Crystal Cruises reveals Chairman’s Cruise from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia for 2024

Crystal has unveiled details of its Crystal Chairmen’s Cruise, departing April 2nd, 2024 from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia aboard Crystal Symphony.

During the six-night voyage, guests will have the opportunity to sail alongside travel industry titans, A&K Travel Group Executive Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre, and Geoffrey Kent, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Abercrombie & Kent.

The cruise promises an immersive journey, combining unique travel experiences and opportunities to engage with Mr. Lefebvre and Mr. Kent through a series of special lectures, interactive discussions and exclusive meet & greets.

Crystal Symphony

Both will also join a limited-availability pre-cruise trip to AlUla, Saudi Arabia’s desert oasis. This five-day optional overland experience is curated and hosted by Abercrombie & Kent’s knowledgeable insider guides and offers a window into the Middle East’s storied heritage including the iconic Elephant Rock and Hegra – Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage site. An exclusive dinner on the final night will be hosted by the two industry leaders.

The Crystal Chairmen’s Cruise, a first for the brand, will feature a carefully curated program of onboard activities, including a special lecture from Geoffrey Kent, who will share stories of his tenure in the travel industry, spanning more than 60 years. 

Crystal will also welcome Peter Maeck, author of Aperture and Zänker, Justice Dennis Curran, who is known for his extensive political speaking career, celebrated artist, Martin Kaye, and Sabrina Aloueche, an English musical theatre actress.

A&K Travel Group Executive Chairman, Manfredi Lefebvre, and Geoffrey Kent, Founder & Chairman Emeritus of Abercrombie & Kent

The luxury cruise line will offer guests the best of the arts with award-winning productions such as Icons In Concert, Crystal on Broadway, the Elton John Tribute show Rocket Man and cabaret shows throughout the voyage, along with enrichment and technology classes, and golf instruction, led by a PGA professional and ballroom dance classes.

“I’m excited to be aboard Crystal Symphony and share my passion for exploration and adventure with fellow travelers on this remarkable journey,” said Lefebvre. “Geoffrey Kent is a true pioneer in the travel industry and, since our partnership began last year with the purchase of Crystal and returning to the water this summer, we are continuing to see tremendous growth for both brands.”

“The Crystal Chairmen’s Cruise epitomizes our commitment to redefining exceptional travel,” said CEO of A&K Travel Group Cristina Levis. “This voyage reflects our dedication to providing our guests with unique and enriching experiences, especially iconic land adventures, that elevate the Crystal brand.”

Shaun Ebelthite

Founder and editor of Cruise Arabia & Africa. I try to create the best news and information specifically for cruise passengers taking cruises to and from Dubai (where I live) and South Africa (where I was born). You can contact me at shaun(at)cruisearabiaonline.com.

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