Today, Crystal Cruises officially relaunches under the new ownership of A&K Travel Group, as the Crystal Serenity sets sail after a multi-million dollar refurbishment. The cruise line's largest ship, which departed yesterday, July 31, from Marseille on its maiden voyage, can accommodate 740 guests and is the first of two ships returning to service this summer.
The Crystal Serenity fosters countless opportunities for inspiration and enrichment, complemented by exceptional service. Larger, redesigned suites, award-winning restaurants, and inviting public spaces further expose passengers to elevated experiences en route to the most sought-after destinations.
“Crystal has been recognized for decades for its exceptional experiences, and we are thrilled to welcome guests back on board for its new golden age,” said A&K Travel Group CEO Cristina Levis. “In just one year, we have been able to revitalize the ships, a feat almost unheard of in our industry. It is an honor to mark this new chapter better than ever and right on time, all while retaining 80% of Crystal’s beloved crew.”
Itineraries
Following its maiden voyage from Marseille to Lisbon, the Crystal Serenity will sail to Northern Europe, exploring captivating destinations such as the UK, Ireland, and Iceland. The ship will then travel to the Americas, offering experiences from northern Canada to Cartagena, Colombia, before embarking on its 2024 World Cruise. Sailing from San Diego or Miami for 125 nights, this highly anticipated journey visits 29 countries and 62 breathtaking destinations and iconic landscapes.
Suites and rooms
Crystal has enlisted cruise ship architecture firm GEM to redesign some of its staterooms and suites. The rooms feature neutral tones and high-end fixtures, complemented by subtle pastel accents, elevated details, contemporary craftsmanship, and finishes that embody modern refinement, while spacious layouts maximize relaxation.
As part of the ship's renovations, there are two new room categories – the Crystal Penthouse Junior Suite and the Ocean View Single Room – that serve as an option for solo travelers without the worry of paying additional single supplements. These new categories will also increase the availability of the popular Sapphire Suite.
● Single Ocean View Room: A room (up to 215 sq ft) redesigned in 2023, featuring inviting and comfortable details, butler service, and ocean views.
● Sapphire Veranda Suite: A spacious suite (up to 430 sq ft) with a sitting area, elegant finishes, and a private veranda, accompanied by attentive butler service. Sapphire Suites are available to book in both new and classic designs.
● Crystal Penthouse Junior Suite: Redesigned in 2023, this grand suite (up to 645 sq ft) includes spacious bedrooms with separate living and dining areas opening onto a private veranda, also accompanied by attentive butler service.
Restaurants
With eleven different dining options, including 24-hour room service, guests have access to unparalleled culinary experiences:
- Umi Uma: The return of legendary Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa's Umi Uma – the only Nobu dining concept at sea where guests can enjoy award-winning and innovative Japanese-Peruvian cuisine.
- Osteria D'Ovidio: Fine Italian cuisine, with original menus and dishes created by Crystal's talented chefs.
- Waterside Restaurant: Crystal's main dining room features open seating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- The Bistro: A modern cafe and coffee bar with light snacks such as fresh pastries, bagels and fruit in the morning and a selection of international cheeses, pâtés, Serrano ham, smoked salmon and desserts throughout the afternoon.
- Trident Grill: Located next to the pool, Trident Grill offers classic delights such as burgers, melts, salads and much more.
- Scoops Ice Cream Bar: Crystal's dessert bar offers authentic Italian gelato with fresh toppings, frozen yogurt, homemade cookies, and much more.
- The Vintage Room: Offers pairings and guided intimate dinners highlighting the ship's extensive wine selection from the winery.
- Tastes Kitchen & Bar: With globally inspired cuisine and a casual "family-style" dining experience, Tastes offers tapas-style cuisine for guests to enjoy alone or with new friends.
- Market: A buffet-style dining room surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and an elegant outdoor dining area.
Welfare
Crystal's new spa concept, Aurōra, offers the most serene wellness experience at sea with a fresh design featuring light, neutral colors, a starlit ceiling, organic materials, natural salt crystal, and silk-brushed slate. The extensive treatment offerings include more exclusive facials, massages, and a full-service beauty salon.
Highlights:
● The Aurōra LED and Cryo Facial experience instantly plumps and tones the skin.
● Biotec 2.0 The Ultimate Facial, designed to reveal a youthful appearance after just one treatment.
● The Aurōra Stone Signature Massage, which incorporates warm stones to relax muscles.
In addition, Crystal recently announced the appointment of Dalila Roglieri as the brand's Chief Nutritionist, completing the holistic wellness experience for guests.
The Crystal Serenity's sister ship, Crystal Symphony, is currently undergoing refurbishment and will resume service for its maiden voyage from Athens on September 1.
