Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises (founded in 1988, launched in 1990, and relaunched in 2023) is a top-luxury travel brand and premium passenger shipping company. It currently operates only ocean voyages with two smaller-sized vessels, both fully refurbished in 2023, offering all-inclusive travel package deals. The Crystal ships—Serenity and Symphony—are highly ranked in numerous categories and deliver 5-star hotel amenities, exceptional service, and an intimate cruising experience defined by elegance and meticulous attention to detail.

New Crystal Cruises (2022-reestablished company)

After being acquired by Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group in 2022, the company was officially relaunched in February 2023 under the simplified brand name "Crystal." Bookings opened to past guests on February 13th and to the general public on February 22nd. The relaunched cruise line resumed operations with the maiden voyages of its two ships—Crystal Serenity (on July 31st) and Crystal Symphony (on September 1st).

Until 2022, the company’s chief executives were Tom Wolber (President and CEO) and Karl Muhlberger (COO/Chief Operating Officer). On July 24, 2020, the company celebrated its 30th anniversary. In June 2022, Crystal Cruises was acquired by Abercrombie & Kent Ltd.

In July 2022, Jack Anderson was appointed President, and Bernie Leipold became Senior VP of Hotel Operations. In November, the A&K Travel Group expanded its executive team with Andrew Burrett (Group CFO/Chief Financial Officer), Fernando Delgado Vintimilla (CPO/Chief Product Officer), Camille Drevillon (Chief of Staff), Martin Froggatt (Chief Destination Officer), Kerry Golds (Chief Tour Operating Officer), Fabio Agostini (CIO/Chief Information Officer), and Kim Robins Berman (Chief Legal & People Officer). In December, the company added Jacqueline Barney (Senior VP of Global Marketing), Spyros Almpertis (Director of Port Operations), Roberto Fazi (Senior VP of Marine Operations), and Julio Solvas (Finance Director).

In August 2022, Matias Lira was hired as Senior VP and Brandon Townsley as VP of Sales and Trade Partnerships.

In September 2022, new hires included Monique Ross (Director of Strategic & National Accounts, previously with Crystal and Seabourn), Paul Girouard (East North America Regional Sales Director, USA and Canada; previously with Crystal and Mystic Cruises' Atlas Ocean Voyages), Melissa Nightingale (West North America Regional Sales Director, USA and Canada; previously with Crystal), and Jeff Herzfeld (Director of Reservations, Sales Support & Guest Relations; previously with MSC and Virgin Voyages).

In November 2022, A&K Travel Group confirmed Jack Anderson as President of Crystal Cruises.

In December 2022, four veteran captains were rehired: Birger Vorland (with the company since 2003), Nenad Willheim (since 2006), Tonci Hladilo (since 2006), and Vincent Taillard (formerly with Silversea).

In February 2023, four veteran Hotel Directors returned: Hubert Buelacher and Scott Peterson (Crystal Serenity) and Herbert Jaeger and Josef Matt (Crystal Symphony). In March 2023, GMT-Global Marine Travel (founded in 2001 and based in London) was contracted to offer access to specially negotiated net-fare airline contracts (including for crew members), enabling Crystal Cruises to provide more affordable "flight+cruise" packages and additional itinerary planning services and flight charter options.

In April 2023, veteran Cruise Directors Rick Spath (Crystal Serenity, with the company since 2004) and Russ Grieve (Crystal Symphony, with the company since 2018) were rehired.

In June 2023, Crystal announced it had retained approximately 80% of the staff and crew who previously served under the brand’s former ownership.

Currently, both "Crystal Cruises Inc" and "Abercrombie & Kent Ltd" are managed as sister brands under the leadership of Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group.

The A&K management team includes Geoffrey JW Kent (President, CEO, Co-Chairman), Ronald Veno (Vice President), Brett Fichte (CFO), Stephanie Witmer (VP of Finance), Ann Epting (Senior VP Product Development), Robin Warne (Senior VP Finance), David Vass (Senior VP Global Cruise Business and Operations), Gillian Larkin (Senior VP Consortia Relations), Stefanie Schmudde (VP Product Development and Operations), Marett Taylor (VP Sales), Jennifer Leska (VP Tour Sales), Courtney Reagan (VP Marketing), Keith Sproule and Norma Cooke (Executive Directors of A&K Philanthropy), Stephanie Papaioannou (VP Private Travel and Guest Relations), Scot Anderson (VP IT), and Linda Wischmeyer (VP Private Jet Division).

Geoffrey Kent is the founder of A&K and also serves as Co-Chairman of both A&K Travel Group and Crystal Cruises Inc.

A&K cruises are operated on time-chartered vessels from the Ponant fleet, with passenger capacities ranging from 150 to 200. These voyages visit destinations such as the Arctic, Antarctica, Pacific Ocean islands (Japan, Australia), Europe (Greek Isles, Mediterranean, Baltic), and Africa. A&K’s Ponant-chartered voyages are fully inclusive, featuring an A&K Expedition Team of 18 experts, English-speaking staff, butler service, luggage packing/unpacking and laundry service, and WiFi Internet.

New ships

On May 9, 2024, A&K Travel Group signed a partnership with Adriana Granato from Studio Ibsen (a Milan-based architecture and interior design firm) and a long-term contract with Studio GEM - Design for Cruise Ships (a Genoa-based naval architecture firm led by Giacomo Mortola and his son Lorenzo) to design Crystal’s new ships and riverboats, as well as A&K’s camps and lodges.

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Company History

Crystal Cruises LLC (CrystalCruises.com) was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in the Century City neighborhood of Los Angeles. It was originally established as a subsidiary of NYK Line Japan (Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha), one of the world’s largest container shipping companies.

In March 2015, NYK Line sold Crystal Cruises to Genting Hong Kong Ltd (GHK), a Malaysian corporation operating from 1993 to 2022, for USD 550 million. Until 2022, GHK also owned the Asian travel brands "Star Cruises" and "Dream Cruises" and held shares in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH).

Note: For all CruiseMapper news related to Crystal’s former parent company, visit GHK/Genting Hong Kong.

Following the GHK acquisition and up until 2022, the company (renamed Crystal Ltd) included several brands: "Crystal Cruises" (2 ocean ships), "Crystal River Cruises" (5 Europe-based riverboats), "Crystal Yacht Cruises" (2 mega-yachts), "Crystal Luxury Air" (an aircraft), and "Crystal AirCruises" (a flight operator/airline).

Known for its premium service and outstanding product, the brand consistently received “World’s Best” readers' awards from prestigious publications like "Travel + Leisure" and "Condé Nast Traveler." Crystal ships frequently ranked among Condé Nast’s "Top 10 Cruise Ships" in the mid-sized category and "Top 10 Luxury Cruise Ships in the World" for all-inclusive offerings.

The company’s sustainability policy, under the “Crystal Cares” program, was launched on June 8, 2019. This initiative included the elimination of plastic straws fleetwide, replaced by paper alternatives. Crystal Cares encompasses multiple environmental and sustainable efforts. In 2019, Crystal partnered with the global conservation organization ORCA (Organization for Respect and Care for Animals). Through this collaboration and the OceanWatch Master Fisherman program, select Alaskan cruises feature onboard “Cruise Conservationists” who assist with training, research, and marine data collection.

In 2020, Crystal celebrated its 30th anniversary with a special program including themed voyages, commemorative gifts, and fleetwide booking savings. Crystal Society members received double savings (totaling 5%), while first-time guests enjoyed a 2% discount on select sailings. These benefits were offered alongside 2-for-1 pricing and "Book Now Savings" of up to US$5000 per stateroom for bookings made by June 30, 2019. The Crystal brand officially launched on July 24, 1990, when Crystal Harmony (now Asuka 2) departed from San Francisco, CA on a 12-day inaugural Alaska cruise.

In September 2021, Crystal Esprit was sold to Lindblad Expeditions.

In June 2022, Crystal Endeavor was sold to Silversea.

In November 2022, Crystal Mozart was sold to Seaside Hotels (Riverside Collection).

Company changes in 2022 (bankruptcy and reacquisition by A&K/new ownership)

On January 19, 2022, Crystal’s parent company, GHK-Genting Hong Kong Ltd, filed for bankruptcy. On January 10th, two GHK-owned shipbuilding companies in Germany—MV Werften and Lloyd Werft—also filed for insolvency. GHK previously owned Genting Cruise Lines, which included the Asian subsidiaries Dream Cruises and Star Cruises.

On February 11, 2022, the subsidiaries Crystal Cruises LLC (California), Crystal Holdings USA LLC (Delaware), and Crystal AirCruises LLC (Florida) filed an "Assignment for the Benefit of Creditors" under Chapter 727 of the Florida Statutes. The filings were submitted to Mark C. Healy at the Florida 11th Circuit Court (Miami-Dade County, Complex Business Litigation Division) and were assigned to Judges Alan S. Fine and Michael A. Hanzman.

• The appointed assignee, Michael Moecker & Associates Inc (a Florida-based insolvency firm), developed a liquidation plan to maximize asset value and reduce administrative costs, while setting up a claims process for customers and creditors.
• By March, attorney Healy's list of potential creditors included over 30,000 names, ranging from booked guests to travel agents, vendors, and suppliers.

As a result of the January–February shutdown, Crystal’s Miami office (Suite 501, 1501 Biscayne Boulevard) permanently laid off 238 shoreside employees.

In June 2022, Crystal Serenity, Crystal Symphony, and Crystal Endeavor were sold at auction.

• On June 15th, Bahamian sources announced that both vessels were sold at auction—Symphony to CSY Ltd for USD 25 million (EUR 24M / GBP 20.5M) and Serenity to CSE Ltd for USD 103 million (EUR 99M / GBP 84.6M).
• Reportedly, both shipowning companies (CSY and CSE) are owned by Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio de Clunieres di Balsorano (born 1953), a multibillionaire and co-owner of Silversea, Chairman of Heritage Group, Co-Chairman of A&K/Abercrombie and Kent, and Executive Chairman of Crystal Cruises.
• The financiers were represented by the Bahamian law firm Alexiou Knowles & Co.

On June 22nd, it was announced that both vessels are now owned by A&K Travel Group Ltd—a joint venture between Abercrombie & Kent Ltd (owned by Geoffrey Kent) and Heritage Group Monaco (a Lefebvre family-owned private equity firm specializing in luxury travel, VIP tourism, and medical technologies).

Company changes in 2023 (relaunch)

Following extensive drydock refurbishments, in 2023 both ships (Serenity and Symphony) resumed operations under the Crystal Cruises brand, which was fully acquired by A&K (including brand name, customer list, websites, social media accounts, and other assets) from the Bahamas-based "Crystal Cruises Ltd" for USD 13 million.

For ship management, A&K contracted the Monaco-based company "V.Ships Leisure Ltd" (part of V.Group Holdings Ltd).

In June 2023, Crystal introduced the Aurora Spa—its new onboard wellness concept—through a collaboration with TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden) and partnerships with premium cosmetic brands ELEMIS and KERASTASE. Spa facilities on both ships were completely redesigned, modernized, and expanded with new treatments and services. Crystal also renewed its 2019 partnership with OneSpaWorld Holdings Ltd (founded in 2018 and based in the Bahamas) for staffing and managing the fleet’s onboard wellness (spa and fitness) operations.

In July 2023, Dalila Roglieri was appointed Head Nutritionist. She works with the fleet’s culinary teams to develop balanced menus catering to various diets and dietary requirements.

New ships (2028, 2030, 2032)

During a presentation onboard Crystal Serenity in late July 2024 (on a preview cruise for VIP guests departing from Trieste), Cristina Levis announced that A&K plans to sign a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with two shipbuilders—Fincantieri (Trieste) and Meyer Werft (Papenburg)—to build a total of four sea-going vessels (to be delivered by 2029), including two standard ships (max 650 passengers each) and two smaller expedition-type ships (max 220 pax).

Fincantieri-built new ships

The MoA with Fincantieri was signed on June 27, 2024, initiating the construction of two larger ocean ships.

The new vessels will accommodate 690 passengers (at double occupancy) and have a gross tonnage of 61,800 GT. Design development is led by architectural firms Studio Ibsen (Adriana Granato) and Studio Gem (Giacomo Mortola), with Lorenzo Mortola as Naval Engineer. An additional international design firm will also be appointed.

The interior design will feature high-end materials such as precious marble, Italian fabrics, and natural elements, typically found in upscale private residences. As with traditional Crystal ships, a wraparound Promenade will offer scenic views while encircling the entire ship.

The culinary offerings will include venues such as Umi Uma (Nobu’s restaurant at sea) and Beefbar (introduced in February 2024).

The wellness complex (spa and fitness) will be the largest in the fleet. Children will have access to supervised activities in a dedicated play area.

All staterooms will be suites with private step-out balconies. A high crew-to-passenger ratio will ensure exceptional personalized service and attention to detail.

The first ship (TBN1) is scheduled for delivery in Q2 of 2028, followed by the second in 2030, and the third in 2032.

The timeline for the second ship’s (TBN2) construction and delivery will be announced later.

Company changes in 2024

In January, Crystal signed a partnership with Ensemble Travel Group (founded in 1968), a member-owned consortium of ~850 independent travel agencies across the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. This agreement includes an onboard amenity program, Ensemble Travel-hosted voyages, and discounted cruises for travel agents.

In February, Crystal partnered with Beefbar (a Monte Carlo-based restaurant brand with 20+ locations globally) to enhance its onboard culinary offerings. The Beefbar menu (available at lunch and dinner) features vegetarian and vegan dishes along with specialty cocktails.

In April, Crystal launched the Crystal Referral Program to encourage past guests (loyalty program members) to refer family, friends, and colleagues. Each new guest referred receives a 5% discount on cruise fare, while the referring guest receives the equivalent value as onboard credit for a future cruise. The number of referrals is unlimited.

In June, Crystal signed a partnership with Societe des Bains de Mer de Monaco (SBM/Society of Sea Baths, founded in 1863 and based in Monaco), which owns and operates Monte Carlo’s Casino, Opera, and Hotel de Paris. This partnership allows Crystal to introduce the first Casino de Monte Carlo at sea. All Crystal ships (existing and future) will feature the Casino de Monte-Carlo, starting with Crystal Symphony (debuting November 2024) and Crystal Serenity (December 2024). The ~1000 ft² (~93 m²) gaming venue includes slot machines, blackjack, and roulette tables. It will also be featured on the two upcoming ships and all future vessels, except expedition ships.

Effective September 1st, Mario Parodi was appointed VP of Itinerary Planning and Port & Fuel Operations. He previously held the same role at NCLH/Norwegian.

Crystal OCEAN Cruises

The company’s most notable itinerary is the "Crystal World Cruise." These annual voyages visit some of the world’s most exotic destinations, including Hawaii, the South Pacific Islands, Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and Alaska. Crystal’s ocean ships call at over 180 ports across 60 countries worldwide.

Crystal’s clientele primarily consists of affluent couples aged 50 and over, who appreciate a sophisticated onboard atmosphere, highly personalized service, gourmet dining, and unique destinations. Crystal’s ocean ships feature:

• Spacious, elegantly appointed accommodations (most with verandas), in-room Internet access, complimentary 24-hour room service, and penthouses with personal butler service.
• Numerous dining options and excellent specialty restaurants such as "Prego" (from Valentino Restaurants), "Silk Road," and the "Sushi Bar" (overseen by Nobu Matsuhisa). The wine cellar includes over 200 vintages and more than 20,000 bottles.
• The luxurious, Feng Shui-inspired "Crystal Spa" and state-of-the-art fitness facilities with panoramic ocean views, yoga and Pilates classes, and the "Walk on Water" fitness program by Debbie Rocker.
• Specialty lounges including "Caesars Palace" at Sea Casino, "Galaxy Lounge" (with advanced sound and lighting systems), "Crystal Dining Room," "Vintage Room," "Avenue of the Stars" (featuring shops and boutiques), "Trident Grill and Ice Cream Bar," "Palm Court" (for daily afternoon tea), "Connoisseur Club" (offering fine cigars), and "Avenue Saloon" (jazz lounge).
• Broadway-style productions, variety shows, indoor and outdoor pools, paddle tennis courts, a casino (offering complimentary cocktails), a movie theater, nightclub, and bingo.
• Since 2017, complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi is available on all Crystal vessels—ocean, yacht, and riverboats.
• The "Creative Learning Institute" program includes interactive classes such as: "Computer University@Sea," keyboard lessons (Yamaha), language classes (Berlitz), wellness lectures (Cleveland Clinic), Tai Chi (Tai Chi Cultural Center), professional ACBL bridge instruction, ballroom dance lessons, golf training (with Callaway equipment and PGA professionals), and the "Crystal Visions Enrichment Program" featuring renowned guest speakers.
• "Ambassador Host Program" for solo travelers.
• Themed cruises and a wide variety of shore excursions.

In 2018, Crystal partnered with Jean-Michel Cousteau—oceanographic explorer, environmentalist, educator, film producer, and founder of Ocean Futures Society—to host onboard lectures and interactive media presentations on three themed voyages:

• March 12, 2018 (“Far East Vistas,” a 15-day voyage from Manila to Singapore) on Crystal Serenity
• November 8, 2018 (“Amazon Discovery,” a 24-day roundtrip voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to the Caribbean and Brazilian Amazon) on Crystal Symphony
• December 9, 2018 (“West Indies Yachting Explorer,” a 7-day roundtrip voyage from Marigot, St. Martin) on the superyacht Crystal Esprit (now Nat Geo Islander 2).

Both Crystal ocean ships (Serenity and Symphony) are Bahamas-flagged, 5-star rated, and offer some of the highest space-per-guest ratios at sea. They are among the industry’s most luxurious (and expensive) and typically operate longer itineraries (over 2 weeks). The onboard experience is defined by superior style and sophistication, impeccable service, tranquility, and an exceptional enrichment program.

Cabin amenities include complimentary beverages, Jacuzzi/bathtub, stationery, Wi-Fi Internet, smart UHDTV (with satellite), and an electronic safe. Onboard facilities include multiple dining venues, two swimming pools, spa and fitness centers, beauty salon, treatment rooms, sauna, steam room, golf simulators and instructors, a wraparound Promenade Deck, Crystal Theater (for live shows), a bar lounge, a library (offering movies, music, and books), and a top-deck observatory lounge.

Crystal RIVER Cruises

Crystal River Cruises was a division of the former Crystal Cruises, operating four newbuild riverboats under a fully all-inclusive model. The product was defined by gourmet dining, expert-led enrichment, high-end entertainment, top-tier amenities, and impeccable service. In every port of call, culture-themed tours and excursions were offered. Overnight stays in select destinations allowed guests to enjoy Michelin-starred dining ashore and exclusive evening events onboard.

In January 2016, Genting acquired the remaining 30% stake of Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven. The deal also included a ~50% stake in the shipbuilder’s real estate subsidiary "Investitions und Verwaltungs." The acquisition was first announced on September 18, 2015.

The announcement stated that Star Cruises, along with German firms Petram Beteiligungs, Ehlerding Beteiligungs, and BLG Logistics Group, entered into a stock purchase agreement allowing Genting Hong Kong (GHK) to acquire a majority stake in Lloyd Werft Bremerhaven GmbH. Prior to this, Genting had signed a letter of intent with the shipyard to build Crystal’s new polar-class ships, originally scheduled for delivery in Q4 2018 (later delayed to 2019).

• To begin operations, Crystal River Cruises purchased an existing riverboat, which was fully refurbished and renamed "Crystal Mozart" (launched in July 2016). Additionally, four new luxury "river yachts" were ordered from Lloyd Werft, scheduled for launch in 2017. Crystal Mozart is currently the largest river ship in Europe—excluding the older Russian-design ships on the Volga River. She accommodates 160 passengers and offers spacious staterooms (ranging from 19 to 80 m² / 200 to 860 ft²), multiple restaurants, and an indoor swimming pool.
• In July 2016, Crystal River launched the fleet’s first vessel, Crystal Mozart. The newbuilds debuted in 2017 (Crystal Bach, Crystal Mahler) and in 2018 (Crystal Debussy, Crystal Ravel).
• In October 2016, ALMACO Group (specializing in the construction of offshore accommodations, staterooms, and newbuild galleys) won its first-ever river cruise ship contract to supply galley/kitchen areas and suites for the four new river yachts. The contract included 220 ultra-luxury cruise suites, corresponding hallways and corridors, and turnkey delivery of the ships' galleys and pantries (equipment and lining). Earlier in 2016, ALMACO had refurbished the crew cabins and catering areas aboard Crystal Mozart.
• Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler operated on the Main, Danube, and Rhine rivers. Crystal Ravel and Crystal Debussy sailed in France, navigating the Dordogne, Garonne, Gironde, and Seine rivers. Due to her size, Crystal Mozart cruised exclusively on the Danube.

Crystal riverboats were Malta-flagged and offered dedicated butler service per cabin, Egyptian cotton linens, king-size beds facing French balcony windows, full-length mirrors, walk-in closets, ETRO robes and slippers, Nespresso machines, and wall-mounted TVs.

Dining venues included the Waterside Restaurant (open-seating dining room), Vintage Room (wine bar/private dining venue), Palm Court (show lounge), Cove Bar, and Bistro (casual café). The river yachts also featured a fitness center, full-service spa, indoor infinity pool (resistance swimming), and a top-deck Vista Bar & Grill.

Menus onboard were crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients and featured traditional specialties based on cruise itineraries—fresh seafood and fish (Holland), seasonal fruits and vegetables (Holland and Germany), meats and poultry (Austrian Alps and Bavarian farms), local draft and craft beers, regional wines, and cheeses. Complimentary specialty coffees and teas were provided by Vienna-based Julius Meinl.

Crystal river cruise deals

All-inclusive Crystal river cruise deals (as part of cruise fare) offered the following complimentary amenities and services:

• Gratuities for all onboard staff, including housekeeping, bar, dining, and butler service
• All meals, featuring 6-star gourmet cuisine and regional specialties
• Unlimited soft drinks and premium beverages (including champagne, fine wines, spirits, beers, bottled water)
• 24-hour self-service pantry (specialty coffees, teas, wines, non-alcoholic drinks)
• 24-hour room service
• 24-hour Wi-Fi access, free satellite Internet (60 minutes per person per day)
• Interactive TV (infotainment system) with on-demand movies and a music library
• Airport-to-ship group transfers via luxury coaches on embarkation day
• Ship-to-airport group transfers on disembarkation day
• Daily onboard yoga and fitness classes, digital international newspapers
• Enrichment and entertainment programming focused on destinations/itineraries, including expert lectures, local specialists, and tour guides
• Self-service guest laundry
• Twice-daily housekeeping service, including evening turndown
• In-cabin hors d'oeuvres service
• Butler service in every cabin
• Two complimentary curated "Crystal Adventures" shore excursions in each port (additional excursions available for purchase)
• Complimentary culinary tours to renowned local establishments
• Complimentary use of Atlanta eBikes, Nordic walking poles, and audio headphones during all "Crystal Adventures" land tours

In 2018, Crystal River Cruises offered 200 shore excursions (~80% complimentary), themed around culture, cuisine, and adventure. The new "Design Your Time" option allowed guests to use concierge services for personalized private tours.

Every Crystal river cruisetour itinerary featured a food-and-wine-themed excursion to Michelin-starred restaurants in major European cities.

Crystal YACHT Cruises

In March 2016, Crystal unveiled plans to build the world’s first polar-class megayacht—Crystal Endeavor. The brand’s first expedition vessel was originally scheduled to launch in August 2018. However, due to shipyard delays, delivery was rescheduled for 2021. The superyacht has a maximum passenger capacity of 200 and features 100 passenger suites.

The yacht includes 8 electric amphibious Zodiacs/RIBs, two 7-person submarines, 2 helicopters, and 2 helipads. Guests also enjoy complimentary access to jet skis, sea kayaks, wave runners, paddleboards, fishing gear, snorkeling, and scuba diving equipment.

The vessel is equipped with offshore dynamic positioning technology and computer-controlled navigation systems, enabling her to hold position using thrusters and propellers—allowing her to remain above coral reefs without using anchors. The ship is similar in design to the "discovery yacht" Scenic Eclipse (2018), operated by Scenic Cruises.

In November 2016, Crystal announced the expansion of its yacht fleet from one to three vessels, with scheduled deliveries in 2021 (Endeavor), 2021 (TBN1), and 2022 (TBN2). These sisterships were designed to include the megayacht cruising industry’s first mini-subs, helicopters, and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) as standard.

Crystal’s yacht fleet was intended for polar and coastal itineraries—European Arctic (summer), whale migration routes (Europe and the Americas), and Antarctica (winter). The decision to expand to three polar-class vessels followed a three-year study showing that nearly 70% of Crystal’s guests expressed strong interest in polar expedition cruising.

new DIAMOND-Class ships (2022–2025/canceled)

In January 2018, Crystal Yacht Cruises announced a redesign of its upcoming ships, downsizing the initial "EXCLUSIVE Class" (developed by Genting Cruise Lines) and removing private residences from the top deck.

The first ship's delivery was initially set for 2018, later delayed to 2019, and finally scheduled for 2022.

In 2018, the design was rebranded as the DIAMOND Class. The vessels were downsized from 100,000 to 67,000 GT and their max passenger capacity reduced by 20% (from 1,000 to 800).

Initial stateroom plans included 48 "Crystal Residences"—ultra-luxury suites ranging from 600 to 4,000 ft² (56 to 372 m²)—but these were later removed from the design.

DIAMOND-Class megayachts featured ice-classed hulls and propulsion based on four Azipod XO units (by ABB Marine). Each gearless unit housed an electric drive motor in a submerged pod outside the hull. Two pods delivered 22 MW each, and the other two delivered 19 MW each. ABB Azipods are specifically designed for efficient high ice-class navigation and reduced lifecycle costs.

The new ships were also to be outfitted with the "ABB 800xA DCS" (distributed control system), the EMMA Energy Management System (analyzing historical and current sea conditions), and a fleet management suite for performance benchmarking.

Crystal AirCruises

"Crystal AirCruises" was a new venture by GHK (Genting Hong Kong), launched as a subsidiary of Crystal Cruises. The division operated two aircraft: a Boeing 777-200LR (costing USD 296 million per unit) and a planned Boeing 787 Dreamliner (costing USD 225 million per unit).

Crystal AirCruises partnered with Comlux Aruba (a subsidiary of Switzerland-based Comlux), a private jet management company founded in 2003.

Boeing 777-200LR

The aircraft operated 14-, 21-, and 28-day "fly-cruise" itineraries. With a reduced capacity of 88 passengers (from the original 300), the plane handled the air and land segments of Crystal cruise itineraries.

The ultra-luxury jet featured lie-flat seats (73.5 inches / 1.87 m recline), arranged in pairs along two aisles, a dining lounge with four tables, a 24-seat bar lounge (with stone veneers and color-changing LED lighting), and two galleys. All seats converted into 180-degree lie-flat beds.

Complimentary amenities included free Wi-Fi, premium wines, gourmet meals prepared by an executive chef, iPads and Bose noise-canceling headphones, personal power outlets and USB ports, on-demand movies and music, custom plush bedding, and luxury bath amenities by ETRO.

Crystal Skye "air cruise ship"

Officially named "Crystal Skye", the Boeing 777-200LR ("Longer Range", aka Worldliner) was introduced in 2006 as one of the longest-range commercial airliners, capable of nonstop flights between almost any two global airports. It holds the record for the longest nonstop commercial flight—15,844 km (9,845 mi).

Crystal Skye was officially delivered on August 1, 2017, at Boeing Field in Seattle WA and christened on August 12, 2017, in Las Vegas, Nevada, by Crystal’s President and CEO Edie Rodriguez. It became the world’s largest privately owned tour jet.

Her inaugural "flight cruise" was a 9-night "Golden Week Holiday AirCruise" from September 29 to October 8, 2017, departing Hong Kong and visiting Nairobi, Kenya, and Tahiti.

The Boeing 777-200LR features increased maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) and three auxiliary fuel tanks, allowing up to 19 hours of non-stop flight. The aircraft includes raked wingtips, structural reinforcements, and 13-ft (3.9 m) wingtip extensions. As of June 2017, 11 customers had ordered a total of 59 units.

Crystal Luxury Air also planned to expand its fleet with a second Boeing aircraft—a 787 Dreamliner. This long-haul, twin-engine jetliner accommodates 242 to 335 passengers (in a three-class configuration) and was the first aircraft constructed primarily of composite materials. It debuted in 2011.

In late 2015, Crystal AirCruises also announced plans to acquire two additional jets: an Airbus ACJ319 (corporate jet with removable fuel tanks) and a Bombardier Global Express XRS (Canadian ultra-long-range business jet). The Global Express XRS featured a 2-cabin layout (for up to 13 guests), 4 executive seats with tables, a 4-seat conference area, HD monitors, surround sound, a high-temp oven, and an aft lounge with a large LCD screen. The Airbus ACJ319 accommodated 30 guests and offered 16 lie-flat seats.

Crystal’s aircraft provided private charters (1- to 28-night) and transportation for customers booked on Crystal’s ocean, river, or yacht cruises. The charter jet service catered to corporate executives, small groups, affluent families, and discerning travelers seeking flexible, private luxury travel.

Crystal's fly-cruise packages included stays at the world’s most luxurious hotels, Michelin-level gourmet dining, and immersive local cultural entertainment.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020–2021

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Crystal suspended all ocean fleet operations, canceling all voyages scheduled between March 14, 2020, and July 2021.

• Crystal River resumed operations in late August 2021, but the 2022 season (planned to begin in April) was canceled through early June due to GHK’s bankruptcy.
• Crystal Yacht resumed service on September 15 with Crystal Endeavor’s maiden voyage.
• Crystal Ocean resumed on July 3 with Serenity sailing the Caribbean from Nassau and North Bimini Island, and on August 5 with Symphony from St. John's, Antigua.

All affected bookings received full monetary refunds, including any pre-purchased packages and services through Crystal Cruises. Rebooked reservations that were fully paid received 125% of the fare in FCC (Future Cruise Credit), along with full cash refunds for prepaid port charges, government taxes/fees, and prebooked flight or hotel packages. Bookings not fully paid received FCCs based on deposits. All FCCs were valid for any Crystal cruise (ocean, yacht, expedition, river) departing through December 31, 2023.

Now fully owned by A&K/Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, the "new Crystal Cruises" brand was officially relaunched in February 2023 under the name "Crystal".

Bookings for the 2023-2024 itinerary program aboard Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony opened on February 13th for past guests and on February 22nd, 2023 for the general public. The relaunched company resumed operations with Crystal Serenity’s maiden voyage on July 31st, followed by Crystal Symphony on September 1st.

Grand Voyages 2025

In October 2023, Crystal announced five Grand Voyages/world cruise itineraries ranging from 40 to 70 nights. These journeys explore exotic destinations with multiple overnight port calls and optional overland excursions in collaboration with A&K/Abercrombie & Kent (Crystal’s sister company).

The longest itinerary (70 nights aboard Crystal Symphony) departs January 7, 2025. This roundtrip voyage from Mumbai, India visits 15 countries and 32 destinations.

On January 18, 2025, Crystal Symphony begins a 47-night roundtrip voyage from Singapore visiting Taiwan, Thailand, Hong Kong, and Japan.

On March 5, 2025, Crystal Serenity departs on a 44-night voyage from Rio de Janeiro to Mumbai. Ports of call include St Helena Island, Walvis Bay, Cape Town, Zanzibar, Mombasa, the Seychelles, the Maldives, and Sri Lanka.

On March 20, 2025, Crystal Serenity sets sail on a 51-night voyage from Cape Town to Barcelona, visiting destinations in South Africa, Zanzibar, India, the Seychelles, Maldives, the Middle East, Greece, and Italy.

The final Grand Voyage (aboard Crystal Serenity) is a 40-night itinerary from Stockholm to Liverpool, departing July 29, 2025. Highlights include ports in Northern Europe and the Baltic, such as Tallinn, Visby, Riga, Copenhagen, Kristiansand, the UK's Shetland and Orkney Isles, Iceland, Norway, and Amsterdam.

Early bookings made before January 12, 2024, received benefits such as 5% savings (for Crystal Society members), business class air allowances (OBC for the first two guests), two A&K one-day ashore experiences per voyage, up to US$1500 "As You Wish" credit, private land transfers, complimentary shipboard laundry service, and a free initial medical consultation in the ship’s infirmary.

Itineraries 2025

In September 2023, Crystal revealed that its 2025 deployment would include 281 ports (144 new) across 112 countries.

After ending her World Voyage in May 2025, Crystal Serenity begins European itineraries—first in the Mediterranean, then the Baltic. In September, she crosses the Atlantic for Canada and New England voyages between Quebec City and NYC through November. She then transitions to Caribbean and South American routes for the winter, including a full Panama Canal transit.

Crystal Symphony's 2025 program starts in Southeast Asia, followed by a Suez Canal repositioning to Europe and the Mediterranean. She ends the year in the Middle East.

Crystal Serenity 2025-2026 Itineraries

Crystal Serenity's 2025 itinerary highlights include:

After completing the World Cruise in May, she departs from Marseille to cruise the Mediterranean and Baltic Seas. Featured ports include Malaga, Ronne, Riga, and others.

Guests can explore Longyearbyen in Svalbard, Norway, famed for its Northern Lights.

Itineraries also include the Faroe Islands and Iceland, with stops at Torshavn, Djupivogur, and Reykjavik.

For fall foliage, September–November 2025 itineraries visit Quebec City, Gaspe, Newport, Boston, Portland, and New York City.

Holiday cruises feature sun-soaked destinations such as Montego Bay, Aruba, the Cayman Islands, Cartagena, and the Panama Canal.

After the 2026 world cruise, she continues Mediterranean and Northern European voyages, crosses the Atlantic, transits the Panama Canal, and explores the Pacific coastlines of Central and South America before repositioning to California for her 2027 world cruise from San Diego.

Crystal Symphony 2025-2026 Itineraries

Crystal Symphony's 2025 itinerary highlights include:

Starting in Southeast Asia, the newly refurbished ship visits remote locations like Sihanoukville, Sabang, and Weh Island.

Extended port stays in cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Laem Chabang, and Shanghai offer immersive cultural experiences.

Guests will also enjoy visits to Palawan and Brunei.

Timed with the Grand Prix, the ship stops in Monaco and Villefranche-sur-Mer for guests to experience the iconic race.

In the Mediterranean, ports include Haifa, Dubrovnik, Cyprus, and Greek destinations like Zakynthos, Corfu, and Santorini.

Later in 2025, voyages focus on the Middle East, with stops in Safaga (Luxor), Dubai, and Salalah.

After spending the earlier part of the year in Africa and Asia—highlighted by Japan’s cherry blossom season—Crystal Symphony returns to the U.S. for the first time since 2019. She then cruises to Alaska, the U.S. East Coast, Canada, and concludes the year in the Caribbean.

Crystal RIVER Cruise Itineraries

In July 2015, Genting announced plans to build new river cruise ships featuring larger staterooms and more space per guest than typical riverboats. Itineraries are designed to maximize time in port for enriching shore experiences.

Crystal’s river cruise brand began operations in 2016, sailing exclusively on European rivers. Known globally for high service standards and all-inclusive offerings, Crystal River Cruises operates itineraries on the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, and less-traveled routes to avoid overcrowded ports. Countries visited include Germany, Switzerland, Holland, France, Belgium, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary.

Grand European itineraries (linking the Baltic and Black Seas) also include ports in Balkan countries such as Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Crystal River Cruises operated five ultra-luxury "river yachts": Crystal Bach (2017), Crystal Debussy (2018), Crystal Mahler (2017), Crystal Ravel (2018), and Crystal Mozart (2016, fka MS Mozart / built in 1987).

The riverboats were later acquired by Riverside Collection Cruises (part of Riverside Hotels). Crystal’s river cruise itineraries included:

• Crystal Mozart (inaugural voyage July 13, 2016) – Danube cruises (10-11 nights) visiting Wachau Valley, Vienna, Passau, Bratislava, or Eastern Danube ports such as Budapest and Belgrade.
• Crystal Debussy (inaugural voyage June 4, 2017) – 5-, 7-, and 10-day Seine River cruises with overnights in Paris. Ports included Honfleur, Normandy beaches, Deauville, and Rouen.
• Crystal Bach (inaugural voyage June 18, 2017) – 14-day Rhine and Moselle River cruise visiting Amsterdam, Basel, and Antwerp.
• Crystal Ravel (inaugural voyage August 8, 2017) – 7-day cruises on the Garonne, Dordogne Rivers, and Gironde Estuary, including Bordeaux, Pauillac, Blaye, and Libourne.
• Crystal Mahler (inaugural voyage August 29, 2017) – 16-day "Grand Europe" voyage on the Rhine, Main, and Danube, featuring overnights in Budapest, Vienna, Passau, and Amsterdam.

All riverboats also offered themed Christmas and New Year's Eve voyages. "Crystal River Getaways" itineraries included:

• (Crystal Bach) 7-day "Romantic Rhine" between Amsterdam and Mainz; 7-day "Rhine Serenade" between Mainz and Frankfurt; plus 3 seasonal cruises to Belgium and Holland, showcasing tulips in April-May.
• (Crystal Mahler) 7-day "Delightful Danube" between Regensburg and Budapest; 9-day "European Escape" between Amsterdam and Regensburg.
• (Crystal Ravel) 8-day "European Treasures" between Nuremberg and Basel; 6-day Danube Getaway between Vienna and Nuremberg.

Note: For a complete list of river cruise ships and itineraries, visit the "Itinerary" section of our River Cruises hub, where all river cruise lines and their fleets are listed.