A hallmark of Crystal’s award-winning reputation is our engaging onboard enrichment program, inviting you to leave the daily routines of life behind and open your mind to new possibilities. Discover a new language or try your hand at learning the piano. Learn about ways to protect and improve your health—mind, body & soul— with our Wellness at Sea® program.  Attend insightful lectures by noted authors and world leaders, or be entertained by top-name stars of screen and stage. Regardless of your interests, the choices are yours and the options are endless.

Perhaps you’ve  imagined yourself speaking a second language or fancied yourself a wine connoisseur. Whatever your secret passion, our innovative Creative Learning Institute invites you to live out your dreams with complimentary progressive courses offered by experts who share our commitment to enrich mind, body and spirit. We’ve partnered with only the best – names like Berlitz, Tai Chi Cultural Center, and Cleveland Clinic among others – so that you can discover your personal best.

Knowledgeable sommeliers are always on hand to provide both basic and in depth information and insights on wines and the wine-making process, furthering your appreciation of wines during wine tasting events, when offered.

If learning about a healthy heart on a Mediterranean cruise or protecting your skin during a Caribbean voyage sounds surprising, think again. A vacation is an ideal time to reflect on your own personal wellness. Experts and doctors from Cleveland Clinic, renowned as one of the nation’s most respected medical centers, lead seminars on topics relevant to today’s society.

The ancient Chinese practice of tai chi finds a natural home aboard the serene ships of Crystal. In its literal translation, tai chi means to be one with nature, and in keeping with movements such as White Crane Spreading Wings, Parting the Wild Horse’s Mane and Embracing the Tree, instruction is offered in the early morning hours.

Offered on select voyages, Classes are led by tai chi master Martin Lee, PhD, a research physicist at Stanford University and founder of the Los Angeles-based Tai Chi Cultural Center, and his family. This martial arts discipline combines intense mental focus with deliberate, graceful movements that improve strength, agility and balance.

Odyssey Art at Sea combines worldly destinations, regional style and personal flair with an engaging course of progressive study in painting, sculpture or crafts. Art programs offered are complimentary on every Crystal cruise with courses incorporating the unique attributes and art history of the destination. With an emphasis on quality, only the finest supplies are used including Daler-Rowney paints, professional grade paper, Princeton and Loew-Cornell paint brushes, Sanford drawing pens, and Model Magic clay.

Stars of the stage and screen, masters of comedy, decorated Olympians, noted diplomats and ambassadors, celebrated authors, and renowned scientists highlight Crystal’s award-winning enrichment lecture and seminar series.

Offered on every cruise, the program has featured such stellar names as Hugh Downs, Marlin Fitzwater, Ruth Westheimer, General Perry Smith, Ambassador Marc Ginsberg, Senator Phil Gramm, Johnny Bench, Dinesh D'Souza, James Carville and Mary Matalin, and Jack Hana, just to name a few.

Imagine returning home with a personalized movie of your trek through Machu Picchu, a digital photo documentary of your exploration of the pyramids at Giza, or even a daily blog on the ever-changing scenery of the world just beyond your private balcony.

For over a decade, Crystal’s Computer University@Sea has been at the forefront of luxury travel offering guests contemporary enrichment opportunities in line with the dramatic evolution of the Internet and digital communication. The extensiveness of our program is unmatched in both its variety and originality – guests work on 27" Apple Macintosh computers as our team of expert techies offer complimentary instruction on topics ranging from basic computer skills on e-mail, Word, Excel and maximizing usage of your smart phones, iPads and other gadgets, to advanced digital photo finishing and website design. Guests enjoy 24-hour Internet access from every lab computer and from every stateroom.

Our fully trained Technology Concierges are pleased to enlighten you on the newest trends and finer nuances of today’s hottest gizmos and gadgets, from iPads® to iPhones™ and Blackberrys®to GPS devices. Whether you are considering a purchase or already own one of these high-tech toys, our Technology Concierges will help you maximize the benefits of each.
• Apple iPad®
• Apple iPhone and iPod™
• BlackBerry® 
• Kindle™ and other reading devises
• Palm Treo Pro™
• Garmin® Colorado 400c (GPS) navigational device

Complimentary Bridge instruction and supervised games are offered by an accredited ACBL instructor on every cruise.

Between Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, our well-stocked Library contains over 8,000 books on subjects ranging from classics to popular biographies, history to contemporary mysteries. There is also an entertaining selection of over 2,000 DVD movie titles plus CDs, magazines, audio books and a generous selection of board games which may be borrowed without charge for your enjoyment during the cruise.

Our Experiences of Discovery® theme cruises chart a course through classic destinations of the world, navigating the exciting realms of art, music, golf, ballroom dance, wine and food, and more. Like the perfect pairing of fine wine and cuisine, themes are connected to the region you sail, presenting you with opportunities to raise a glass of Australian Shiraz en route "Down Under" or to golf the legendary courses of Great Britain. Your itinerary brings together informative onboard lectures and demonstrations along with engaging optional shoreside excursions for a voyage that sails far beyond the ordinary. View Complete Details

Be it film production, magic, bridge, golf or photography– whether you wish to fuel a lifelong passion or tap a budding interest, choose a voyage that piques your curiosities. With topics and classes that include USC digital film production, Magic Castle at Sea and the ever popular dance and golf instructions, the possibilities for learning are varied, and the choice is all yours!

Comprehensive programs featuring educational classes in many diverse subjects including art, wine, digital filmmaking, golf, dancing, Bridge and more.

Our own version of Discovery Channel™ with expert shark divers, underwater photographers, deep-sea treasure hunters and more.

Experts in the area of floral design will share insights on design styles, techniques and colors, as well as interesting information about the Gardens of the regions visited.

Famous guest speakers join panel discussions featuring politics adn world affairs; guests participate via polling devices in the audience for real-time debate, discussion and Q&A.

Professional photographers share their techniques and tips so you can get the most out of your camera during your travels.

Headline magicians from Crystal's Magic Castle at Sea come aboard to entertain and conduct magic workshops.

World-renowned chefs, wine experts and mixologists share their talents at lectures, special meals and tastings.

Cuisine and travel are inextricably connected, with the unique flavors of each destination offering authentic insight into customs and cultures of the region.

A combination theme including world-renowned chefs and wine experts share their talents at lectures, special meals and tastings on board and ashore, and a floral design professional will share insights of design styles, techniques and colors.

Across the world, microbreweries are growing in popularity, offering a unique taste of a destination. On board, enjoy tastings and lectures.

From the lavishness of luxury liners to the boldness of battleships, a look at the fascinating history of sea travel. 

From music and dance to art and acting, explore the rhythms and trends of the world on an Experiences of Discovery voyage.

Live daily Big Band performances include the Glenn Miller Orchestra and guest music lecturers. Additional Ambassador Hosts serve as dance partners. 

Revel in the lavish style of ballroom with sensational instructors, ensembles, bands and our own Ambassador Hosts. 

Crystal’s exclusive partnership with The Music Center Spotlight Awards showcases upcoming artists with live performances and master classes. Talent is personally selected for Crystal Cruises by the Artistic Director for Spotlight Awards, Ms. Jeri Gaile, who orchestrates the program.

Speakers, film authorities and performers salute the world of stage and screen.

Talented ensembles perform soulful sounds, and industry experts explore the beloved tradition and musical art form of jazz.

Combine your love of travel with your favorite sport for rare experiences of enriching discovery.

Guest instructors and speakers focus on yoga, Pilates, Tai Chi and general mental, physical and spiritual health.

PGA pros work on your game, plus golf celebrities provide insights and guest play during optional Crystal Adventures on world-famous courses.

Share the greatest gift of all...time with family and friends aboard the World's Best cruise line.

Special meals, decorations and events create a festive atmosphere for the holidays.

Join fellow Crystal Society members on special cruises that celebrate a shared passion for travel and newfound camaraderie.

Special voyages feature exclusive onboard events, receptions and more.

Crystal Chief Executive Officer & President Tom Wolber hosts the annual President's Cruise.