Crystal weighs return to expedition cruising as growth stabilises

#expeditioncruising .

Luxury cruise line Crystal Cruises is considering a return to expedition cruising as it reports improved financial performance following its relaunch under Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group.

The company said it delivered positive EBITDA in 2025, its second full year since relaunch, with occupancy levels above 90% continuing into 2026.

Crystal Endeavor acquired by Silversea

#expeditioncruising .

Defunct Asian cruise line, Crystal, part of the Genting Group and its collapse, has seen its former vessels dispersed to rival fleets including the much-anticipated Crystal Endeavor.

Lindblad Expeditions buys Crystal Esprit expedition ship

#expeditioncruising . 

The 62-passenger Crystal Esprit is leaving the Crystal Cruises fleet after having been sold to Lindblad Expeditions for a reported sum of US$13.3million, the latter told Cruise Critic Wednesday. Crystal had said late Tuesday that it had sold the award-winning superyacht to an undisclosed buyer.

Read full story at Cruise Critic 

Update: ExpCru understands Lindblad will deploy this vessel in the Galapagos after a refurbishment 

Crystal Guests Embark Crystal Endeavor in Reykjavík for Maiden Expedition Voyage

#expeditioncruising .

The luxury Iceland Expeditions are set to begin on July 17 with five consecutive journeys round-trip from Reykjavík. Crystal said that the voyages highlight the region’s “breathtaking coastlines and wildlife havens, massive glaciers and countless waterfalls, quaint villages and fascinating heritage of Iceland’s towns and islands.”

Crystal Cruises statement re Endeavor

UPDATED Monday, March 23, 2020 5pm EST

Crystal has been notified that MV WERFTEN, the shipyard group that is building Crystal Endeavor, has announced that it will temporarily pause operations at its Rostock, Stralsund and Wismar sites for approximately four weeks as a preventative measure to protect employees against COVID-19. We are assessing this situation and how it might impact Crystal Endeavor, and we will provide an update as soon as we can. Our guests can be assured that we will handle any adjustments with the care and consideration that they have come to expect from Crystal.

We thank our guests and travel partners for their understanding and patience. We look forward to introducing Crystal Endeavor to the world and embarking on expeditions of luxury and adventure.

Crystal Expedition Cruises Unveils 2022 Deployment for Crystal Endeavor

#expeditioncruising .

From Arctic adventures to 3 days in Seville… new polar expeditions, African immersions, river explorations and South American west coast highlight the collection of global journeys

With a focus on true expeditions to the world’s farthest corners, Crystal Expedition Cruises announces a preview of the complete deployment for the Polar Class-6 expedition yacht Crystal Endeavor. Crystal Endeavor’s 2022 collection of all-inclusive itineraries will be available for booking on 14 November.

David Sinclair to lead expert team on line’s new expedition ship

#expeditioncruising .

Crystal Expedition Cruises has appointed seasoned explorer David Sinclair as expedition leader for its upcoming ship Crystal Endeavor launching in August 2020. Sinclair has spent over two decades traversing all seven continents with an emphasized expertise in the polar regions. He has shared his knowledge and passion for wilderness discoveries with travelers on bold expeditions to the Antarctic Peninsula, Ross Sea, Adelie Coast, South Georgia, Macquarie Island, the Falkland Islands, Greenland, Svalbard and the Canadian Arctic. In his role, he will be involved in the planning and development of the vessel’s shoreside excursions, as well as leading a team of skilled expedition guides and experts.

Crystal Reveals Details for Guest Suites on Crystal Endeavor

#expeditioncruising

Industry's largest, most spacious accommodations set for Crystal's luxury expedition yacht

Crystal has unveiled the latest design details for its upcoming luxury expedition yacht, Crystal Endeavor for Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises. Aboard Crystal Symphony, Crystal's president and CEO, Tom Wolber, shared the first glimpse of the luxury accommodations on the yacht during Crystal's 27th Annual Sales Gala celebrating the company's top producers.

At 19,800 GRT, Crystal Endeavor will be the largest, most spacious purpose-built polar class expedition yacht in the world, accommodating just 200 guests and boasting all the luxurious amenities and special touches for which Crystal is known. The yacht will feature generous public spaces, a full-service spa and salon, six restaurants including Nobu Matsuhisa's Umi Uma, expedition rooms and elegant suites that contrast beautifully with the rugged adventures beyond the vessel.

"Crystal Endeavor's suites are an important part of the overall experience that is rooted in luxury and comfort, even while in the midst of extreme adventure," Tom Wolber says. "These suites will be private havens of relaxation and personal service welcoming travellers as they embark on journeys to the far corners of the world."

Crystal Endeavor's accommodations will be industry game-changers, as the largest, most spacious suites in expedition cruising, featuring private verandahs and butler service for every suite. Luxury touches include king-sized beds; walk-in closets; heated storage for drying parkas; spa-like bathrooms with adjustable heated floors, dual vanities, anti-fog mirrors and rain-showerheads.

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The stylish design is matched by state-of-the-art technological amenities that will enhance the experience with fine details, like ambient lighting, interactive streaming TVs and bedside iPads in every suite that offer voyage information and numerous international daily newspapers.

The 100 suites will include two Crystal Penthouse Suites (985 sq. ft. to 1,130 sq. ft.), eight Penthouse Suites (457 sq. ft.) and 90 Deluxe Suites (304 sq. ft.). The larger of the two Crystal Penthouse Suites features a two-bedroom layout, while the other one-bedroom plan connects to an adjacent Deluxe Suite through an adjoining entry, ideal for families and friends travelling together. Both offer dedicated dining areas and butler's prep space for in-suite dining from any of Crystal Endeavor's Michelin-inspired eateries. The Penthouse Suites and Deluxe Suites offer separated sleeping and sitting areas, private verandahs and desk vanity areas.

Crystal marked the steel cutting milestone for the 100-suite Crystal Endeavor in January this year, and shared initial design plans for the yacht's public spaces in March. She is set to debut in 2020. Details of the vessel's itineraries and on-sale date will be announced at a later date.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact your travel professional, or Crystal's Sydney office on:
1300 059 260 (Local Call Australia) 0800 600 108 (Toll Free New Zealand)

Or visit Crystal's website: www.crystalcruises.com

Crystal Marks First Construction Milestone For Crystal Endeavor

#expeditioncruising

Steel-cutting ceremony held at MV WERFTEN for Crystal's first Polar Class expedition yacht

Crystal marked an important construction milestone in Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises' expansion, as it cut the first piece of steel for Crystal Endeavor at MV WERFTEN Shipyard in Stralsund, Germany.

Crystal president and CEO, Tom Wolber, was joined by Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, chairman and CEO of Crystal's parent company, Genting Hong Kong (GHK); Colin Au, group president of GHK; Jarmo Laakso, CEO of MV WERFTEN; and local dignitaries Harry Glawe, Economics Minister of the State of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and Dr. Alexander Badrow, Lord Mayor of Stralsund at the ceremony held at the shipyard on Monday, January 15.

"Today is a special day in the development of Crystal Endeavor, which will introduce the next level of exploration for the Crystal brand," Wolber said. "We are pleased to collaborate again with the experts at MV WERFTEN as we work toward a vision for Crystal Endeavor that truly embodies the spirit of discovery of Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises."

"We look forward to this innovative expedition yacht with great anticipation in the Stralsund shipyard," Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay said. "A highlight is our investment of over 20 million euro in new equipment so that the Stralsund shipyard will be able to continue to build cruise ships efficiently in the future."

"Crystal Endeavor is a truly exceptional ship. We are proud to be able to implement this project and are particularly pleased to, once again, be starting shipbuilding activities in the Stralsund shipyard, creating hundreds of new jobs," Laakso said.

Set to debut in 2020, Crystal Endeavor will be the largest and most spacious purpose-built Polar Class ship featuring Crystal's celebrated service and hospitality, all-suite, butler-serviced accommodations, and unmatched choices for bold adventure in the world's most remote destinations.

For more information and Crystal reservations, contact your travel professional, or

Crystal's Sydney office on:
1300 059 260 (Local Call Australia)
0800 600 108 (Toll Free New Zealand)

or visit Crystal's website, www.crystalcruises.com

Northwest Passage aboard Crystal Serenity

Cruiseco is delighted to offer guests the opportunity to sail for 39 nights from Anchorage to New York, aboard Crystal Serenity.

Departing on 14th August 2017, this unique itinerary includes an overnight stay in Anchorage (Seward), before setting sail on this spectacular voyage.  Guests will cruise and explore the most picturesque scenery across Alaska, Canada, Greenland, before culminating in the US.  Due to the nature of this voyage Crystal Serenity is escorted by an ice breaker throughout the passage.  Prices, which start from $32,850 per person for a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom, includes economy class airfare from Australia to Anchorage, returning from New York with a stopover in Honolulu.

Steve Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer, Cruiseco said,

"Cruiseco is pleased to offer guests this truly amazing holiday experience, sailing through the captivating Northwest Passage, before spending time in New York and Honolulu.  This voyage provides every traveller with an array of high points.  From exploring historic towns, observing local wildlife and stunning natural landscapes, to participating in a wide selection of adventure activities, there is something to offer everyone.  Our past Northwest Passage cruises have proven to be extremely popular; normally selling out within a month therefore we would encourage anyone who would like to sail, to secure their suite with us early."

The itinerary, which has been handpicked by Cruiseco, allows guests to enjoy a combined fly, cruise and stay holiday, in some of the most spectacular countries around the world.  The North West Passage itinerary sails the North Coast of America, through the mesmerising waters of the Atlantic, Pacific and Artic Oceans, stopping in 13 ports along the way.



Voyage highlights include:

·         Nome Alaska, home to the largest gold pan in Alaska.
·         Ulukhaktok Canada, famous for its traditional art, iconic golf course and tip of the Diamond Jenness Peninsula.
·         Pond Inlet Canada, is considered the jewel of the North with ice caves to explore and an abundance of wildlife to observe.
·         Iluissat Greenland, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
·         A three night stay in the Plaza Hotel New York.
·         A three night stay in Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort.

"Cruiseco and Crystal Cruises ensure that guests have a remarkable holiday by taking care of everything.  Aboard Crystal Serenity, guests will discover perfection and luxury.  Offering six star service, fast check-in at ports, complimentary fine wines, premium spirits and champagne and other beverages, complimentary dining in speciality restaurants and 24-hour room service" added Lloyd.

Prices to travel aboard Crystal Serenity on a 39-night holiday experience, departing on the 14th August 2017, start from $32,850* per person, based on twin share in a Deluxe Oceanview Stateroom. Fares include: Economy class airfare from Australia to Anchorage, returning from New York with a stopover in Honolulu flying with Qantas Airways and American Airlines, one night pre-cruise stay at the Sheraton Anchorage including breakfast, 32 night cruise aboard Crystal Serenity from Anchorage (Seward) to New York, three night post-cruise stay at The Plaza Hotel New York including breakfast, three night stay at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort Honolulu including breakfast, private transfers between airport, hotel and ship and port charges, government fees and air taxes.

For additional itinerary options or to book whilst cabins are still available, visit www.cruising.com.au or call (02) 9492 8520.

*Prices are subject to availability and subject to change.  Terms and conditions apply.

Crystal Partners with Canadian Expedition Experts for Second Northwest Passage

#expeditioncruising .


Arctic Kingdom to assist Crystal Cruises in August on its adventurous quest through the icy waters and rugged terrain of the Arctic Circle

Following the astounding success and enthusiasm of its first-ever Northwest Passage sailing in 2016, Crystal Cruises’ Crystal Serenity will again traverse the elusive waterway this August. Aboard the ultra-luxury vessel will be a comprehensive team of Arctic experts from Canada-based Arctic Kingdom, global leaders in Arctic travel, who will share their knowledge and passion for the region’s unique culture, wildlife and geography with guests onboard, as well as lead discovery expeditions ashore.

The 32-day voyage departs Anchorage/Seward, Alaska for New York City on August 15, 2017, and sails through some of the most spectacular, remote areas of the previously unpassable polar region. Crystal Serenity’s 2017 Northwest Passage Explorer will mark the final voyage for a classic Crystal ocean ship to sail through the Arctic region. All-inclusive cruise fares start at US$24,479 per person and are available for booking by contacting a travel professional or calling +61 2 8074 6500. Crystal’s “Crystal Clear Choices” promotional savings offers additional value for bookings made by March 31, 2017.

“The Arctic is like nowhere else on the planet,” says Graham Dickson, Arctic Kingdom president and CEO. “As the top land-based operator in the Arctic, we are excited to be providing exceptional opportunities for Crystal Serenity guests to authentically experience the Arctic – unlike ever before.”

Local Inuit guides, Northerners, marine biologists, archaeologists, expert divers, conservationists, photographers, and wildlife experts round out Arctic Kingdom’s team of expedition leaders and speakers for the epic voyage. Besides the many environmental perspectives of the Arctic, there are several cultural nuances to be explored by Crystal guests during the historic passage with visits to Ulukhaktok, North West Territories; and Cambridge Bay and Pond Inlet, Nunavut.

“Partnering with Arctic Kingdom, the leading travel operator in this unique region, further raises the bar on the experience for our guests by offering them expertise from local adventurers,” says Edie Rodriguez, Crystal’s chairman, CEO and president. “Planning and collaboration with top experts and authorities is a must to ensure the safety of our guests and crew. We continue to work closely with the United States and Canadian Coast Guards, Transport Canada, and a myriad of federal, state, provincial, territorial and local government agencies.”

In addition to carefully crafted Crystal Adventures, the ship’s captain will safely position the ship to take advantage of impromptu “Unexpected Adventures,” supported by Arctic Kingdom, including zodiac outings to view glaciers, kayaking in protected bays, and trekking the tundra with an expert guide, and helicopter flights to view the Arctic landscape from the air, favorable weather conditions permitting. Likewise, expedition teams will be scouting for wildlife including polar bears and whales throughout the voyage. Specialized viewing equipment on board will allow guests to experience incredible viewing from the comfort of the vessel.

Just as it was last year, Crystal Serenity will be accompanied through the Canadian Arctic by an escort vessel, providing enhanced safety and both vessels will use low-Sulphur Marine Gas oil fuel, exceeding environmental regulations. The escort vessel will carry additional safety and environmental protection equipment, as well as personnel specifically trained in its use. In addition, it will serve as a platform for two helicopters for ice reconnaissance and flight seeing, and zodiacs for landings in areas without a port facility. Both vessels will be manned by highly trained crew members and Canadian ice-pilots experienced in all aspects of operating safely in the Canadian Arctic.

Two new ships ordered by Crystal

#expeditioncruising .

Source: Cruise Industry News
Crystal Cruises has upped its expedition yacht program from one ship on order to three, while delaying the first delivery by a year to 2019. The company’s new ocean-going 1,000-passenger ships are also being pushed back, from 2019 – already a year behind schedule – to 2022, according to a prepared statement. The ships are all on order at MV Werften, which is a consortium of shipyards owned by Genting Hong Kong, which also owns Crystal.

However, in the meantime, Crystal will spend significantly on the Serenity and Symphony, which will see massive enhancements in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

“Not only do our ocean cruise ships continue to earn the highest guest satisfaction feedback, they do so in record-breaking margins,” said Edie Rodriguez, president and CEO. “This enthusiasm only validates our commitment to continuing to invest in the most innovative itineraries and onboard spaces and amenities, as those are the features that are resonating with our discerning guests.”

In the first quarter of 2022, Crystal will introduce the first Crystal Exclusive-class ocean ship that “will set a new standard of luxury travel with signature features and guest amenities, and boast luxurious Crystal Residences, allowing travelers to literally call a Crystal ship home. The privately owned apartments will range from 600 to 10,000+ square feet and have access to private amenities, dining and other services,” said a statement.

On the expedition yacht side of the business, Crystal will take deliveries in 2019, 2020 and 2021. The ships will be 200 passengers and 25,000 tons. Crystal also announced it will rebrand its current Crystal Yacht Cruises as Crystal Yacht Expedition Cruises.

The company also said it is planning to add a second Global Express Jet to its Crystal Luxury Air fleet due to the “popularity of the existing charter options, and travel partners and guests’ wishing to customize their vacation experiences with all things Crystal”.

On the heels of announcing the maiden journey of Crystal AirCruises Boeing 777 with The Peninsula Hotels, which opens for booking on November 1, Crystal will release on that day a selection of its 15- to 29-day all-inclusive journeys for 2017 and 2018.

In addition to new experiences, Crystal launched a new “All Exclusive” branding campaign, a sales and marketing office to further support the Australia region (August 2016), and due to the demand in the Australia market, a branch office will open in Sydney in 2017. Crystal also announced in March plans to make the Shrine Building in downtown Miami its central display showcase location for its portfolio scheduled to open in spring 2017.

Crystal announces new expedition vessel, Crystal Endeavor

#expeditioncruising

by Aaron Saunders, Avidcruiser.com

Crystal President and CEO Edie Rodriguez announced the introduction of Crystal’s first luxury expedition megayacht, the Crystal Endeavor.

Debuting in August 2018, Crystal Endeavor was named after Captain James Cook’s HMS Endeavor, which discovered Australia and New Zealand over 250 years ago. It’s an appropriate designation, given that Crystal Endeavor will sail to some of the world’s most remote and unexplored places, including Antarctica and the Far Arctic. (EC editor notes that James Cook's vessel was spelled using British English: Endeavour)

“With Crystal Esprit, we discovered there are many guests, young and young at heart, who enjoy sports at sea and discovering remote islands, and as the interests and age of luxury travelers increasingly vary, we will continue to expand our collection of luxury travel options,” says Crystal president and CEO, Edie Rodriguez. “Luxury means something different to virtually everyone, and we strive to meet and exceed the wishes of the discerning modern luxury traveler. Crystal Endeavor will cater to a particularly daring audience, one who values luxurious comfort and amenities as much as life-changing adventures.”

The megayacht will be the first purpose-built Polar Code compliant yacht in the world with a PC6 Polar Class designation. Because of this, Crystal Endeavor will be able to cruise in the world’s Polar Regions during the summer and autumn in medium “first year” ice which may include old ice inclusions that other vessels typically can’t negotiate because of the risk it poses. Crystal Endeavor will also be fitted with the state-of-the-art offshore dynamic positioning technology, with computer-controlled systems to automatically maintain the ship’s position with its own propellers and thrusters. This will enable the megayacht to float atop coral reefs and other underwater wonders without utilizing anchors, which can damage the terrain or other underwater wonders in waters too deep for anchors.

In addition, Crystal Endeavor will also have a Remote Operated Vehicle – or ROV – which Crystal says it will send down to explore sunken wrecks, specifically mentioning the RMS Titanic, which lies on the floor of the Atlantic in 12,500 feet of water. Titanic sank on April 15, 1912 after striking an iceberg on her maiden voyage.

The 200-guest capacity Crystal Endeavor will offer extreme adventures by air, sea and land with a complete range of gadgets that includes two helicopters and two landing pads for flightseeing expeditions, as well as two, 7-person submarines, eight electric amphibious zodiacs, jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, fishing facilities, paddle boards, snorkeling and scuba equipment, recompression chamber, dive support tender and a multi-person ATV. To further deliver guest experiences distinct from any other expedition vessels,Crystal Endeavor will be equipped with SEABOBs – the world’s most technically advanced and powerful underwater scooter – that allows you to move gracefully underwater.

“Crystal Endeavor will absolutely set a new bar for expedition luxury travel,” says Rodriguez. “We have proven time and again that Crystal is the pioneer in luxury, and this megayacht will change the game entirely – the possibilities for expedition travelers will be virtually limitless.”

Crystal Esprit Christened in the Seychelles

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Crystal Esprit Christened in the Seychelles

Ready to Set Sail

Luxury yacht launches Crystal Cruises' next chapter

Crystal Cruises, the world's most awarded luxury cruise line, has officially welcomed Crystal Esprit to its fleet of ultra-luxury vessels, as the sleek yacht was christened in an elegant ceremony held at Eden Island Marina in Mahé, Victoria, Seychelles.  Crystal's president and CEO, Edie Rodriguez, welcomed a distinguished audience of local dignitaries, yacht guests, travel partners and professionals and executives from the line's new parent company, Genting Hong Kong (GHK), for a day of celebration, as Crystal Esprit marks the beginning of one of the most significant brand expansions in luxury travel and hospitality history.

On hand to christen Crystal Esprit was the yacht's godmother, Lady Gaenor Anne Meakes, fiancée of Mark Richards, one of the world's most awarded and recognised yachtsmen. Richards serves as chief executive of Grand Banks yachts, based in Australia, and is an eight-time champion skipper of the 628-mile Sydney-to-Hobart yacht race. Lady Meakes christened the yacht with the traditional breaking of Champagne against the hull – specifically a bottle of Louis Roederer, Cristal Brut, 2004.  The evening culminated with an elaborate fireworks display at sea.

"To say today is a special day is an understatement," said Rodriguez. "Since joining Crystal just over two years ago, a personal goal of mine has been to see Crystal realize the next step in continuing to pioneer luxury travel and hospitality; and today I am seeing that dream fulfilled." She went on to personally thank GHK Chairman and CEO, Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, for his and his company's support of her vision for Crystal's future.

Crystal will, indeed, pioneer the luxury travel and hospitality industry far beyond the reaches of ocean cruising, as the line is poised to launch Crystal River Cruises in 2016 and 2017, with five luxury river yachts – more than double the originally planned number – gracing the waterways of Europe include the Rhine, Seine, Danube, Main, Garonne, and Dordogne Rivers. Crystal Luxury Air will take off with all-first-class outfitted Boeing 777-200LR and Boeing 787 Dreamliner taking guests on multi-week journeys to far-off destinations not typically served non-stop by major airlines.

About Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises is the world's most awarded leading luxury cruise provider, having earned more "World's Best" awards than any other cruise line, hotel, or resort in history. In July 2015, Crystal embarked on the most significant brand expansion in the history of luxury travel and hospitality, which will introduce three new classes of cruising – Crystal Yacht Cruises (December 2015), Crystal River Cruises (July 2016), Crystal Exclusive Class Ocean Cruises (late 2018) – and Crystal Luxury Air (late 2017).

For More Information

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1800 251 174 (Australia)
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