Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Crystal Cruises is charting a new course. Cruise line executives announced this week plans for a significant brand expansion. Over the next three years, Crystal Cruises will introduce new ships — effectively establishing three brand new classes of cruising — as well as its own Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft.
“Our intent is to make Crystal Cruises the core of what will become the world’s premier luxury hospitality and lifestyle brand portfolio, not only for the immediate future but for years to come,” said Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay, chairman, Crystal Cruises.
The ambitious timeline will commence in late 2015 when Crystal Esprit embarks on its maiden voyage as the first expansion of the Crystal Cruises fleet. The extravagantly appointed yacht accommodates 62 guests offering intimate, exclusive and immersive experiences with a boutique ambiance. The all-suite yacht boasts high-end finishes, modern technology and over-the-top features including a two-passenger submarine, four 10-passenger zodiacs for special excursions and a 12-passenger Wider 32-foot super yacht tender for unique boating adventures.
Set for delivery in November 2015, Crystal Esprit marks the debut of the new all-inclusive Crystal Yacht Cruises program, which will sail regional, warm-water seven-day itineraries. The first voyage sails Dec. 23, exploring the Seychelles Islands, followed by an inclusive, post-cruise New Year’s Eve celebration at the Taj Dubai Hotel.
Spring 2017 brings more growth with Crystal River Cruises. Featuring expertly curated itineraries, Crystal River Cruises will offer the hallmarks of the all-inclusive Crystal experience. Also in 2017, Crystal will launch Crystal Luxury Air, becoming the first in the luxury travel industry to offer extravagant around-the-world trips on the world’s most advanced twin-aisle Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The plush aircraft, which typically seats 300, will fly 60 guests in fully reclining business class seats to worldwide destinations not often accessible via non-stop service. Each approximately 28-day itinerary will visit 10 to12 locales, with accommodations at some of the world’s finest hotels and resorts.
In late 2018, the cruise line will debut three new Crystal Exclusive Class, cruise ships. Genting Hong Kong has signed a letter of intent with Lloyd Werft in Germany to build the polar ice class vessels. With the introduction of these new vessels, Crystal will be the first-ever cruise line to deliver expedition-capable ships with all the signature features and amenities of a luxury ship or private yacht. The all-suite, all-balcony ship will accommodate 1,000 guests.
Additionally, Crystal will debut Crystal Residences. Situated on the top deck of the new ships, the 48 residences, ranging from 600 square feet to more than 4,000 square feet, will feature their own private restaurant, reception and facilities.
“It has been a personal mission of mine since joining Crystal to see that this incredible company reach new potential – and thus, new luxury travelers from all over the world – as we continue to deliver unparalleled guest experiences and superior standards of excellence,” said Edie Rodriguez, president and CEO, Crystal Cruises.
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