Crystal Symphony
In my opinion, the Crystal ships sit in a class and category all their own. Even though they are approximately 50,000 tons - they do not accommodate nearly as many passengers as mass-market ships of that size. And although they are in the luxury category of vessels, they still have main and late seatings for dinner. Their food and service is right up there with the best of them - Radisson, Silversea, Seabourn, Sea Dream - yet they accommodate around 1,000 passengers, where their competition sails with as few as 100 and as many as 700 guests. So, it is at times difficult to properly categorize this product - and I find that by many in the incentive industry, Crystal is misunderstood.
So, let's set the record straight. The reason why so many companies have not booked Crystal for their incentive programs has nothing to do with the product at all. Without exception, every buyer I know would jump at a chance to put his or her incentive passengers on a Crystal ship. So why haven't they? The answer is simple. First - very few of Crystal's itineraries are seven nights or less in duration. Second, Crystal's pricing has always been higher than the "competition". Third, because of the multiple seatings - you cannot feed more than half of the ship's compliment at the same time for dinner, nor can you place much more than in the show lounge at one time. That leaves either half-ship charters, or groups who can live without the "1,000 passengers in one place at one time" requirement.
I can tell you that many things have changed over the past few months at Crystal. First and foremost, their incentive rates are now very much in line with their competitors - at times even better. Second, the company has slated in several seven-night sailings in 2004, making it more attractive for incentive groups. And although they are not at the point of eliminating fixed seatings, Crystal is going to experiment with the concept this summer in Alaska.
With almost all outside cabins and suites, beautiful surroundings, impeccable maintenance, absolutely delicious cuisine and perhaps the best service at sea - there is no reason not to at least look at Crystal as an option for the future. This year, the Crystal Serenity arrives, with even more exciting features. Practically all of the staterooms will have verandas. Keep in mind that Crystal's staterooms are far from what you would find on other vessels of this size. They start at 202 square feet and increase in size from there. All staterooms have a bathtub/shower combination in addition to double sinks and elegant tile in the bathrooms. Guest will enjoy Frette bathrobes, Scandinavian down duvets and pillows, mohair lap blankets and luxury bath amenities. And of course there is 24-hour in-stateroom dining. All staterooms on Crystal are equipped with color television and DVD player. Fresh fruit (replenished daily) and a floral arrangement are also found in each stateroom upon arrival.
The Penthouse deck, which is akin to concierge level at a Four Seasons or Ritz Carlton has its own special suites and privileges. European butler service is provided. Your butler will pack and unpack your luggage and have your clothes pressed and returned to your closet at no charge. Meals may be ordered from all of the onboard restaurants and will be served to your course by course upon request. And to my surprise, guests on the Penthouse level are offered a "pillow menu" to choose select their own sleep time amenity. Now that's service!
On all Crystal ships, incentive passengers will receive more inclusions than ever. All soft drinks, waters and specialty coffees will be included. Wine with dinner will be complimentary. The Italian and Asian specialty restaurants do not carry a cover or gratuity charge. As has been done on the other lines for years, guests will have a complimentary bar set up in their stateroom. Coffee breaks and at least one private cocktail party with butler passed hot and cold canapés will be included for all incentive groups and charters.
Meeting facilities are plentiful on Crystal ships and incentive groups will have little trouble booking the space. I am told that none of these rooms are used during the day, and the cruise line is happy to accommodate you.
