Join Women's Adventure Travels™ & NY Times #1 Bestselling Writer Valerie Frankel
for an Inspired European Week at Sea!
Mediterranean Cruise
September 15-22, 2026
Cruise Athens to Rome with Crystal Cruises Aboard the Crystal Serenity
Join Women's Adventure Travels™ (WAT) & Valerie Frankel for a Mediterranean Experience with Crystal Cruises
Set sail aboard the Crystal Serenity for a luxurious seven-night, eight-day Mediterranean cruise from Athens to Rome, visiting Santorini, Bodrum in Turkey, Valletta in Malta, and Trapani and Sardinia in Italy with a fabulous finish in Rome.
This journey blends world-class cruising with exclusive, small-group experiences. Guests will gather for private cocktail receptions and sit-down dinners on the opening and closing nights with acclaimed writer Valerie Frankel and WAT's Adventuress in Chief and trip co-host Karen Loftus at the helm creating the perfect balance and ease of real connections, spirited conversations and a culinary, cultural and creative celebration throughout your journey.
Mid-week Valerie, an acclaimed and prolific journalist, writer, memoirist, and highly sought after celebrity ghostwriter and literary agent at the prestigious Aevitas Creative Management agency— will take the Main stage on our day at sea and share insights and spill the literary tea from a career spanning 60+ books, including eight New York Times bestsellers, including two #1 titles, and multiple national bestsellers.
At this sophisticated Supper Club at Sea, Valerie will pull back the curtain on the publishing world—sharing insider insights, hard-won wisdom, and coveted strategies from the front lines of the literary industry.
What’s hot in publishing today? Which stories are selling—and why? She’ll reveal the trends shaping the marketplace today and the timeless themes that continue to captivate readers—and publishers—around the globe.
Attendees, readers and writers alike will gain invaluable tips on crafting a powerful book proposal that commands attention, how to secure top-tier literary representation, and an understanding of the nuanced and necessary elements that make publishers say “yes.”
Beyond the business, she’ll explore the art and soul of all forms of storytelling—how ideas spark, evolve, and take shape across genres and mediums—and answer the age-old question every reader and writer asks: Where do great stories come from? What makes them compelling?
This is more than a talk—this unforgettable experience is for readers and writers alike and the creatively inclined as they will be privy to a rare, front-row access and an opportunity to learn directly from a master storyteller, mentor, and industry insider, in an intimate, unforgettable and inspiring setting at sea. It's also a lovely chance to disconnect from the everyday, yet connect, collaborate, and be creatively inspired and recharged all week traveling among a remarkable circle of brilliant, like-minded, highly spirited women who travel deeply, think boldly, and love words, wanderlust, ideas and inspiration as much as you do.
Don’t miss your seat at this spirited table. The stories shared throughout may spark the next great chapter—yours.
Spaces are extremely limited. So, secure your spot today for this joyful, soul-stirring travel experience cruising through these evocative ports in the Mediterranean.
Best bet is to hop on a consult call with WAT's Adventurous in Chief, Karen Loftus to discuss the details of this trip and to secure your spot. Depending upon the interest in the group, pre and post tours in Athens and Rome and private curated port tours for our group only, will be designed with all of you in mind. All details discussed on your call.
In addition to this highly spirited, soul-stirring journey, and Valerie's Talk and her Q&A on our Day at Sea, you as a group will also be privy to three intimate sessions with Valerie Frankel. This access is unprecedented.
Valerie will pick a book for all of us to read in advance. We will then have one Book Club session as a group on the ship, all curated and led by Val. We will also have one Creative Writing Session for all of you with Valerie, as often the hardest part in all forms of writing is simply getting started. You will leave with a seed or perhaps more, be it a speech, a pitch, short story, memoir or more as a result of this creative session.
Finally, we will close the creative cruise with Valerie's talk on Empathy and Intentional & Effective Listening. It is the superpower that has enabled her to deep dive into CEO's and celebrities' soul and lives. She will share how empathy fuels her work as a trusted and ghostwriter and why it is the foundation of powerful storytelling, leadership, and meaningful relationships.
She believes empathy is a gift, but a skill that can be developed and honed to help us all further develop our personal and professional relationships. This signature talk will be launched onboard, on our cruise, with this intimate group. you do not want to miss this!
This cruise is quickly selling out, as the cabin inventory is incredibly low. So, if you are interested, please inquire asap. The two categories still available are DOUBLE GUEST ROOM WITH OCEAN VIEW ($5,200 - it was $5,700/Guest) or AQUAMARINE VERANDA SUITE ($7,600/it was $8,600/Guest).
Please set up your consult call with Karen Loftus today. the cruise must be booked via Karen Loftus of WAT & Lofty Traveler in order to be privy to the many private sessions, excursions and events. Email Karen Loftus today to set up your consult call - karenlofty@gmail.com.
Read further below to capture all of the travel and cruise details.
To view this Trip & Crystal's Ship VIEW HERE and to view Remaining Room Categories, please - VIEW HERE
Please read Crytal's Terms & Conditions Page here regarding payments, deposits, cancellations, etc.
PS - See what our many WAT/Women's Adventure clients and our Lofty Travelers have said about us on our Testimonial Page.
This is a peek into how we work with all of our travelers and clients, be it groups or custom travel, here on our Travel Consultant Page
For more information on Karen Loftus, your host, check out our Founders Page.
If you have any other questions, go to our - FAQ Page.
See below for more details!
We can't wait to travel with you!
Come For the Fun
Adventure Details
About the Trip
Set sail aboard the Crystal Serenity for a luxurious 7-night Mediterranean cruise from Athens to Rome, with stops in Santorini, Bodrum, Valletta, Trapani, and Sardinia.
Choose How You Cruise
A Cultural, Creative, Luxe Women’s Cruise Curated by Lofty Traveler™
This is not a one-size-fits-all cruise. This is unlike any other travel experience or arrangement, as this Supper Club at Sea is a bespoke blend of community and customization — where you choose how you travel, how you connect, and how you cruise.
Hosted by Karen Loftus (aka Lofty) — an accomplished Luxury Travel Advisor, Storyteller (award-winning playwright, international comedian and journalist) and founder of Women’s Adventure Travels™ — this experience brings together the best of both of her businesses and both worlds: the camaraderie and connection of group travel, paired with the freedom and flexibility of a private, custom itinerary designed just for you.
Join our inspiring community of women for private events and curated experiences including:
🌸 Exclusive opening and closing cocktail soirées
🍽️ Followed by dinners on the open and close
💬 Award-winning Writer Valerie Frankel's Inspiring Talk and Q&A
🌍 Exclusive, curated tours for our group at each port
You’ll experience community, connection and choice at every turn.
Here, no two journeys are alike. You decide how you want to play it:
Join WAT's curated tours, explore with Crystal’s excursions, or design your own adventures — or mix and match all of the three above.
You can join for dining and events only, dive fully into our itinerary and tours, or DIY with your own play at port, savoring some solo downtime along the way.
In the consult call and throughout the booking process, Karen Loftus/Lofty will personally help design your perfect tour and experience so that you can flow seamlessly between curated moments and spontaneous self-discovery, so it fits you and or your group's travel style, pace, and passions.
Bring your friends, family, career colleagues, or group (book clubs, we're looking at you) onboard or you can sail solo, but not alone — either way, you’ll be a part of something extraordinary!
✨ Cabin fares start at $5,200
Two categories available -
DOUBLE GUEST ROOM WITH OCEAN VIEW ($5,200 was $5,700/Guest) or
AQUAMARINE VERANDA SUITE ($7,600/ was $8,600/Guest)
+ A WAT Travel Planning & Participation Fee
To access the Valerie Frankel, Meet & Greet, private dinners, cocktail parties, creative workshops and all group-exclusive events, you must book directly with Karen Loftus.
Set up a consult call below to discuss or email Karen Loftus directly.
Email - karenlofty@gmail.com
(Subject: CRYSTAL CRUISE 2026 - VALERIE)
Phone # (917) 576 3110. Let's hop on a call to discuss further.
Space is extremely limited. Call or email today to inquire, discuss further or secure your space.
To view this Trip & Crystal's Ship VIEW HERE
Remaining Room Categories on Crystal Serenity - VIEW HERE
Please read Crytal's Terms & Conditions Page here regarding payments, deposits, cancellations, etc.
Trip Basics
Dates: Departs on September 15, 2026.
Days: 8 Days / 7 Nights
Style: Luxury Cruise, Culture, Connection
Needs: Spots are limited! To be part of this exclusive group and gain access to all private receptions, dinners, and curated events, and private tours, you must book directly with WAT/Karen Loftus.
Treats: Opening and closing private receptions with Val followed by dinners, exclusive access to Valerie Frankel’s literary talk and Q&A, curated tours in destinations with Karen Loftus, and unforgettable stops in Greece, Turkey, Malta, and Italy.
Accommodations: Aboard the Crystal Serenity, offering elegant staterooms, world-class dining, and signature Crystal service throughout your Mediterranean journey.
Extras: Looking to extend your European adventure before or after the cruise? Lofty Traveler is here to make your travel dreams a reality.
Host: Karen Loftus, "Lofty" (aka Lofty) —
Women's Adventure Travels - Adventuress in Chief
Lofty Traveler™ - A Luxury Travel Advisor, Storyteller (Award-Winning Playwright, International Comedian and Journalist), Savvy Traveler, Member of Virtuoso,
Member of ATTA - Adventure Travel Trade Association, Member of Women Travel Leaders
Fees: Starting at $5,200 USD per person +
a Travel Planning Fee. Includes booking & curating your cruise, exclusive opening and closing cocktail soirées, intimate hosted dinners, Valerie Frankel's inspiring talk and Q&A, plus optional exclusive, curated tours for our group at each port
The Best of Both: Join Karen Loftus
as she blends both of her businesses,
Women’s Adventure Travels™ and Lofty Traveler™
to create a bespoke blend of community and customization— where you choose how you travel, connect, and cruise.
It is an extraordinary sailing experience that blends group travel magic with private, custom-curated freedom!
Tours: Similar to tours offered by cruise companies, the tours will be offered at a fee for each. We will be working with private local tour operators in each port.
Book Club: Val will choose a book reflective of our trip and travel, which we will all read & discuss at sea. Val will host The Book Club.
Creative Writing Workshop: You will be privy to learn from the best in the business in this workshop. Be it a pitch, a speech, short story or memoir, the hardest part is getting started.
Empathy Lecture/Talk: This is Val's superpower. After her talk, it may be yours too.
Biggest Bonus - Up close, intimate access to a sought-after, well-celebrated writer, ghost writer celebrities and CEO's and literary agent. Privy to talks, workshops, Book Club & a ton of fun with Valerie Frankel as this trip's co-host, not to mention the amazng women on board.
You don't want to miss this.
Come As You Are
Come for the Community
Come for the Creativity
Workshop Feature: Empathy — The Art of the Deep Dive with Valerie Frankel
"Empathy is my gift, but it is a skill that can be developed and honed."
As a trusted ghostwriter to celebrities, founders, and CEOs, Valerie Frankel has built a career on one essential skill: empathy. It is the quiet superpower that allows her to deep dive inside the most intimate spaces of her clients’ lives — to understand not just what they do, but who they are.
In this exclusive onboard session, Val will share how empathy fuels her work as a trusted and ghostwriter and why it is the foundation of powerful storytelling, leadership, and meaningful relationships. More importantly, she’ll explore how empathy is not simply an innate trait, but a skill that can be cultivated and strengthened.
Through thoughtful discussion and practical insight, guests will leave with a deeper understanding of how intentional listening and true empathy can elevate their personal and professional relationships, deepening connections, professional influence, and everyday interactions.
Intelligent, grounded, and deeply relevant — this is a conversation that extends far beyond the page.
This conversation will precede our closing cocktail party. After a week where deep connections are made and new friendships are formed, this is the perfect closing workshop where Val lets us deep dive into her work and world, enabling us all to be a bit better in our personal and professional relationships as she shares this gift and how she has honed it to work with some of the biggest names in entertainment and business.
Creative Writing Workshop with Valerie Frankel
In addition to Valeries' TALK, Q&A and her closing talk on Empathy, our group will be privy to a private creative writing session with Val. The hardest part is getting started. We will have one Creative Writing Session with Val, as often the hardest part in all writing is getting started. You will leave with a seed or perhaps more, be it a speech, a pitch, short story, memoir or more. Finally, we will close with Val's talk on empathy, the superpower that has enabled her to deep dive into CEO's and celebrities lives.
Book Club
In advance of the trip, Valerie will pick a book for all to read prior to the trip that reflects the trip or the destination in some way. One leisurely afternoon prior to our pop-up happy hour, we will have a Book Club at Sea. (Book announced well in advance.)
* Attendance to all events, talks and workshops is suggested but not mandatory.
Come for the Travel
Day to Day Itinerary
Day 1 [September 15th] | Piraeus (Athens) Greece
Today, its Old Town is alive with contemporary shops and traditional bazaars that teem with locals and visitors, but this charming “old” quarter is infantile compared to one of Bodrum's most important sites: the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Dating back to 350 B.C., the 140-foot white marble structure still captivates even the savviest scientists, ranking as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
That aside, traditional wooden gulets and sleek yachts define the harbor, reinforcing Bodrum’s natural connection to the sea and making arrival by ship feel instinctive. Expect clear coves, calm swimming waters, and long, unhurried lunches by the water shape the pace of the day.
Together with fresh seafood, a refined Turkish cuisine, and wine-forward tables that prioritize quality over scene. There is an inherent sense of ease here as Bodrum never feels rushed or crowded; it rewards travelers who appreciate space, light, and an understated luxury.
Optional excursions available today via Crystal Cruises include a Local Bazaar Stroll, Traditional Gullet Sailing Trip, Tour of St. Peter Castle with Meze Tasting, Tour of St. John Castle with Turkish Breakfast, or a relaxing Beach Escape at the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum Hotel. We arrive in port at 8:00 AM. Departure at 6:00 PM
WAT Private Excursions - TBD - Depending upon the group size and interest. Pop Up Cocktail party at 6:30PM onboard. TBD.
Dinner arrangements on your own, with your group or with others in our group or on the cruise. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Day 2 [September 16th] | Santorini, Greece
Santorini is a breathtaking island in the southern Aegean Sea known for its iconic, blue-domed churches, picturesque, whitewashed buildings, and stunning sunsets. Of all the Cyclades Islands, Santorini is often considered the most dramatic with its dark landscape and stunning whitewashed buildings. The rich soil is ideal for grapes and local vines producing a cherished crop known for its special volcanic taste.
In Santorini days unfold slowly: sea breezes, cliffside lunches, and sunsets that stop conversation mid-sentence as the day seductively slips into evening. Arriving by sea elevates it all—no crowds, no rush—just a front-row entrance to one of the world’s most seductive islands. Santorini isn’t just a destination; it’s a mood, and it’s unforgettable.
Available excursions via Crystal Cruises today includes a Catamaran Sailing Adventure, Interactive Cooking Class, Volcanic Wine Tasting, and a Volcanic Island Hike. We arrive in port at 8:00 AM. Departure at 6:00 PM.
WAT Private Excursions - TBD - depending upon the group size and interest. Pop Up Cocktail party at 6:30PM onboard. TBD. Dinner arrangements on your own, with your group or with others in our group or on the cruise. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Day 3 [September 17th] | Bodrum, Turkey
Today, its Old Town is alive with contemporary shops and traditional bazaars that teem with locals and visitors, but this charming “old” quarter is infantile compared to one of Bodrum's most important sites: the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Dating back to 350 B.C., the 140-foot white marble structure still captivates even the savviest scientists, ranking as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
That aside, traditional wooden gulets and sleek yachts define the harbor, reinforcing Bodrum’s natural connection to the sea and making arrival by ship feel instinctive. Expect clear coves, calm swimming waters, and long, unhurried lunches by the water shape the pace of the day.
Together with fresh seafood, a refined Turkish cuisine, and wine-forward tables that prioritize quality over scene. There is an inherent sense of ease here as Bodrum never feels rushed or crowded; it rewards travelers who appreciate space, light, and an understated luxury.
Optional excursions available today via Crystal Cruises include a Local Bazaar Stroll, Traditional Gullet Sailing Trip, Tour of St. Peter Castle with Meze Tasting, Tour of St. John Castle with Turkish Breakfast, or a relaxing Beach Escape at the Mandarin Oriental Bodrum Hotel. We arrive in port at 8:00 AM. Departure at 6:00 PM
WAT Private Excursions - TBD - Depending upon the group size and interest. Book Club at 6:30PM onboard. TBD.
Dinner arrangements on your own, with your group or with others in our group or on the cruise. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Day 4 [September 18th] | Day at Sea
Today, you can sleep in or catch the stunning sunrise on the terrace; linger over a boozy brunch, then drift between pool and pages, sauna and sea views. You can slip away for a tasting, massage, masterclass or a movie.
4:00 - 5:30 - Whatever you do by day, be sure to meet us in the Hollywood Theater at 4:00 PM for Valerie Frankel's Talk followed by a Q&A.
6:00 - WAT Pop Up Cocktail Party to follow. TBD.
7:00 - After this inspirational event, you have the evening free for dinner at your leisure at whichever restaurant or bar you chose. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Day 5 [September 19th] | Valletta, Malta
Discover the capital city of Malta, a vibrant Mediterranean hub home to stunning baroque architecture and ancient ruins. Beautiful and unique, known for the sun-kissed, sand-colored buildings that populate its walled streets. Discover important landmarks such as St. John's Co-Cathedral, the National Museum of Archeology or the Lower Barrakka Gardens as you stroll.
What sets Valletta apart is its density of beauty and history. Baroque palaces, austere fortifications, and richly adorned churches exist side by side, never feeling curated or contrived. The city is walkable and intimate, yet endlessly layered, rewarding those who slow down and look closely. Culturally, Valletta is both deeply historic and quietly contemporary. Elegant cafés spill into narrow streets, refined restaurants reinterpret Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine, and a thoughtful arts scene adds modern rhythm to ancient walls.
Excursions available today via Crystal Cruises include a Coastal Jeep Adventure, Historic Palaces of Malta Tour, Maltese Crafts & Wine Tasting, and a Cruise to Vittoriosa aboard a traditional Maltese boat called a dghajsa. We arrive in port at 8:00 AM. Departure at 6:00 PM
WAT Private Excursions - TBD - depending upon the group size and interest. Pop Up Cocktail party at 6:30PM onboard. TBD.
Dinner arrangements on your own, with your group or with others in our group or on the cruise. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Day 6 [September 20th] | Trapani, Italy
There is no shortage of beautiful, historical places in Sicily, but Trapani, on the island's west coast, seems to have it all. Once the port for the Elymian settlement of Eryx, the city became a Carthaginian naval base in 260 BCE before the Romans took it over in 241 BCE. It thrived through the Middle Ages, and much of the medieval old city remains intact. Of course, no trip to Sicily would be complete without a dip in the sea; surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine sands, and rugged coastline, Trapani's beaches are an absolute delight! White Lotus fans will love this stunning stop.
What truly distinguishes Trapani is its landscape. Just beyond town lie the ancient salt pans—mirror-flat, geometric, and glowing pink and gold at sunset—one of the most evocative scenes in all of Sicily. Above it all rises Erice, the medieval hill town perched in the clouds, offering sweeping views and a sense of Sicily untouched by trends. The food is pure western Sicily: couscous infused with North African influence, pristine seafood, paired with plenty of wine and vibrant conversation.
Optional shore excursions available today through Crystal Cruises include a Visit to a Sicilian Oil Farm, Segesta Archeological Site Tour, and a Marsala Wines & Mothia Tour. We arrive in port at 8:00 AM. Departure at 5:00 PM
WAT Private Excursions - TBD - depending upon the group size and interest. Creative Writing Class at 5:30PM-6:30PM onboard. TBD.
Pop Up Cocktail Party at 6:30 to Follow. Dinner arrangements on your own, with your group or with others in our group or on the cruise will follow. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Day 7 [September 21st] | Cagliari (Sardinia), Italy
Cagliari, capital of Sardinia, sprawls across the hills promising awe-inspiring views for those who venture to Monte Urpinu Park. At its heart lies the historic Castello district, where a Roman amphitheater, medieval towers built by the Pisans, and a 13th-century cathedral with an intricately carved crypt sit beside the monolithic architecture of the Mussolini era.
Down by the harbor, the eateries and bars in the Marina buzz with life. In Via Sardegna and Via Cavour taste local flavors such as the peppery salami mustela, salty pecorino cheese, and carta musica, a wafer-thin flatbread said to sound like music when it snaps. They all go well with a glass of cannonau or vernaccia, the island's robust wines.
Available excursions today via Crystal include a Sardinian Jeep & Hike Adventure, a Tour of Barumini & Wine Tasting, the Flavors of Sardinia Cheese Tasting, and a Sardinian Beach Club Escape. . We arrive in port at 7:00 AM. Departure at 4:00 PM
This is our final night together. So, once back on the ship, freshen up and then join us at 5:15. We will go back to where it all started at Pulse for our exclusive closing cocktail and a continued conversation with writer Valerie Frankel. In this intimate private event, Val will share her superpower with us. She will talk about Empathy.
Dinner arrangements on your own, with your group or with others in our group or on the cruise. Inquire if looking for others to dine with you.
Giggles, drinks and the spirit of conversation at sea will likely follow after dinner. Follow the fun...
Day 8 [September 22nd] | Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy - Disembark
Discover the charming port town of Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome and the treasures of the Eternal City. You can venture through Civitavecchia, noted for its fine seafood and beautiful monuments. Civitavecchia is also a gateway to the real Lazio—olive groves, hill towns, and vineyards just inland.
Rome is just one hour away, and we highly recommend extending your adventure a few days before flying home.
Some of you will deport and head straight to the airport in Rome with a transfer via Crystal Cruises. Others will continue to explore by staying in Rome overnight or for a few days or more.
On your initial consultation call with Karen Loftus, let her know if you are interested in pre or post tours with our group/with WAT, with Crystal Cruises or on your own, all of which can be arranged by Karen, be it for a few days or far more.
We look forward to the comraderies, the many conversations, the endless inspiration and all of the fun to come on and off of the ship.
Space is limited, so reach out asap via email to set up a call with Karen Loftus to secure your spot and to get your travel plans well underway.
Thank you for your interest!
Warmly,
Karen Loftus
Come for the Serenity
Accommodations
Crystal Serenity
The Crystal Serenity is the flagship of Crystal Cruises, combining modern sophistication with timeless elegance. With space for just 740 guests and an exceptional space-to-guest ratio, it offers an intimate, uncrowded experience at sea.
Fully refurbished in 2023, the ship features expanded suites, refreshed public spaces, and enhanced wellness amenities. Accommodations range from elegant Single Guest Rooms to luxurious Penthouse Suites, each with butler service and refined finishes.
Guests can dine at multiple world-class venues, including Umi Uma by Master Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the only Nobu restaurant at sea. The ship also features a serene spa, panoramic fitness center, and paddle tennis and pickleball courts.
Balancing scale and exclusivity, the Crystal Serenity delivers a personalized, luxury cruise experience centered on comfort, culture, and connection.
Crystal Serenity Accommodations
The Crystal Serenity offers a full range of luxurious accommodations, each designed for comfort, elegance, and personalized service. At the top end, the Crystal Penthouse Suite spans 117 sq m with a private veranda, panoramic ocean views, a study, and a master bath with whirlpool tub, complemented by butler service and exclusive dining experiences.
The Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite provides 60 sq m of refined space, a private veranda, whirlpool tub, walk-in closet, and access to specialty dining.
The Sapphire Veranda and Aquamarine Veranda Suites each offer around 30 sq m of living space with private verandas, spacious seating areas, queen or twin beds, walk-in closets, and dedicated butler service.
Solo travelers can enjoy the Single Guest Room with Ocean View, while couples or friends may prefer the Double Guest Room with Ocean View or Double Guest Room with Veranda, all featuring comfortable living areas and elegant finishes.
Every suite and stateroom on the Crystal Serenity blends thoughtful design, luxury amenities, and personalized service, creating a serene and unforgettable cruising experience at sea.
Crystal Serenity Dinning
On the Crystal Serenity, dining is an exceptional highlight of the journey. Guests can indulge in the ship’s exclusive Umi Uma by Nobu Matsuhisa, the only Nobu restaurant at sea, featuring a sophisticated fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. Signature dishes include Nobu-style Black Cod, Grilled Chilean Sea Bass, Wagyu Beef Filet, and an array of fresh sushi and sashimi. Each guest is guaranteed one reservation at Umi Uma, with additional reservations available for a fee, subject to availability.
Beyond Umi Uma, the Serenity offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste. Osteria D’Ovidio serves Northern Italian specialties like lamb and braised beef tortellini, while The Supper Club provides an elegant dinner paired with live entertainment on select evenings. Additional venues include the Marketplace Buffet, Trident Grill, Tastes Kitchen & Bar, and The Vintage Room, each delivering unique culinary experiences.
For ultimate convenience, 24-hour in-suite dining is available, featuring selections from the Waterside Restaurant menu. Whether savoring a signature meal at Umi Uma or exploring the diverse onboard venues, guests will enjoy a world-class culinary journey throughout this cruise.
Spaces, Wellness & Entertainment
Aboard the Crystal Serenity, guests are immersed in elegance and comfort, with thoughtfully designed public spaces including a grand Atrium, intimate piano lounges, panoramic viewing areas, and relaxing poolside spots.
The Aurōra Spa & Wellness Center offers 12 treatment rooms, sauna and steam facilities, and a full-service fitness center, providing rejuvenation for both body and mind. Evening entertainment ranges from Broadway-style productions and live music to lectures, movies, and themed events, ensuring every night is engaging and memorable.
Combining spacious design, world-class wellness, and vibrant entertainment, the Serenity delivers a truly unforgettable cruising experience.
Don’t miss your chance to sail in luxury with Karen Loftus & Valerie Frankel — book now to secure your spot and gain exclusive access to private events, curated tours, and insider experiences that won’t be available anywhere else.
If Not Now, When?
Rates & Availability
SHARED ACCOMMODATION
Standard Fare beginning at $5,200 for double occupancy.
Accommodations can be upgraded for an additional fee. Please inquire if you are interested.
Please note: A deposit is required to secure your spot.
Please read Crytal's Terms & Conditions Page here regarding payments, deposits, cancellations, etc.
Space is extremely limited. The ship is booking up quickly for this trip.
Contact us ASAP to Secure Your Spot!
Email - womensadventuretravels@gmail.com or karenlofty@gmail.com
Call - Karen Loftus - (917) 576 - 3110
Inclusions
Gratuities
On-board food and drink (exclusions may apply)
Access to state-of-the-art fitness center
Complimentary high-speed internet access
Private Welcome Event/Meet & Greet with Valerie Frankel & Closing Cocktail Party
Three Private Workshops/Talks with Valerie (Book Club, Creative Writing & Empathy)
Exclusions
International Airfare
Shore Excursions with WAT or Crystal
Accommodations pre and post cruise
Travel Insurance
Shopping, Spa and Incidental Expenses
Planning Fee
Your Hosts
Karen Loftus
WAT'S ADVENTURESS IN CHIEF • LUXURY TRAVEL ADVISOR • STORYTELLER
Karen Loftus is a well-known and respected travel and lifestyle writer and photographer with a sense of humor, a wicked sense of adventure, and an insatiable appetite for off-the-beaten-path endeavors.
Before launching Lofty Traveler™ and Women’s Adventure Travels™ LLC, she spent 15 years as a luxury travel and lifestyle writer, contributing to 100+ media outlets, including Forbes, Robb Report, Architectural Digest, Vogue, New York Daily News, Globe & Mail, and South China Morning Post.
Her assignments took her to 70+ countries across all seven continents, connecting with top tastemakers and covering prestigious travel and lifestyle brands. Those experiences and global relationships are assets she shares with her clients in the luxury travel space today.
Alongside her editorial career, she founded The Lofty Style Lounge, a high-profile LA event company. She curated large-scale (300+) events for A-list celebrities, stylists, studio executives, media, and top-tier influencers. The Lounge became a launchpad for international brands—many of which went on to major licensing and celebrity collaborations.
Before that, she spent a decade touring internationally as a stand-up comedian, becoming the first female comic to perform in the Middle East (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Bahrain). She took her show, American Woman, to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the Raffles Hotel in Singapore, the Hard Rock Hotel Bali, the Opera House in Barcelona, and the American Clubs in Asia.
In tandem with her touring, she founded Body Comedy, a nonprofit using humor to heal. She worked with thousands of women and girls—survivors of physical and sexual violence—and developed a first-of-its-kind six-week program for male domestic violence offenders in LA detention centers. Body Comedy was backed by Comedy Central, Sony, and Nike.
As a playwright and actor, she became the first Tennessee Williams Fellow, opening the then-new Tennessee Williams Center at Sewanee with my play I’m Not the Blonde You Think I Am.
All of these entrepreneurial experiences—across entertainment, media, travel, and events—have given her a 360-degree view of business, storytelling, and brand-building. Through LOFT Consulting, she has collaborated with CEOs, celebrities, tastemakers, influencers, and leading hospitality brands on content and strategy, branding, events, press trips, speech writing, and media coaching.
Today, she weaves the many threads of her past into Lofty Traveler™ and Women’s Adventure Travels™. She brings the same creativity, customization, and meticulous execution to her luxury travel.
Whether curating a once-in-a-lifetime journey or orchestrating a high-touch corporate retreat, her goal remains the same: to deliver elevated, seamless, and unforgettable experiences— rooted in passion, purpose, and a touch of Lofty magic.
Lofty Traveler™ is an Independent Affiliate of Cadence Travel, a Virtuoso Agency.
Valerie Frankel
WRITER • GHOSTWRITER • LITERARY AGENT
Valerie Frankel has devoted her life to storytelling. Val has published fifteen novels, from mysteries to romcoms, for women in early adulthood all the way to midlife—and a couple of them even won some awards. Her two memoirs—Thin Is the New Happy and It’s Hard Not to Hate You—explore themes that most women can relate to: body image issues and bursts of firey emotion that seem to come out of nowhere. For the last eighteen years, Val has helped other people tell their stories as a ghostwriter, working with A-list celebrities, actors, comedians, CEOs and experts in science and medicine. And as of 2023, Val has been bringing stories into the world in a new way, as a literary agent.
After graduating from Dartmouth College, Val sought office jobs in magazine publishing and wound up spending ten years as Articles Editor at Condé Nast’s Mademoiselle. During her tenure, she wrote monthly advice columns on sex, men, dating, etiquette and friendship. As a freelance writer, Val wrote for nearly every major woman’s magazine in the United States, and many abroad. Her articles have been reprinted around the world.
While editing a monthly magazine by day, Val wrote her first novel, A Deadline for Murder, at night and on the weekends. It sold to Simon & Schuster when she was twenty-five-years-old. Since then, she became addicted to writing books. With twenty published titles under own name, she fell into ghostwriting for celebrities and experts and found that it was more fun to work with cool people on their books that toil away by herself. She’s been very fortunate to have collaborated on nearly forty books, including seven New York Times bestsellers.
One of Val’s first ghostwriting clients was the legendary Joan Rivers. They created Joan’s guide to plastic surgery, Men Are Stupid and They Like Big Boobs. More recently, Val worked with another blond comedian who is fast becoming a household name—Leanne Morgan—on her essay collection, What in the World?! Some of her other clients: Snooki from Jersey Shore’s, on the New York Times bestselling novel, A Shore Thing; Sebastian Maniscalco on his national bestseller Stay Hungry; Omarosa Manigault Newman on the #1 New York Times bestseller Unhinged; TV stars from the ‘80s; four Real Housewives; an America Idol finalist; CEOs of iconic brands; a neurologist and a few psychologists, and many more. Go to valeriefrankel.com for a partial list. (Sometimes a ghostwriter is a true ghost, and leaves no trace of herself…)
In 2023, Valerie expanded her role in the literary world by joining Aevitas Creative Management, the largest independent literary agency in New York, as an agent, putting her editorial insight to work helping other authors navigate the publishing landscape. In the last two years, she’s sold ten books to publishers and feels a special glow helping first time authors’ dreams come true.
On the cruise, Val will share some hilarious stories about her career and reveal what some of her clients are really like (the ones that didn’t make her sign non-disclosure agreements, at least). Val will pull back the curtain on the publishing world—sharing insider insights, hard-won wisdom, and coveted strategies from the front lines of the literary industry. What’s hot in publishing today? Which stories are selling—and why? She’ll reveal the trends shaping the marketplace today and the timeless themes that continue to captivate readers—and publishers—around the globe.
Attendees will gain invaluable tips on crafting a powerful book proposal that commands attention, how to secure top-tier literary representation, and an understanding of the nuanced and necessary elements that make publishers say “yes.”
Beyond the business, she’ll explore the art and soul of all forms of storytelling—how ideas spark, evolve, and take shape across genres and mediums—and answer the age-old question every reader and writer asks: Where do great stories come from?
This is more than a talk—it’s a rare, front-row opportunity to learn directly from a true industry insider in an intimate, inspiring setting at sea. It's a chance to connect, collaborate, and be creatively inspired and recharged among a remarkable circle of brilliant, like-minded, spirited women who travel deeply, think boldly, and love words, ideas, and inspiration as much as you do.
Don’t miss your seat at the table. The stories shared here may spark the next great chapter—yours.
Secure your spot today. Spaces are limited.
Inquire - karenlofty@gmail.com or womensadventuretravels@gmail.com / #(917) 576 3110
The Transformation
is in The Travel
Why Work With WAT
Karen Loftus launched Women's Adventure Travels (WAT) in 2018. WAT is a boutique travel company specializing in small, customized trips for women. WAT supports women-owned businesses and celebrates women of influence and distinction in each market.
When it comes to experiencing the best of the best in travel, it's all about who you know. Karen has extensive global connections, years of deep knowledge, and first-hand experience, having traveled to 70+ countries and all seven continents as a travel writer and a travel advisor to ensure that her travelers receive the best treatment and experience.
Many call her a Travel Advocate as she fights quietly behind the scenes to ensure that her clients and travelers get the best of the best VVIP treatment on a customized trip or while traveling with her on a WAT trip or when a private or corporate client or group hires her to host or lead a trip.
As a luxury Virtuoso travel advisor, Karen and her clients can access exclusive benefits, including unique experiences, special deals, complimentary perks, and VIP treatment.
An Independent Affiliate of Cadence Travel
A Virtuoso Agency
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