Jun 08 2010

An Iberian Odyssey, Crystal Cruises

Dear Patrick,

We had a wonderful trip! Crystal is still one swell cruise line.  We continued to be impressed with how they go out of their way to make sure every passenger feels special.  One night Joe mentioned to the Executive Chef that he loved lamb shanks.  They were on the menu the next night.  Our waiter, whom we wanted to take home with us, remembered all our likes and dislikes and gently chided his assistant when he failed to do so.  The senior waiter even cut up our salads for us each night!  The food was over the top, and we particularly liked the small portions, which enabled us to scarf down 4-5 courses every night without feeling stuffed.  Deck boys couldn't do enough to make us happy.  

They are very organized.  Embarking and debarking went like clockwork, and everyone was very pleasant.  Shore excursions were executed efficiently as well.  However, on two that were described as "moderate activity," they failed to say that we would be walking for two hours without a stop.  I would not have signed up for them had I known this, as I have a bad left ankle.  I mentioned this in the comments section on the end-of-cruise questionnaire. 

Negatives:  We got tired of having to appear for dinner at a set hour every night.  But one night they tried open seating, and it did not go well.  They were overwhelmed and clearly not ready for prime time on this regimen.  They'll need to get some practice, as I gather they're thinking of trying this on some regular basis next year.  Even though 6:00 was a bit early to eat, we adjusted.  There were 140 requests on a waiting list for the 6:00 seating, as many said waiting until 8:30 to eat was too late.  It also meant that those people had to attend the 10:30 show if they were interested in that sort of thing. The cabins are too small.  As a single person, I had plenty of space, but for two, it's a bit tight. 

We loved all the places we visited.  Lisbon was the greatest surprise -- what a lovely city.  And Gibraltar was delightfully British.  Views from the hills of Monaco were stunning and the weather was perfect with not a drop of rain. 

Lastly, we do want to thank you and All-Travel for the generous shipboard credit.  It basically covered all our shore excursions and wine and spirits and a few extras.  That was a lovely gesture, and we are most grateful. It was such fun working with you again, Patrick.  You are so relaxed and have a wonderful sense of humor.  Joe, Bruce and I wish we could meet you one day!

With fondest wishes,

Barbara

For more information about Crystal Cruises, call 800-300-4567.

About Patrick Mack

My career in the travel industry started 20 years ago when I began working with my Mother who owns her own agency. During those years I moved onto bigger challenges in other agencies and have broadened my knowledge base and travel experience. Currently working for All-Travel, one of the premier luxury cruise agencies in the US, has given me the opportunity to work with a wide array of clientele in handling everything from weekend getaways in Cabo San Lucas to chartering yachts in the Mediterranean to World Cruises. I have a great love for history, music, art and architecture. I always enjoy expanding my knowledge and assisting my clients in any way I can.