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Crystal Cruises
About Your Ship: Crystal Serenity
About Your Ship: Crystal Serenity
Expert Review:
Not Yet Rated.
Departs Dublin
Crystal Cruises
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Crystal Serenity makes a splashy impression on entry. The Crystal Cove area in the atrium is marked most significantly by a lovely waterfall sculpture and a baby grand. (As often as not, it seemed, someone was playing it -- sometimes even particularly talented passengers!) This was one of our favorite spots for people-watching onboard, as passengers moved through on their way to the dining room or, a deck or two above, to browse the newly redesigned shops or hit The Bistro.
The generously sized Creative Learning Institute is a highlight onboard. Located along an elegantly wide corridor, there are several classrooms, even one dedicated entirely to Yamaha piano instruction (and featuring keyboards on every tabletop). The ship's cyber center is called Computers@Sea and benefits from Serenity's slightly larger size. This two-part room features a classroom with Internet-connected Apple computers and a regular cyber center layout. (The most helpful staff there even opened all the computers, classroom too, when our cruise was unexpectedly extended for two days -- and usage was free!) Note, though, that if you set up a shipboard e-mail account in the Internet center, Crystal will charge per megabyte uploaded rather than per minute, and that can be costly. Otherwise, typical Internet access (including Wi-Fi around the ship) is available starting at package prices of $50 for 120 minutes, or pay as you go options for 74 cents per minute. Also, there are data ports in cabins (and laptops for loan for a daily fee). A technology concierge is also onboard to assist you with gadgets, including iPads, Kindles and smart phones.
Editor's Note:
Crystal has made several significant steps to dramatically increase the speed of the Internet on its ships. Don't expect broadband, but it is among the fastest Internet connections we've ever seen on any ship. And they even throw in a nice touch -- 20 free minutes on the last day of your cruise so you can check in to your flight.
Aft of the Computer Center is a spacious Bridge lounge. Here, again, is another example of the space Crystal Serenity has. Whereas other lines have removed or downsized similar nonrevenue-generating spaces, Crystal has dedicated an entire room to card-playing. (Bridge instructors usually sail on each cruise, as well.)
On the opposite side of the ship is an excellent onboard library, which stocks CD's and DVD's for free loan -- and, of course, books.
The handful of shops that rim the upper deck of the three-deck atrium were jazzed up during the recent refit. They now are even more successful at luring you in to spend money. Beyond the usual boutique selling logowear, there's an excellent women's and men's fashion shop; when I found I'd forgotten my long black formal-night skirt, I had no trouble finding the perfect replacement there. Merchandise changes each day, so there's always a new reason to visit. Look for mini-sales; you can really find some good deals. And the staffers there were so attentive that shopping onboard felt more like a spree at Saks than on a cruise ship.
There are three complimentary self-service laundries -- and no joke, they are the best we've seen at sea, with plenty of room, ironing boards, magazines and even a TV. When a line invests this much money in its laundry rooms, you know they are serious about being attentive to every detail.
This morning over breakfast in the Crystal Dining Room, a waiter I'd never met before was so thrilled -- really, thrilled -- to take my breakfast order and bring me coffee refills that I could have sworn it meant the world to him to make me happy. By the same token, by the time my husband hoisted himself up onto his regular stool at the top-of-the-ship Sunset Bar, the bartender would literally have set a chardonnay, his regular drink, in front of him before he'd even gotten situated.
There was the sweet deck steward who sought me out when dining at the poolside Tastes and knew to bring me a diet Coke without even asking. And let's not forget the crewmember who happened to be polishing elevator buttons but who really wanted to know how we were enjoying the cruise and, by the way, were we staying on for a few days in Barcelona at the end of the voyage?
Service was so consistently out-of-this-world on Crystal Serenity that guilt had precluded us from making many requests of our butler (we were residing in a standard penthouse cabin), to the point where one evening he pleaded with us: "Can I bring you anything? Caviar? Pate?" We opted for a bowl of potato chips.
Having sailed on most of the world's luxury cruise lines (and a three-time veteran on Crystal), I anticipated we'd feel pampered. What felt unique to me on this cruise was that almost every interaction with the folks who work there felt absolutely genuine -- as if they were born to please you at this moment. And, in fact, so many of them were veterans of the line, for years and years and contracts upon contracts, that it's clear Crystal has managed to please them in return.
Sailing with Crystal means escaping to a cosseted and refined life at sea. Consistency is paramount; we never came across one dish that missed its mark, or even an unpleasant crewmember. Standards are so high and so consistently met or exceeded I was never left wondering, "Why couldn't they do that better?"
Ultimately, what came to define our experience on Crystal Serenity was its blend of industry-best service and innovative dining. While the trip may not have revolved exclusively around the fantastic food-related events (such as the Mozart Tea, dinner at the Italian Prego and a continent-encompassing Asian-themed mega-buffet) for everyone, they sure did please us.
Launched in 2003, Crystal Serenity is the youngest of Crystal's ships, after Crystal Harmony, which debuted in 1990 and has since left the fleet, and near-sibling Crystal Symphony, which launched five years later. Most significant about the vessel itself is that Crystal Serenity has benefited from a decade-plus of evolution at the cruise line. The ship, carrying 1,080 passengers -- the largest in the luxury segment -- is significantly bigger than its predecessors, and yet, it carries an expanded capacity of just 150 folks. Responding to demand, Crystal Serenity offers twice as many penthouse cabins as on the fleet's other ships. There are two paddle tennis courts instead of one, as tried-and-true Crystal devotees are fiercely competitive in this arena. At heart, it's a modern ship that incorporates plenty of classic elements, and cabins, public rooms and outer decks all feel spacious.
Better still, in 2011 the ship received a $25 million refit. New lighting, carpeting and furnishings, along with a complete redesign of cabins, keep the ship feeling contemporary, fresh and incredibly well-maintained years after its launch.
Crystal Serenity also maintains its edge with fabulous enrichment programs and events for which the cruise line is known. Chief among them is Crystal's Creative Learning Institute, which features veritable mini-courses in everything from foreign languages to computer skills on each voyage.
For those with money to spare, Crystal offers a myriad of opportunities to create one spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime event after the other. A recent sailing had an $8,900 shore excursion to tour Florence in a Ferrari, a $2,800 excursion to Capri via helicopter and onboard dinners in the Vintage Room starting at $2,100.
Even as Crystal Serenity delights, what puzzles me is why the line somehow remains a closely guarded secret, unknown to a broader passenger base who'd appreciate the combination of big-ship activities and amenities with luxury food and service. No question, once people travel on Crystal, they tend to get hooked. (On the voyage following ours, two-thirds of all passengers had sailed with the line before!) But the onboard atmosphere can often feel, for newcomers, a bit like a cruise line designed for the 50-plus, well-traveled, well-heeled country club contingent, most of whom have retired and have met before. (Indeed, in many cases, they have sailed together on previous trips.) We, in our early 40's were easily among the youngest, though 30- and 40-somethings are not uncommon onboard.
The conundrum? There's really no reason why a younger, sophisticated cruise traveler wouldn't enjoy the Crystal Serenity experience. The line is now trying to tailor its cruises to appeal to a younger demographic, while still keeping its fans happy. Though itineraries tend to be longer than average (which means they could be off-limits to younger travelers who may not have as much vacation time) and onboard activities could be more dynamic, Crystal is making some changes. The line had long hewed to a fixed dining scenario -- two seatings, assigned tablemates -- which turned off travelers who prefer more flexibility. But, beginning in 2011, Crystal began offering flexible dining times. Shore excursions, while pricey, are some of the most interesting we've seen -- if you can afford the high prices. Perhaps many potential passengers still view Crystal as a bit of an unfortunate hybrid -- not small enough to be a true luxury line, but too staid to offer an energetic and dynamic cruise. Happily, neither is true.
Ultimately, Crystal is attempting some minor experiments to broaden its appeal; it offers some seven-night itineraries, more dining options than before and even razzle-dazzle late evenings in the Pulse disco. Taking a page from its smaller, ultra-luxury competitors, the line will soon be all-inclusive, with drinks, tips and even airfare included in the fares. But, it speaks to the line's strength, in a way, that it is not interested in rocking the boat to draw passengers at any cost. It's a safe bet that, unlike other lines that try too hard too fast, Crystal won't lose its identity.
A major plus for Crystal Serenity passengers is that the ship has a higher percentage of cabins with balconies than its sister Crystal Symphony. (Eighty-five percent have them, compared to 65 percent for Symphony.) During the 2011 refit, the cabins (all of which are outside) received the bulk of the $25 million in upgrades. All new fittings, furnishings and carpeting give the rooms a chic, almost edgy look, complete with white or black leather tufted headboards and the occasional zebra-patterned furnishing.
Cabin sizes and levels of luxury range across the board. The entry-level staterooms measure 226 square feet. While that's slightly larger than most big-ship cruise lines' comparable accommodations, the cabins can feel pretty squinchy, and I think that's because you expect a bit more on a luxury line. Also, these cabins look out onto the promenade deck, albeit through one-way glass that hides any views from curious passersby during the daytime. Balcony cabins are the same size and layout as the outside accommodations, but with 43-square-foot verandahs.
Where Serenity really makes a leap -- and it's worth the splurge -- is in its three different levels of penthouse cabins and suites. (It has twice as many as Symphony.) Passengers staying there are entitled to butler service, and in my opinion, Crystal has consistently rated the best in terms of butlers. They really make the trip special, whether it's serving course-by-course dinners from either the main dining room or the extremely popular Prego and Nobu specialty restaurants, procuring last-minute reservations or taking your clothes for same-day, complimentary pressing. Every evening around 5 p.m., a fresh offering from the "hors d'oeuvre" menu magically appears, with delectables like caviar, shrimp or simpler options, such as hummus. A box of chocolates will be replaced as quickly as it is consumed. Even as you think "I don't need it," you find yourself looking forward to it each evening.
At 403 square feet (including balcony), each penthouse cabin features a fabulous bathroom with two sinks, a decadent full-size Jacuzzi tub and separate, large shower; a walk-in closet; and a full-size couch. Beyond that, 33 penthouse suites -- at 538 square feet (including balcony) -- are somewhat larger and, most notably, offer separate bedrooms. Finally, just four Crystal Penthouses, at 1,345 square feet, are bigger than many New York apartments. Highlights include bigger everything -- from balconies and audio-visual aids to the separate master bedrooms with king-size beds.
Each cabin bathroom has two sinks and a bathtub, Frette bathrobes, slippers and Aveda bath products. (All penthouse grades feature the Jacuzzi bath mentioned above, plus a separate shower.) Key accoutrements for all cabins, regardless of category, include flat-screen televisions, pillow menus, DVD players and mini-bars. While storage in all levels of penthouse cabins is excellent, the closets and drawers in even the standard cabins are more than ample. We found cabin details thoughtful and well-designed. They include nightlights under the desks in the penthouses that are perfect if your companion is coming in late, or narrow bedside lights that can be angled to avoid shining in your sleeping cabinmate's direction.
My one complaint? During the refit, new bedside tables were secured in place permanently. This is fine if you're sharing a bed with a partner, but if you ask for two twins, there isn't much space for the beds to be separated. Expect six inches or so between the beds. By the time duvets and several luxurious pillows are added on, it is often hard to distinguish where one bed ends and another begins. While we were told that not one complaint had been received about this new design, we find it hard to believe that many passengers traveling with someone other than their partner wouldn't have preferred the more flexible arrangement that is common on every other ship sailing.
There are cabins designed for folks with disabilities in all the major categories, including on the penthouse levels.
Fitness and Recreation
The ship has two pools. The Seahorse is the main one, with a bandstand and two whirlpools. The Neptune, which lies under a sliding-glass roof, is ostensibly the "bad weather" pool, but oddly enough, we never saw anyone swim there. The Trident Grill and Tastes, two alternative dining options located in that area, have pretty much taken over the space with tables and chairs, and it's just not conducive to swimming while people are eating. The roof was never opened, even when the weather was fine.
During the 2011 refit, new "resort style" deck furniture was added in conversational groupings to the pool deck, with attractive results. The area is colorful and cheery without being flashy, and the long couches and oversized circular "pod beds" were perfect for either one or two people to stretch out comfortably in the sun.
Walkers will rejoice when they set foot on one of the best Promenade Decks at sea. Wide, without deck chairs to block the way, it completely circles the ship and harkens back to traditional liners. A deck below, on the very stern, are the golf driving nets and a putting green. (Every cruise features an onboard pro who gives demos and lessons.) There are also two Ping-Pong tables, thoughtfully enclosed by a large net that prevents the problem of chasing after errant balls. Due to the secluded location of these games, the ship can keep them open 24 hours a day without worrying about noise complaints. Shuffleboard is located a few decks above. Due to popular demand for paddle tennis, Serenity has two full-size courts located at the top of the ship.
The Crystal Spa and Salon is a lovely facility, hewing to a Zen theme that really worked. It was a pleasant and peaceful place to be, and our treatments, which ranged from a fantastic salt and ginger scrub to a couples massage, were outstanding. Though this spa, like so many onboard cruise ships, is operated by Steiner, famous for the post-treatment product pitch, not once did anyone try to sell me anything.
The salon offers the full gamut of services: haircuts, styling, pedicures and manicures. Staffers there were exceptional. When I had a last-minute hair emergency (is there any other kind?), they took me in hand, fixed the problem and charged me far less than they could have. I appreciated that.
The gym is amply outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and flat-screen televisions to amuse while exercising. Fitness classes are offered daily, and two new initiatives include Nordic Walking with walking poles and "Walkvests," weighted water vests designed to intensify your workout.
Dress Code
Crystal's always been a formal cruise line, and it still is. But, as with many lines, change is in the air. While the more traditional passengers still wear long, elegant gowns on formal nights (and most men don tuxedos), there are fewer formal and informal nights now. On a recent 11-night itinerary, only two nights were formal and one night informal. The rest were country-club casual, when a jacket is not required.
While Crystal is making little attempt to market itself as the "upscale family" cruise line, it does attract families with children, particularly those traveling as three generations during the summer and holidays. Even though the children's facilities are relatively small and basic, Crystal is one of the few luxury lines to offer any dedicated space for children. However, youth staff are not usually onboard, except during sailings when there will be a significant number of children, such as during the summer or holidays. Baby-sitting services can always be arranged, however, for $10 per hour for one child. There are two playrooms, with Fantasia hosting those in the overly broad 3- to 12-year-old age group and Waves for kids 13 to 17. There are Sony PlayStations, X-Box 360's and an arcade, and when youth staff are onboard, a few specific activity offerings (particularly for the younger set). Still, this ship is better for families who want to entertain their own children, rather than lose them for the trip.
Fellow Passengers
Crystal still attracts an empty-nester crowd, especially on unusual itineraries like Black Sea sailings or world cruises, where most passengers will be retired or nearly there. Still, on summer itineraries and in the Mediterranean, the average age is around 55, with quite a few folks in the under-50 category. Surprisingly, there can be a significant number of children in the summer -- at times, up to 100 under the age of 21!
In the Med, expect 50 percent of the passengers to be American, while for the rest of the year, that percentage will likely climb to 60 percent or more. While the rest are mostly English-speaking passengers from the U.K., Australia and South Africa, a sizeable number comes from Japan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Mexico, Brazil, Germany and Spain. Crystal passengers are undoubtedly comfortably well-off, and the Hotel Manager described their exclusive but friendly family by saying, "All our guests are successful, many with their own businesses, and they like this environment. They have a lot of the same background and can talk about the same things."
Crystal suggests the following tipping guidelines: $5 per day for cabin stewards and waiters, $3 per day for assistant waiters, and $5 per day for butlers (penthouse accommodations) -- all per person. Drinks are automatically assessed a 15 percent service charge. We also found that service was so exceptional in the specialty restaurants that, beyond the service charge, we'd tip additionally. Crystal allows passengers to add tips to onboard accounts (and presents you with vouchers to give to crew), or you can do it the old-fashioned way.
However, gratuities and beverages will be included in all Crystal cruise fares, beginning with Crystal Serenity's May 8, 2012, transatlantic sailing. From that date forward, passengers do not need to tip, even in the alternate restaurants, but may do so for exceptional service.
Crystal has carved out for itself a superior niche in the enrichment arena. Its dynamic Creative Learning Institute features a range of subjects -- foreign language courses, art workshops, computer skills classes, and cooking, music and dance exhibitions. Through its Visions program, the line arranges for experts and celebrities to speak on topics like political science, current affairs, food and wine, astronomy, and art and antiques. Several theme cruises offer in-depth looks at topics that include golf, big band music, football, politics and even emerging artists.
Not every topic is available on every sailing, but you can check Crystal's Web site and match a favorite subject with a sailing that fits your schedule.
Aside from the enrichment program and athletic classes, daytime activities are fairly low-key. They may include a movie shown in the theater, a dance lesson taught by the gentlemen hosts, lessons by the golf instructor on the putting green (which were very well-attended on my cruise) or a paddle tennis competition. Otherwise, passengers are content to spend their cherished days at sea enjoying the public rooms, the extensive open decks or the many lectures on offer throughout the day.
Another area in which Crystal Serenity excels is live music. You don't have to be an old fogey to appreciate classical music at teatime, a classical quartet in the atrium, torch songs at cocktail hour in the Palm Court, Broadway show tunes in the Avenue Saloon before and after dinner and fabulously fun karaoke in the intense Pulse Disco.
One noteworthy improvement over Crystal Symphony is the Sunset Bar at the forward end of the Palm Court. It offers gorgeous views over the bow (hence the name) and is rarely crowded. It became a favorite watering hole as we sailed out of port. Dancing (with gentleman hosts) is popular and offered there nightly.
The Crystal Casino, on the way to the Galaxy Lounge, offers a comprehensive range of table games and slots; it's no longer operated, by the way, by Caesar's Palace.
The Galaxy Lounge is the ship's main show lounge, used for Broadway-style production shows and headline entertainers, including singers and comedians. While larger and more elaborate than the cabaret acts found on smaller luxury ships, the shows are far simpler than what you'll find on larger mega-ships. Still, they seem to please Serenity's passengers, who appreciate the option of seeing a show most evenings but who don't need the full glitz and glamour of more extensive productions. Serenity also extends the Crystal tradition of its Hollywood Theater, which, on our trip, showed both classic and second-run films. Popcorn is served, but get there early. The screenings are great for cloudy afternoons at sea.
For the most part, this ship attracts passengers who retire relatively early, but the Pulse Disco was a pretty reliable place to meet up with other night owls. So was the Avenue Saloon many nights, which is big enough to accommodate a crowd, yet small enough to feel clubby and comfortably full. After dinner, a pianist belted out popular tunes that had some singing along, others dancing and everyone having a good time. This kind of buzz and energy in the room is often hard to duplicate on the smaller luxury lines with their quieter nightlife.
For shoreside pursuits, Crystal offers a fairly noteworthy range of options. In addition to the expected selection of tours focusing on city highlights and culture, they have several unusual and exciting options that cater to the line's well-heeled passengers. If the already mentioned $8,900 tour driving a Ferrari isn't quite exciting enough for you, perhaps flying a MIG fighter jet in Russia is? More active offerings are also starting to be included -- I enjoyed a beautiful seven-mile hike along the Amalfi coast -- and the line has added complimentary "Voluntourism" excursions to all sailings. Examples include assisting with meal preparation for abused, ill or abandoned children in Nafplion, Greece; aiding injured sea turtles at a sea turtle research center in Athens; and helping to maintain the gardens with the elderly inhabitants of the 660-year-old Domus Christi shelter in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
A word of caution though: Even Crystal's standard shore excursions are notably expensive, with full-day excursions often costing $350 or more. For example, on my cruise, a simple coach transfer from Livorno to Florence cost $132 -- twice what Cunard Line was charging. Crystal's rationale is that they don't fill up the bus and include bottled water, but we still view it as overcharging.
Expert reviews are provided by CruiseCritic.com, an award-winning cruise community. This objective information can help you choose just the right ship for your next cruise vacation.
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About Your Ship: Sapphire Princess
About Your Ship: Sapphire Princess
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Sapphire Princess
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Overview & Itinerary
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The 116,000-ton, 2,670-passenger Sapphire Princess debuted in 2004 as the fifth of nine ships in Princess Cruises' wide-ranging Grand class.
The series has evolved significantly between Grand Princess (1998) and Ruby Princess (2008), so Sapphire and nearly identical sister Diamond Princess have some variations in terms of size and features (more on that in a second). Distinctions aside, over the past half decade, Princess has been busy standardizing its Grand-glass ships -- adding poolside jumbotrons (Movies Under the Stars), "Piazza-style" atriums and adult-only deck spaces (the Sanctuary) initially found only on the line's newest ships, Crown (2006), Emerald (2007) and Ruby Princess. Sapphire emerged from a month-long refurbishment in February 2012, gaining said signature features -- and the makeover couldn't have come soon enough. The formerly dull atrium has been transformed into the effervescent Piazza, a public area with a wine and tapas bar, bakery, pizzeria and performance space. And after years of dedicated service, the rest of the ship benefited from the refit, too. Throughout Sapphire, passengers will find new bar countertops, tiling, teak decking around the main pool, furniture in the casino, an upgraded buffet and a new top-deck "lawn court" (artificial grass) for putting, bocce and croquet.
Back to the unique stuff: Sapphire and Diamond were built in Japan, at Mitsubishi's shipyard in Nagasaki (the other six Grand-class ships were built in Fincantieri's Italian yards), and they are the largest Grand-class ships by volume, while carrying more than 400 fewer passengers than their youngest siblings. Sapphire and Diamond also debuted Club Fusion, the younger-at-heart secondary lounge, complete with in-table gaming and multiple flat-screen televisions, which was a big part of Princess' efforts to attract younger passengers who enjoy the nightlife. That concept was so successful it's now found on ships that followed. As well, Sapphire/Diamond were the first to get rid of Grand Princess' awkward "shopping cart design," eliminating an odd overhang above the aft pool. (Grand Princess, which debuted the cart, lost it during a 2011 makeover.)
Sapphire Princess also introduced a couple of other new approaches that didn't work well enough to be replicated on future ships -- though we're not sure why. First the main dining room is split into five (instead Princess' typical two) -- cutting down on the cruise ship banquet ambience of big restaurants. In addition to feeling far more intimate, each has its own theme -- the brash Santa Fe, the gilded Vivaldi, the serene Pacific Moon, the clubby, cozy Savoy and the grand International (the largest). While the differences are largely cosmetic (all use the same menu, aside from one specialty geared to each theme), each restaurant offers a welcome diversity of vibe. The Wake View Bar, oddly accessible only via circular staircase that descends from Club Fusion, is just absolutely charming -- and almost always empty as it's nearly impossible to find. And we love the cozy Churchill's, the cruise line's cigar and sports-themed bar, which is another "hidden" gem, located by the main theater's first level.
All said, the "new" Sapphire Princess represents the line's commitment to onboard uniformity, in the form of aforementioned marquee attractions, across its fleet. But while Princess spends big bucks to maintain and standardize its mega-ships, an equally defining factor is the impressive mix of itinerary options on offer that cover six continents. Through this blend of route diversity and brand cohesion, the line aims to offer quintessential Princess, whether you're in Asia, South America or the Caribbean.
Public Rooms
The very core of Sapphire Princess is its Piazza, the aforementioned Italian-style atrium inserted in early 2012. The bustling, three-deck space is a combination bakery, Internet cafe, wine/sushi/tapas bar, pizzeria and performance venue. You'll also find the guest services and shore excursion desks here.
With so many people onboard, you might think getting around the ship would be difficult, but traffic was light or nonexistent pretty much everywhere on the ship -- with the exception of the Promenade area between Club Fusion and the Explorer's Lounge, especially when formal or gangway photos are on display (pay counter is here as well). Getting back and forth, forward to aft, on the Lido Deck can be a bit of a challenge, as you must cut through Horizon Court, an even more difficult feat at busy chow times like lunch. Also, the International Dining Room is located in the dead end of an aft-ship maze I often found myself here by accident. You have to climb back up a flight to Promenade Deck and find another staircase or elevator, midship or forward -- there's no other way out (the medical center is actually directly beneath this space, we finally learned).
The Library is a cozy reading room with a mediocre collection of fiction and nonfiction books, CD's and listening stations (comfortable chairs with a space to plug in headsets and built-in CD players -- you can check out CD's from the library or use your own), and a cluster of computers with Internet access. Directly outside is a Writing Room, an open space with plenty of seating for composing letters and postcards. The Princess Fine Arts Gallery, off of the Grand Plaza on the Plaza Deck, features reproductions and original artwork, available for purchase. Hearts & Minds Wedding Chapel is a small but functional space for vow renewals and the like. Both the gallery and the chapel were refreshed in early 2012.
Web rates start at 75 cents per minute, and packages are available for heavy users (100 minutes for $55 or 55 cents per minute, 150 minutes for $75 or 50 cents per minute, and 250 minutes for $100 or 40 cents per minute). You can also, via Wi-Fi, hook up your own laptop in public spaces and cabins. Accessing the Internet -- you are at sea after all -- can be hit or miss.
On Sapphire Princess, passengers can opt for traditional evening dining or the cruise line's "Anytime" option. The former occurs in the International, which offers two seatings (same waiters, time and tablemates each evening) at 6 p.m. and at 8:15 p.m.
For those who want more flexible options, the "Anytime" restaurants include the Vivaldi (Italian décor), Pacific Moon (Asian), Savoy (steakhouse-like) and Santa Fe (more Tex-Mex in style than desert Southwest). All serve the same menu aside from one specialty offering that's geared to each eatery's theme (osso buoco, for instance, in Vivaldi and fajitas in Santa Fe). These, with the exception of Vivaldi, are open from 5:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.
You can make reservations for these -- and if you're counting on a special table for a special night, we'd recommend them. Otherwise, waits aren't typically too bad even at prime time dining hours (restaurant style pagers are available to beep you when a table is ready); restaurant managers have a good sense of which dining rooms were busier than others and would frequently suggest alternatives if one eatery or another got backed up.
Breakfast and lunch are open seating and hosted at the International Dining Room. Breakfast, which features a standard menu with a daily specialty or two (typically the same choices available in the buffet, such as flavored pancakes or eggs Benedict), is served from 6:30 - 9 a.m. on port days and 7 - 9:30 a.m. on sea days. The lunch menu occasionally reflects Horizon Court options as well, is available from noon - 1:30 p.m. The International is not blessed with a plethora of two-tops, and headwaiters are apt to encourage passengers to join in at bigger tables, particularly during busy times but do try to make amends to passengers who want a quieter dining experience.
Afternoon tea -- complete with white gloved waiters serving scones, piping hot tea and petite sandwiches -- is offered at the International from 3:30 until 4:30 p.m.
The Horizon Court, on Deck 14 aft, is the ship's buffet venue (there are buffet stations on both sides), and it's open from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., serving a mix of steam-table fare and cold sandwiches and salads.
Low-key dinner is available here, too; the menu frequently mirrors that of the dining rooms though no special effects are implemented, such as white linen tablecloths or waiter service. It's just a buffet.
The Piazza, added during the 2012 refurb, has a number of light bite options. The International Cafe serves fresh-baked breads and cookies, alongside time-appropriate small repasts, like Panini sandwiches, salads, bagels, muffins and pastries. There is no charge to eat here and it's open 24 hours. Also new is Alfredo's Pizzeria, which dishes out fresh-baked pizza from lunch to late evening. Vines, the wine and tapas bar, serves over 30 wines by the glass alongside a selection of sushi and other small plates options (wine for fee, tapas free).
Open only at dinner are two fee-extra alternative restaurants. Sabatini's Trattoria, for $25 per person, is located on Deck 7 midship and is the line's popular Italian option serving pasta, seafood and meats. Dinner begins with herbed focaccia grissini, rosemary flatbread with air-cured prosciutto, and marinated green and black olives. Then you choose an antipasti (soft shell crab over baby arugula), a pasta (vegetable papardelle), a secondi course (duck with fava beans and pancetta, or baked striped bass in a herbed salt crust) and a dessert (raspberry frangipane tart tiramisu). All in all, it's a delightful experience.
Sterling Steakhouse, a stand-alone concept on most Princess ships (typically called the Crown Grill), is set up each night in a corner of Sapphire's Horizon Court buffet. Its ambience is fairly unappealing (merely the addition of white linen tablecloths), and it comes with a $25 per person cover. The menu includes steaks and chops, along with steakhouse-type appetizers.
On Deck 14, adjacent to the Calypso Pool, is a grill that's open from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m.; you can get hot dogs, cheeseburgers, veggie burgers and chicken sandwiches (among other things), along with French fries. There's also the Prego pizza counter (Sapphire's second pizzerias) offering a selection that ranges from day to day. Sundaes ice cream bar offers ice cream and frozen yogurt sundaes from under $5. Create your own by selecting a flavor and toppings (like whole chocolate chip cookies and Caribbean rum cake), or order from the menu of concoctions.
Sapphire's Wheelhouse pub serves up a Brit pub lunch -- think bangers, fish and chips and the like -- on sea days. There is no additional cost to dine here. The obligatory pint of Murphy's, of course, is extra.
Room service is available, and there's no extra fee, but the menu is limited. For breakfast, look for Continental fare (pastries, cereal and coffee, for instance); otherwise, you can order a handful of sandwiches and salads (under "hot dishes" you are limited to soup and sandwiches). You can also order room service pizza -- that, involving in essence the delivery of a medium size pie, incurs a $3 charge that we're told was levied more to stop people from taking advantage of the option -- and then leaving the food untouched -- than anything else.
Select wines and champagnes are available for purchase via room service, as well as several liquor-and-mixer specials and six-for-five beer and/or wine packages. Canapes, and snacks are available for purchase to accompany your cocktails, from guacamole and chips to pate de foie gras.
And for a really special evening, try the Ultimate Balcony Dinner. You need a cabin with a verandah, of course. The $100 per-couple charge includes a four course meal, a half bottle of sparkling wine, a pre-dinner cocktail and a photo portrait. The Champange Brunch is another option. For $32 per person, a waiter comes, sets up the table, and presents several covered plates with quiche, fresh fruit and lots of (way too many of) pastries. As the name indicates, you also get a split of Champagne.
Sapphire Princess, like the majority of ships in Princess' fleet, offers affordable outside and balcony cabins: More than 70 percent of the ship's cabins are outside, and 78 percent of these feature private verandahs (748 of its 1,337 total passenger cabins).
All cabins are outfitted with flat-screen TV's that, depending on locale, includes channels like CNN, BBC, Discovery, ESPN and the like. Princess shows movies (flicks from the past few years and classics) on two channels; we especially love the line's romance channel, which on our trip offered showings like "The Philadelphia Story" and "Sleepless in Seattle."
Standard interior cabins, at 168 to 182 square feet, feature a roomy closet, shelves hidden behind a mirrored door, shower-only bathroom, twins-to-queen bed underneath a mirror surrounded by pastel padding, a small table off to the side for room service or other items, small refrigerator, private safe, and a desk area with a large mirror and TV with remote control. Standard outside (oceanview) cabins include these same amenities but measure 183 to 194 square feet -- and, of course, feature a view. An outside with a balcony is just that: an outside room with all of the usual amenities, plus a private verandah (237 - 300 square feet).
On all cabins with standard balconies, furnishings include two blue mesh chairs (quite comfortable) and a small round metal side table.
Mini-suites with balcony (354 square feet) are, in essence, a longer version of a balcony cabin. Mini-suites add a seating area with Pullman couch, cocktail table, bathrobes, corner chair, an extra TV and, of course, a private verandah. However, most mini's are located on Dolphin Deck and, as such, feature verandahs that jut out from the side of the ship (rather than being nestled into it); this means that there's no roof, and therefore Dolphin Deck verandahs are anything but "private." You (and it) are completely visible from decks above (verandahs on the Caribe deck also jut out, though not as far, and are about halfway exposed).
Suites (507 to 706 square feet) include additional space, walk-in closets, larger balconies, whirlpool tubs and a wet bar. At the top of the line is the Grand Suite, clocking in at 1,329 square feet. This accommodation adds a dining area and personal computer.
There are two connecting family suites on this ship (each with two bathrooms), and 27 handicap-accessible cabins.
Bathrooms in mini-suite-and-above categories are quite comfortable (featuring full tubs) and stocked with Lotus Spa-original shampoos, soaps, conditioners and creams. The hair dryer (available in all cabins) isn't wonderful; pack your own if you require power.
Balcony furniture becomes high quality -- and there's more variety -- as you move up the category scale.
Every cabin deck has a self-service laundry facility -- a nice touch.
Gratuities, which are automatically charged to onboard accounts, are $11.50 per person (including children), per day, for passengers staying in standard accommodations and $12 for passengers staying in mini-suite and suites. A 15 percent gratuity is added to beverage purchases onboard, including wine at dinner. Spa and casino staff members do not share in the gratuity charges -- if you use these services, tips are advised.
Fitness and Recreation
There are five pools (and plenty of poolside bars) onboard Sapphire, including a kids-only wading pool and an adults-only fitness pool. The indoor Calypso Reef & Pool, covered by a retractable crystal magradome, is decorated in a coral reef motif, while Neptune's Reef & Pool, a spacious open-air area with colorful mosaics and lots of space for tanning, fills the ship's full-size outdoor pool requirement (both are located on the Lido deck). There is also an out-of-the-way Terrace Pool at the aft end of the ship on the Aloha deck just below.
Movies Under the Stars, added in 2012 by Neptunes', is a major attraction and is on all day (with family fare), as well as into the night. Complimentary popcorn is served during evening features.
The Lotus Spa is infused with Asian flavor, and perhaps one of the reasons the design is so well executed is that the ship was actually built in Japan. Camel and sage walls and chairs induce immediate relaxation; tall exotic plants and heavy black doors framing opaque glass transport you to the Far East. Another nice touch? Spa staffers wear black kimono-style frocks accented by big, bright flowers, designed exclusively for Princess by L.A. fashion maven Sue Wong.
Sapphire has a high-tech fitness center with 35 cardiovascular stations, 17 weight training stations and 12 spinning cycles; a center court for Ping-Pong, tennis and basketball; a jogging track; shuffleboard areas; and a nine-hole putting course (hours fluctuate). Cyber Golf, a for-fee golf simulator, looked like two claustrophobic cubbyholes in which players aim the ball at an image projected on the back wall. Reservations can be made via Princess' concierge service.
In October 2011, Sapphire gained Princess' signature, adult-only Sanctuary. The top-ship space features lots of thickly cushioned loungers, massage cabanas, signature beverages, light meals and on-call stewards. To make room for the new space, the sports court on Sapphire Princess was relocated to a new space on top of Skywalkers nightclub. Enjoying the are comes at a price: It's $10 for a half a day and $20 for a full day, plus there's a $3 service fee for dining orders.
Sapphire Princess' kids programs are divided by age group. Princess Pelicans, for the 3- to 7-year-old set, feature games, movies and crafts. Shockwaves is for those from 8 to 12 years old and Remix, with its own teen center curries favor with those 13 to 17 years old.
Kids' facilities are open on sea days from 9 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m. and then again from 6 to 10 p.m. In port, hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and 6 - 10 p.m.
Beyond playrooms, there are outdoor wading pools for the young set and a small swimming pool for teens.
There's a video arcade tucked way down on Deck 6, between the casino and Princess Theater (you may be pleased to know that it's not housed smack dab in the center of the youth facilities and thus not perhaps such an easy temptation for kids!).
Kid-friendly activities take place elsewhere on the ship, too, including a "Wizard of Oz" sing-a-long one afternoon in Club Fusion. Group kid-sitting (for kids ages 3 - 12) is available for $5 per hour from 10 p.m. through 1 a.m. Pre-booking is required, and private babysitting is not available.
Fellow Passengers
The typical Princess passenger is about 50 and relatively well-traveled. The line also attracts a solid number of multi-generational groups -- families and older folks traveling with their children and grandchildren -- and some younger couples.
Dress Code
During a seven-night cruise, there are two formal nights (cocktail dresses, gowns or dark pants suits for ladies, dark suits or tuxedos for men), and five smart casual nights (most men wore a shirt/tie/sports jacket outfit while women dressed up in skirts or pants with a nice blouse, shoes and jewelry). During the day, resort casual seemed to be the norm.
Princess' day-time entertainment offerings emanate from its Scholarship@Sea program, which features a range of activities, from lecturers on various topics such as marine life, magic and history to more hands-on tutelage on computer skills, photography techniques and scrapbooking.
The ship's ceramics studio offers a fantastic creative outlet on sea days; starting at $15, you can paint bowls, plates, picture frames and the like, and staff members will fire them up in the onboard kiln. (Don't get too carried away, you still have to transport the pieces home.)
The Piazza, added in early 2012, is another wonderful daytime (and nighttime) space. The venue features circus-style performers like acrobats and jugglers.
One of the ship's most stunning public areas is Skywalker's Disco & Observation Lounge high up on the Sky Deck. Though already a Princess staple, Skywalker's on Sapphire Princess actually hangs over the aft end of the ship, so that its 125-foot balcony and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows offer fantastic, unobstructed panoramas both day and night. (When you can, observe the ship's wake by moonlight.) The decor is a nod to outer space with stars and swirls, but done with great style -- I loved the brass table lamps with miniature moon-shaped cutouts.
After hours, Skywalker's becomes a hopping club scene, but we preferred it as a quiet place for a cocktail-with-a-view before supper. Even more intimate (but less scenic) is the Wake View Bar, hidden deep within the ship on the Fiesta Deck. Hint: Access this space via the spiral staircase in Club Fusion on the Promenade Deck. This is a very quiet place during the day to have a cocktail and collect your thoughts, or even to do some reading, with no music and little chatter -- it was unusually empty during my sailing. At night, however, this neglect is understandable due to Wake View's nearness to the often-rambunctious Club Fusion crowd.
Princess' signature Wheelhouse Bar is another great place to meet, with friendly bar service, a cozy members-only-club atmosphere, and nautical art and history displayed throughout. It also has live jazzy music. (The scene -- and the dancing -- picks up a little later in the evening.) Sports fans and cigar enthusiasts should scoot down to Churchill's Lounge, a combination cigar lounge and sports bar. Though an odd pairing, this is the ideal place to view satellite broadcasts of various sporting events when available.
Club Fusion serves as a dance club, theater and game room. This lounge features 42 high-definition video screens, which gives it the high-tech feel of a big-city hangout. This space is truly multipurpose: A nice sized dance floor attracts nightlife lovers, and tabletop slot machines keep gamers entertained. Explorer's Lounge, with the feel of an African safari, is a cabaret-style lounge featuring singing and dancing acts, as well as occasional magicians and comedians. Snag a spot near the Tangier-inspired windows.
Princess' trademark shows, however, take place in the two-story Princess Theater, which seats 705. The most striking element here is a huge, black backdrop curtain laced with twinkling fiber optic lights -- very, very neat (and no doubt very expensive). Seats do indeed fill up, so be sure to arrive early; drink service is available and prompt. A warning: There aren't enough seats for everyone during popular events.
The Asian-themed Grand Casino is a marriage of Vegas glitz and Far East glamour, with images of gondolas on the earth-toned walls surrounding clanging slot machines and gaming tables. Chips may be charged to your cabin account, but be aware there is a three percent surcharge for this. Note: Grab a change bucket before you sit down, or else you'll have to carry your winnings to the counter in cupped hands; the buckets aren't scattered about the room conveniently, at least not by the last sea day.
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text: I write to remind you that Mid-Term Grades are due by October 15, 2012. Beginning with the Fall 2012 semester you will no longer receive mid-term grade rosters with your freshmen listed. You need only to log into St. John's Central, select UIS, click on Faculty and select the Mid-Term Grades option. The X numbers of the students you must enter grades for will be highlighted in red. Although University policy requires that you submit mid-term grades for freshmen, you are encouraged to submit mid-term grades for all students. In accordance with established practice, we will continue to report to the Provost and Deans on the progress of mid-term grade submission. After the mid-term grade due date, you will be receiving emails from my office which lists any freshmen for which you have not submitted grades. Given the University's goals of enhancing student engagement and supporting the academic progress of students, for the purpose of mid-term grade submission, the University defines freshmen as all first-time undergraduate students admitted for the current semester, regardless of the number of credits they have, and all other undergraduate students who have 24 or fewer credits. I would like to remind you that mid-term grades are informational only. They do not appear on a student's transcript. Although grades are not due until October 15, 2012, you can begin to enter grades on Friday, October 5, 2012. The last day for a student to withdraw from a class or to apply for a pass/fail option is Wednesday, November 7, 2012. I thank you for your cooperation in submitting mid-term grades. Mid-term grades provide students a better understanding of their progress at this key point in the semester, and help them in their planning for the remainder of the semester. Feel free to contact me should you have questions.


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Strange Plant Collection
4 years & up. Ignite a garden of four botanical oddities! Grow brains and eyeballs as plants move and eat meat. Includes sprouting and growing dome, four color seed packs (space plants, eyeball plants, brain plants, pitcher plants), growing medium, 4 color plant stakes, purple gravel, 3 color decals, instructions, and information booklet.


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90+ Point Cabernet Wine Gift Trio 6003XENow Only $69.99The price of wine includes shipping!
Cabernet Sauvignon, known as the "King of Grapes," is one of the most well-known wine grapes in the world. Planted in just about every wine growing region, Cabernet Sauvignon crafts distinctive wines that reflect a true sense of place. In this trio, we've collected three 90+ point rated wines hailing from California's Alexander Valley, Chile's Maipo Valley and Australia's Coonawarra. Each wine represents the unique region from which it comes. Thanks to its excellent structure and big fruit, Cabernet Sauvignon is known as a classic match for a juicy steak! |
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Your gift keeps us singing
Grand Opera is more than just what happens on the mainstage – support the complete opera experience and help the Florentine enhance the community through:
Opera In Schools. Mainstage Productions. Opera Around Town. The Florentine Opera Studio Artist Program. The Florentine Opera offers the complete opera experience: not only Acts I and II (and sometimes more!) on the mainstage, but through enriching community outreach performances, educational in-school programming, and the Florentine Opera Studio Artists' residency training program. Your tax-deductible donation supports all that we do in our community - from overture to grand finale.
What Can My Gift Do?
- A gift of $25 provides multi-disciplinary teacher guides and materials for one in-school opera program.
- A gift of $50 provides a musical score for a chorus member for one opera production.
- A gift of $150 cover the cost of a chorus member for one performance.
- A gift of $200 provides a wig and make-up demonstration for high school students.
- A gift of $500 provides an outreach performance at a library or community center.
- A gift of $1000 sponsors a Florentine Opera Studio Artist community outreach performance
- A gift of $10,000 would support Albert Herring at a performance sponsor level.
- A gift of $15,000 would support The Marriage of Figaro at a performance sponsor level.
- A gift of $20,000 would underwrite a principal artist for The Marriage of Figaro.
- A gift of $25,000 would support one of our talented young Studio Artists for the entire season!
Please consider making a gift to our annual campaign, and add your voice to our chorus of supporters.
With questions about the Annual Campaign, contact Jill Bruss, Development Manager, at 414-225-1945.
The Florentine Opera appreciates your generous support and is pleased to offer the following cumulative donor benefits:
Benefactor ($150 - $299)
Recognition in performance program books.
Sustainer ($300 - $499)
Invitation to the Annual Meeting and Florentine Opera in-studio events
Leader ($500* - $2,499)
Complimentary Champagne Reception during performance intermission
Overture Circle ($2,500* - $9,999)
Two dress rehearsal passes to each performance
Complimentary libretto in advance of each performance, upon request
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Information about the wide array of Aria Society benefits (complimentary parking for the FLorentine Opera's Marcus Center performaces and invitations to private events), is available upon request.
* Several benefits listed above havebeen assigned a 'fair market value' under the charitable deduction guidelines of the Internal Revenue Service. Should you elect to accept any benefit, the assessed value will not be tax-deductible. At the $500 level, the value of the benefits is $35; at the $2,500 level, the value is $75, and at the $10,000 level, the value is $165.
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Wed, Dec 18 7:30am to 10:30am
A $13.00 charge for over-sized vehicles will apply onsite.
Monthly Parking – $299.00 Purchase
Description: This garage is open 24/7 with unlimited in-and-out privileges for monthly customers.
Additional fees may apply for over-sized vehicles.
Redemption instructions: After purchasing, print your monthly parking receipt from the ParkWhiz confirmation email and present it to the on-site attendant on your start date. You will be asked to call Select Garages and fill out paperwork in exchange for your access pass. Contact information will be provided after you purchase a spot.
59 people recommend parking here 42 left comments
Courteous attendants and excellent service. We were in our car and on our way in less than 5 minutes after giving our ticket. Will use again.
Helpful staff, great location, convienent
It was very convenient
Quick and easy in and out for Ranger games. Very easy out, was in the car and on the street 15 mins after the game
Great location. Easy to find. Was confusion over the fact I'd already paid using the app. Employees didn't seem to understand the procedure. Asked me to pay again. Got it worked out after some nervous moments.
Right off west side highway, short walk to MSG. Received car after Rangers game quickly.
This parking garage abuts a large white brick building. Adjacent to the Royal Thai restaurant, this parking garage provides great access to Madison Square Garden, the Hammerstein Ballroom, and Penn Station.
*Note: A $13.00 charge for over-sized vehicles will apply.
Vehicle height restriction: 72 inches
This location is a commercial parking garage.
Preferred parking for Madison Square Garden, Nederlander Theatre, The Theater at MSG, Hammerstein Ballroom, American Airlines Theatre.
This parking garage is located on W 36th Street between 8th and 9th Avenue. Traveling down W 36th Street passing 9th Avenue, continue past the DoubleTree by Hilton. On your right you will see a large black "Park" sign with an arrow pointing towards the entrance.
*Note: A $13.00 charge for over-sized vehicles will apply.
Monthly Parking Available! ParkWhiz Perk
Click the "Monthly Parking" Tab on the left to see monthly rates and book a spot online!


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SARRAH Secretariat Quarterly Reports 2009-2010
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Suggested Retail Price: $979.00
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These versatile earrings are gleaming with diamonds, and will make heads turn with their sparkles. With an antique design, the earrings feature two oval cut gemstones of your choice, surrounded by an astounding 20 sparking diamonds. These earrings are the definition of elegance. A matching ring is also available, making for a set you can wear whenever youre feeling the need to pamper yourself. These earrings feature two 5X3mm oval-cut gemstones, surrounded by 20 sparkling diamonds. The total gem weight for the earrings is 0.8 carats, set in solid 14k gold. The earrings are also available in 14K WHITE GOLD, and in all the gemstones displayed below.


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Paul Frank Review
The store's mascot, the cheeky Julius monkey, is plastered everywhere here—on flannel PJs, skateboards, and, of course, T-shirts. Also look for tees evoking such formative elements of '80s youth as corn dogs and break dancing. A selection of monkey-free accessories, including perfect weekender bags, is more stylish than sassy.
- Address: 195 Mulberry St., at Kenmare St. NoLIta, New York, NY 10012 | Map It
- Phone: 212/965–5079
- Website: www.paulfrank.com
- Subway: 6 to Spring St.
- Location: NoLIta
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