During a recent voyage on Crystal Serenity from Barcelona to Lisbon, we were impressed by the  enthusiasm and loyalty of Crystal Cruises’ many repeat guests.

The company (www.crystalcruises.com) is at the pinnacle of the cruise industry, taking top honors year after year in recognition of the services and amenities aboard their two ships,  Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

The latest news is that the Serenity has just undergone a $25 million redesign during her longest-ever dry dock in Hamburg, Germany. Staterooms as well as public areas have new decor and amenities. Plus, the furnishings, accessories and electronics removed from the ship have been donated to needy communities around the world.

This summer, there’s more news from Crystal Cruises: For those guests who prefer a customized shore experience, the company is launching, in fall 2011, a  “Private Adventure Option”—an alternative to group shore excursions. This option will let guests customize their own on-shore itineraries. Also,  in spring 2012, Crystal will go “all-inclusive,” offering complimentary fine wines and premium spirits at dinner and open bar service in all lounges. Staff gratuities will be pre-paid, eliminating the hassle of tipping fairly at the end of a cruise. All these changes will make taking a Crystal Cruise even simpler and more relaxed (if that’s possible!).