Categories: Cruise News

Crystal reveals details of major refit and refurbishment for Crystal Symphony

Crystal Cruises has announced that Crystal Symphony will enter drydock in November 2025 for a three-week refurbishment, with updates planned for selected suites, public areas, and technical systems.

On Deck 10, the Aquamarine and Sapphire Classic suites will be fully redesigned. While their layouts and bathrooms — featuring separate bathtubs and showers — will remain, the suites will receive new furnishings in the style introduced during the ship’s 2023 refit, along with updated carpets and wall coverings.

Refurbished lobby lounge

Several public spaces will also be refreshed:

  • Atrium and Crystal Cove – Led by Milan-based design firm Studio Ibsen, the ship’s central gathering space will gain a more open layout and additional seating. The water feature will be replaced with a two-storey mosaic by De Castelli, the piano will be relocated, and a new chandelier installed. The reception desk will be upgraded with marble and backlit panels, while walls and columns will be refinished. Deck 5 ceiling slats and lighting will be replaced, and the Crystal Cove bar will receive a new counter, shelving, and high-end furniture.
  • Stair lobbies on Decks 5 and 6 – Also overseen by Studio Ibsen, these areas will have updated ceilings, lighting, architectural wall details, and brass finishes around elevator entrances.
  • Starlite Club – A redesigned dance floor and new ceiling centrepiece will be installed.
  • Deck 5 guest restrooms – New flooring, wall finishes, and countertops will be added.
  • Bistro – Wooden floors will be replaced.

“We are proud to carry forward Crystal’s legacy while continuing to innovate,” said Bernie Leypold, Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations. “Our goal is to ensure that every space aboard our ships feels both timeless and contemporary, infused with warmth, elegance and thoughtful design. These enhancements aboard Crystal Symphony reflect our promise to create meaningful experiences for our guests at every touchpoint.”

Technical works during the drydock will include overhauling the fin stabilisers’ hydraulic system, renewing both evaporators, and installing new fuel and oil purifiers compatible with biodiesel.

Hundreds of metres of fresh-water piping will be replaced, and galleys, cold rooms, provision areas, and compressors will be renovated. Generator auxiliaries will be serviced, and steel replacement will be carried out in targeted areas, including fuel tanks.

Following the refit, Crystal Symphony will resume service hosting the second annual Wellness Retreat voyages, which will also introduce the new production show Club Nights.

Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com.

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