November 17,2023 Crystal Serenity

One of the first things that Timmy did when we boarded on Monday was to label the light switches. He did this for me on Symphony – several days into that cruise. I guess he tired of me switching every light on in search of the living room ceiling lights. There are at least eight (not exaggerating) banks of light switches in our suite.

He prints so nicely.
.
…just one of the many ways that Tim helps me navigate my way through life
#hesakeeper 💙
Weather in Montego Bay changed by the minute …I captured these blue skies from our balcony before we set off to MarketPlace for lunch.
We were so busy talking that we were almost finished eating before I remembered to snap a pic. The Jerk Chicken was a definite highlight.

An ongoing joy on this “reunion cruise” ? We continue to run into crew members who took such good care of us on previous cruises…

Here’s Elvis with Tanji who spent 32 days with us in Waterside during Fall 2019. So much happiness 💙
After lunch we headed six decks down to the Bistro. Tim requested a cappuccino,
I opted for an espresso topped with whipped cream.
Zayne is working on his cappuccino foam art…this one reminded us of the clown Pennywise.
Because one shot of espresso is never enough …..
I’m probably going to create a coffee table book of these pre dinner mirror selfies😉
I stepped out on the balcony looking for a sunset photo…I was a bit early.
Pilot boat just dropped off the pilot.
One last photo as we sailed away from Montego Bay.
We were thrilled to be invited to a cocktail party in the Captains quarters. Captain Birger gave a lovely welcome and told several funny anecdotes. If I haven’t said it yet…I l o v e Captain Birger.
Umi Uma for the win💙💙💙
Adrian is the charming Sommelier in Umi. Timmy is holding his cold sake. And yes! Miracle of miracles… the Nobu Chardonnay has made its’ way back on board Crystal ships.

On board Symphony last month, the famed Chardonnay had not yet been delivered…so I was beside myself with happiness when Adrian told us that a generous supply had arrived on Serenity in Boston. So freaking lucky. If you’ve been paying attention, you know I love New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs. If I ever drink a Chardonnay…it’s a steel barrel Chardonnay. The Matsuhisa Chardonnay is fermented in oak barrels…but to me, tastes like no other Chardonnay that I’ve ever had. Beyond delicious.

We are nothing if not predictable…if you look back at my blog post from last time at Umi Uma…I bet you see the Nobu Special Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño and Tuna Tataki with Cilantro sauce.
Some how I failed to take a photo of the lobster and vegetable tempura…
Timmy’s eel…I’m not a big fan…but he loves it.
Wagyu beef and Salmon …New-Style Sashimi
The Sake flask is packed with a round ice cube.
Miso soup for me… Mushroom soup for Tim
This delight is Nobu Style Lobster with Truffle-Yuzu. The asparagus and snap peas enhanced the dish.
Timmy had almost finished his Grilled Scallop Salad with Yazu dressing…before I remembered that my role in this family is to take photos😁
Again, so predictable…Whiskey Cappuccino for me…Chocolate Soufflé Cake with Passion Fruit for Timmy.

We are so fortunate that the new owners were able to resume the partnership between Crystal and Nobu. Let’s face it, we are beyond fortunate that the new owners resurrected the brand and the ships and returned our beloved crew to us ♥️♥️♥️

The evening’s entertainment featured a very talented Bruce Hammond in the Galaxy Lounge. Bruce was accompanied by the Crystal Show-band. His show is titled “A Salute to Sinatra” …such a wonderful show…so many great songs…we loved every minute.

Another exceptional day on board this beautiful ship. Thanks for following along.