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Set Sail in 2027: Crystal Cruises Unveils Stunning New Itineraries
If you’ve been dreaming of an extraordinary voyage that takes you across the globe in unparalleled luxury, Crystal Cruises has just dropped some exciting news. Following the launch of their 2027 World Cruise, Crystal—the leader in exceptional cruise experiences—has unveiled the complete first half of its 2027 itineraries aboard the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. These voyages are designed for discerning travellers seeking adventure, enrichment, and a touch of indulgence. Exploring Six Continents and 170 Destinations From the pristine glaciers of Alaska to Japan’s ancient temples and the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean, Crystal’s 2027 itineraries span six continents and over 170 destinations. Passengers can look forward to iconic landmarks, stunning landscapes, and authentic cultural traditions that offer a thoughtful mix of adventure and discovery. Mario Parodi, VP of Itinerary Planning and Port & Fuel Operations for Crystal, shared his enthusiasm: “Our 2027 itineraries reflect Crystal’s commitment to deliver meaningful travel experiences across the globe. Every voyage has been designed to allow our guests to connect deeply with history, culture, and nature. With the highest standards of service, exceptional dining, entertainment, and shore excursions enhanced by our sister company, Abercrombie & Kent, we ensure that every guest has the most exceptional experience.” Crystal Serenity: Highlights of the 2027 World Cruise Segments Embarking on an epic journey, the Crystal Serenity will offer segments of the 2027 World Cruise that are nothing short of spectacular. January: Pacific Coast and Central America Departure: San Diego Highlights: Explore Cabo San Lucas, famous for its rugged cliffs and vibrant marine life. Discover Costa Rica’s lush rainforests and Nicaragua’s coastal charm. Venture south to Peru’s Sacred Valley, rich in history and culture. Visit Chile’s Easter Island, home to the mysterious Moai statues. February: South Pacific Paradises Highlights: Sail through French Polynesia’s turquoise lagoons. Experience Samoa’s verdant rainforests and Fiji’s colourful coral reefs. Engage in authentic local experiences like village visits and traditional dance performances. March: New Zealand and Australia Highlights: Marvel at Milford Sound’s fjords and Rotorua’s geothermal wonders. Visit iconic Australian cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Explore the majestic Great Barrier Reef. April: Southeast and East Asia Highlights: Wander through Semarang’s sacred temples in Indonesia. Discover Singapore’s lush gardens and Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Walk along China’s Great Wall and immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s bustling markets. May: Japan and Alaska Highlights: Explore Busan’s exotic beaches and UNESCO sites in South Korea. Visit Kyoto’s centuries-old temples and traditional tea houses. Dine in Tokyo’s Michelin-starred restaurants. Reflect at Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park. Experience the awe of Hubbard Glacier and the charm of Skagway in Alaska. Conclusion: The voyage ends in Vancouver, leaving you with memories to last a lifetime. Crystal Symphony: January-June 2027 Itinerary Highlights The Crystal Symphony is set to embark on journeys that combine exotic locales with cultural richness. January: Central America and the Amazon Departure: Fort Lauderdale Highlights: Explore Mexico’s ancient ruins and Central America’s lush rainforests. Visit Caribbean gems like Martinique and Belize. Journey through the Amazon River, delving into its vast ecosystem. February: The Lesser Antilles Highlights: Relax on the British Virgin Islands’ pristine beaches. Enjoy the colonial charm of Antigua and Barbuda. Indulge in the luxury of St. Barts and explore St. Kitts. March: Atlantic Crossing to the Canary Islands Highlights: Sail across the Atlantic to the Canary Islands, known for volcanic landscapes and rich history. Explore coastal towns that blend Spanish colonial heritage with natural beauty. April: Mediterranean Marvels Highlights: Begin in the Canary Islands, then venture to Portugal’s Funchal and Lisbon. Delve into Morocco’s markets in Casablanca and Agadir. Cruise through the Mediterranean, stopping in France, Monaco, and Italy. Visit glamorous locales like Monte Carlo and the picturesque Portofino. May: Adriatic Adventures and Riviera Relaxation Highlights: Explore Greece’s ancient ruins and Montenegro’s stunning coastline. Wander through Croatia’s historic cities, including Dubrovnik. Immerse yourself in Malta’s rich history, and soak up the charm of the Italian and Spanish Rivieras. June: Mediterranean Deep Dive Highlights: Uncover ancient Carthaginian ruins in Tunisia. Experience the chic harbours of Morocco. Soak in the electrifying atmosphere of Monaco during the famed Grand Prix. Exclusive Experiences with Abercrombie & Kent Through its partnership with sister brand Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal elevates select shore excursions: Culinary Delights: Indulge in an intimate gastronomic experience in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Wildlife Encounters: Uncover the natural beauty and wildlife in Alaska. Cultural Immersion: Explore Japan’s storied temples and participate in traditional tea ceremonies. Wine Tastings: Savour world-class wines in Chile’s renowned vineyards. Onboard Luxury and Enrichment Passengers aboard the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony can expect: Entertainment: Performances by global entertainers and access to the only Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea. Gourmet Dining: Specialty dinners at the exclusive Nobu and Beefbar restaurants—the only ones at sea. Enriching Lectures: Engage with distinguished scholars and experts in history, science, entertainment, and the arts. Why Choose Crystal Cruises for Your 2027 Adventure Crystal Cruises is renowned for its exceptional service, luxurious accommodations, and immersive itineraries. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, here’s what sets them apart: Thoughtful Itineraries: Each voyage is meticulously planned to offer a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment. Personalised Service: With a high crew-to-passenger ratio, expect attentive and personalised service throughout your journey. Exclusivity: Enjoy amenities and experiences not found on other cruise lines, making your voyage truly unique. Plan Ahead and Secure Your Spot With such incredible itineraries on offer, early booking is highly recommended. These voyages are perfect for travellers looking to connect deeply with history, culture, and nature. Whether you’re keen to witness the majestic glaciers of Alaska, stroll through Kyoto’s ancient temples, or sunbathe on the Mediterranean’s most beautiful beaches, Crystal Cruises has crafted an itinerary that caters to your wanderlust. Final Thoughts The world is vast and full of wonders waiting to be explored. Crystal Cruises’ 2027 itineraries present an unparalleled opportunity to see it in style and comfort. As we look forward to new horizons, perhaps it’s time to start planning that trip of a lifetime.
Crystal Cruises Announces Exciting Itineraries for 2026
Crystal Cruises has just announced its highly anticipated lineup of itineraries for the second half of 2026 aboard the luxurious Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Known for exceptional experiences and personalised service, Crystal invites travellers to explore an expanded range of destinations and immersive cultural adventures across five continents from July through December. These thoughtfully curated voyages feature new ports, iconic cities, islands, and hidden gems, reflecting Crystal’s dedication to cultural enrichment and exploration. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony Itineraries From July to December 2026, Crystal Serenity will host guests on 18 sailings, visiting 36 countries and 108 ports. Meanwhile, Crystal Symphony will explore 32 countries and 79 ports, marking its return to North America for the first time since 2019. Both ships have undergone recent enhancements, including introducing the first-ever Beefbar at sea, collaborating with visionary restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi, and the debut of the first and only Casino de Monte-Carlo at sea. “With our 2026 itineraries, we’re inviting guests to experience the world in an extraordinary way,” said VP of Itinerary Planning and Port & Fuel Operations Mario Parodi. “Aboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, travellers will uncover both iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Through exclusive, expertly crafted excursions by Abercrombie & Kent, guests can fully immerse themselves in local cultures and discover each destination through the eyes of renowned guides and historians.” Crystal Serenity: Select Itinerary Highlights July: Depart from Southampton for a Northern European journey exploring Antwerp’s medieval architecture, Rotterdam’s modern art, and Hamburg’s historic port. The voyage ends in Oslo and Copenhagen. August: Begin in Amsterdam and explore the scenic Atlantic coast with stops in Saint Malo, Brest, Nantes, La Rochelle, San Sebastian, and Gijon. View a solar eclipse at sea before visiting Porto and ending in Lisbon. September: Sail from Fusina (Venice) through the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, visiting Trieste, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Cephalonia, and Monemvasia, concluding in Piraeus (Athens). October: Set sail from Barcelona along the Iberian Peninsula, stopping in Palma de Mallorca, Valencia, Cartagena, Melilla, Gibraltar, Casablanca, and Portimao before concluding in Lisbon. November: Embark on a transatlantic journey from Lisbon to Fort Lauderdale, visiting Funchal, the Azores, St. John’s, Road Town, and San Juan before concluding in Fort Lauderdale. December: Start in Puerto Caldera, exploring the Pacific coast towards North America with stops in San Juan del Sur, Acajutla, Zihuatanejo, Manzanillo, and Puerto Vallarta, ending in San Diego. Crystal Symphony: Select Itinerary Highlights July: Return to North America for seven back-to-back Alaska itineraries, including stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Wrangell, Klawock, Prince Rupert, Seymour Narrows, and Victoria. August: Sail from Vancouver along the Pacific coast with stops in Astoria, San Francisco, Monterey, Santa Barbara, and Santa Catalina Island, concluding in San Diego. September: Caribbean journey from San Juan exploring Marigot, Roseau, Bridgetown, Castries, St. John’s, Jost Van Dyke, Samana, and Grand Turk, concluding in New York City. October: Fall foliage experience from Montreal down the East Coast, visiting Quebec City, Iles-de-la-Madeleine, Sydney, Halifax, Saint John, Portland, Boston, Newport, and New York City. November: Round-trip from Fort Lauderdale exploring the Caribbean and Gulf Coast with stops in New Orleans, Cozumel, Belize City, Roatan Island, Montego Bay, Georgetown, and Fort Lauderdale. December: Caribbean journey from Fort Lauderdale to San Juan with stops in Road Town, Gustavia, Pointe-a-Pitre, Kingstown, Castries, Fort-de-France, and Basseterre. Crystal’s 2026 itineraries promise unforgettable cultural experiences and luxurious adventures, inviting travellers to discover the world in extraordinary ways. For more information about Crystal Cruises and to book a voyage, visit Crystal Cruises’ website or contact a professional travel advisor.
Crystal Cruises: Unveiling Exceptional 2026 Itineraries
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, has announced the release dates for its highly anticipated 2026 itineraries. This prelude to the official launch provides guests with ample advanced notice to plan their next adventure to some of the world’s most iconic and majestic destinations, including Indonesia, Japan, East Africa, Baja, California, and many more. Unparalleled Opportunities for Exploration In 2026, Crystal will continue to offer travelers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and cultural immersion – both at sea and on land. Through Crystal’s partnership with sister brand Abercrombie & Kent, guests will experience an unseen side of some of the most beloved destinations in the world, with exclusive experiences curated by local experts and tastemakers. Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity’s 2026 Itineraries After spending the first part of the year in Africa and Asia, including the enchanting cherry blossom season in Japan, Crystal Symphony will return to the US for the first time since 2019 for a spectacular Alaska season followed by Canada and East Coast sailings, and ending the year with Caribbean holiday sailings. Following her World Cruise, Crystal Serenity will remain in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe before embarking on a transatlantic voyage which will eventually cross the Panama Canal to explore countries along the Pacific Coast of Central and South America before bringing her to California for the holidays. Crystal Serenity will then kick off the 2027 World Cruise from San Diego. 2026 Deployment Preview Key Announcement Dates: Aug. 27, 2024: Individual cruise segments for the first two calendar quarters will begin rolling out for Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. First week of December 2024: All remaining 2026 itineraries for both ships will be available to book. “We recognize that our loyal guests are eagerly awaiting the release of our 2026 itineraries,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “Our team has been diligently working to craft the most exceptional and unforgettable travel experiences for our guests, from experiencing Japan’s stunning Cherry Blossoms during peak season to a complete solar eclipse in Western Europe. We are confident that the upcoming itineraries will exceed expectations and provide unparalleled adventures for all.”
Crystal Cruises Announces Wellness Retreats for Rejuvenation and Self-Discovery
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, has announced two special sailings dedicated to wellness. These retreats promise guests unparalleled journeys of rejuvenation and self-discovery. Set to sail aboard the elegant Crystal Symphony from Dec. 1-14, 2024, and Dec. 14-23, 2024, these new retreats bring together a remarkable group of industry experts who have curated specialised programming in the categories of healthy aging, functional nutrition, fitness, mental wellbeing, and body and mind detox. Departing from Barcelona, Spain, on Dec. 1, guests will embark on a 14-night voyage featuring an itinerary designed in collaboration with registered nutritionists, yoga and meditation specialists, sports experts, and famed authors and scientists. The cruise includes stops in Gibraltar, Morocco, the Canary Islands (Spain), and Cape Verde. Guests will be offered a rich proposal of indulging in plant-based dishes specifically curated by Crystal’s culinary team, the possibility of following a daily meal plan for fat mass reduction, personal training, fitness classes, yoga and meditation workshops, a pickleball clinic, dance classes, and lectures from renowned keynote speakers. Immersive, health-driven excursions such as Pickleball, padel, or golf matches in scenic environments and famous clubs, hikes, nature walks, kayaking, cooking classes and aloe vera workshops will also be offered to guests. On 14 December, another wellness journey begins as guests embark on an eight-night voyage from Tema, Ghana, to Cape Town, South Africa. This sailing will stop in Namibia and feature expert programming identical to the previous voyage. Dalila Roglieri, Crystal’s Head Nutritionist, said, “We’re so pleased to offer Crystal guests our new wellness retreats at sea, expertly curated in collaboration with some of the best in the health and wellness industry. Our offerings must align with discerning travellers’ evolving tastes and needs, as wellness is at the forefront of many of our guests’ lives. These voyages will continue to shape a new era of exceptional experiences for Crystal.” Wellness Retreat Highlights Include: Crystal’s well-known culinary team developed whole, plant-based culinary menus in collaboration with Dalila Roglieri, Crystal’s culinary nutritionist. In-suite herbal tea and fresh vegetable smoothies for intermittent fasting detox days. Fitness programming spans from strength and mobility training to spinning, posture workouts, aerobics, walking sessions, golf instruction, pickleball clinics and dance classes such as Rumba, Salsa, Merengue and Tango. Daily yoga routines are designed specifically for Crystal’s guests. Brain exercise programs, such as bridge classes and painting lessons. Digital detox programs aimed to purify our mind and linked to the days of body detox Lectures from renowned keynote speakers. Wellness excursions focused on hikes, nature walks, Hammam packages, wellness-cuisine cooking classes and farm-to-table experiences. Tailored beauty and health services at Aurōra Spa, including acupuncture, aromatherapy, aqua meditation and cryo facials. Special Guests & Wellness Experts Include: Minna McHale: Personal trainer, yoga teacher and movement & mobility instructor who has helped hundreds of clients, including top corporations, achieve their goals across Finland, Malaysia and Australia. Jenni Demus: Yoga specialist and mental health specialist who helps individuals and organisations foster better mental health and wellbeing. After completing two yoga teacher training (ashtanga and hatha yoga), she has been teaching onboard cruise ships and in her own studio. She has also authored the self-compassion guidebook, “30 Steps to Inner Power.” Dalila Roglieri: Registered Nutritionist specialising in Dietetics, Clinical and Sports Nutrition. Her passion for healthy food associated with gastronomy has allowed her to work with many chefs worldwide, designing menus and balanced gourmet recipes. She also collaborated with famed food companies on international projects to support the business and involve healthy eating in their clients’ habits. Among the most well-known are Kellogg’s, Danone, Yakult, and Crystal. Dr Christine Houghton: A worldwide keynote Registered nutritionist with a PhD in Nutrigenomics and a BSc in Biochemistry. She is the founder and faculty head of the Institute for Nutrigenomic Medicine and co-authored Clinical Nutrigenomics courses. Now in its 3rd edition, her book, “Switched On – Embracing the Science of Nutrigenomic Medicine” introduced consumers and clinicians to this revolutionary approach to nutrition science when the first edition was launched in 2010. These wellness retreats promise to provide guests with an unforgettable journey with enriching experiences and luxurious amenities. Whether you’re exploring the untamed wilderness of Alaska or delving into the timeless charm of European cities, these voyages offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultures of iconic destinations. So, get ready to set sail on an adventure of a lifetime with Crystal Cruises.
Crystal Cruises and Fincantieri Set Sail on a New Voyage
Crystal, the leader in exceptional cruise experiences, has signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. This agreement marks the commencement of the construction of two groundbreaking ships that will redefine high-end travel on the seas. A New Era of Luxury Cruising The 690-passenger (based on double occupancy) 61,800-gross-ton ships will feature many amenities and innovative designs, ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. The interior design, led by prominent architectural firms Studio Ibsen and Studio Gem, will feature the most precious marbles, Italian fabrics, and natural materials, offering a level of research and sophistication typically reserved for high-end private residential properties. Unmatched Amenities and Experiences A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the whole ship’s perimeter, similar to those loved by guests on Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity for strolls with stunning ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts will be delighted by a variety of dining options showcasing world-class cuisines, including Umi Uma, the only Nobu at sea, and the recently announced Beefbar. Wellness and relaxation will be at the heart of the new ships, with a comprehensive Spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre available to all guests. Families travelling with children will appreciate a dedicated area for engaging activities and a safe space for younger guests. The new ships will feature all-suite accommodations, with private verandas and a popular single occupancy category for solo travellers. This commitment to comfort is complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger ratios in this segment, ensuring personalised service and attention to detail. A Milestone Collaboration “This order is another milestone in the 40 years of productive collaboration between Fincantieri and my family that started with Sitmar Cruises, continued with Silversea, and now is flourishing again with Crystal,” said Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel Group. Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, added, “Our aim is to continue setting a new standard in cruising, offering our guests an unmatched level of service and sophistication. These new ships will receive the same attention I have reserved for my house.” A Testament to Resilience and Excellence Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, stated, “This order not only highlights the robust recovery of the cruise sector, in line with our Industrial Plan but also reaffirms Fincantieri’s leadership, thanks to the operational excellence of our shipyards and the execution quality of our world-class supply chain.” The first ship is expected to be delivered in the Spring of 2028. The construction and delivery timeline for the second ship will be announced later. A New Chapter for Crystal The announcement comes two years after A&K Travel Group acquired Crystal in 2022, marking a new chapter for the cruise line. Under A&K Travel Group’s leadership, Crystal has been enhancing its offerings at sea and onshore and expanding its fleet to provide unparalleled guest experiences. Crystal has also secured the option to build a third sister ship with delivery in 2032. With these new ships, Crystal continues to chart a course for luxury travel, setting new standards in comfort, service, and sophistication.
Crystal Cruises Announces Special Voyage to Commemorate 80th Anniversary of D-Day
Crystal Cruises, the leader in cruising and enriching travel experiences, has announced a special voyage tracing the path of Allied forces during World War II, marking the 80th anniversary year of D-Day. Set to sail aboard the elegant Crystal Symphony from 18 to 26 Sept. 2024, this immersive journey brings together a remarkable group of special guests and lecturers, offering exclusive insights into one of the most significant events in modern history. Departing from Dover, England, guests will embark on an 8-night voyage, following in the footsteps of the brave men and women who shaped the war’s course. The carefully crafted itinerary includes stops in Ijmuiden, just 17 miles from Amsterdam, during the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden. The journey continues to Zeebrugge, Belgium, for three days, with an optional tour to Dunkirk before arriving in Rouen, France. During this time, guests also have the option to explore the D-Day landing sites of Normandy. Special guests and lecturers include international best-selling author and Holocaust survivor Dr. Erica Miller, who will provide a compelling narrative of her journey from her childhood in Romania to life under a brutal Nazi regime and eventual immigration to America. George Luz Jr. will share captivating stories about his father and other Easy Company members, who parachuted into Normandy on D-Day and participated in Operation Market Garden and the Battle of the Bulge. Commander Robert E. Bradshaw (ret), a respected Navy Chaplain with a distinguished military career spanning nearly four decades, will offer insights into his service and experiences with various military units, including deployments to conflict zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan. “Remembering the heroes of D-Day and observing their sacrifices is an honour for Crystal,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “We are committed to providing guests with an immersive and meaningful experience that pays tribute to the bravery and resilience of those who fought for freedom. And, while we recognize that the sailing isn’t on the exact anniversary, 6 Jun., we are proud to join several others celebrating this esteemed anniversary worldwide throughout 2024.” The post Crystal Cruises Announces Special Voyage to Commemorate 80th Anniversary of D-Day first appeared on Stray Nomad Travel News.
Crystal cruises extend ‘Suite Dreams’ offer
Crystal is delighted to announce it has extended its Suite Dreams Upgrade Offer until 31 March 2024. If you have not already booked your exceptional voyage aboard Crystal Serenity or Crystal Symphony, don’t delay. Book any 2024 sailing based on availability, and be upgraded, free of charge, up to three suite categories. Guests booking an Aquamarine Veranda Suite will be upgraded to a Sapphire Veranda Suite, while those booking a Double Guest Room with Veranda will receive a complimentary upgrade to an Aquamarine Veranda Suite. The offer also includes an upgraded wardrobe valet service, with dry-cleaning and garment care on your second day of travel, and every ten days thereafter. Book your voyage by 31 March 2024, to take advantage of this exclusive opportunity.
Crystal Cruises Unveils 2025 Itineraries
Crystal Cruises has announced its inspiring lineup of 2025 itineraries onboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Following the brand’s acquisition by the A&K Travel Group, Crystal is poised to offer travellers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and cultural immersion – both on and off the ship – with industry-leading voyages of discovery across the globe to both iconic and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will visit an extraordinary selection of guests’ favourites and approximately 144 new handpicked destinations, such as the Faroe Islands, Haifa and Shanghai, for a combined total of 720 days over the course of 73 sailings visiting a total of 112 countries and 281 ports. “We’re excited to offer both past and future Crystal guests an inspiring assortment of itineraries in 2025,” said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group. “Guests onboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony will have the opportunity to explore a treasure trove of lesser-visited corners of the world and check off some truly once-in-a-lifetime bucket list destinations with bespoke, industry-leading experiences designed by Abercrombie & Kent.” Crystal Serenity 2025 Itinerary Highlights After completing the World Cruise in May 2025, Crystal Serenity will depart from Marseille and sail the Mediterranean and Baltic Seas, visiting destinations like Pablo Picasso’s hometown of Málaga, the charming, half-timbered town of Ronne, Latvia’s capital, Riga, known for its pedestrian-only medieval Old Town and more. Guests will have the rare opportunity to visit Longyearbyen, the largest inhabited area of Svalbard, Norway – famous for its incomparable Northern Lights views. With calls to the Faroe Islands and Iceland, passengers will discover dramatic landscapes and breathtaking views in the world’s most stunning Nordic destinations, including Torshavn, Djupivogur, and Reykjavik , among others. For a perfect leaf-peeping getaway, guests onboard from September to November 2025, will visit iconic North American ports of call such as Québec City, Gaspé, Newport, Boston, Portland, New York City and more. For those who wish to partake in the holiday season at sea, sun-filled voyages include Caribbean and South American destinations like Montego Bay, Aruba, Cayman Islands, Cartagena, the Panama Canal and more. Crystal Symphony 2025 Itinerary Highlights Kicking off 2025 in Southeast Asia, the newly refurbished ship will explore remote destinations, including Sihanoukville, known for having the best beaches in Cambodia, along with Sabangand Weh Island, the small active volcanic island to the northwest of Sumatra. With multi-day port calls to the region’s top urban centres including Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Laem Chabang and Shanghai, passengers will have even more time for in-depth cultural immersion. Guests can also visit Palawan, the Philippines’ ecological jewel with pristine beaches, and Brunei, known for its verdant rainforests. Timed with the Grand Prix, the ship will visit Monaco and Villefranche-sur-Mer, allowing guests the chance to embrace their inner Formula 1 driver, as they watch the iconic race in two of Europe’s leading destinations. Mediterranean highlights include calls to Haifa, Dubrovnik and Cyprus, in addition to Greece’s increasingly popular destinations of Zakynthos, Corfu and Santorini, among others. The latter half of 2025 will be spent in the Middle East visiting a variety of destinations ranging from the small Egyptian port of Safaga (Luxor), to Dubai, known for luxury shopping and ultramodern architecture, to the more remote Salalah, the third-largest city in the Sultanate of Oman, known for its marine life.
Crystal Cruises reborn: TD speaks with Tony Archbold on A&K Travel Group’s acquisition and relaunch
Crystal Symphony & Crystal Serenity After rough seas, Crystal Cruises was born again, offering a perfect opportunity to re-enter the cruise market with its new family. Travel Daily (TD): With A&K’s history and unrivalled reputation in the travel industry, what does the future hold for Crystal Cruises, now a family member? Tony Archbold (TA): Being a part of A&K Travel Group is an enormous benefit for Crystal. We will be working together to curate shore excursions that will be unmatched, as well as pre-and post-cruise, land-based opportunities. TD: With the marriage of two iconic brands, what has A&K already achieved? TA: As you mentioned, A&K Travel Group has added an iconic brand to its already highly-rated portfolio of travel entities. Crystal guests will see the immediate impact of the partnership with the curated shore excursions being created by the A&K team. However, we believe the focus is more long-term than immediate. Over the coming years, the trade and our guests will see more synergies appear between all the brands of the A&K Travel Group. We are fortunate that all our bands operate in the same market segment, and that gives us a real focus and, as a result, real strength in a very competitive market with very high guest expectations. Tony Archbold TD: What key message and new opportunities can you share with travel agents? TA: Travel advisors are an absolutely key ingredient to the success of our business. We rely on the relationships our trade partners have with our guests to plan memorable cruises. We recently announced global collaborations with Signature Travel Network and Virtuoso® and are always open to working with all local consortia, agency networks and individual agencies who wish to support us. TD: Can you share some key responsibilities of your new role and what you have achieved so far? TA: I am excited to join the Crystal brand and bring my 40 years of travel experience to this brand. My goal is to grow overall brand awareness and sales for Crystal throughout the APAC region. My immediate focus is setting up an effective and efficient distribution system across the region through the agency network, utilising the incredible network of travel professionals that operate in our market segment. TD: What do you aim to achieve with Crystal Cruises in the next five years? TA: Our first achievement will be relaunching a brand in under a year, and we are very excited about that. Over the next five years, we will continue to deliver unique service to our guests both at sea and on land. We will achieve this by offering Exceptional Service, Exceptional Dining, Exceptional Suites and Exceptional Experiences. What the next five years will actually look like is hard to predict, but we will continue to evolve by listening to our guests and travel partners and offer the first-class service that made the previous company award-winning for nearly 30 years. TD: Are there new itineraries to talk about? TA: We just announced that our 2024 World Cruise is officially open to book, and guests are very excited about this popular voyage. We will be announcing our 2025 itineraries in the coming months. TD. With such an established brand in the Northern American market, what new markets are emerging? TA: The UK and EMEA are becoming very important regions for the Crystal brand. Of course, there is strong interest in Australia, and always has been, and across Asia, where the attraction to outstanding service and experience of the type Crystal delivers is growing very rapidly. TD: Will we see more Crystal Ships in the future? TA: Right now, our current focus is getting ready for Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony to make their long-awaited return to sea.
Crystal Cruises Announces Four Sails In Australia From December
As part of its rebirth under the A&K Travel Group’s leadership, one of the most prestigious luxury cruise lines, Crystal Cruises, will sail from Australia aboard the Crystal Symphony this year. After a thorough renovation, the opulent and spacious ‘Crystal Symphony’ will welcome regular visitors and discerning travellers. On board Symphony, which will dock in Fremantle on 6 December, passengers will be able to choose from four Australia and New Zealand itineraries. After departing from Perth on a 14-night cruise to Auckland at a starting price of $10,000 per person, Crystal Symphony will sail from Auckland to Sydney for 15 nights, arriving in the New South Wales capital on 4 January 2024, followed by a 17-night Sydney roundtrip priced from $13,600. Crystal Serenity’s maiden trip, commencing on 31 July, will be a 12-night voyage between Marseille and Lisbon, while Symphony’s return to service, beginning with a seven-night cruise from Athens to Istanbul on 1 September, will mark the beginning of her maiden season. Symphony will now accommodate 606 guests, and Serenity will accommodate 740 after renovations because several of the smaller previous cabins have been combined into larger ones. Last November, Crystal Cruises informed potential passengers that the 2023 schedule would be announced the following year, saying, “Everyone here at Crystal Cruises and A&K Travel Group is working around the clock developing itineraries and finalising plans with the shipyard as we anticipate sharing exciting news about Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.” At last, the time has come.
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