Given the growing trend of multi-generational travel on Crystal Cruises and the surge of family groups, the line is taking significant steps to nurture this burgeoning market.

On June 4, in advance of its hot summer season, Crystal will debut nine new adjoining staterooms on Crystal Symphony — ideal for use as family suites. Several of the connecting rooms offer sofas as third berths to accommodate parents with more than 2 children.

Crystal is refitting 18 verandah and deluxe outside staterooms to enable connections, when desired.  Guests will have a choice of verandah and non-verandah accommodations in several stateroom categories, in addition to two existing Penthouse Suite/Penthouse and Verandah combinations.

In 2012, Crystal enjoyed 20% more family groups on than in 2011. Underscoring the increasing trend, as of March, the line has more family groups booked to date for 2013 than were booked for all of 2012.

“Discerning families appreciate Crystal’s unique combination of extraordinary service, superb quality, diversified choices and the sheer spaciousness of our ships,” says Jack Anderson, senior vice president, marketing & sales. “In the luxury cruise market, there isn’t another line that caters to multi-generational families as seamlessly, stylishly and attentively.”

Adding value with every sailing is a successful Crystal Family Memories program that offers free berths, shore excursion credits and other amenities for family groups.

Crystal Cruises’ ships each feature a purpose-built playroom and video game room for junior cruises, although it is primarily summer and holiday cruises that generate the most junior cruisers.  On cruises with more than 10 children, Junior Activities Directors supervise an array of games, crafts and behind-the-scenes learning programs.  Even teens can learn to make sushi from Nobu-trained chefs.

Connecting rooms aren’t limited to just families with children; they can also be requested by adults traveling together who prefer their own rooms.    

“Today, there are many combinations of families – adults and their in-laws, grandparents with grandchildren, same-age cousins, and even four generations traveling together,” says Anderson.   “Crystal strives to create an environment and activities that allow each guest, of any age, to begin a new story, create new cherished memories, make new friends, and explore new experiences.”

All-inclusive fares for Crystal Symphony’s 2013 voyages start from $1,630 if booked by June 28.