Amazon Cruise

We selected this cruise for its destination. We have sailed frequently on Crystal and other lines over the years and always thought highly of Crystal Cruises.

There were many problems on this trip. Embarkation was only the beginning.

The most serious was the flu-like illness that many, many passengers and crew suffered. While we accept that illness can always occur on a cruise, we were very disappointed not to see more proactive actions taken by Crystal to contain it. For example, never once did we see any sterilization of handrails, etc. Tables received cursory wipes but chairs, which people touched after coughing into their hands, were not wiped. People continued to come to dinner after being told by the medical staff that they had a virus. Despite all our efforts, it was impossible to avoid contacting the virus. This spoiled the cruise for us and many others.

Many of the public venues, such as the Crystal Dining Room and the Crystal Cove were unpleasantly cold. Everyone had to wear shawls, sweaters or coats. Perhaps this was an attempt to contain the virus, but it succeeded only in making us feel worse.

Crystal Serenity staterooms are smaller than those on comparable ships. They are in need of refreshing and, reportedly, the Serenity will be in dry dock next year. Hopefully this will be included. They cabin was very clean; the stewardess was exceptional.