Crystal Cruises is returning to the Middle East in 2024 on a 125-night World Cruise that was announced following the brand’s acquisition by A&K Travel Group in 2022, part of the Australia-based Abercrombie & Kent group.
Crystal Cruises was formerly owned by Genting Hong Kong, which also owned the cruise brands Dream Cruises and Star Cruises. While Dream Cruises and Star Cruises have ceased to function, the Crystal Cruises brand has resumed operations under A&K.
The 125-night World Cruise in 2024 will be operated by Crystal Serenity, one of two ships in the Crystal fleet, which is currently undergoing a major bow-to-stern refit and refurbishment in Europe.
Crystal Serenity
The voyage will visit 29 countries and 62 breathtaking destinations and iconic landscapes. Guests can choose to add on a Panama Canal segment which would extend the overall cruise to 141 nights.
Destinations include Colombia, French Polynesia, Australia and New Zealand, Singapore, Indonesia, India, Egypt, Jordan, Italy and the French Riviera.
Guests booking the world cruise will receive benefits including an ‘As You Wish’ shipboard credit of US $1,500 per person, double occupancy and an air credit of US $1,000 per person. Crystal Society members will receive additional savings for a limited time.
The cruise will also include a welcome celebration reception, gala dinners and specially themed onboard and shoreside events.
Aqaba in Jordan is the gateway to Petra.
Fernando Barroso de Oliveira has been appointed to serve as Crystal’s World Cruise Ambassador. Having spent the last six decades traveling the globe, he will be on hand to share his knowledge and guidance with guests.
“I am honored to serve as the 2024 World Cruise Ambassador,” said Barroso de Oliveira. “I am so looking forward to hosting our guests throughout the voyage sharing my expertise and ensuring every encounter is exceptional.”
“Experiencing world wonders such as the pyramids of Egypt, Petra in Jordan, Ephesus in Turkey or the Colosseum in Rome while enjoying unique shore excursions curated by Abercrombie & Kent will be an experience of a lifetime,” he added. “Throughout the course of their voyage, guests will be treated to the unparalleled service, world-class dining and entertainment that had made Crystal an award-winning cruise line for nearly 30 years.”
Crystal Serenity’s enhancements include larger, updated suites with artisanal finishes, cutting-edge onboard wellness as well as a revamped spa and gym. Guests will also find a new pickleball court along with refreshed entertainment and events.
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