Game changer? Crystal‘s five new river cruisers (three more than previously announced) will launch in 2016 and 2017. Four of the all-suite luxury river yachts will feature suites measuring from 220 square feet to a two-bedroom Crystal Suite of 750 square feet.
The suites will all feature walk-in wardrobes, American king size beds and bathrooms with double vanities. Public areas will include the Palm Court with a dance floor and glass-domed roof as well as a well-appointed fitness center and spa.
Billed as “luxury river yachts,” Crystal’s new vessels will be built by German shipyard Lloyd Werft and will boast yacht-like designs with greater space-to-guest ratio than any other river cruise ship, according to a Crystal press release. The vessels will include Crystal’s signature all-inclusive six-star service, plus what Crystal says is a fresh approach to the traditional river itineraries and experiences.
The remaining river yacht is a recent acquisition by Crystal that is now in dry dock and will be renamed Crystal Mozart, debuting on the Danube River on July 13, 2016. This will be the largest river cruise vessel in Europe, double the width of an average industry river boat. However, it will only hold 160 privileged guests to ensure the elegant Crystal experience on board. Amenities include multiple dining rooms, an indoor pool, a spa and fitness center, and a wraparound promenade, plus a beauty salon and library.
[su_box title=”Booking Window”]Itineraries, fares and bookings for Crystal River Cruises will be available beginning November 30, 2015.[/su_box]
More from Crystal’s press release.
Taking advantage of its large suites to avoid multiple packing and unpacking with pre and post hotel stays as it is common with other river operators, Crystal’s new river vessels will deploy itineraries that maximize time in port for meaningful shore-side excursions and experiences.
This will afford Crystal guests virtually front-row access to some of Europe’s most charming cities and always guarantee the award-winning Crystal service and dining experiences without the hassle and uncertainties of local hotel services and standards. Crystal’s itineraries will also intentionally deviate from traditional river cruise routes to avoid congestion of other vessels in port.
Crystal will dedicate a portion of each cruise to sailing along some of the most picturesque rivers in central Europe during day time hours. This list will include destinations such as:
- France
- Germany
- Switzerland
- Holland
- Belgium
- Austria
- Slovakia
- Hungary
- Croatia
- Serbia
- Romania
- Bulgaria
This timing also affords guests the opportunity to enjoy the nightlife in select destinations with port overnights, which will often present inclusive culinary experiences ashore at Michelin-starred restaurants and local eateries, and exclusive evening events and entertainment.
“The beauty of river cruising is not only that travelers enjoy close-up access to more fascinating inland locales, but also that the rivers themselves are coveted destinations that shouldn’t be overlooked,” says Rodriguez.
During days spent in port, Crystal River Cruises will offer guests a bevy of the immersive Crystal Adventures as well as launch its newest shore-side program called Active Exploration Adventures. Tailored for guests wanting a high-intensity shore-side activity, Crystal is offering a complimentary active excursion for guests to explore the splendid European landscapes while staying fit on their vacation.
Contact a Cruise Specialists agent to be the first in line when bookings open!
