Luxury cruise fans, get ready. One of the industry’s most beloved shipping lines is expanding its fleet size by 50% with new ships, with all cabins now suites with balconies, including solo cabins. But cruisers will have to wait until 2032 to enjoy it.
Crystal rose from the ashes of its former self after its liquidation in 2022. The brand has partnered with Italy’s Fincantieri shipyard to add a third vessel to its fleet, marking the line’s first newbuilding since relaunching under new ownership in 2023. Ta.
The new 61,800-ton ship will be similar in size to her sister ships Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, and will be able to accommodate 690 two-person passengers. Notable features include a wraparound promenade that surrounds the entire perimeter of the ship. Fine dining restaurants such as Nobu, serving Japanese and Peruvian cuisine by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and Beefbar, serving global street food style cuisine. Balcony accommodation for all passengers including solo travelers. And the casino.
“With the exceptional service and style that is synonymous with Crystal, we are offering our customers more ways to explore the world and an expanded fleet,” said Christina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, in a statement. I’m happy to be able to do this.”
The former Crystal Cruises ceased operations in 2022 due to the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic after parent company Genting Hong Kong went into liquidation due to lack of funds. Later that year, travel group Abbacombi & Kent acquired the ocean vessels Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, along with their brand logos and other intellectual property.
Crystal has won back former cruisers, especially those whose vacations were ruined by Crystal Cruises’ closure, by offering discounts large enough to recoup losses on sailings under new management.
daily newsletter
Get rewarded in your inbox with the TPG Daily newsletter
Join over 700,000 readers and get breaking news, in-depth guides, and exclusive deals from TPG experts.
By the time the new ship begins sailing, there will be a 29-year age difference between her and the next newest ship in the fleet, Crystal Serenity, which debuted in 2003. Crystal Symphony was completed in 1995 and is now 37 years old. Senior new sailor. Both ships underwent extensive modifications in 2023.
Want to learn more about luxury cruises? Check out the stories below.