There were challenges and advantages with using the Crystal name. Of course the fantastic reputation of Crystal carried a lot of weight, but the use of the name resulted in an expectation that everything would carry on as normal, whereas in fact A&K effectively had a start-up on their hands, with all the attendant challenges of creating a company from scratch.
In view of which, the immediate on board delivery of a product which was, in the words of many, 'better than ever' was an amazing achievement, and we have been delighted to welcome back many loyal Crystal customers, as well as introduce the product to new buyers.
The new categories of accommodation are welcome, with much more private space per guest. In addition, the reduced capacity of each ship means that the public space is also sophisticated and uncrowded. As always, a very well developed entertainment programme appeals to a very sociable crowd, whilst the spa and fitness facilities are enticing for more active travellers.
Soon after launch, the CEO announced the company's growth plans: new builds are being designed as we speak, both in the classic and adventure arenas.
But in the meantime, whilst it is easy to have your head turned by the new ships of other cruise lines in this sector, in fact the classic lines and extraordinary onboard product of the stately Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity are enticing, in just the same way that Claridges or the Ritz are somehow able to compete with the Peninsula at Grosvenor Place or Raffles London at the OWO, both of which opened their doors just last year.
On board, we are beginning to see developments, with a stimulating enrichment programme, and great dining options which include the amazing Umi Uma by Nobu, and a new venture with the international upscale Beefbar restaurants, expanding across the world from their base on the French Riviera under the leadership of Riccardo Giraudi.
Ashore, too, there is much to look out for, with plans for a new and exclusive programme curated by A&K, to enhance all visits and in particular pre and post-cruise extensions. We also recommend you look out for the great value car or van and driver pricing offered in most ports of call, for independent exploration.
The renowned Crystal World Cruise is back, with the 2024 journey currently underway, 2025 on sale, and a waitlist already open for pre-registrations for 2026, travelling to 72 destinations in 27 countries over 135 days aboard Crystal Serenity.
The itinerary includes the turquoise seas of the South Pacific, remote New Caledonia, the dramatic landscapes of New Zealand and Australia; then loops north for an extended exploration of Asia and the Middle East, and finally to Europe with its rich tapestry of culture, before gearing up in Monaco just in time for the Grand Prix and ending on a high in Rome.
For this year, the upgrade programme currently on offer until the end of March represents great value if you want to try out the higher categories, and in 2025 early booking offerings include savings of an amazing 20% if you pay in full at the time of booking.
So make this the year you try out Crystal on a close to home Mediterranean cruise, with free flights from Mundy Cruising.
