This September, in keeping with Crystal Cruises’ penchant for quality, choices and innovation, its popular Computer University@Sea will boast brand new, state-of-the-art iMac® workstations with 27-inch glossy, widescreen LED screens and the ability to use and learn both Windows® 7 and Mac® OS X 10.6 operating systems. In addition to the new hardware and a selection of almost two dozen complimentary CU@Sea classes, Crystal is adding five free new classes, taught on both Mac and Windows platforms, when applicable.

“We’re offering guests a choice to use the system with which they’re most familiar, or try something new with the assistance of our CU@Sea instructors,” says Bjorn Andersson, manager, shipboard network operations.

Along with existing Windows 7 classes, new introductory courses for Mac will be available, including:

* Introduction to Computers using iMac and OS X – Covering the iMac basics, from the Dock to the Desktop, plus Mac-specific commands and icons;

* Files, Folders, and the Finder using iMac and OS X – More in-depth instruction on creating, saving and retrieving Word documents on a Mac platform;

* Word Processing using Word in Office: Mac 2008 – Microsoft® Word, Excel and PowerPoint programs, and using the Toolbox on a Mac platform;

* Processing Photos with iPhoto® – Both basic and advanced options for guests who want to learn anything from how to transfer photos to a Mac using iPhoto, to creating smart albums and compressing and sharing photos via email or blog; and

* IMac Tips & Tricks using OS X – Covering a number of time-saving features, including system preferences, advanced Finder and Dock techniques, Smart Folders and Spotlight elements.

Adds Andersson, “These classes will help beginners get started with computing in an unintimidating, welcoming environment, and advanced users to hone their skills.”

First introduced in 1996, Crystal’s Computer University@Sea is the most extensive computer learning program at sea, offering dozens of complimentary courses tailored for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. In addition to the new workstations and 24-hour Internet access from CU@Sea labs and staterooms, laptops are available for rent and can be used anywhere onboard.