cook.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Onboard Activities
Entertainment
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ship tip
The ship runs like clockwork. Make sure you are not late for the excursions, as they leave right on time.