Crystal Symphony arrived today on a cruise from Lisbon to Dover. It was good visibility after the mist of the past two days. The "Humps", a collection of small islands, are in the background with their seal population that can be visited on locally run rib tours. The coast of Normandy was also visible, which the local population in June 1940 must have looked at apprehensively. They had to make the agonizing decision whether to evacuate their children or face the unknown on Guernsey as the occupying forces drew closer with gunfire clearly audible from the fighting on the French coast.
These guests had the chance to learn more about the Occupation in World War 2 as their guide on this specially Guernsey Occupation liveried coach explains the history. The Occupation lasted from 1940 until May 9th 1945, a date which is still celebrated as Liberation Day on Guernsey and Jersey, their own national holiday. These specialized tours are some of the opportunities that visiting guests have to learn more about these unique islands.
The Crystal Symphony with a crew of over 500, and capacity of just under a 1,000 guests, was built in Finland in 1995. She has undergone 3 major refits and a "facelift" in 2012 intended to offer her guests the best Crystal experience which they will enjoy on their journey to Honfleur.
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