Crystal: A Cruising Gem for a Family Escape

Crystal's Family-Friendly Dining

Sushi from Nobu, exceptional Italian dishes, family-style sharing plates, and a main restaurant where you'll never have to queue - the dining on Crystal Cruises is a highlight for guests of all ages. All venues (and drinks) are included in your fare, with just a modest surcharge for Umi Uma (with menus from famed chef Nobu) and Osteria d'Ovidio, for a second visit.

We were especially impressed with the main dining venue, Waterside, which offered 'modern' and 'classic' daily-changing menus. There was always a kids' menu for younger guests, but teens and pre-teens could easily enjoy the main dishes, which were happily customised.

For casual meals, Scoops (the ice cream bar) became our favourite post-lunch treat, and Marketplace served fresh buffets and daily changing pasta station. Trident Grill was a convenient poolside option. Catering to both refined parental palates and children's pickier preferences isn't easy, but Crystal Cruises family cruising gets it just right.

Kids' Facilities On Board Crystal

On Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, two small kids/teens clubs - Fantasia and Waves - offer game consoles and, more importantly, a space for young travellers to meet their peers. While the clubs aren't huge, what stands out is the warm, engaging staff.

We've cruised twice with our daughters during school holidays, and the English and American team went above and beyond to make our kids feel welcome. The daily programme included activities like scavenger hunts, and our girls quickly made friends and wanted to spend more and more time there.

Club hours typically begin around 10 am, with breaks for lunch and dinner, reopening again in the evening from 7:30 to 10 pm. For families with younger children, in-room babysitting is also available for an additional charge.

Beyond the kids' clubs, there are plenty of activities suitable for all ages, such as paddle tennis and pickleball on the Wimbledon Court and a putting green. There is shuffleboard on the 360-degree promenade deck which, when our eldest was a very little, served perfectly for pram strolls. The ships also offer a small pool (note: children must be out of nappies to use it), a library with children's books, and self-service laundry - always helpful.

The Crystal Service - Exceptional at Sea

Crystal's tagline is 'Exceptional at Sea' and nowhere can that be better demonstrated than in the service they deliver. The truly stands out and was a major reason why our ultra-luxury family cruise experience was so enjoyable.

By our second night, we were seated at the same window-side table in Waterside, and our daughter's drink order was remembered. By night three, her apple juice simply arrived with the menus. Our preference for all meals to be served simultaneously didn't need repeating.

The exceptional service extended across the ship. Staff remembered our names, drinks, and even favourite ice cream toppings at Scoops. When my wife and I took a break on the sun deck, a cold drink appeared almost instantly. These thoughtful touches made for one of the most relaxing, family-friendly luxury holidays we've ever had.

Crystal's Family Accommodation

Family cruising on Crystal Cruises also means spacious and flexible accommodations. There are a number of interconnecting rooms which can be reserved at the time of booking, with all guest rooms enjoying lovely ocean views, and many grades having balconies. The Sapphire Ocean View Suite, introduced during the recent refurbishments, offered us a generous living area with space for two additional single beds for the kids and a dining table for four. A walk-in wardrobe kept everything tidy, and the large bathroom - with a huge walk-in shower - made getting ready stress-free.

Despite not having a balcony, we never felt limited - there was always poolside space even when the ship was full. Families wanting more room can opt for the Junior Penthouse Suites, which feature an expansive living area, a separate bedroom, and a double-width balcony - ideal for families or multi-generational cruises with grandparents, parents, and children.

Top Tips for Travelling on Crystal as a Family

Crystal is an excellent choice for families looking for a refined, luxurious travel experience, particularly suited to ultra-luxury cruises with grandparents, parents and kids.

The spacious lounges and diverse dining options ensure everyone finds their own happy place onboard. For those who enjoy exploring, Crystal's port-intensive itineraries offer a multitude of adventures, while plenty of loungers and peaceful corners cater to those seeking rest.

If you're travelling with very young children, be mindful that while Crystal is welcoming, it is a smart, elegant environment. Dining requires a little etiquette, and the pool isn't suitable for overly exuberant play. But if you're seeking a luxurious, inclusive family cruise experience that works for all generations, Crystal Cruises absolutely delivers.