Crystal Cruises and a new name, Crystal, new website and a launch date

Crystal Cruises has announced its return with a new shorter name, ‘Crystal,” a new website, and new itineraries. Its first sailing is on the Crystal Serenity for a 12-day voyage from Marseille, France to Lisbon, departing on July 31, 2023. The Crystal Symphony’s first voyage will depart Athens, Greece, on September 1, 2013, for a 7-day cruise to Istanbul.

Newly renovated

Crystal’s two ships have been renovated with larger suites which have reduced guest capacity by 20%. During the renovation, interior finishings like carpets, fine cotton linens, furniture, and drapes have all been updated.

Crystal Cruises ceased business about a year ago as its parent/owner Genting Holdings ran into deep financial problems and forced Crystal Cruises into bankruptcy. Its two ocean ships were purchased out of bankruptcy and the new company has brought back much of the senior management that made Crystal great.

We are so glad to see Crystal’s return to service. Past guests like Crystal Cruise line because Crystal offers a luxurious and high–end experience.

Its what makes Crystal different

Crystal is our favorite luxury line because they have a casual, non-pretentious atmosphere, more onboard activities, and top-notch cuisine. They deliver exceptional service and amenities, such as fine dining, spa treatments, and entertainment. The crew is tasked to remember guests’ names for that extra touch of elegance.

Crystal’s voyages include many ports of call that larger ships can’t visit, allowing passengers to explore different destinations and experience unique cultures. Crystal also offers a variety of shore excursions, giving passengers the opportunity to explore the local culture, experience local attractions, and make lasting memories. In addition to the shore excursions, they also provide onboard activities like cooking, yoga, and art classes.

A&K exclusive shore excursions

Jack Anderson, Crystal president, also announced exclusive tours would be offered by A&K, the luxury tour operator. “Exclusivity in terms of access, these are things that are the hallmarks of what A&K does,” Anderson said.

In the evening, passengers can experience live entertainment in one of the lounges or bars. The shows are typically musical performances featuring some of the best talent in the business. There are also comedians and other performers that appear on the ship. There is also a movie theater where passengers can enjoy a feature film.

For those who want to take part in more active activities, there are many options available. Passengers can take part in water sports like snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing. Passengers can also join in on organized activities like bridge tournaments or bingo games. On some voyages, passengers can even participate in themed parties and events.

Crystal  Cruise line strives to provide an experience that is unforgettable. With luxury accommodations, fine dining, and activities for all ages, passengers are sure to have an enjoyable and memorable experience. Crystal offers something for everyone. Welcome back Crystal Cruises, or should I just say, Crystal.

Crystal Facts

Refurbished: 2023

Rooms by Type | Both Ships

Crystal Penthouse Suite: Our largest suite, with expansive living areas, a private veranda, sumptuous finishings and attentive butler service.

Suite Size: up to 850 sq. ft.
Veranda: up to 107 sq. ft.

Junior Crystal Penthouse Suite: Large suite with spacious rooms with separate dining and living areas, looking onto a private veranda, and accompanied by attentive butler service.

Suite Size: up to 646 sq. ft.
Veranda: up to 161 sq. ft.

Sapphire Veranda Suite: Spacious suite, with living area, lavish finishings and private veranda, accompanied by attentive butler service.

Suite Size: up to 430 sq. ft.
Veranda: up to 107 sq. ft.

Sapphire Ocean View Suite: Spacious suite, with living area, lavish finishings and expansive ocean views, accompanied by attentive butler service.

Suite Size: up to 430 sq. ft.

Aquamarine Veranda Suite: Suite offering comfortable living area, private veranda and is perfect for grand yet intimate moments, accompanied by attentive butler service.

Suite Size: up to 323 sq. ft.
Veranda Size: up to 86 sq. ft.

Double Guest Room with Veranda: Contemporary classic bedroom with junior butler service and comfortable seating constellations opening onto a private veranda.

Room Size: up to 215 sq. ft.
Veranda: up to 54 sq. ft.

Double Guest Room with Ocean View: Contemporary classic bedroom with junior butler service and large windows onto ocean views.

Room size: up to 215 sq. ft.

Single Guest Room with Ocean View: Cozy bedroom with welcoming and comfortable detailing, junior butler service and ocean views. (Single occupancy only).

Room size: up to 215 sq. ft.

Food & Beverage

Nine restaurants and six bars on each ship

Awards

1. Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards winner for 27 years in a row
2. Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards Winner 24 years in a row

Crystal Serenity

Guest Capacity: 740

Per Guest Space Ratio: 1 to 93.1 cu. ft.

Nearly one staff member per guest

Refurbished In: 2023

Crystal Symphony

Guest Capacity: 606

Per Guest Space Ratio: 1 to 84.2 cu. ft.

Nearly one staff member per guest

Refurbished In: 2023