Crystal Cruise Trip to Alaska Review

One of the many things on my travel bucket list (the ever growing bucket list) was a Cruise to Alaska. I was even more excited when I could do this with one of my favorite Cruise Brands - Crystal Cruises! Below is everything you need to know about the trip to Alaska from the ship, Crystal Serenity, to the service, amenities, rooms, and more. 

If you have never heard or are unfamiliar with Crystal Cruises - be sure to check out this Brand Overview blog post first

THE SHIP

The trip to Alaska started in Vancouver when we boarded our home for the next 7 nights on Crystal Serenity. The ship is not one of those brand new massive mega ships breaking records for its size or unique attractions but rather a smaller shipt that is more elegant and refined while maintaining a casual feel. The size of the ship is one of the perks. This ship was able to get into places like the Tracy Arm in Alaska that provided spectacular and unforgettable views. 

Each of the 8 guest decks aboard the Crystal Serenity houses innovative experiences and curated spaces to enjoy. The top deck has a glass roof perfect for soaking in sunshine and the views, an observation deck, 3,000 SF Fitness Center, Spa, and Tennis & Pickleball Court, and of course a lap pool and hot tubs. The ship has you covered whether you are looking for relaxation or a health and wellness experience.

The ship is definitely best suited for adults but it also has a Teen Center and Children's Play Room. Everyone in the family can enjoy their independence on the ship which is one of my favorite parts about a cruise vacation. 

THE ROOMS 

There are no bad rooms aboard the luxurious Crystal Serenity! All of the rooms have been recently renovated with very modern and elegant furnishings to make for a relaxing stay. Most importantly, all cabins are outward facing so there are no windowless cabins on their ships! 

The base level room is a beautiful Guest Room with a large window and ocean view. This same room is also offered with an upgraded veranda for you to enjoy the outdoors and views. Balconies aren’t a necessity as you can always enjoy it for free on the top deck. But there is definitely nothing like enjoying the wildlife and nature right from the comfort of your bedroom. 

There are multiple suite level rooms on board starting with the Aquamarine Veranda suite to the Sapphire Veranda Suite to the unmatched Crystal Penthouse Suites. Each upgraded suite tier comes with a more spacious interior and larger private verandas. 

Here is a room tour of the Sapphire Veranda Suite I stayed in which was 430 SF with a 107 SF veranda. The room was very spacious and had a great bathroom in the cabin. This is easily one of the best cabins I’ve stayed in on a ship. 

THE SERVICE

Crystal Cruises level of service is truly top tier. With only 740 guests at a nearly one staff member to guest ratio on board, the attention to detail and to the guests is nearly unmatched. There is a reason why Crystal is a leader in providing outstanding service on board. 

The small number of guests allows for a more personal experience and the ship never feels crowded. The staff is very warm and always there to ensure a wonderful stay. One of the added benefits of a smaller guest count is the expedited and easy embarking of guests at each port which can be a stressful experience on some of the larger ships. 

Additionally, all of the Suite level rooms have personal butler service so you know you will never have a bad moment on board.

THE DINING

Cruises are known for their all inclusive food and drink offerings. Crystal Cruises takes it up a level with a top tier culinary experience from fine dining to relaxed poolside meals. 

Crystal is home to the only Nobu at sea at Umi Uma. There isn’t many better places to experience Japanese cuisine. 

Everyone loves Italian and Osteria D’ovidio doesn’t disappoint with their fine dining offerings. 

The Waterside Restaurant is your go to destination for international cuisine in a larger but still formal setting. 

The Vintage Room offers Gourmet food and wine pairings in an educational and delicious dining experience. 

Step into Paris at The Bisto where you will enjoy this airy cafe that serves light bites all day long. 

Enjoying a meal poolside or in a casual setting at the terrace at Trident Grill perfect for enjoying 

THE ITINERARY

Departing from Vancouver we set sail on the open sea as we headed up to Alaska! The views out of the city were breathtaking and it only somehow got better as we got closer to our first destination. Right away we were able to see whales in the distance from our balcony. 

The next day was a day at sea which meant - SPA DAY! My husband and I started the trip with a health and wellness getaway to their beautiful fitness center where you can watch the views straight from the cardio machines. We then had a great massage which is the best way to start a vacation! 

Our first port was in Wrangell. This is an area with an abundance of native american culture, history, and wildlife. Alaska is known for the Native American Totem Poles on display throughout the town. 

We got to see bears and bald eagles and enjoy so much fresh crab straight from the waters next to us. The landscape and scenery behind us was nothing short of perfection with mountains, waterfalls, and salmon filled streams.

The next stop was to Ketchikan home to more of that beautiful Alaskan scenery. Here we went on a fun excursion riding E-bikes through Tongas National Forest. E bikes are always a fun time! We got to see so much nature and stunning views throughout the day.  

Back on the boat we cruised through the Tracy Arm and saw the glaciers and big ice blocks in the waters. I have never seen anything like this before. And to make this trip even more memorable they let me watch from the Captain’s Chair as I got to see their team navigate the waters. Such a cool experience! 

Our last destination was Skagway. They have tons of great excursions like train tours and dog sledding but we elected to take an extremely scenic plane ride over the glaciers. The views from above were even more impressive and I definitely would recommend that tour! 

OVERALL IMPRESSION

I loved my cruise to Alaska with Crystal Cruises. I will always recommend a cruise to alaska. The entire trip was perfect, from the staff, to the dining, and the unforgettable views. If this is on your bucket list I hope you have the chance to cross it off soon!