It’s easy to think that you’ve become jaded about cruising when so many ships head through Sydney Harbour. On closer look though, you discover that each one is different in some way to the ship that berthed in the same port the day before.

Some are more regal than others, some are the size of a small city, some exude a type of intimacy and some, like the Crystal Serenity you never want to disembark.

I can completely understand why it has one of the highest passenger return rates of any cruise ship and, given my age, I was very pleased to hear that their standard demographic is, like several other ships of its ilk, getting younger.

As soon as you step foot onto the vessel, you feel the space. With capacity for 1070 passengers, she rarely sails with more than 900 given that many guests travel solo with a very generous single supplement offering.

Rather than get locked into an ‘all inclusive’ fare, Crystal offers passengers ‘As You Wish’ shipboard credit. With up to $2,000USD to spend on whatever takes your fancy onboard, you have the choice of purchasing something special from their ‘Avenue of Stars’ or perhaps spending it on formal photos…the choice is yours.

With a Godmother like Julie Andrews, Crystal Serenity was destined for elegance and grace and the ship evokes a kind of romance that is becoming increasingly rare.

Accommodation

The feeling of space doesn’t stop when you enter your cabin.

We were able to view a Penthouse Suite with balcony, which was spacious, airy and equipped with all the mod cons desired on such a vessel.

My personal favourite when away from home, a pillow menu, is also offered as a standard.

Featuring such amenities as a full spa bath and walk in wardrobe, the Crystal Serenity is set for a major refurbishment during her dry dock in May 2011 and, to be perfectly honest, if the room we viewed was any indication, the accommodation really doesn’t require any work.

Regardless, the Deluxe Outside Staterooms, Penthouses and Penthouse Suites will sport new floor-to-ceiling tufted headboard, bedside cabinets, wallpaper, sofas, curtains, pillows and custom carpets. Modern lighting will be featured as well as an electronic ‘do not disturb’ and doorbell system.

Bars & Entertainment

The variety of bars and entertainment on board Crystal Serenity was very impressive.

From the Galaxy Showroom (pictured left) that offers two full production shows per night to the Pulse Disco for those who want to boogie the night away, there is literally an option for everyone!

Something I found amusing was the lack of space in the Pulse Disco. Blasting Usher as we entered, it was the only place on the ship that I found cosy…clearly it isn’t the ‘hotspot’ on board!

The Avenue Saloon is perfect for a nightcap with its dark, muted tones or, if you’re after a step back in time, perhaps a cigar at the Connoisseur Club (pictured left) is up your alley.

A common theme across the ship was the bartenders’ apparent ability to create whatever beverage a passenger desires…a very positive trait!

Another positive when it comes to frequenting the bars was the flexible closing hours offered. As long as there’s a passenger drinking, there’s a bartender serving. This is something that I’ve noticed is absent from other ships I’ve sailed on.

Being a regular solo cruiser, the concept of ‘Ambassador Hosts’ who are available to sweep the single females across the dance floor every night was one that was very appealing!

Passengers are also invited to take complimentary group dance lessons or to book in with their very popular dance instructors for private lessons at a nominal charge.

Dining

Whilst we didn’t have dinner in one of the onboard restaurants, the delectable buffet that we were treated to at the Trident Bar & Grill certainly showcased the quality of food onboard.

Silk Road and The Sushi Bar (pictured left) feature menu selections by the famed Nobu Matsuhisa and the alternative seven or so dining options offer a veritable array of international delights.

Creative Learning Institute

Another impressive attribute onboard Crystal Serenity is what is dubbed the ‘Creative Learning Institute’.

Offering passengers the opportunity to learn a language through their onboard Berlitz classes or a musical instrument thanks to Yamaha, a world voyage can now further one’s education!

I really love the concept of walking off a cruise relaxed, tanned…and multi-lingual!

Created as a response to feedback from past passengers, it’s the perfect way for people to stop using the excuse, “if I had time I’d love to learn a language”.

The ‘Computer University @ Sea’ offers courses teaching computer basics as well as 24-hour internet.

Spa & Fitness

With the ship being in the midst of her world voyage, we were unable to see all aspects of the Crystal Spa, Salon and Fitness Centre.

The luxurious spa bath featured in one of the treatment rooms (pictured left) caught my eye however, as did the exercise equipment perfectly positioned by the floor to ceiling windows.

State of the art equipment is complemented by fitness classes that are all included in your fare.

For a complete photo gallery of images click here