Lois : 𝙽𝚘 𝙲𝚛𝚞𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝙲𝚘𝚗𝚝𝚛𝚘𝚕

After over 65 cruises and sailing with a wide variety of cruise lines—from expedition-style adventures to ultra-luxury escapes—one line has unexpectedly risen straight to the very top of my list: Crystal Cruises.

Recently relaunched under new ownership, Crystal has not only honoured its legacy but elevated the experience to something truly extraordinary.

Here are five reasons why Crystal is now my favourite cruise line.

1. Spacious, Stylish Ships with a Boutique Feel.

Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity have undergone major refurbishments, and the results are stunning. The décor is elegant but contemporary, with calming neutral tones and clever touches that never feel overdone. With fewer than 740 guests on board, there’s always space to relax, whether it’s poolside, in the Palm Court, or your own suite. It feels more like being in a luxury hotel than a typical cruise ship—and I loved that.

2. Exceptional Service That Feels Personal

Crystal’s service is thoughtful, intuitive and refreshingly genuine. From the butlers who remember your favourite morning drink, to waiters who take the time to chat without ever being intrusive, there’s a warmth to the onboard atmosphere that makes you feel truly valued. The crew-to-guest ratio is one of the best at sea, and it shows in every interaction.

3. Thoughtful Cuisine Across Every Venue

Food can make or break a cruise, and Crystal absolutely excels here. Every meal was a highlight—from the main dining room to speciality restaurants like Umi Uma (by Nobu Matsuhisa) and Osteria d’Ovidio. The menus are globally inspired, beautifully presented, and cater to a wide range of preferences. Even room service felt like dining in a high-end restaurant. Crystal’s culinary team clearly cares about quality and consistency.

4. Spacious, Well-Appointed Suites

Every stateroom on Crystal’s ships is now a suite—and they’re all generously sized. Mine had a proper walk-in wardrobe, a large marble bathroom with double sinks, and a balcony perfect for watching the world go by. The bed was heavenly, the storage was plentiful, and the attention to detail—from binoculars in the daily afternoon canapés —really impressed me.

5. A Genuine Focus on Enrichment and Culture

Crystal offers so much more than just entertainment. Lectures from historians, former diplomats, and destination experts gave real insight into the places we visited. Evening performances ranged from West End-calibre productions to intimate piano recitals. It felt grown-up and enriching, never forced or over-programmed. For curious travellers like me, this was a real highlight.

Crystal Cruises has managed to create a modern luxury experience that still feels rooted in tradition. The blend of elegance, exceptional service, and space to breathe has made it stand out in a very crowded cruise market. For me, it’s more than just a new favourite—it’s a cruise line I’m already eager to return to. Have you sailed with Crystal since the relaunch? I’d love to hear your thoughts.