Fluid dynamics are important in processes that grow large crystals from a liquid phase. This paper presents a primer on fluid mechanics and convection, followed by a discussion of the physics and scaling of flows in such processes. Specific examples of fluid flows in crystal growth systems are presented and classified according to their impact on outcomes, good or bad. Turbulence in crystal growth is discussed within the limited extent of our understanding, which is incomplete, or ugly. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.