Recrystallized on Bach

We just returned from our first river cruise, a tulip time sailing in Holland and Belgium on Crystal Bach. After 50+ ocean cruises, we boarded Bach with some apprehension, not quite sure if river cruising would be for us. We had barged in France and taken an expedition cruise on the Amazon, but traditional river cruising was new to us. We disembarked 12 nites later fully convinced that we had found our sweet spot. For us, river cruising represents the best of luxury land travel combined with the joyful relaxation of ocean cruising. We loved it.

As with most river cruise lines, Crystal includes arrival and departure transfers. Upon arrival at AMS Schiphol, we were greeted by cheery ground staff, offered coffee and pastries and then transported to Bach on a Crystal-branded coach. We were the only guests arriving at that time and we had the huge bus all to ourselves! Check-in was handled via iPad in Palm Court. Quick and easy. Lunch was being served in Waterside but we chose to graze in the Bistro. The selection wasn't as extensive as on Crystal ocean ships (no Portuguese tarts) but was just fine for a quick bite and a glass of bubbly. Within a half hour, we were escorted to our suite where our luggage had already arrived. Our butler gave us a walk-through of various features, including how to operate the huge panoramic balcony window. The room itself was gorgeous. Bright, well appointed and functional. Nespresso machine and a well-stocked fridge at the ready. Decent sized walk-in closet with lots of hangers and drawers. The bathroom had double sinks and a fabulous rain head shower. Only downside was Etro toiletries, which looked great in their brightly colored containers, but performed miserably.

We settled in and then roamed around to orient ourselves. Bach is just lovely. It has the feel of a contemporary boutique hotel with a casual yet sophisticated onboard ambiance. The boat is compact yet doesn't feel cramped. Corridors and public spaces are bright with pops of art for visual interest. There are not many public areas inside the vessel apart from Palm Court, Waterside and the Bistro, but the entire top deck with chaise lounges, comfy deck chairs and a pop-up bar, just begs to be discovered.

Dining on Bach was a delight and exceeded expectations. Breakfast and lunch in Waterside was buffet, with self-serve stations complimented by fully staffed cook-to-order stations. Dinner in Waterside featured a 4-course Chef Selection each night, as well as optional classic items. The cheese selection changed daily and offered some interesting local choices, all served at the proper temperature. Daily wine pairings were suggested but all complimentary wines were available for the asking. Crystal advertises Michelin-inspired menus with locally-sourced fresh ingredients and they really deliver. While menu selections were not as extensive as on the ocean ships, execution and presentation was superior. The Bistro was also open for breakfast and lunch with a small self-serve buffet and a limited menu. The daily pastas and soup were excellent. On selected nights (3 during our cruise) the Bistro was open for dinner with a tapas menu. Unfortunately, we didn't get the opportunity to try the Bistro at night, but reports were that it was a hit. It would be great if Crystal opened the Bistro every evening as a casual alternative to Waterside.

A feature of river cruising is included excursions, which didn't particularly appeal to us since we like to travel independently and usually avoid ship-sponsored tours. Nonetheless, we pre-booked a whopping 18 tours via PCPC, representing a good mix of cultural discovery, active adventures and culinary experiences. In reality, we had no need to worry about included tours. There was an amazing selection in every port and we managed to get all our top choices. Every single Crystal excursion was exceptional. Interesting itineraries, excellent guides, small groups, whisper listening devices and fabulous (yes fabulous) Setra coaches and friendly drivers. Those coaches were amazing. Purpose-built for Crystal, they have very comfortable seats with generous pitch, which not only recline but move sideways! Super smooth ride, tons of navigational aides, powerful AC, free wifi. On several excursions, so-called Crystal Moments added a special surprising touch. The Crystal Signature Evening Event was exceptional and will be a lasting memory. Looking back, we now think the included excursions contributed greatly to our overall enjoyment of our cruise.

We sailed at night and were docked in port every day, conveniently located in the centre of town. Almost always, we were docked alongside the pier with other riverboats docked (barged) right next to us. Only once did we need to enter Bach through another vessel and it was Crystal Debussy, an identical twin to Bach!

Unlike ocean cruising, there were few planned activities on board, especially during the daytime. In the evenings, an entertainer played piano in Palm Court both before and after dinner. Trivia, Liars Club and a Guest Lecturer each made an appearance and local entertainment was brought onboard a few times when we overnighted in port. There was a Crystal Society Reception to which all guests were invited. Lovely spread including very generous servings of caviar. We were surprised to be recognized among the top loyalty cruisers, given we have only 63 days sailing with Crystal. Yet another benefit of river cruising!

We were crystallized after our first cruise on Serenity almost 2 years ago. We never dreamed we'd love river cruising as much as we did but Bach won us over. We've been recrystallized.

Thanks for your comprehensive review. It's so wonderful to read both Crystal river cruise reviews posted today. I'm so pleased that Crystal seems to have been able to expand to the river market and still maintain there excellent performance.

Patty

The Crystal "magic" has definitely been transferred to the river boats. So glad you had such a wonderful time.

I wonder if I can fit a short trip in this year?

Thanks for your comprehensive review. It's so wonderful to read both Crystal river cruise reviews posted today. I'm so pleased that Crystal seems to have been able to expand to the river market and still maintain there excellent performance.

The Crystal "magic" has definitely been transferred to the river boats. So glad you had such a wonderful time.

 

I wonder if I can fit a short trip in this year?

How was David Williams as entertainment host? Have not come across him.

How was David Williams as entertainment host? Have not come across him.

David performed nightly in Palm Court with an impressive repertoire of easy listening classics, musicals and contemporary pieces. We enjoyed his piano playing more than his vocals. He engaged well with his audience, taking requests and singing songs that were representative of the different nationalities onboard. He was personally charismatic but his performing style was rather subdued. In fairness, I think he would benefit from a larger crowd. Our sailing had just 58 guests and he often played to a half-empty room. David also hosted trivia, Liars Club and coordinated the land-based guest entertainers. He was very visible around the boat promoting these activities.

Thank you so much for your review...After 35 plus ocean cruises, we too have enjoyed river cruising...we have done 2, with different lines...we are not yet wedded to a particular brand.. we have booked the Rhine on the Debussy...looking so forward to our trip!! Glad to hear we made a wise choice in choosing Crystal!!

MightyQuinn...

Thank you so much for sharing your experience! My husband and I discovered Crystal about 9 years ago, and have been discussing the possibility of taking our first river cruise. Your review has me scanning next year's river cruise calendar in search for a special anniversary adventure! By the way, I know weather can vary a lot, but how did you fare weather wise?

So transfers to/from the airport are included? Wonderful!

Hi koko's_mom! I've read your posts on the Crystal forum and I think you'd really enjoy river cruising. It has all the good stuff of a Crystal ocean cruise in a smaller and more intimate setting. The additional inclusions, such as arrival/departure transfers and shore excursions in every port, make river cruising so easy and stress-free. Nothing to do but show up and enjoy! We also noticed on our sailing that the guest demographic was younger and more active than on ocean cruises.

As for weather, our sailing coincided with the arrival of spring in the Low Countries. We had a mix of weather with daytime temps ranging from 12c to 26c. Initially in the Netherlands, it was brisk and cool, with overcast skies but no rain. It was downright chilly if there was a wind. A light jacket and layers were in order. This pattern continued into Belgium, with temps gradually increasing and more sunny days. Our warmest day was in Brussels and our guides told us it was unseasonably hot! It only rained once, in Antwerp, but it came down in a deluge on the evening of the Crystal Signature Event. Oh well, better then than having it pour during our walking tours or canal rides. By the time we returned to Amsterdam towards the end of the cruise, it was warm and sunny. We spent our final day at Keukenhof under glorious sunny skies amidst an unforgettable spectacle of colorful tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Truly spectacular.

I hope you find the perfect river cruise for your anniversary. It really is a special way to travel.

Hi koko's_mom! I've read your posts on the Crystal forum and I think you'd really enjoy river cruising. It has all the good stuff of a Crystal ocean cruise in a smaller and more intimate setting. The additional inclusions, such as arrival/departure transfers and shore excursions in every port, make river cruising so easy and stress-free. Nothing to do but show up and enjoy! We also noticed on our sailing that the guest demographic was younger and more active than on ocean cruises.

 

As for weather, our sailing coincided with the arrival of spring in the Low Countries. We had a mix of weather with daytime temps ranging from 12c to 26c. Initially in the Netherlands, it was brisk and cool, with overcast skies but no rain. It was downright chilly if there was a wind. A light jacket and layers were in order. This pattern continued into Belgium, with temps gradually increasing and more sunny days. Our warmest day was in Brussels and our guides told us it was unseasonably hot! It only rained once, in Antwerp, but it came down in a deluge on the evening of the Crystal Signature Event. Oh well, better then than having it pour during our walking tours or canal rides. By the time we returned to Amsterdam towards the end of the cruise, it was warm and sunny. We spent our final day at Keukenhof under glorious sunny skies amidst an unforgettable spectacle of colorful tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Truly spectacular.

 

I hope you find the perfect river cruise for your anniversary. It really is a special way to travel.

Thank you so much for your comprehensive review and thoughts. Like koko's mom, very interested in trying one of the river boat sooner than later. I've also heard great feedback from dear friends that echo your thoughts and experiences. We got Crystalized in 2004 and have exclusively sailed crystal since then. We know quite a few crew from the ocean ships that have moved over to the river boats and they are wonderful people and provide incredible and warm service.

Thanks again,

Nancy

We are Crystalized Ocean cruisers considering our first Crystal river cruise.

Questions:

1. Only the Mozart shows a promenade deck. My DW wants a boat where she can do at least a little walking. Do the smaller 106 passenger boats also have at least a small area for walking exercise, or we need to stick to the larger Mozart?

2. What are "balcony windows" on all of the smaller boats. Are they merely windows that open, or is there some sort of actual balcony?

Thanks for indulging these novice questions.

Ed

Most river boats do not prioritise a walk area on board since..............you can walk on land daily. Remember, river boats stop daily for long periods. Crystal is one for the few who try to fit in one "sailing day" but even then, they are not always successful. Look deck plans and photo of the very top deck - where the sun beds are. You can walk up there. The sun-beds then to next to the railing but there is ample walking room up there unless fellow passengers pull their sun-beds and chairs all over the place.

What are "balcony windows" - they merely windows that open to get loads of fresh air. No balconies; not even on the Mozart. The posher rooms have metal railings once the "patio windows" are open. On the other ships it really is a very large window.

Thank you so much for your comprehensive review and thoughts. Like koko's mom, very interested in trying one of the river boat sooner than later. I've also heard great feedback from dear friends that echo your thoughts and experiences. We got Crystalized in 2004 and have exclusively sailed crystal since then. We know quite a few crew from the ocean ships that have moved over to the river boats and they are wonderful people and provide incredible and warm service.

We are Crystalized Ocean cruisers considering our first Crystal river cruise.

 

Questions:

 

1. Only the Mozart shows a promenade deck. My DW wants a boat where she can do at least a little walking. Do the smaller 106 passenger boats also have at least a small area for walking exercise, or we need to stick to the larger Mozart?

 

2. What are "balcony windows" on all of the smaller boats. Are they merely windows that open, or is there some sort of actual balcony?

 

Thanks for indulging these novice questions.

 

Ed

On Bach, there is no promenade but the outside top deck could easily serve as a walking track. It runs the entire length of the vessel and the perimeter is clear of chaise lounges and tables. The deck plan makes it look cluttered but in reality it's quite wide open. On a full sailing in hot weather, guests might move their chairs into the outer edge but there would be lots of room to negotiate around them.

We were also confused by "panoramic balcony window" and discovered it is marketing mumbo jumbo! There is no actual balcony. It's a huge window that takes up an entire outside wall of the suite. The upper half can be opened by remote control, with the window retracting partially or completely, thereby creating a feeling of openness akin to a balcony. There is another control to screen the open window, if desired. There's a tiny window ledge on which you could carefully balance drinks, but there's no sitting area apart from the edge of the bed.

Hi koko's_mom! I've read your posts on the Crystal forum and I think you'd really enjoy river cruising. It has all the good stuff of a Crystal ocean cruise in a smaller and more intimate setting. The additional inclusions, such as arrival/departure transfers and shore excursions in every port, make river cruising so easy and stress-free. Nothing to do but show up and enjoy! We also noticed on our sailing that the guest demographic was younger and more active than on ocean cruises.

 

As for weather, our sailing coincided with the arrival of spring in the Low Countries. We had a mix of weather with daytime temps ranging from 12c to 26c. Initially in the Netherlands, it was brisk and cool, with overcast skies but no rain. It was downright chilly if there was a wind. A light jacket and layers were in order. This pattern continued into Belgium, with temps gradually increasing and more sunny days. Our warmest day was in Brussels and our guides told us it was unseasonably hot! It only rained once, in Antwerp, but it came down in a deluge on the evening of the Crystal Signature Event. Oh well, better then than having it pour during our walking tours or canal rides. By the time we returned to Amsterdam towards the end of the cruise, it was warm and sunny. We spent our final day at Keukenhof under glorious sunny skies amidst an unforgettable spectacle of colorful tulips, daffodils and hyacinths. Truly spectacular.

 

I hope you find the perfect river cruise for your anniversary. It really is a special way to travel.

Hi MightyQuinn!

Thank you so much for the encouragement! It sounds as if it is a great combination of a new type of adventure along with the special touches we have become accustom to with Crystal!

Although we use the gym and promenade a lot on the ocean voyages, it looks like we will have wonderful walking opportunities in port, along with the shore excursions (like the e bikes!).

Off to look at the calendar......leaning towards the 10 day Amsterdam to Basel 😊

Thanks again!

Caryn

Thanks Nancy. I know you love all things Crystal so I'm sure you'd really enjoy a river cruise. You'd be a rockstar at the Crystal Loyalty Reception! I can't overstate how much we enjoyed Bach, even moreso than the ocean ships. I hope you give it a try soon.

+1!!! (y)

Nancy

Hi, MightyQuinn,

Thanks for your great review of the Crystal Bach. My husband and I will be on her from 10/28/18-11/11/18 and I found your review very informative. We took our first river cruise on the Ama Waterways AmaSonata two summers ago and loved it! Can you give me some info about the electrical outlets? The website lists 220/110 but I'm wondering where the different kinds of plugs are located in the suite and if the 220 outlets are the round recessed type or something different. I took an adaptor on the AmaSonata but it did not fit into the recessed outlets. My husband and I always seem to have a plethora of electronics to charge at night. I see that you are from the Pacific Northwest - so am I (Gig Harbor, WA).

Hi gigmom. There are electrical outlets by the desk and at the bedside tables where you can charge devices. They are recessed and all you'll need is a European adapter (round 2-prong plugs). Are you part of the group from PNW going on this Bach sailing? We considered it but timing didn't work. But we're looking forward to being on both Bach and Mahler next year. We love the Crystal river product! We're north of you in Victoria where it's been unseasonably hot for much of the summer. We've actually had heat warnings which are totally unheard of in this parts. I think the entire PNW has been the same. Hope you enjoy Bach!

Thanks for the info, MightyQuinn. We are really looking forward to being on Crystal Bach. Yes, we are with a group from PNW going on this trip. Victoria is one of our favorite places to visit. It is crazy how hot it has been for everyone in the PNW, but I think we're finally starting to see a little cooler weather here. I hope it cools off for you as well.

We are booked on the Bach. October 14th from Frankfurt to Amsterdam. So excited to hear all the great things about the ship.

Can't wait to go! Anyone else on our trip?