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A luxury Crystal Cruise includes the super teaching skills of the Smithsonian Museum staff to offer families at sea a sailor's life of learning.

Take one magnificent ship, add a dash of mouthwatering cuisine, a sprinkling of awesome life at sea, the thrill of a transit through the Panama Canal, and the tropical island adventures in St. Croix, St. Barts, Antigua, and Aruba. Stir gently for a spectacular family journey onboard the Crystal Serenity that borders on the magical.

A Cruise for 3 Generations

Our multi-generational family chose this Smithsonian-themed cruise, one of several offered throughout the year, because of the destination-specific lecturers from the cultural and educational arm of the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC.  Guests can stretch their imagination, celebrate family fun and share the excitement seen through the eyes of youngsters. It was exhilarating to marvel at a fiery orange-red Caribbean sunrise or sunset from your private verandah, and challenge each other to spot the most frolicking dolphins following the ship.

Be sure to keep a journal of all the special days that lie ahead, and to keep your videos rolling and cameras clicking so that treasured family memories will be re-ignited when you get back home.

The Crystal Serenity is designed to accommodate multiple generations. Everyone’s personal retreat will be in one of the spacious, luxurious accommodations that include 50 connecting staterooms (for families with children age 5 and older) and 154 staterooms with room for two children under age 5. All staterooms have picture windows or private verandahs, fridges stocked with complimentary soft drinks and bottled water, remote color TV and DVD players. For dreamy options, there’s a choice of your favorite from the pillow menu.

In addition to the above, the Penthouse suites feature a flat screen TV, walk in closets, plush Frette bathrobes and light kimonos, Jacuzzi tubs, separate showers, and Butler service for the ultimate luxury. Also offered is a 24-hour private e-mail system, and Wi-Fi access is available throughout the ship (charges apply).

Photos by Mel Greenberg