For more than 30 years, the Crystal Cruise brand has been known for its luxurious accommodations at sea and exciting itineraries. After a COVID-induced collapse and ensuing bankruptcy in 2022, high-end adventure travel company Abercrombie & Kent acquired the Crystal Cruise brand and its two ocean-going ships.
Fans were excited and hopeful at the news, wondering what would be in store for the beloved brand and its two Crystal ships. Serenity and glass Symphony. Your wait is almost over as the line’s relaunch is right around the corner.
Here’s what guests can expect on future trips.
On both Crystal ships, suites and sundecks have been expanded and high-end finishes added.
Photo Credit: Crystal
Suites, spaces and restaurants reinvented
Glass Serenity and glass Symphony recently received extensive renovations and renovations in Italy; Serenity sets sail on July 31 from Marseille and Symphony leaves Athens on September 1. Both feature larger suites and terrace rooms that include high-end finishes. As a result, the guest capacity is lower: the Symphony has capacity for just over 600 people and the Serenity 740. Both ships boast a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one, ensuring top-notch, near-personalized service.
Passengers will be spoiled for choice when it comes to world-class dining: There are nine options aboard each ship, including UMI UMA, an experience presented by Michelin-starred Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu). It’s the only partnership the celebrity chef has with a cruise line, and the venue will serve his renowned Japanese dishes with a Peruvian twist.
There are upgraded fitness facilities so guests can keep fit while cruising, including a new pickleball court on both the Serenity and Symphony. Crystal also promises exciting entertainment and enriching excursions.
“We are excited to now be part of the A&K Travel Group which has had an award-winning legacy of providing travelers with memorable and inspiring adventures for more than 60 years,” said Robyn Fink, Crystal’s director of communication and events. “We are working closely with our new sister brand, Abercrombie & Kent, to enhance the Crystal product both on board and through our onshore experience program.”
Crystal’s new onboard spa concept, Aurōra, will feature state-of-the-art facial and body treatments using LED and other technologies.
Photo Credit: Crystal
The spas are sensational
When the guests go up to Crystal Serenity and glass Symphony, a newly redesigned spa concept awaits you. Inspired by the Roman goddess of the sunrise, Aurōra will offer guests on both ships a haven of wellness with signature sunrise-inspired treatments. A collaboration between Crystal and Sweden’s Tillberg Design (TDoS), Aurōra presents a dreamy environment inspired by the first morning light of the sun.
“Crystal’s spas have been completely reinvented,” said Iina Forsblom, TDoS Partner and Director of Cruise Design. “They offer a fresh and welcoming design with new finishes, exquisite materials and a sophisticated color palette to support the new offerings on board.”
Aurōra will feature the latest technology and treatments through partnerships with British skincare brand ELEMIS and beauty experts Kérastase. Services will include cryofacials, LED treatments, and of course, hot stone massages and other body treatments. There are also steam, sauna and relaxation rooms, so you can seamlessly transform those sea days into precious time for yourself.
Guests will have nine dining options to choose from aboard Crystal’s revamped ships.
Photo Credit: Crystal
global itineraries
Crystal’s new ships will cruise the world and offer a wide range of destinations. Most itineraries are not too long and not too short, but are perfect for a family vacation.
“The average length of the itinerary ranges from 8 to 14 nights,” Fink said. “Planned voyages will travel through the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.”
Crystal also has her own take on the ever-popular marathon world cruises scheduled for 2024: Serenity leaves Miami in January for a 141-night voyage visiting 34 countries with exclusive excursions and entertainment options, including an exclusive tour of a palace in Italy and a Bollywood extravaganza in Mumbai. It is the first of three such itineraries on the ship next year.
What to know before booking
Crystal offers an inclusive service; most dining options are included at no charge. Beer, wine, and spirits, along with crew gratuities, are covered. The casinos on both ships were replaced with lounge areas during the redesign (a big plus in our book!), and unlike other high-end cruise options, kids are welcome aboard Crystal, making Crystal even more enjoyable. the line is an excellent option for unforgettable multiple experiences. overall trip.
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