At AffordableTours.com, we only partner with cruise companies who meet our highest standards for excellence, and from time to time we like to highlight these companies on our blog. Today’s featured partner, Crystal Cruises, has been specializing in mid-size luxury cruising for 25 years, most notably with its two flagship vessels, the Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity.
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Crystal Cruises is a frequent winner of reader’s choice polls, having won Best Midsize Cruise Ship Line from Condé Nast Traveler‘s readers for 21 years, and Travel + Leisure readers have awarded it World’s Best for 19 consecutive years. Learn more about Crystal’s all-inclusive luxury experience, bold itineraries and future vision.
The All-Inclusive Experience
Crystal’s Six-Star luxury standard focuses on offering the finest experience possible. The attention to detail, the fine quality of all the onboard amenities and lodging, and the level of personal service, hospitality, and warmth have drawn comparisons to the very best land-based hotels in the world. Crystal consistently sets the standard for luxury in the cruise market, reflected in their domination of industry awards.
Among some of the other onboard experiences you’ll find with Crystal are two fine-dining restaurants from world-famous chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Crystal’s commitment to excellent in cuisine extends to their Modern Cuisine menu and the critically-acclaimed Wine and Food festival.
If learning and personal enrichment is part of your goal on a cruise, the Creative Learning Institute has programs customized for each guest.
Itineraries
Founded by Nippon Yusen Kaisha (NYK), a Japanese shipping company, Crystal Cruises offers itineraries all across the globe. Crystal offers itineraries ranging in length from 7 to 30 days, from Mediterranean and Caribbean cruises to Canada, South America, and Trans-Atlantic voyages, and more.
One unique itinerary coming up in the next year: The Serenity will sail from Seward, Alaska to New York City, via the Northwest Passage, on a 32-day journey. This trip will happen August 16, 2016, and only once, so if you think you’d be interested, you’d be wise to look into it now.
Expansion
Crystal Cruises is preparing to be able to offer many more vacations, both in number and in type. The company was recently sold by NYK to Genting Hong Kong (GHK), a holding company for travel businesses that owns Star Cruises. GHK has plans to expand the line, with a planned launch in December of the Crystal Esprit, the fleet’s first yacht. The Esprit, with its capacity for just sixty-two guests, will specialize in intimate, exclusive voyages.
In 2017, Crystal River Cruises will be launched, as Crystal takes the same level of luxury and the all-inclusive experience from the oceans to the rivers. Also in 2017 will be the launch of Crystal Luxury Air, pioneering luxury around-the-world air travel.
Finally, in 2018, the first of three new Crystal Exclusive Class ships will launch, further expanding the number and variety of outings and offerings Crystal can provide.
If you’re interested in booking a vacation with Crystal Cruises, visit AffordableTours.com to see the most up-to-date list of their itineraries. You can visit the website or call 1-800-708-9007 to speak to one of our travel professionals, who are always guaranteed to get you the best price on your vacation.