One of the first things that really hits you on embarking on the Crystal Serenity in Port Everglades is comparing her to Celebrity's Century which was berthed nearby, at 70,000 tons the Century carries 1,750 passengers, the Serenity which is 68,000 tons only carries 1,080 passenger in all outside accommodations.

Boarding the ship on the two story atrium lobby level you can not help miss the high ceilings and a tremendous feeling of space. The lobby sets the entire tone of this ship, with a stained glass dome ceiling, waterfall, hotel style information desks, and a very chic lobby bar with live music welcoming new passengers. Very contemporary and decidedly elegant.

Right off the lobby bar is the main dining room that holds 566 during each of two seatings. The dining room offers numerous sections to make almost any group feel like they have a very private area. This dining room, as well as all others, has it's own distinctive china, silver and crystal.

While we are on the subject of dining, the Serenity should really impress you as they have a total of 5 different dining venues. The most unique venue is a private room for 12 guests, in this room you work with the head chef to personally design the menu for the your group as well as the proper wine pairings for each course. Of course there is an additional charge for this but well worth it for your VIPS or top producers.

Prego, the Wolfgang Puck Italian dining room, holds 103 and can be taken over for exclusive use by groups at no additional charge. The trendy Silk Road and Sushi Bar offer Asian cuisine designed by Nobu Matsuhia seating 95 it can be taken over for private functions. Needless to say these two elegant options are very a welcomed departure from many cruise ships that do not allow that private dining experience. Last but not least is the buffet restaurant and adjoining grill with indoor and outdoor seating. All in all dining on Crystal, in any venue, is a 5 Star experience.

The Serenity offers numerous rooms and areas that can be used for private functions and meetings. The most spectacular is the Palm Court which is located on the upper most deck forward, with great panoramic views. This bright and airy room comes complete with a band stage for entertainment or presentations. There are numerous other rooms of varying sizes to accommodate most any group size. The Serenity also offers an outdoor area with a retractable roof that can be used on a private basis for sail away parties and other events. Last but not least are two well located private "offices" that can be used as your office for your group instead of a hospitality desk.

Caesars Palace operates their only casinos at sea exclusively on Crystal ships with Las Vegas rules and ability to use your Caesars line of credit.

The oriental theme spa is very large for a ship of this size. Crystal designed the first floating spa to use the principles of Feng Shui. The good news is that there are ample treatment rooms. Adjoining the spa is a very generous gym with all of the latest, greatest equipment.

Of the 540 staterooms and suites only 82 do not have balconies. The smallest cabins, without balconies, are not so small at 226 sq ft. The bulk of the staterooms with balconies are 269 sq ft. Two decks of the ship feature Penthouse staterooms with butler services and 403 sq ft and 538 sq ft. All staterooms are well appointed and decorated and include fresh flowers, fresh fruit, lap top connections, safes, CD and DVD players.

The Serenity offers a limited number of 7 night cruises in 2005 and 2006 and should be considered whenever you are looking at an up market program.