Crystal Symphony Resumes Service After Refurbishment: A Fresh Look and New Experiences
The Crystal Symphony returned to operation in late November following a comprehensive three-week drydock in Genoa, Italy, where substantial updates were implemented across public areas and all staterooms. The refurbishment focused on both aesthetics and practicality, culminating in a redesigned atrium that offers a more contemporary, fluid layout with additional seating. A striking two-story mosaic, crafted by DeCastelli, now anchors the space, enhancing the ship’s visual appeal.
In a notable change tied to Crystal’s charity partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center, the bronze atrium statue titled “Dance” by Japanese sculptor Satoru Kitago was removed and auctioned to support cancer care and research initiatives.
Beyond public spaces, every suite and cabin received new carpets and wall coverings. The Aquamarine and Sapphire Classic suites were refreshed with new furniture and a design language that nods to the ship’s 2023 transformation, ensuring consistency across the vessel’s interiors.
The Crystal Symphony resumed guest voyages with a 23-night Africa-and-Atlantic itinerary that began on November 26, 2025. Departing from Lisbon, the voyage encompasses Portugal, Spain, and Cape Verde before turning toward continental Africa, with ports of call including Benin, São Tomé and Príncipe, Angola, and Namibia, and culminating in Cape Town.
During its winter schedule, the ship will offer additional African itineraries and Indian Ocean cruises. Highlights include calls in India (Mumbai and Goa), the Seychelles, and Tanzania, presenting guests with a mix of cultural landmarks and natural beauty.
In February, the ship will reposition to Southeast Asia, then head to the Far East for a spring season in Japan and South Korea. A Pacific crossing is planned for early June, followed by a summer deployment to Alaska and Canada.
This refurbishment signals a renewed emphasis on refined public spaces and updated accommodations, aimed at enhancing guest comfort and aligning with Crystal’s contemporary design language while expanding its itinerary offerings for the upcoming season.
