Trip Type: Cultural Connection
AAUM Representative(s): Juan Cole
Physical Activity Level: Mildly Active
Highlights:
- Take advantage of 2-for-1 pricing and a $500 As You Wish shipboard credit per passenger
- Enjoy free air from select gateways
- Relax aboard the Six-Star Crystal Symphony, ranked “World’s Best” by Travel & Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler magazines
- Marvel at one of the world’s most impressive feats of engineering as the ship travels through the six locks of the Panama Canal
- Explore the luxury boutiques and shops of St. Maarten’s charming market towns
- Enjoy unsurpassed shopping and idyllic tropical scenery in St. Thomas
Day 1: Depart U.S. for San José, Costa Rica
Arrive in San José, Costa Rica and transfer to Caldera where you will embark the ship.
Day 2: At Sea/Pacific Ocean
This is your first day to experience the many amenities on board Crystal Symphony. Spend the day engaged in the pursuits of your choice, from watching a movie in the Hollywood Theatre to working out in the fully equipped gym.
Day 3: Transit the Panama Canal
Spend an unforgettable day transiting the Panama Canal. An expert guide will relate the history, mechanics and other fascinating facts about the canal as the ship is slowly raised and lowered through the locks. You’ll be amazed at the narrow Gaillard Cut, blasted out of the solid mountainside. Savor the beauty of Gatun Lake along the way.
Day 4: At Sea/Caribbean Sea
Enjoy a leisurely day sailing the Caribbean Sea. Perhaps you’ll sleep in and enjoy breakfast in bed. Or, you may wish to start the day with a jog along the Promenade Deck, followed by an invigorating dip in one of the crystal clear pools. On Crystal Symphony, there is as much or as little to do as you please.
Day 5: Williamstead, Curaçao
Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is characterized by story-book Dutch architecture, waterfront promenades, fine shopping and a colorful floating market. Located in the southern Caribbean, just 38 miles north of Venezuela, a harmonious blend of Dutch, Caribbean, African and South American cultures makes Willemstad unique among the Caribbean ports of call.
Day 6: At Sea/Caribbean Sea
Today is another relaxing day cruising the Caribbean Sea.
Day 7: Phillipsburg, St. Maarten
With its colorful mix of French charm and Dutch hospitality, St. Maarten is like two islands rolled into one. In 1648, it was amicably divided between Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin until 2010. The island covers an area of 37 square miles, 17 of which are Dutch. Small as it is, St. Maarten has something for everyone – hideaway beaches, interesting cuisine and sophisticated boutiques.
Day 8: Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, USVI
Glimmering bays, shining seas, powdery sand beaches, towering green hills and unsurpassed shopping – this is St. Thomas. The Danes originally declared St. Thomas a free port, making it the shopping paradise it remains today. You will delight in exquisite imported goods ranging from Danish silver to French porcelain and Swiss watches. While this mountainous island is one of the loveliest stretches of land in the Caribbean, its offerings are not limited to its idyllic tropical scenery. The former pirate haunts, Danish relics and picturesque old buildings are constant reminders of St. Thomas’ exotic history, making this a fascinating place in which to sightsee.
Day 9-10: At Sea/Atlantic Ocean
Enjoy sailing along the Atlantic Ocean. You can choose to relax on deck with a book, treat yourself to a massage at the Crystal Spa or browse the ship’s gift shops.
Day 11: Miami/Disembark the Crystal Symphony/Return to Gateway City
Depart Miami for your Gateway City.
