Having lurked on Cruise Critic for some time I thought it best to join the community.
My first Crystal cruise was a wonderful experience, from start to finish. Voyage 6324 was an 11-night journey with embarkation in Venice on 1 October. Guest registration in Venice occurs at the Maritima, a massive new building at the edge of the piers where cruise ships dock. Our group of four found its way there via a private water taxi from our hotel (the Ca'Pisani, which I recommend highly). Registration was quick and effortless and very soon we were on board where we were greeted by a phalanx of white-suited officers and staff, one of whom, a delightful young woman who would become one of our favorites, escorted us to our cabins on Seabreeze Deck 9.
Others have written about Serenity cabins. My impression is that a great deal of useful space has been packed into 269 square feet. Favorite feature: the bath and great shower. Next favorite: comfy bed!