Saturday, October 26

It’s been several years since we cruised on a Crystal ship. We had come to appreciate the cruise line for its comfort and outstanding service, so were very disappointed when they declared bankruptcy during the height of COVID. A year or two later, the ships were acquired by Abercrombie and Kent, and they began cruising again in 2023. We are thrilled to find out how the ship has been updated, and what the service will be like.

We boarded today, and were greeted with their signature greeting: “Welcome Home.” As we explored the ship, it indeed felt like home. We even encountered one staff person from an earlier cruise. When the former Crystal Cruise Lines declared bankruptcy, he went home to the Philippines to spend time with his ill father. Several other staff were offered jobs with other cruise lines, but came back when Abercrombie & Kent purchased the ships.

We enjoyed a delicious dinner tonight, followed by a little dancing and after dinner drinks. What a lovely evening. We have marvelous views of the City of Quebec from the ship.