First Ship Delivery is Set for Q2 2028
MONACO, June 27,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Crystal, the leader in
exceptional cruise experiences, announced today the signing of a
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with renowned Italian shipbuilder
Fincantieri. This agreement marks the commencement of the
construction of two groundbreaking ships that will redefine
high-end travel on the seas.
The 690-passenger (based on double occupancy), 61,800-gross-ton
ships will feature a host of amenities and innovative designs,
ensuring unparalleled comfort and indulgence for guests. Prominent
architectural firms Studio Ibsen led by Prof. and Architect
Adriana Granato and Studio Gem
headed by Naval Arch. Giacomo
Mortola and Naval Eng. Lorenzo
Mortola will be leading the design efforts, along with a
third international design firm yet to be appointed. The interior
design will feature the most precious marbles, Italian fabrics and
natural materials, offering a level of research and sophistication
typically reserved for high-end private residential properties.
A standout feature will be a promenade extending through the
whole ships' perimeter, similar to those loved by guests on
Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, for leisurely
strolls with stunning ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts will be
delighted by a variety of dining options, showcasing a variety of
world-class cuisines including Umi Uma, the only Nobu at sea as
well as recently announced Beefbar. Additionally, Crystal will
continue its legacy of offering exclusive entertainment along with
a sophisticated casino that includes an array of
gaming options in an elegant setting.
Wellness and relaxation will be at the heart of the new ships,
with a comprehensive Spa and state-of-the-art fitness center
available to all guests. Families traveling with children will
appreciate a dedicated area, designed to provide engaging
activities and a safe space for younger guests.
The new ships will feature all-suite accommodations, with
private verandas including a popular single occupancy category,
with veranda, designed for solo travelers. This commitment to
comfort is complemented by one of the highest crew-to-passenger
ratios in this segment, ensuring personalized service and attention
to detail.
"This order is another milestone in the 40 years of productive
collaboration between Fincantieri and my family that started with
Sitmar Cruises, continued with Silversea and now is flourishing
again with Crystal," said Manfredi
Lefebvre d'Ovidio, Executive Chairman of A&K Travel
Group.
"Our aim is to continue setting a new standard in cruising,
offering our guests an unmatched level of service and
sophistication. These new ships will receive the same level of
attention I have reserve to my own house," added Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group.
"This order not only highlights the robust recovery of the
cruise sector, in line with our Industrial Plan, but also reaffirms
Fincantieri's leadership, thanks to the operational excellence of
our shipyards and the execution quality of our world-class supply
chain," stated Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri. "We
are thrilled to partner with Crystal in our pursuit of innovation
and excellence, under the guidance of a shipowner who has always
been close to our Group, like Manfredi
Lefebvre d'Ovidio."
The expected delivery of the first ship will be in the Spring of
2028. The construction and delivery timeline on the second ship
will be announced at a later date.
The announcement comes two years after A&K Travel Group
acquired Crystal in 2022, marking a new chapter for the cruise
line. Under A&K Travel Group's leadership, Crystal has been
focusing on enhancing its offerings both at sea and on shore and
expanding its fleet to provide unparalleled experiences for its
guests.
Crystal has also secured the option to build a third sister ship
with delivery in 2032.
To learn more about the new ships, or book any of Crystal's
exceptional itineraries, contact your travel advisor, visit
crystalcruises.com or call 1-800-446-6620.
About Crystal
For more than three decades Crystal has
been synonymous with exceptional, award-winning voyages. In 2022
A&K Travel Group acquired the Crystal brand and its two
vessels, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony,
ushering in a new era of Exceptional at Sea. The globally renowned
cruise line offers discerning travelers industry-leading,
authentic, and enriching experiences both onshore and at sea.
Crystal's pioneering partnership with Abercrombie & Kent
provides guests with unparalleled access to the most sought-after
experiences, destinations, and the latest cultural makers around
the world. The reimagined ships boast larger, updated suites
with artisanal finishes, new cutting-edge wellness offerings,
spectacular entertainment, and complimentary world-class dining -
including the return of UMI UMA - the only dining experience by
Michelin-Star Chef Master Chef
Nobuyuki (Nobu) at sea. With a legacy of unrivaled service
and commitment to sophistication and elegance at every touchpoint,
once on-board passengers feel as if they are perfectly at
home.
Join our exceptional community at:
Facebook: @CrystalCruises
Instagram: @CrystalCruises
Twitter: @CrystalCruises
LinkedIn: @CrystalCruises
About Fincantieri
Fincantieri is one of the world's
largest shipbuilding groups, the only one active in all high-tech
marine industry sectors. It is leader in the construction and
transformation of cruise, naval and oil and gas and wind offshore
vessels, as well as in the production of systems and component
equipment, after-sales services and marine interiors solutions.
Thanks to RESTRICTED the expertise developed in the management of
complex projects, the Group boasts first-class references in
infrastructures, and is a reference player in digital technologies
and cybersecurity, electronics and advanced systems. With over 230
years of history and more than 7,000 ships built, Fincantieri
maintains its know-how, expertise and management centres in
Italy, here employing 10,000
workers and creating around 90,000 jobs, which double worldwide
thanks to a production network of 18 shipyards operating in four
continents and with almost 21,000 employees. For more information,
visit www.fincantieri.com
About A&K Travel Group Ltd.
A&K Travel Group
is a global lifestyle and travel company that sets the standard for
refined and personalized travel experiences. These include
Abercrombie & Kent, Crystal, Cox & Kings and Ecoventura.
A&K Travel Group Ltd. Belongs to Heritage Group, the investment
holding of the Lefebvre d'Ovidio family which is active in various
sectors such as technology, consumer goods, pharmacies, biotech and
others.
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SOURCE Crystal