Crystal Serenity making maiden call to Ponce port in December
Crystal Serenity
The ultra-luxe Crystal Serenity will sail into the southern port of Ponce to ring in the New Year, marking its first visit to Puerto Rico, parent company Crystal Cruises announced Tuesday.
With a capacity for more than 1,000 passengers, the 13-deck ship will depart from Miami on Dec. 21 for a 14-day trip around the Caribbean. Crystal Serenity will explore the picturesque islands of Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Lucia, Barbados, and Guadeloupe, West Indies; Philipsburg, St. Maarten and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Ponce; and Key West, Florida.
“With activities and excursions for every interest and age, our holiday cruises offer unparalleled choices and a unique, festive setting for discerning families and friends to share the spirit of the season together in a truly memorable way,” said Jack Anderson, senior vice president of sales and marketing, on the special Christmas/New Year’s voyages.
The award-winning ship will be outfitted with holiday trimmings and decor, from fantastical forest-themed atriums with pines covered in snow and shimmering lights, to Santa’s Bakery inside Bistro Cafes. Elaborate, hand-painted ornaments will adorn areas throughout the ships, creating a “romantic, nostalgic winter wonderland.”
Santa Claus will be on hand for any last-minute wishes from junior cruisers, along with other specially planned activities and parties. Guests will be treated to traditional Christmas meals, including Christmas goose, roast turkey, and chestnut stuffing, plus religious services; New Year’s Eve dinner and champagne countdown celebrations are followed by Bloody Mary parties and mimosa brunch on New Year’s Day.
