Search Results forCrystal Symphony
Crystal Symphony set to go into drydock
Luxury cruise line Crystal announced that its vessel Crystal Symphony will enter drydock for a scheduled three-week refurbishment of select areas in November 2025. The announcement was made earlier today, 8th August. The project is focused on refining the onboard experience through aesthetic and functional updates to two suite categories and several key public spaces. According to Crystal’s senior vice-president for hotel operations Bernie Leypold: “We are proud to carry forward Crystal’s legacy while continuing to innovate. Our goal is to ensure that every space aboard our ships feels both timeless and contemporary, infused with warmth, elegance and thoughtful design. These enhancements aboard Crystal Symphony reflect our promise to create meaningful experiences for our guests at every touchpoint.” A total redesign for optimal elegance The drydock will see the complete redesign of Aquamarine and Sapphire Classic suites on Deck 10. Whilst preserving their existing layout and spacious bathrooms featuring separate bathtub and shower configurations, these suites will be outfitted with new furnishings, aligning with the design style introduced during the ship’s 2023 transformation. Complimenting these updates, new carpets and wall coverings will refresh the look and feel of each suite. These upgrades will be expertly executed by the De Wave Group, an interior design firm based in Genoa, Italy. Better public spaces Several public spaces will also be updated during this time, with improvements designed to elevate the onboard ambiance: Atrium and Crystal Cove: Under the direction of Gerolamo Scorza, a leading outfitter in marine interiors, the ship’s central gathering space will be transformed, providing a more modern and fluid layout with additional seating. Key updates include the removal of the water feature, the relocation of the piano, a two-story mosaic produced by DeCastelli and a new chandelier. The reception area will have an elevated space with a new desk, marble top and backlit panel. The surrounding walls and columns will be refinished with new wallpaper. The ceiling slats and lighting will be replaced at Deck 5, while the Crystal Cove bar will receive a new front counter, backbar niche, and bottle shelving. New high-end furniture will elegantly redefine the area. Stair Lobbies on Decks 5 and 6: Also led by Gerolamo Scorza, these transitional areas will be refined with updated ceiling structures, enhanced lighting, architectural wall details and new brass finishes around the elevator entrances, bringing a more cohesive and elegant feel to the ship’s public corridors. Starlite Club: Trident Maritime Systems will provide a subtle redesign of the dance floor and new ceiling centrepiece will breathe new life into this beloved venue while preserving its vibrant character. Deck 5 Guest Restrooms: These public facilities will be aesthetically refreshed by Gerolamo Scorza with new flooring, wall finishes and countertops. Bistro: Wooden floors will be updated offering an enhanced look and feel. Technical upgrades In addition to the guest-facing areas, Crystal Symphony will also undergo an extensive technical upgrade to ensure optimal performance and long-term sustainability. Key enhancements include a complete overhaul of the fin stabilizers’ hydraulic system, renewal of both evaporators and the installation of new fuel and oil purifiers designed to accommodate biodiesel. The ship’s fresh-water piping system will be significantly modernized with the replacement of hundreds of meters of piping. The galleys, cold rooms, provision areas and associated compressors will also be fully renovated. Additional work includes a comprehensive service of the generator auxiliaries and targeted steel replacements throughout the vessel, including fuel tanks.
Shane Morley returns to Crystal Symphony as cruise director
Experience-driven cruise line Crystal just announced the return of Shane Morley as cruise director aboard Crystal Symphony. Morley’s appointment formally takes effect on Saturday, 8th August, in time for the vessel’s departure from Piraeus. This marks a homecoming for the seasoned entertainment leader, who spent nearly 16 years with the brand before pursuing opportunities ashore. Crystal’s vice-president for entertainment Keith Cox said of Morely: “Shane embodies the heart and spirit of Crystal. His dedication to creating unforgettable moments and his genuine care for guests and crew make him an extraordinary leader on board. We are pleased to welcome him back as we continue to elevate our entertainment offerings.” Morley himself remarked: “Crystal has always felt like home to me. After these wonderful years on land, I realized something was missing, and that something was Crystal. It’s where my passion for entertainment and guest experience found its true stage. No other place I’ve worked offers the same blend of luxury, connection and purpose. It feels good to be coming home.” Morley joins Vicki Van Tassel in rotation as cruise director aboard Crystal Symphony, while Russ Grieve and Raphael Derkson serve in rotation aboard Crystal Serenity. Meet Shane Morely Originally from Perth, Australia, Morley spent the past four years managing Swings & Roundabouts winery in the Margaret River region of Western Australia. Morley began his journey with Crystal in 2004 as a singer and dancer, progressing to line captain, world cruise coordinator, and assistant cruise director prior to being appointed cruise director in 2011. His initial tenure was shaped by mentorship under industry legends and by leading countless guest programs that elevated Crystal’s reputation for award-winning entertainment. He now returns to Crystal with a renewed passion for guest engagement and hospitality excellence.
Crystal Symphony Debuts Down Under
The Crystal Symphony docked at Freemantle, Western Australia, yesterday after undergoing a multi-million-dollar makeover under the new ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group. The refurbished cruise ship boasts bigger cabins with artisanal finishes, additional wellness options, onboard entertainment, and the return of UMI UMA, a Michelin-starred Chef Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) dining experience. Crystal Symphony will call in Freemantle, Busselton, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney on five distinct cruises, with some itineraries continuing to New Zealand’s Bay of Islands and Auckland. “We knew Crystal had a loyal following from agents and guests in Australia and New Zealand, and the reception we have received so far has confirmed it,” said Tony Archbold, Crystal’s Vice President, Sales APAC. “Both the trade and our guests are excited that under the new ownership of Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, we have combined two of the most respected brands in travel, and the market is responding as we offer guests the best of land and sea. “Crystal is back and better than ever!” “From Australia’s ancient rock art and fine cuisine to New Zealand’s enchanting fjords and legendary Māori culture, Crystal is back and better than ever!” Symphony’s five voyages take guests to Australia and New Zealand’s coasts, with Abercrombie & Kent land excursions leading. Crystal Symphony’s five sailings include: Ten nights Perth (Fremantle) – Sydney Departing 6 December Fourteen nights Perth (Fremantle) – Auckland Departing 6 December Four nights Sydney – Auckland Departing 16 December Fifteen nights Auckland – Sydney Departing 20 December Seventeen nights Sydney – Auckland – Sydney Departing 4 January 2024 The Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group acquired the ship in 2022, with Crystal Cruises beginning a new chapter with the debut of a new brand earlier this year.
First ship to restart cruising from Boston, Crystal Symphony steers towards recovery
Crystal Cruises celebrates the return to service for luxury ocean ship Crystal Symphony as she departed today on the new Luxury Bermuda Escapes, the first in a series of four seven-night cruises sailing roundtrip out of Boston on Sundays. Although the ship’s departure was delayed by one day due to Hurricane Henri, its officers, staff and crew were thrilled to welcome guests back onboard after almost 18 months. The Luxury Bermuda Escapes voyages offer travellers the opportunity to enjoy Crystal’s all-inclusive amenities and hallmark luxuries on voyages close to home with convenient US departures. The ship’s four Boston sailings will be followed by eight Luxury Bermuda Escapes cruises set to depart round-trip from New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal beginning September 24, 2021, with Friday-to-Friday itineraries. “We are delighted Crystal Symphony has returned to service as the first cruise ship to restart cruising from Boston, now bound for the pink sands of Bermuda,” said Jack Anderson, president of Crystal. “This day is the culmination of months of anticipation and behind-the-scenes planning to ensure safe and meaningful travel experiences for our guests as we welcome them back home to Crystal. We are confident they are going to love the history, culture and abundant outdoor pursuits Bermuda offers, knowing that both Crystal’s and Bermuda’s stringent health protocols are in place to provide a safe and enjoyable experience.” Already boasting one of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry and nearly twice the space per guest as ships of similar scale, Crystal Symphony set sail from Boston with reduced capacity to offer guests even more social spaciousness. The crystal-clear waters of Bermuda offer endless adventures including reefs and shipwrecks for snorkeling and diving, sport fishing, sailing, kayaking, and more. In Bermuda, Crystal Symphony will call into the Royal Naval Dockyard, a British stronghold for more than 150 years, now home to historic architecture, shopping, galleries, restaurants, and more.
Crystal Serenity Unveils 2028 Amazon, Caribbean and Azores Voyages
Crystal has revealed the first wave of 2028 winter and spring itineraries for Crystal Serenity, featuring an extended Amazon River journey, a Caribbean Circle Grand Voyage and a spring transatlantic sailing to the Azores. The program focuses on warm‑water destinations across the Caribbean, Central America and the Amazon before concluding in Lisbon, where the ship will enter dry dock for scheduled enhancements. Travellers can explore Crystal’s full collection of sailings and onboard experience at Crystal Cruises. Slow-Travel Itineraries from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon From January to April 2028, Crystal Serenity will operate a series of itineraries designed around unhurried days in port and regionally inspired shore excursions, reflecting the line’s emphasis on cultural connection and natural beauty. January roundtrip cruises from Fort Lauderdale call at sun‑drenched ports such as the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Mexico, Cartagena in Colombia and Puerto Limon in Costa Rica, offering a relaxed start to the year with easy access to beaches, colonial cities and rainforest landscapes. In March, additional warm‑water voyages focus on Cartagena, Roatán and Belize, combining coral reefs, quiet bays and coastal villages with sea days that allow guests to enjoy Crystal Serenity’s generous space and calm onboard atmosphere. Early April brings late‑season Caribbean itineraries calling at Puerto Rico, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos and the Dominican Republic before the ship heads east across the Atlantic to the Azores, timed to coincide with the spring migration of baleen whales such as blue and fin whales. The season ends in Lisbon, where the ship will undergo enhancements during a scheduled dry dock. Amazon River and Caribbean Circle Grand Voyage A standout element of the 2028 program is a 25‑day Amazon voyage that begins in January and continues into February, reaching Manaus and remote river communities along one of the world’s great waterways. This itinerary offers opportunities to explore dense rainforest, diverse wildlife and river cultures that are rarely included on mainstream cruise routes. Guests can deepen their immersion by combining this cruise with adjacent Caribbean sailings to create the Caribbean Circle Grand Voyage, encompassing 14 Caribbean islands and five Central American countries. This extended option is tailored to travellers who prefer longer, more continuous journeys over multiple shorter cruises. With Crystal’s emphasis on spacious suites, high staff‑to‑guest ratios and a serene onboard environment, the ship is well suited to multi‑week voyages where sea days are part of the attraction rather than simply transit time. Crystal Grace: Inaugural 2028 Season Alongside Crystal Serenity’s early‑year schedule, the line has also outlined plans for newbuild Crystal Grace, which will begin her inaugural season on 11 June 2028. The ship’s first voyage will sail from Rome to Venice before she spends the northern summer exploring the Mediterranean, then repositions to New York City in September for a series of Northeast and Canada cruises. She will finish the year with Caribbean sailings, expanding Crystal’s footprint across key regions on both sides of the Atlantic. More details about Crystal Grace’s itineraries will be announced closer to launch, with her 2028 season scheduled to go on sale in April 2026 and a waitlist opening beforehand. Together with Crystal Symphony’s 2028 World Cruise, these new deployments underscore Crystal’s focus on thoughtfully paced, globally diverse routes for guests seeking refined, destination‑rich travel. Interested travellers can register interest or book existing voyages via Crystal Cruises or their preferred travel advisor.
First five itineraries announced for 2027 A&K X Crystal Cruises voyages
Global luxury travel firm Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) recently announced the first five itineraries in a collection of ten new A&K x Crystal Cruises voyages debuting in 2027. The 2027 collection continues A&K Travel Group’s (AKTG) vision to bring together the industry’s top destination experts and the world’s leading ultra-luxury ocean offering. Each voyage includes A&K’s signature enrichment programming, exclusive access and the leadership of its acclaimed team of experts. Guests enjoy all of this while sailing aboard Crystal’s celebrated fleet known for world-class dining, spacious veranda suites and exceptional service. Responding to a wave of demand The expansion follows strong demand for the partnership's inaugural sailing departing in August 2026, which sold out within weeks of its announcement. According to AKTG chief product officer Fernando Delgado: “The overwhelming demand for our 2026 pilot voyage demonstrated something extraordinary. Guests instantly connected with the combination of A&K’s deep cultural expertise and Crystal’s unparalleled onboard atmosphere.” Delgado added that the success gave the company the momentum to expand into 2027 with even more departures, more destinations, and more opportunities for travellers to experience cultural exploration with both brands at their very best. Itineraries to look forward to A Voyage Around Italy (9th to 20th May 2027) 12 days from $23,495 USD, £18,075 GBP, $35,965 AUD Begin in Venice with two nights at the San Clemente Palace, stroll through the canals and sample wine from the city’s only remaining vineyard before boarding Crystal Symphony for an exploration around Italy, Croatia and Malta. Explore the terracotta cities of Emilia-Romagna, the brilliant Byzantine mosaics in Ravenna and layers of Mediterranean history of Korcula and Valetta. Culinary highlights include artisanal pasta in Bologna, farm-fresh dishes in Bari and the iconic pizza of Naples before arriving in Rome. The Insider’s Mediterranean (25th May to 3rd June 2027) 10 days from $22,200 USD, £17,210 GBP, $33,980 AUD Spanning Malta, Sardinia, Tunisia and Spain, this itinerary brings to life the cultural richness of the Mediterranean with visits to sun-drenched old towns, medieval cathedrals and megalithic sites. Start in Valetta with two nights at the Corinthia Palace, followed by an immersive sailing aboard Crystal Symphony. In Tunis, experience the blend of Arab and African influences found in its vibrant souks and Ennejma Ezzahra Palace. Learn the art of perfect paella in Valencia where it originated, taste Mallorca’s hierbas liqueur and enjoy fine wines from each region. Europe’s Culinary Atlantic Coast (26th June to 9th July 2027) 14 days from $27,495 USD, £21,150 GBP, $42,085 AUD Designed for food and wine enthusiasts, this voyage aboard Crystal Symphony explores the flavors of Portugal, Spain, France, Guernsey and England. Spend two days in Lisbon at the Tivoli Avenida Liberdade, sampling the city’s vibrant tapas traditions, port tasting in Porto, wine sampling in the Douro Valley and Bordeaux and oysters tasting straight from the sea in Arcachon. Explore important historic sites including the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the wartime legacies of the Channel Islands, as well as scenic at the Isle of Wright’s coastal cliffs and hiking the Grande Dune du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe. Autumn in New York and Canada (8th to 21st September 2027) 14 days from $22,495 USD, £17,305 GBP, $34,435 AUD Beginning with a stay at The Chatwal in Midtown Manhattan, this journey reveals hidden stories of New York before boarding Crystal Serenity to follow the fall colors north through New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec. Explore the coastal beauty of four regions of Canada during hikes along coastal trails, visits to tidal caves and wetlands, exploring maritime heritage in Halifax and Sydney, harvesting a seafood feast off Prince Edward Island and observing whales in Saguenay and a northern gannet colony on Bonaventure Island. Immersive cultural encounters reveal Acadian, Mi’kmaw, Mi’gmaq and Wendat traditions. French Riviera to Lisbon (6th to 18th October 2027) 13 days from $25,495 USD, £19,610 GBP, $39,025 AUD This Mediterranean voyage aboard Crystal Symphony traces a route through six countries, from Monaco, France, Italy and Corsica through the Balearic Islands and Spain, ending along Portugal’s Algarve coast. Begin with a stay at the Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo and enjoy exclusive access to the Casino de Monte-Carlo and the Prince’s Palace, including his personal car collection. Highlights include a private after-hours visit to the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, the historic streets of Lucca and Pisa, the marble quarries of Carrara and the island cultures of Corsica and Menorca. What to expect Each voyage begins with a two-night stay at a luxury hotel selected by A&K, featuring programming designed to immerse travellers in the destination. With priority embarkation privileges, guests sail in Sapphire Veranda Suites aboard Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony, with solo travellers accommodated in Aquamarine Veranda Suites at no single supplement. Onboard, guests enjoy exceptional cuisine across eight restaurants, including the only Nobu at sea, as well as personalized service from nearly one staff per guest, including dedicated butler service. In addition to Crystal’s full range of amenities and entertainment, A&K guests participate in a program of exclusive events, special dinners and expert-led lectures during the voyage. A choice of included, carefully curated shore excursions are designed by A&K's network of local specialists, with experiences structured to support local communities and create direct cultural connections.
Be Inspired by Six Extraordinary Journeys with Crystal in 2026
As 2025 draws to a close, travellers are already looking ahead to fresh horizons and new adventures; and Crystal, the leader in luxury and experiential cruising, presents an inspiring collection of voyages ready to spark that next journey. In 2026, six extraordinary itineraries will carry guests to the tropical shores of the South Pacific, immerse them in the cultural mystique of Africa and the Indian Ocean, and showcase the grandeur of the western world through the Mediterranean, the Baltics, North America, and the wild Alaskan frontier. Each of these upcoming journeys promises memories to last a lifetime, pairing breathtaking sights and experiences with the exceptional service, comfort, and all-inclusive elegance only Crystal can deliver. The epitome of sophistication on the high seas With an unwavering commitment to sophistication and elegance at every touchpoint, guests feel immediately at home while enjoying Crystal’s signature style. Guests get to experience the ultimate in maritime comfort with spacious all-suite accommodations and exceptional cuisine, Broadway-standard entertainment, and one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios on the ocean: this is the Crystal difference. Dining aboard is a true culinary journey with nine distinct complimentary venues including Beefbar; UMI UMA, the only Nobu restaurant at sea by world-renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa; and Osteria d’Ovidio which casts the spotlight on Italian fine-dining courtesy of the Michelin-rated Alajmo brothers. Throughout every journey, comfort and attention to detail is deeply personalized thanks to butler service in every guest room and suite, and a crew known for their warmth and intuitive service. Exceptional and inspired voyages throughout the year Every Crystal voyage carries guests to some of the world's most intriguing locations, offering immersive experiences of local cultures and customs. Each optional shore excursion is curated by the experts at Abercrombie & Kent, thanks to the exclusive partnership with their sister brand Crystal. This ensures guests enjoy immersive land adventures, insider access and seamless explorations, both on and off the ship. The complete 2026 collection of Crystal journeys changes the game when it comes to luxury cruising and experiential tourism. Be inspired by this selection of six extraordinary voyages in 2026: South Pacific (February 2026) Diverse and multi-sensory experiences await on this cruise around some of the pearls of Melanesia before heading to New Zealand. Fans of tropical getaways can look forward to pristine beaches, unspoiled nature, and colorful marine life. Lautoka to Auckland 8 – 19 Feb 2026 11 nights from $8,600 pp Crystal Serenity African & Indian Ocean (February 2026) Sail from Kenya to the Seychelles on this Indian Ocean cruise, which also takes in Zanzibar and Madagascar. The mystique of this area comes alive through the discovery of cultural treasures, exotic wildlife, and a tropical island paradise. Mombasa to Mahe 6 to 15 Feb 2026 9 nights from $5,600 pp Crystal Symphony Mediterranean (June 2026) Departing Marseille, journey along the Spanish coast before sailing into Monte Carlo in time for the Monaco Grand Prix, then continue onto Italy. This cruise engages every sense — an immersion into the history, art, music, and gastronomy of the Mediterranean. Marseille to Civitavecchia (Rome) 2 to 10 Jun 2026 8 nights from $5,700 pp Crystal Serenity The Baltics (July 2026) Follow the crinkled coastlines of five countries on this trip across Northern Europe. The treasures of this storied part of the world are at one's fingertips as you uncover centuries-old cities, hidden gems, and a history that dates to the Vikings. Copenhagen to Liverpool 16 to 26 Jul 2026 10 nights from $8,800 pp Crystal Serenity Alaska (August 2026) An Alaskan cruise gets you up close and personal with one of the world’s last great wildernesses. Cruise by Hubbard Glacier heading south towards Vancouver, enjoying snow-capped mountains, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences along the way. Seward (Anchorage, Alaska) to Vancouver 1 to 8 Aug 2026 7 nights from $4,400 pp Crystal Symphony North America (September 2026) There’s a distinctly nautical theme to this voyage up the eastern coast, leaving the buzz of New York behind for the more laidback pace of life. Great cities and historic ports share the spotlight with picturesque coastal towns and charming fishing villages. New York City to Montreal 25 Sep to 2 Oct 2026 7 nights from $5,300 pp Crystal Symphony Take advantage of Crystal’s Stay & Upgrade offer: book by 14th December 2025 for eligible 2026–2027 sailings, including a complimentary guest/suite upgrade, a hotel night pre- or post-cruise, and transfers between hotel and pier. Are you ready to experience luxury at sea? Start an adventure with Crystal today by visiting the Crystal website at www.crystalcruises.com; call +61 1300 503 640 if in Indonesia, India, and Vietnam; or contact +800 5036 4000 from anywhere else in Asia.
Crystal launches its third annual Wellness at Sea voyage collection
Crystal announced its third annual Wellness at Sea retreat voyages aboard Crystal Symphony today, 11th November. Sailing in August 2026 during National Wellness Month, these retreats offer guests a holistic journey of movement, mindfulness and culinary nourishment in the refined surroundings of one of the world’s most exceptional ships. The first sailing runs from 17th to 24th August from Vancouver, to San Diego, followed immediately by a second voyage running 24th August to 5th September from San Diego to Guayaquil, Ecuador. Guests may book either individually or combine both back-to-back for a continuous Pacific wellness journey. Dalila Roglieri at the helm Leading the programme once again is Dalila Roglieri, Crystal’s wellness ambassador and registered nutritionist, who has been instrumental in shaping the program’s philosophy since its inception. Roglieri, whose expertise bridges nutrition science and Mediterranean lifestyle principles, will be joined by returning specialists Jenni Demus, yoga and mental well-being specialist; Mandi Appelberg, fitness and yoga specialist; and Magnus Appelberg, cold exposure expert, somatic therapist and yoga and meditation teacher. The team also welcomes the addition of chef Abbie Gellman, MS, RD, CDN, a nationally recognised culinary nutrition authority, author and director of Teaching Kitchen and Culinary Medicine at SBH Health System in New York. Roglieri said of the upcoming sailings: “These voyages represent wellness at its most complete, where every sunrise, every movement, and every meal becomes part of a greater harmony. It’s an invitation to reconnect with yourself and the world, surrounded by the exceptional elements that define Crystal.” A truly immersive wellness sailing Guests will be guided through a series of immersive Wellness at Sea sessions including yoga and meditation, sound baths, functional training, and breathwork and mind-reset classes such as Wake Me Up Breath and Master Your Mind. The voyage also features a two-day detox at sea, encouraging digital mindfulness and deep restoration. The programme will likewise include an educational focus on longevity science, with lectures exploring key topics such as aging well, maintaining a sharp mind and a strong, vital body and understanding the healing and harmful effects of emotions on the heart and health. Culinary offerings take centre stage with an expanded variety of plant-rich dishes crafted exclusively for the Wellness at Sea retreats. All recipes are created by Crystal’s culinary team under Roglieri’s guidance in nutrition science, highlighting flavour and nourishment in perfect harmony. Guests can enjoy hands-on wellness cuisine workshops and culinary demonstrations led by Gellman and Roglieri, blending nutritional insight with the art of gastronomy, as well as individual nutrition consultations and blind tasting sessions designed to engage all the senses. Daily offerings include wellness-focused juices and smoothies, nutritious toasts, soups, appetizers, dips, main courses and desserts. This innovative culinary approach earned Crystal recognition in the Women’s Health 2025 Travel Awards for Best Healthy Food. Further complementing the wellness programming, Crystal will offer pickleball instruction led by an onboard coach. Classes are available for all levels, offering guests a fun and social way to stay active at sea.
Crystal enters philanthropic partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center
Luxury cruise line Crystal has declared its support of a fund-raising initiative for the MD Anderson Cancer Center’s James P Allison Institute today, 10th November. Crystal’s partnership with the MD Anderson research facility at the University of Texas unites the worlds of luxury travel and pioneering science in a collaboration designed to inspire, educate and advance the global mission to end cancer. The Allison Institute is a visionary research and innovation hub at MD Anderson that builds upon the foundational discoveries of Nobel Laureate James P Allison, PhD, to drive groundbreaking science that will bring the benefits of immunotherapy to all patients. A&K Travel Group co-chair Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio said of the partnership: “Philanthropy and giving back has always been woven into my family’s values and into Crystal’s legacy. This collaboration with the Allison Institute at MD Anderson gives us the opportunity to turn our passion for travel into tangible support to end cancer. It is very meaningful to me to see our guests, crew and shoreside employees come together to make a difference in the lives of others.” AKTG chief executive Cristina Levis added: “Cancer is something that touches all of us in one way or another, so this collaboration holds deep meaning for me both personally and professionally. Through the funds raised, our goal is to help provide the Allison Institute at MD Anderson with additional resources, tools and technology needed to further their groundbreaking research and, ultimately, bring us closer to a cure.” Allison himself likewise enthused: “We are grateful for the support from Crystal, and we look forward to working together through this campaign to fuel more breakthroughs. We are driven to conduct exceptional science that brings a deeper understanding of immunology that will enable us to bring cures to many more patients.” Doing more for the future of healthcare MD Anderson is one of the world’s most respected institutions devoted exclusively to cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. As such: the collaboration will come to life through several touchpoints designed to engage guests and support MD Anderson’s mission: Philanthropy at Sea: Sail and Make a Difference Crystal will contribute a portion of every guest booking to support cancer research at the Allison Institute. This initiative is expected to raise substantial funds in the next 15 months to accelerate progress in both patient care and scientific discovery; and Guest Opportunities Crystal guests will also be invited to join the cause creating a powerful, community-driven effort to support MD Anderson’s lifesaving mission to end cancer. An opportunity to give For bookings made on select sailings on Giving Tuesday on 2nd December of this year, Crystal will be donating an additional $250 USD per person per booking to MD Anderson. Additionally, the brand will be hosting a special online auction featuring Dance, an evocative bronze statue by acclaimed Japanese sculptor Satoru Kitago, to raise money for various charitable initiatives. The piece, which has graced Crystal Symphony for years, will be removed during the ship’s upcoming dry dock. A portion of the auction proceeds will be donated to MD Anderson, offering art collectors and Crystal guests alike the opportunity to acquire a remarkable work while contributing directly to the mission to end cancer.
Crystal launches ‘by Abercrombie & Kent’ experiences
Crystal unveiled By Abercrombie & Kent, an exclusive partnership with travel pioneer and sister brand Abercrombie & Kent transforming the traditional ocean cruising experience. This innovative program extends Crystal's exceptional voyages beyond the ship, offering guests both curated land adventures and A&K's acclaimed cultural expertise aboard Crystal vessels. This curated collection of land-based experiences spans continents, from Africa to Asia, the South Pacific to the Mediterranean, designed to immerse guests in culture, nature, and history in ways only A&K can deliver. The launch represents a significant evolution in luxury cruising, leveraging Abercrombie & Kent's six decades of expertise to deliver unprecedented access to authentic, world-class experiences both onshore and at sea. Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, said: "We're redefining what a luxury cruise experience can be, By Abercrombie & Kent isn't just any excursion program – it's a complete reimagining of how our guests discover the world, combining Crystal's exceptional onboard hospitality with A&K's unparalleled destination expertise." Now available for booking across Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony sailings through 2026, By Abercrombie & Kent provides multiple ways to explore: Overland Adventures By A&K Multi-day adventures allow guests to disembark mid-voyage and rejoin at subsequent ports, visiting iconic sites like the Great Wall of China, Taj Mahal, and Uluru. These journeys offer immersive, expertly guided experiences, including in Beijing, where guests can explore cultural landmarks including Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven before standing atop the Great Wall at one of its most scenic vantage points. Each journey is seamlessly integrated into the cruise itinerary, to provide an exhilarating experience. Pre- & Post-Cruise Extensions By A&K Bespoke land journeys before or after sailing extend the voyage’s magic with immersive experiences ranging from archaeological explorations to cultural and wildlife adventures. Guests can explore the intricately carved temples of Angkor Wat, embark on indigenous cultural experiences in Whistler, or track lions on safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara. From tranquil beach escapes to dynamic city stays, these curated excursions add depth and richness to the overall journey. Among the highlights is the chance to discover the real Dolce Vita in Tuscany and Rome. Guests can embrace Italian elegance through exclusive experiences such as a truffle hunting adventure, a private dinner at a winery and visits to iconic Roman and Renaissance landmarks. Noteworthy stops include a stay in a five-star, 11th-century castle, a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pienza, and tours of the Colosseum and Trevi Fountain. The mystique of Angkor Wat awaits travellers seeking to explore one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites. Guests can walk the renowned temple complex, including a temple reclaimed by nature and made famous by the film “Tomb Raider.” Additional experiences include a gala dinner accompanied by traditional music and dance at a historic Angkor temple and shopping for handicrafts at the vibrant Old Market. Unparalleled Expertise and Access Each By Abercrombie & Kent experience leverages A&K's international network of more than 3,000 staff, in over 65 offices and 40 countries. and draws from the exclusive A&K Sanctuary portfolio in Africa – the collection of luxury camps and lodges that embody A&K founder Geoffrey Kent's founding philosophy: adventure by day, luxury by night. By A&K land experiences include: Crystal Serenity Pre and Post-Cruise: Uluru Adventure Pre and Post-Cruise: Beijing and The Great Wall Pre-Cruise: Angkor Wat: The Timeless Majesty of Cambodia Post-Cruise: The Mystique of Angkor Wat Pre-Cruise: Taj & Tigers: A Journey Through Timeless India Post-Cruise: Taj & Tigers: From Majestic Palaces to Wild Jungles Crystal Symphony Pre and Post-Cruise: Secrets of the Serengeti Pre and Post-Cruise: The Enchanting Masai Mara Pre and Post-Cruise: Highlights of Tokyo and Hakone Pre-Cruise: Taj and Tigers: A Journey Through Timeless India Post-Cruise: Taj and Tigers: From Majestic Palaces to Wild Jungles Pre-Cruise: Angkor Wat: The Timeless Majesty of Cambodia Post-Cruise: The Mystique of Angkor Wat Overlands: Uluru Adventure Overlands: Ancient and Modern: Beijing and The Great Wall Overlands: Splendours of Taj Mahal All logistics, from private charter flights to handpicked accommodations, are managed exclusively by A&K's expert local teams, ensuring seamless integration with each Crystal voyage. Adventures are available as part of intimate small group tours or on an individual basis to accommodate guest preferences.
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