Crystal Cruises has returned with a new name and a fresh new look.
After suspending operations last year, the cruise line will relaunch as Crystal on July 31, the brand announced on Wednesday.
The A&K Travel Group, which owns Abercrombie & Kent, purchased the Crystal Cruises brand last year, along with the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity ships, which have been refurbished with larger suites and updated amenities.
“I am delighted to announce that Crystal has been reborn, with Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony reimagined and enhancements made to every aspect of our guests’ journey,” Crystal president Jack Anderson said in a statement.
Crystal Cruises reportedly shut down at least some of its operations in the United States last year after an arrest warrant was issued for the Crystal Symphony due to unpaid fuel bills. The cruise line had previously suspended sailings for several months following the bankruptcy of its parent company, Genting Hong Kong, in January 2022.
The Royal Caribbean Group also acquired Crystal Endeavor, a former Crystal Cruises ship that joined the Silversea Cruises fleet as Silver Endeavour.
Crystal’s destination is unknown.
Crystal will sail to destinations around the world under the tagline “Exceptional at Sea,” including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Alaska, Canada, and New England, among others.
The relaunched line’s first sailing will be a 12-night voyage on Crystal Serenity from Marseille, France, to Lisbon, Portugal, on July 31.
What can Crystal guests expect?
On board, passengers can expect larger accommodations and upgraded features.
“On both ships, palatial suites, spacious verandas, and guest rooms have been rolled out, reducing overall guest capacity,” Anderson said in the release. “Personalized service, which has long been a Crystal trademark, has been elevated even further.”
Anderson stated that the line’s eateries – nine on each ship – would serve “authentic food from around the world,” while Abercrombie & Kent’s local experts would provide destination-specific experiences.
Spas and gyms will also be updated on the ships.
What is the cost of a Crystal cruise?
According to the line’s website, a nine-night voyage from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Miami departing Nov. 23 starts at $3,800 per guest based on double occupancy, but prices vary by cruise and room category, and include food and drinks on board.
Bookings for travel advisors and travellers who have made $500 open deposits will be available on Wednesday. Other previous passengers can book a cruise beginning February 13, and general public bookings will open on February 22.
