Kids! More Choices, More Hours and More Enrichment for Crystal Summer Cruises

July 7, 2009

Crystal Cruise's youngest luxury travelers have more options this summer. Given the surge of multi-generational travel, Crystal is expanding the hours and programming of its Junior Activities Programs. From designing their own "Sistine Chapels" while cruising Italy, to photo sessions in traditional Russian costumes en route to St. Petersburg, kids on board the award-winning Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony this summer will enjoy creative, sophisticated programming that highlights the ships' destinations.

Crystal's purpose-built Fantasia and Waves children's and teens' facilities - rare in luxury cruising - have long featured numerous organized events and top video games and toys. Up to 10 Junior Activities Directors on each sailing supervise the programming during summer months and holidays. Expanded junior programming includes:

Longer Hours - With Crystal's port-intensive itineraries, the Junior Activities program now features even more organized games and events on port days, in addition to sea days and evenings packed with fun and educational choices.

Destination-related Enrichment - As with Crystal's Crystal Visions Enrichment Program lectures and exclusive Creative Learning Institute, children's activities include options relevant to the voyage. On a cruise visiting Monaco, kids can learn key French phrases from the Berlitz language instructor. On a Baltic cruise, scavenger hunts promote fun facts about Stockholm. Kids also create memory books with maps and photos of the countries they visit as a souvenir of their travels. For teens, there are destination-themed dance parties hosted by a special guest DJ.

"We have so many 'behind-the-scenes' events in out of the way locations that junior cruisers are kept occupied and supervised away from Crystal's mainstream adult activities," says Bret Bullock, vice president, entertainment. "In their own private sessions, kids can experience some of the expert lecturers and music, language and dance classes on board that help the destinations come alive for adult guests."

Kids' menus, complimentary ice cream bars and babysitting services are available.

With Crystal's Celebration Savings Fares, summer European cruises start at $3,240 per person, double occupancy, plus "All Inclusive - As You Wish" spending credits of $500-$1,000 per person. Crystal's Family Memories offers groups one free berth for every 10 full-fare guests, plus other perks.

Source: Crystal Cruises