by Jason Leppert
Last updated: 12:20 AM ET, Wed November 30, 2016
Having just sailed on Crystal Cruises' classic Crystal Symphony for a Thanksgiving California Coastal voyage, we've gathered several suggestions to make the most of a sailing onboard the luxury ship below.
Save Some Money with a Deluxe Stateroom
As luxury liners go, Crystal's are unique for offering not only suites but comfortable entry-level staterooms - with or without a balcony - as well. This conveniently affords those on a tighter budget the chance to experience all the decadence of the ship at a fraction of the cost.
Take Advantage of Complimentary Internet Access
All guests receive at least one hour of free Wi-Fi internet access daily with those in Penthouse Suites getting 90 minutes per day and residents of the Crystal Penthouse having an unlimited connection. If more is needed, package pricing is available as well.
[READMORE]READ MORE: TravelPulse On Board: Crystal Cruises' Crystal Symphony Review[/READMORE]
Get Your Magic Castle at Sea Tickets Early
Exclusively on Crystal is an entertainment partnership with the famed Magic Castle. The stage show is easy enough for everyone to attend, but select few close-up sets are freely ticketed on a first-come-first-served basis from the library. Plus, vouchers can be used as a special invitation to visit the shoreside Hollywood location later on.
Do Not Miss iLuminate
Famous for competing on "America's Got Talent," iLuminate presents one of the best cruise ship shows at sea ever. Neon-outlined dance suits are all that light the pantomime performance in the dark. On the Symphony, "IMAGINE" abstractly tells a story of love in three acts to a toe-tapping mashup of pop tunes.
Order In from the Main Dining Room
To best enjoy private accommodations, 24-hour room service is available or you can alternatively order the classic and modern courses from the Crystal Dining Room at dinner time. Imagine enjoying surf and turf while watching the actual surf crest by from the verandah.
[READMORE]READ MORE: The Future of Crystal Cruises: Where Does Crystal Symphony Fit In?[/READMORE]
Make a Reservation at Prego and Silk Road
Prego and Silk Road are the Italian and Asian specialty restaurants respectively onboard, and they are definitely worth making a complimentary reservation at. The carpaccio from the former and the wagyu beef from the latter are just some of the exquisite dishes that are available. Also, Penthouse accommodation guests and above have the option of enjoying meals from the two venues in their own rooms if they'd prefer.
Try Casual Dining in the Lido Cafe
For something a little bit different, the Lido Cafe, usually only open for buffet breakfasts and lunches, occasionally offers full-service Casual Dining for dinner. Unlike on the Serenity, the Symphony does not have Tastes for tapas-style meals, and this nearly makes up for it as another alternative to the main dining room.
Snack Throughout the Day
Lastly, when guests want a little nibble during the day when other restaurants are closed, The Bistro and Ice Cream Bar are great options for a little treat. The Parisian coffeehouse serves cheeses, cold cuts and pastries, and the ice cream bar scoops up Ben & Jerry's flavors for free poolside.
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