Crystal is to unveil the refurbished, ’Crystal Serenity’ and ’Crystal Symphony’ this summer.
According to the company, the ships will include lavish design concepts, evolved in collaboration with international partners.
From redesigned public spaces and modern guest rooms and suites to refined in-room amenities and exclusive linens, the new Crystal experience will have elevated touch points throughout.
“As we welcome guests back to Crystal, we are delighted to unveil a look and feel that blends the best of its renowned past with a new vision fit for a bright future ahead,” said A&K Travel Group CEO, Cristina Levis.
“Fresh colours, unique textures and first-class tangible elements create an ambiance that evokes timeless moments of leisure and will leave guests with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Tillberg Design of Sweden (TDoS) was chosen as the lead designer of the two luxury cruise ships with projects encompassing public spaces, dining venues, as well as the recently announced AurōraSpa.
TDoS was tasked with creating spaces that blended classical elements and modern materials with a dash of Mediterranean influence. The resulting design was a refined and lasting concept that exemplifies contemporary and sophisticated layers within a refreshed setting, the company claimed.
“We are delighted to once again receive the trust from Crystal, this time with a studious and sophisticated renewal of the brand and its rich heritage,” said TDoS Partner & Executive Director, Fredrik Johansson.
“We are working closely with Crystal management to ensure that their iconic fleet stays top-rated by the guests and profitable for the owners.”
For the redesign of select guest rooms and suites, Crystal enlisted cruise ship architectural firm, GEM.
The new concept features neutral tones and high-end fixtures complemented with subtle hues of pastel colours and shades of grey and beige that resonate with the colour of the ocean.
“It was a pleasure to spearhead the design of select guest rooms and suites for Crystal. Our vision was to create a refined space for guests that embodies an ambiance of contemporary and classic elements, while complementing the already existing collection of adored accommodations,” said GEM Managing Director, Lorenzo Mortola.
“Our main goal was to merge smaller sized guest rooms into larger suites that offer a separate living room and bedroom areas, large bathrooms with a walk-in shower and double faucets and sinks. With more space, guests will have all the functions expected on a high-end cruise, while offering the best comforts of home,” he added.
With ’Crystal Serenity’ and ’Crystal Symphony’ guest rooms and suites accommodating a 740 and 606 guests, respectively, travellers can choose between various room options—some with spacious verandas—whose extensive renovations have reduced overall guest capacity in pursuit of maximising in-room relaxation.
Both ships will also include two new guest room categories – the Jr Crystal Penthouse Suite and Single Guest Room with an ocean view as an option for solo travellers without the necessity of paying additional single supplements.
These new categories will also increase the availability of the popular Sapphire Suite category.
Every component of the redesign was carefully considered. The project architect, Adriana Granato, an Adjunct Professor of Architecture at Politecnico di Milano, and of Studio Ibsen, led the team that illustrated all renderings of the new guest rooms and suites.
She personally visited a quarry in the Italian Alps to choose the Fior di Pesco marble slabs, also known as peach flower, for its precious veins of peach shade that give the stone the name.
“To be part of this unprecedented comeback and refurbishment of such an iconic brand is such an honour,” she said.
“I am so excited to see the renderings come to life when ’Crystal Serenity’ and ’Crystal Symphony’ take to the water. I know the guests are going to love everything about them.”
Suites will offer the highest quality linen with a custom-made collection of bedding from Jesurum 1870. For more than 150 years, the Italian-based company has woven exclusive linens, originally created for private residents, mega yachts and royal families.
Crystal is the first cruise company to collaborate and work exclusively with the Venetian brand whose brand ethos is motivated by dedication and innovation.
Guests residing in the Aquamarine categories and above can expect 100% made-in-Italy products of the bespoke Carol collection that offers an undulating, ogee-inspired border in embroidery and was selected, due to its resemblance to Crystal’s logo.
“We are honoured to have been chosen from Crystal for this project and are proud to be part of their new journey,” said Paola Cimolai, Jesurum 1870 CEO.
“The eloquent accommodations combined with our delicate bed linens will be sure to offer the perfect night’s sleep to Crystal guests.”
In collaboration with La Bottega, a hospitality curator for in-room amenities, Ortigia was asked to supply soap and fragrance products on board. Founded in Sicily, Ortigia’s products are indigenous to its area and inspired by the scents and elements of Italy’s tropical region.
“I worked with Ortigia in a previous role, and I am so in love with the brand that I had to bring it on board our Crystal ships,” added Levis. “We are also working on a second alternative line that will be available in 2024.”
Planned voyages will include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Canada and New England, Alaska, the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, the Middle East, Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
