Due to high demand, Crystal Cruises is increasing the number of luxurious Penthouse accommodations on its award-winning Crystal Serenity.  During a two-week dry dock beginning November 12, the luxury line is converting 12 category AA Deluxe Staterooms with Verandahs on Deck 10 into eight Penthouses.  While most cruise lines have been increasing the size of their cruise ships, Crystal is actually decreasing Crystal Serenity’s guest capacity.

Crystal Serenity’s richly appointed 403-square-foot Penthouses boast personal butler service, large private verandah, sizeable living area, bar stocked with complimentary wine and choice of liquor, Jacuzzi® tub and separate shower, walk-in closet, flat screen television, DVD and CD player, Riedel glassware, and complimentary pressing.  In addition to 24-hour in-stateroom dining from the Crystal Dining Room, Penthouse guests can order from the specialty restaurants, including signature dishes from Nobu and Piero Selvaggio, during dinner hours.

“Penthouses are among the most coveted accommodations on our ships,” says Thomas Mazloum, senior vice president, hotel operations.

Following the conversion, Crystal Serenity will feature 72 Penthouses (category PH), as well as 32 Penthouse Suites (PS) and four lavish 1,345-square-foot Crystal Penthouses (CP).  Four of the new Penthouses can connect with Penthouse Suites.

Effective immediately, the new PH’s can be reserved on a guarantee basis.  The actual room numbers will be incorporated into Crystal’s online travel agent booking engine, Cruisebuilder, beginning August 1.

On both Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, all guest rooms are appointed with such lavish amenities as 100% Egyptian cotton sheets, down pillows (and a pillow menu), plush duvets, feather beds, two hair dryers, fresh fruit and flowers.  Large closets house padded and wooden hangers, Frette bathrobes, kimonos, slippers, umbrella, and English mohair lap blankets.  Double sinks, make up mirrors, shower and bathtub are standard with every bathroom.  Other amenities include laundry and dry-cleaning service twice-daily housekeeping, and complimentary 24-hour in-stateroom dining.

In February 2008, Crystal Serenity was voted the #1 mid-sized cruise ship by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler magazine.  For more information or Crystal reservations, contact a travel agent or call 800-446-6620.  Visit the line’s website at crystalcruises.com.