This luxury cruise ship will only have suites — but you’ll have to wait 8 years to sail

08.11.2024 - 14:49 / thepointsguy.com / Cristina Levis / Crystal Serenity / Crystal Symphony / Nobu Matsuhisa

Get ready, luxury cruise fans. One of the industry's most beloved lines is increasing its fleet size by 50% with a new ship, on which every single cabin is a suite with a balcony — even the solo cabins. But cruisers will have to wait until 2032 to enjoy it.

Crystal has risen from the ashes of its former self following a 2022 liquidation. The brand has partnered with Italy's Fincantieri shipyard to add a third vessel to its fleet, marking the first new-build for the line since it reopened its doors under new ownership in 2023.

The new 61,800-ton addition will be a similar size to its sister vessels, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, with a capacity for 690 passengers at double occupancy. Notable features will include a wraparound promenade, which will encircle the entire perimeter of the ship; luxury dining options, such as Nobu, featuring Japanese and Peruvian dishes by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, and Beefbar for global street food-style cuisine; balcony accommodations for all passengers, including solo travelers; and a casino.

"We're pleased to bring an expanded fleet to our guests, offering even more ways to explore the world with the extraordinary service and style synonymous with Crystal," said Cristina Levis, CEO of A&K Travel Group, in a statement.

The former Crystal Cruises ceased operations in 2022, citing fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic as its parent company, Genting Hong Kong, entered liquidation after running out of cash. Later that year, travel group Abercombie & Kent bought ocean ships Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, along with the brand's logo and other intellectual property.

Crystal won back former cruisers — particularly those whose vacations were ruined when Crystal Cruises shuttered — by offering them enough discounts on voyages under the new management to recoup their losses.

By the time the new ship begins sailing, there will be a 29-year age gap between it and the next-newest ship in the fleet, Crystal Serenity, which debuted in 2003. Crystal Symphony, completed in 1995, will be 37 years the new fleetmate's senior. Both ships received massive makeovers in 2023.

Want to learn more about luxury cruises? Check out these stories: