One of our travel colleagues shared her wonderful experience on the Crystal Esprit, Crystal Cruises’s gem of a yacht, which accommodates up to 62 passengers in 32 luxurious staterooms.
“If I had to describe it in one word it would have to be ‘Fantabulous!’
Onboard: Every suite has a butler. Mine was Clark, who was delightful! In addition, I had two room stewards to make sure my suite was always immaculate — and it was! There were two TV’s in my stateroom! One flat screen in the bedroom and one embedded in the mirror of the bathroom. So cool…Clark took my preferences of wines, soft drinks, juices, and water, and the refrigerator was always stocked and readily at hand with my beverages of choice. When I felt for an espresso, the Nespresso machine. I was able to make my own espresso drinks whenever I wanted, and of course, Clark kept my refrigerator stocked with fresh milk for my coffees. With free WiFi and a great connection, I could enjoy the comfort of my stateroom and get online as needed.
Of course, food has become so important, especially when on vacation, and the food onboard Crystal Esprit.. OMG! It is beyond scrumptious! Michelin style/farm-to-table/5 star service. Each meal was expertly prepared and the presentation was beautiful. My table mate had special dietary needs, and they were all met, no problem.
As on Crystal’s ocean and river experiences, all premium spirits, champagnes and fine wines are included.
Even though the Esprit is a smaller vessel than larger ships I’m used to, there is a pool, sauna, fitness center with exercise classes and a spa treatment room onboard.
The Esprit is not for those with mobility issues. When she is in the Caribbean, you must be mobile enough to get on and off a zodiac. There are also wet landings, where you get off the zodiac into the water and walk to shore. Getting on/off in the zodiac could be a 3 foot drop. Yes, there are stairs off the ship into the zodiac but many docks don’t offer them. However, staff is always on hand to assist guests to navigate on and off. The Esprit is also not recommended for children, and no one under 6 years of age is allowed onboard as a guest.
The Esprit has lots of fun toys and on shore adventures offered on and off the ship. Adult “toys” that are included are Jet skis, Snorkeling, kayaks, a two-person submarine (additional charge) and scuba diving (the last two for an additional charge).
On shore excursions at every port were included. Some of the offerings in the Caribbean are: city tours, ATV rides, ziplining and hiking. The city tours were wonderful. We went to where batiks are made, a beautiful botanical garden and even met a famous local artist! She was a true character, and her work was amazing.”
The Crystal Esprit will be in the British Virgin Island through April. She then takes off for the Adriatic Coast through the fall.
Cheryl Ormond
