Crystal Cruises has announced plans to resume cruising beginning July 3, 2021, with a series of 16 seven-night round-trip cruises from Nassau aboard its award-winning flagship, the Crystal Serenity. In addition to its Nassau itineraries, Crystal will also offer 16 seven-night round-trip voyages from Bimini beginning July 4, 2021. With its new Bahamas Escapes cruises, the Crystal Serenity becomes the first ship to be based in the Bahamas, as well as the first ocean-going ship to sail from the Americas since the cruise industry's voluntary suspension of operations nearly a year ago.
“Like our guests, we have been eagerly awaiting the day we can welcome them back on board, and we are thrilled that day is coming to The Bahamas,” said Jack Anderson, President and CEO of Crystal. “The new cruises from The Bahamas will allow travelers to now enjoy a luxury cruise experience, while also providing much-needed benefits to local workers, airlines, restaurants, retailers, and hotels for pre- and post-cruise stays. The launch of these cruises will also boost economic growth in The Bahamas.”.
“The Bahamas is ready and excited to welcome cruise ship visitors back to the islands and to partner with Crystal Cruises in the effort to restore and help revive our tourism industry,” said D’Aguilar, Bahamas Minister of Tourism and Aviation. “We have worked tirelessly to ensure a safe and healthy stay for all travelers, enhancing the overall experience.”
Anderson added, “We can offer these cruises with confidence, thanks to the meticulous planning and health and safety protocols that both Crystal Cruises and The Bahamas have put in place, which Crystal Cruises’ sister line, Dream Cruises, has successfully implemented in Taiwan and Singapore for over seven months without any onboard incidents. The Bahamas itineraries allow us to sail without the risk of border closures, and for our North American guests, to sail as close to home as possible.”.
The new itineraries highlight the enchanting and romantic nature of the Bahamas and its islands. “Travelers’ desire to explore has only grown in the last year, and the destinations featured in the new itineraries are ideal for relaxing and rejuvenating. Some of the destinations we offer are only accessible by private yachts, and our guests will have the opportunity to visit these idyllic locations not found on other cruise itineraries,” Anderson said.
In addition to Nassau and Bimini, cruises from the Bahamas offer four idyllic destinations:
- Harbour Island, called the Nantucket of the Caribbean for its colorful New England architecture and famous for its pink sand beach.
- Great Exuma, the largest of the more than 300 islands and cays of the Exumas, home to waters so stunning they can be seen from outer space;
- San Salvador Island, with more than 50 dive sites and splendid beaches, and the first landing place of Christopher Columbus, marked by an emblematic stone cross;
- Long Island, an 80-mile-long island that stretches along the Tropic of Cancer and is known for its white sand beaches, technicolor waters, and lush vegetation.
These ports of call are subject to final confirmation and may vary at the captain's discretion due to weather or other conditions. For exceptional value, guests can extend their cruise vacation by choosing Crystal's extended shore and hotel programs.
According to Crystal's announcement on February 18, passengers must be vaccinated against COVID-19 at least 14 days before embarking on any Crystal ship. This new requirement is in addition to Crystal's Clean+ 4.0 measures, which include negative COVID-19 tests for both passengers and crew, reduced capacity, social distancing, mask-wearing, and health questionnaires. Beyond the peace of mind provided by these robust protocols, Crystal is enticing travelers with attractive discounts, reduced deposits, and an extended final payment date of 60 days prior to the earliest departure date, as well as other incentives. Cruises departing from the Bahamas open for booking on March 18, 2021.
The new Bahamas cruises will replace the itineraries previously scheduled by the Crystal Serenity. Guests who have booked on these voyages have the option to transfer their reservations to one of the new cruises.
Crystal Cruises distinguishes its ships and voyages with exquisite details that make a lasting impression on discerning travelers. All-inclusive entertainment; globally inspired dining, including Nobu Matsuhisa's unique maritime restaurants; unlimited servings of premium wines, beers, and spirits; and genuine, personalized service for every passenger underscore the Crystal difference.
