Crystal Symphony Cabins

Cabins aboard Crystal Symphony are, overall, extremely well done. Beds and bedding are sublime, and all categories include the services of one of Crystal's exceptional Butlers. Most include private balconies, though some upper-deck Oceanview suites are still available on Deck 7 that represent an excellent value in this category.

One of the more interesting things about cabins aboard Crystal Symphony is that, across nearly every cabin grade, there are variances in décor. Cabins on Decks 7 and 8 were entirely updated with brand-new décor and fittings in 2023, right down to the light switches and electrical outlets.

Deck 9 has select suites that were redesigned in 2023 (guest rooms 9001-9019 and 9060-9077), while rooms 9020-9059 were redesigned in 2023 and 2017, the latter of which offer a more Asian-themed motif that's quite attractive and has held up well.

All suites on Deck 10 offer what Crystal calls "Classic" décor. This reflects the original fittings Crystal Symphony was launched with, so expect old-school light switches, fewer power outlet options and the old vacuum-as-hairdryer model in the bathroom. But don't let that put you off: these suites are still plenty lavish and elegant, even with their cherry wood furniture and more pastel décor. Suites on this deck are still typi between 323 and 430 square feet.

What is common across all décor styles and suite categories: lavish amenities, butler service, and a wide array of inclusions that both welcome back past Crystal guests, and lure new-to-brand cruisers and vacationers into the Crystal family.

Cabins to Avoid on Crystal Symphony

There really aren't many cabins to avoid aboard Crystal Symphony, thanks to the line's fantastic amenities and recently-redone rooms. However, those who are light sleepers may wish to avoid cabins all the way forward on Decks 7 or 8, where the sounds of the ship's anchor chains can be easily heard during port calls that require the ship to anchor offshore and tender passengers into port.

Passengers who want to opt for more modern décor should also note that all suites on Deck 10 are considered "classic" and come with Crystal's more original décor. That's more of a quantifier than a con: the "old" suites are still plenty comfortable and fully lavish, and even include some unique features like jetted tubs and bidets.

Cruise Critic's Cabin Picks on Crystal Symphony

For the Solo Cruiser: The Single Guest Room with Oceanview cabins aboard Crystal Symphony are perfect for solo travelers -- particularly because they used to be standard two-person cabins that have since been recategorized. These offer picture windows overlooking the forward promenade deck of the ship on Deck 7, but have all been completely refitted in 2023.

Splash: Choose one of the ship's brand-new 2023 Sapphire Veranda Suites and get modern décor, 430 square feet of living space and one of the largest rainfall showers we've ever seen in the industry. Other nice touches include separate living and sleeping areas, extended balconies, and a walk-in closet. There are also 2017 and "Classic" versions of this room available that differ in décor and amenities; those on Decks 8 and much of Deck 9 have been refitted.

Splurge: It goes without saying that the Crystal Penthouse Suite is the ultimate in shipboard accommodations aboard Crystal Symphony. At 909 square feet, these rooms include a huge 107-square foot veranda that's lined with teak, plus separate living and sleeping areas -- not to mention a guest bathroom, separate study, and the ability to have selections from specialty dining venues Umi Uma and Osteria d'Ovidio sent directly to your suite. These were renovated in 2023 as well, meaning the décor is all brand-new.