The Cruise Collection
Last July, I stood on the deck of the reborn Crystal Serenity as she sailed out of Venice. And though we were setting o on a long-awaited voyage, what struck me was the powerful sense that I had come home. Since the first time I stepped aboard our ships in the Trieste dockyard in 2022, when Crystal became part of the Abercrombie & Kent family, I have learned that it is this familial sense of home that keeps guests sailing with us again and again. It’s the same feeling that saw more than 80% of our loyal team return to work at Crystal, and moved so many of them to tears that day as they welcomed me and our Executive Chairman Mr. Lefebvre aboard. Our ships, now finer than ever after a multimillion-dollar upgrade, have once again become the home away from home to all our Crystal family of beloved guests and sta . Our crew and ocers are the beating heart of our ships and it is thanks to their passion, care, warmth, and attention to detail that the soul of Crystal is stronger than ever. I could not be prouder to be setting sail on this next chapter, together. CRISTINA LEVIS CEO, A&K Travel Group
Join us on Crystal for the voyage of a lifetime, where days are spent immersed in the world’s most breathtaking destinations, and evenings are elegant aJJairs Álled [ith Áne dining, entertainment, and captivating company. Step aboard and be warmly welcomed into a world of comfort and sophistication on our reimagined ships, where the crew knows you by name and your every nuanced wish is taken care of. Together with Abercrombie & Kent, we get closer to the unseen side of each destination and create memories guaranteed to last a lifetime. Simply put, Crystal is Exceptional at Sea. UNIQUE EXPERIENCES Our onshore experiences and overland adventures are curated by Abercrombie & Kent, leaders in global travel for more than 60 years. WORLD-CLASS DINING Unparalleled choice, including the only Nobu restaurant at sea, dining on board Crystal is an unforgettable experience. PERFECTLY AT HOME Warm, intuitive service; spacious and comfortable suites and social areas… all that’s left for you to do is relax. OUTSTANDING ENTERTAINMENT From Broadway shows and comedy to live music and lectures, we have a world of options to keep you amused. THE CRYSTAL DIFFERENCE CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 5
CONTENTS 30-33 MEET CHEF NOBU MATSUHISA BACK WHERE WE BELONG 8-19 28-29 CRYSTAL + ABERCROMBIE & KENT THE BIG PICTURE 20-27 CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 6
BACK WHERE WE BELONG 8 THE BIG PICTURE 20 CRYSTAL + ABERCROMBIE & KENT 28 MEET CHEF NOBU MATSUHISA 30 A WORLD OF FLAVORS 34 ON OCEANS 36 Itineraries AFRICA AND ASIA 38 ALASKA 48 THE BALTICS AND NORTHERN EUROPE 54 CANADA, NEW ENGLAND, AND THE PACIFIC COAST 68 SOUTH AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN 80 EAST AND SOUTHEAST ASIA 94 WESTERN EUROPE AND THE MEDITERRANEAN 102 2025 GRAND JOURNEYS 128 2025 WORLD CRUISE 132 2026 WORLD CRUISE 140 Ship Overviews CRYSTAL SERENITY SUITES AND GUEST ROOMS 142 CRYSTAL SERENITY DECK PLANS 144 CRYSTAL SYMPHONY SUITES AND GUEST ROOMS 146 CRYSTAL SYMPHONY DECK PLANS 148 CALENDAR OF ALL 2024/2025 DEPARTURES 150 128-131 38-127 132-139 2025 GRAND JOURNEYS ITINERARIES 2025 WORLD CRUISE CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 7
CRYSTAL THROUGH THE EYES OF 8
CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER Crystal is back – with new owners and two exquisitely reimagined ships. Acclaimed travel writer Jane Knight explains how the revived cruise line is living up to its promise of being Exceptional at Sea. BACK Words JANE KNIGHT BELONG CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 9 WHERE WE
It’s been quite the sea change at Crystal. After running into stormy weather when its Hong Kong-based parent company su ered serious financial diculties, the fabled cruise line has returned to calmer waters under new owners A&K Travel Group. And they’re promising to redefine high-end cruising, making it better than ever before. They have plenty of heritage to build upon. Over the course of more than three decades, Crystal set the standard for exemplary service at sea, with superb food and top-quality entertainment, making passengers feel they had journeyed back to the golden age of travel. While o ering voyages into yesteryear, it wasn’t afraid of innovation – the cruise line started arguably the first onboard chef collaboration, with Michelinstarred Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa’s only restaurant on the waves, as well as introducing on-deck pickleball and paddle tennis courts long before they became fashionable. It was a heady blend. No wonder guests – myself included – couldn’t get enough of this remarkable cruise line, with 60% returning time after time to experience life aboard its two ocean-going ships. So when new owners came on board it was only natural to question to what degree they would honor Crystal’s hallowed past. Thankfully, Abercrombie & Kent (A&K) knows a thing or two about heritage. Formed more than 60 years ago by Geo rey Kent and his parents on the plains of Africa, it has earned a reputation over the years for o ering some of the best land-based travel experiences around the world. What’s more, its Executive Chairman Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, from the Italian shipping dynasty that founded Silversea, has cruising running through his veins. When he took a majority stake in A&K Travel Group in 2019 after selling Silversea to Royal Caribbean Group it was only ever going to be a matter of time before a cruise company was added to the portfolio. “I woke up in the morning and had no ships and said, ‘This is not possible,’” he recalled. Having long admired Crystal, he o ered to buy it twice – and was twice rebutted. It was only when the previous owners su ered financial woes that A&K Travel Group was able to acquire the brand name as well as its ocean-going ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, in 2022. The aim was simple but brilliant – to deliver excellence on both land and sea, capitalizing on the many synergies between the companies. As CEO Cristina Levis, who had worked with Lefebvre at Silversea, said: “We have two legends: the legend of the cruise industry and a legend and pioneer of land and expedition experiences. You can only imagine what the two of them can do together.” But time was of the essence, with just a year to make it happen, and all the associated administration of building a new reservation system and website. What’s more, before returning to service, both ships needed a makeover, which in parts turned out to be less of a tweakment, more full-scale surgery. Recognizing that the “market wants two notches above what it wanted before,” Lefebvre decided that the answer was to make Crystal even more exclusive, and that one of the ways to achieve this was by creating more space. CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER OVER THE COURSE OF MORE THAN THREE DECADES, CRYSTAL SET THE STANDARD FOR EXEMPLARY SERVICE AT SEA,WITH SUPERB FOOD AND TOP-QUALITY ENTERTAINMENT “ ” CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 10
CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER Clockwise from above OSTERIA D'OVIDIO; CRYSTAL SERENITY’S INVITING POOL; ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT; JUNIOR CRYSTAL PENTHOUSE SUITE, CRYSTAL SERENITY CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 11
CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER WE INSTANTLY FELT AT HOME... THANKS TO THE AMAZING CREW, %2 -2'6)(-&0) Ćā 3* ;,31 HAD RETURNED TO WORK FOR CRYSTAL “ ” Clockwise from above PUTTING PRACTICE ON THE DECK, CRYSTAL SERENITY; COCKTAIL HOUR; A CRYSTAL BARTENDER CRAFTING COCKTAILS CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 12
CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER Crystal Serenity had already had its capacity of 1,050 cut to 980 in a 2017 refit, but the plan was to reduce numbers even more, to 740, while sister ship Crystal Symphony would go from 908 passengers to 606. To do this, some decks were cut back to steel, with rebuilding rather than refurbishing to carve out more spacious cabins. Meanwhile, just to make life a little more interesting, as all this was going on, A&K Travel Group was simultaneously working on plans to launch four new ships before 2029. “Nothing like this has ever been done before in the industry,” said Levis. “But here we are. We made it, and we made it on time.” They certainly did, but did they respect Crystal’s DNA with the new version of such an iconic brand? When I stepped on board Crystal Serenity with my son, who had twice sailed with me on the cruise line before, that was the important question on everyone’s lips. A&K Travel Group had made a bold promise to maintain the qualities for which Crystal was known while simultaneously enhancing the oering. Had they kept that promise? I can’t think of a better answer than that given by Captain Birger Vorland, who had worked with Crystal for 20 years and concluded that it felt “the same as before – only better.” Everything felt wonderfully familiar. Here were the pool deck, restaurants and public spaces all looking beautifully spruced up yet fundamentally unchanged, along with the amazing architectural area of the Palm Court, surely the most elegant place at sea for a cream tea. We instantly felt at home. That feeling doesn’t just come from familiarity. It is also thanks to the amazing crew, an incredible 83% of whom returned to work for Crystal. Wherever you go on board, their story is the same, from Mauro, the Peruvian waiter, and Camilla the Brazilian bar worker to our butler, Igor, who supplied a steady stream of canapés and whisked away my son’s shirts to iron. They might have found other jobs or joined other cruise companies in the interim, but they couldn’t wait to return to Crystal. Ask any of them why and the answer is pretty much the same: “Crystal is family.” They make you feel a part of that family, these smiling ambassadors of Crystal, serving from their hearts. And they inject soul into the vast amounts of onboard space. Bear in mind that Symphony and Serenity now have 30% fewer passengers than when they were built, sharing the same range of original facilities. The sensation of space starts in your cabin, particularly if you’re lucky enough to be in one of the new Sapphire Veranda suites. The equivalent of two existing cabins knocked into one, they feature a separate lounge/dining area as well as a dressing room and large balcony. With its twin sinks and enormous walk-in shower, the capacious bathroom is better than you will find in many five-star hotels. Everything feels cool and contemporary, the neutral stone and cream colors complemented by splashes of blue. The specialty restaurants, too, sport a more modern look. It’s with relief that I can report that Nobu’s Umi Uma is still on board, the chef’s ever-delicious Peruvian/Japanese fusion food now served amid a lighter, more appealing backdrop. Just The variety and the quality. As well as our bighitting shows in the Galaxy Lounge, we have many smaller shows in the secondary lounges. We offer so many different genres; there is something for everyone. One could learn how to put phone videos to music at our Creative Media Fundamentals class, take a dance lesson, or watch a movie in the Hollywood cinema. We offer everything from art classes to PGA golf instructors. Our lecturers include Broadway producer Kevin McCollum (Rent, Mrs. Doubtfire, The Devil Wears Prada), astronaut Jeffrey Hoffman, and sports photographer Neil Leifer, renowned for his pictures of Muhammad Ali. My goal is to enhance the popular White Dress Party. We will be constantly creating new offerings and introducing new shows. I love watching the shows from back of house, seeing how engaged the audience is and experiencing the standing ovations. What do you think makes Crystal’s entertainment stand out? What can guests do in the daytime? Who gives your onboard lectures? What plans do you have for the future? Which is your favorite part of the ship? CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 13 KEITH COX Vice President of Entertainment
WELCOME BACK TO CRYSTAL
There are eight of us in the pastry team on Crystal Symphony. We produce all the desserts; I oversee them in all food outlets. I’ve always had a passion for pastry. I love to see how happy it makes people when they enjoy my desserts. Anything with chocolate. Our guests also love our Crystal classics – Portuguese custard tarts in the Bistro, banana foster bread pudding in Tastes, and German chocolate cake in the dining room. Very important. Our guests are used to a high-quality food offering on board both Crystal ships, and I believe it is one of the reasons they return. It’s a whole different challenge to kitchens on land, but I love it. For example, the more the ship moves the less accurate our weighing scales are. What does your job involve? What do you love most about it? Which are your most popular desserts? How important is food to Crystal’s guests? Is it more difficult to prepare food on a ship than it is in a restaurant? PAULA HANNIGAN Executive Pastry Chef, Crystal Symphony CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER next door is the Italian specialty restaurant that has been renamed Osteria d’Ovidio after the chairman. Its food is better than ever following a tie-up with Michelin-starred chef Stefano Di Gennaro, who concentrates on regional produce in his carefully crafted dishes. The cruise line’s famous, and much-loved, mushroom soup is no longer on the menu, but you can find it in Waterside, which has also upped its game with a daily changing fine-dining menu that focuses on locally sourced produce. While you can still enjoy a formal night here, the onboard vibe is increasingly relaxed, epitomized in the new-look café for all-day dining, a favorite among computertapping passengers. With the help of a former Soho House brand maestro, Crystal is clearly aiming to broaden its appeal, with state-of-the-art equipment in the gym, a range of wellbeing classes, and gin tastings in the atmospheric saloon lounge. Not that returning passengers are forgotten, with the ever-popular gentlemen dance escorts ready to whisk ladies onto the dance floor, traditional afternoon tea served in Palm Court, and the Computer University@Sea on hand to teach tech. A variety of new enrichment experiences for all ages, such as arts and crafts, will be oªered in the new Lounge space. And Broadway-worthy shows continue to form part of a comprehensive entertainment oªering that in my opinion sets Crystal head and shoulders above its competitors. Guests have the opportunity to see two shows every evening, including world-class tribute acts, live music performances and stand-up comedy. Just as there was when my mother, my son and I took a multi-generational cruise a decade ago, there is something for everyone here, from the kids’ club to the spa. And what a spa it is. Named after Aurōra, the goddess of dawn, it has a slick new look with plenty of light. A spell in the sauna is even more appealing when you can sit in it and watch the waves outside. Life on board is clearly still special, but it’s oª the ship that it will be truly unique, with the help of Abercrombie & Kent’s bulging portfolio of exceptional experiences and onthe-ground network of experts and guides. You can expect exclusive access to aristocratic homes, castles and palaces alongside as many unforgettable adventures as you care for among the shore excursions. Better still, you can combine a cruise with everything from a safari to a villa stay as part of a pre- or post-cruise tour. On a World Cruise or Grand Journey, there are options to spend much more time getting under the skin of each destination, ticking oª bucket-list sites as well as taking personalized tours depending on what you want to see. In Peru with a few days to spare? Maybe it’s time to visit Machu Picchu. Been there and want something diªerent? Then see the Nazca lines, explore the jungle or check out the coast. And the real beauty of it all is that everything will be seamless, from the moment you start planning to the time when you return. CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 16
CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER None of this, of course, would mean a thing without the crew. Crystal’s people are the vital ingredient in its recipe for success. As Brand Ambassador Fernando Barroso de Oliveira, expresses it, “The ships are magnificent, accommodation fabulous, and we probably have the largest amount of space per guest in the industry. But it’s the crew that creates the soul of the ship.” Bernie Leypold, Crystal’s Senior Vice President, Global Hotel Operations, strikes a similar note. Asked what makes Crystal truly special, he replies: “It starts with the crew. For them it’s not just a job. It never has been a job. It’s a passion. We hire our crew to be part of a family; we hire them for their attitude, for their approach to service, and then we train them on board.” Crystal’s crew-to-guest ratio, Leypold adds, is one of the best in the industry, with almost one crew member for each guest, which means they can really concentrate on providing the highest levels of warm, anticipatory service. “For the guests,” he says, “it feels like coming home – because even if you have not been on board for three years, you will have crew members remembering your name, what you would like to drink, what we should put in the mini-bar, what your preference of pillow is. In essence, this is what we mean by Exceptional at Sea.” Former Travel Editor of The Times JANE KNIGHT now shares her expert knowledge of luxury travel for a variety of titles, from Condé Nast Traveler to The Telegraph. Clockwise from top right AURŌRA SPA; AL FRESCO DINING AT MARKETPLACE, CRYSTAL SYMPHONY; THE POOL DECK, CRYSTAL SERENITY CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 17
On Crystal ships, all-inclusive means precisely that: everything is coQpliQentar], JroQ start to Ánish )ver] restaurant, ever] bar. Not just buffet breakfasts but tasting-menu dinners with wine pairings. Chef Nobu’s Peruvian-Japanese-fusion creations at Umi Uma,Waterside’s à la carte dishes of superb local and seasonal produce. The most beautifully presented patisserie at afternoon tea, premium wines and spirits at any time of day. Butler service comes as standard for every single suite. We’ve even taken care of tipping, so you don’t have to think about it. ULTRA ALL-INCLUSIVE WELCOME BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE ORTIGIA BATH AMENITIES CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 18 CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER
ASSISTANCE WITH PACKING AND UNPACKING TURNDOWN SERVICE 24-HOUR IN-SUITE DINING Complimentary Services & Amenities in all rooms* WELCOME BOTTLE OF CHAMPAGNE BUTLER SERVICE 24-HOUR IN-SUITE DINING UNLIMITED CHAMPAGNE, WINE, SPIRITS & SOFT DRINKS* SPECIALTY DINING AT UMI UMA & OSTERIA D’OVIDIO* TURNDOWN SERVICE SHOESHINE SERVICE ASSISTANCE WITH PACKING & UNPACKING PILLOW MENU UNLIMITED STANDARD WIFI INTERACTIVE TABLET FOR NEWS, UPDATES & RESERVATIONS ORTIGIA BATH AMENITIES ETRO BATHROBES *PLEASE VISIT CRYSTALCRUISES.COM/AMENITIES FOR TERMS & CONDITIONS. CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | +1-800-446-6620 19 CRYSTAL: A NEW CHAPTER
THE BIG
CRYSTAL THROUGH THE EYES OF… -n .ul] ĀþĀā, reno[ned &ritish docuQentar] photographer Mark Power, famed for his meticulously crafted images taken with a large-format camera, captured the Ánal stages oJ Crystal Symphony’s dry dock restoration in 8rieste, -tal] ³ the Árst chapter in a series oJ artist collaborations titled “Crystal Through The Eyes Of…” Here, Power reveals what inspired him, alongside a selection of images from his dramatic Metamorphosis portfolio. PICTURE G Interview ZOE HEARNE Images MARK POWER left CRYSTAL SYMPHONY I, JULY 2023, MARK POWER
CRYSTAL THROUGH THE EYES OF… YOU’RE VERY AWARE OF THE SIZE OF SHIPS WHEN YOU STAND CLOSE TO THEM BECAUSE YOU RARELY SEE A SHIP LIKE THIS OUT OF WATER. THEY ARE ENORMOUS; EVERYTHING IS ON A GARGANTUAN SCALE “ ” Clockwise from left CRYSTAL SYMPHONY II, JULY 2023, MARK POWER; CRYSTAL SYMPHONY IV, JULY 2023, MARK POWER; CRYSTAL SYMPHONY III, JULY 2023, MARK POWER CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 22
Can you tell us a little about your working process? I don’t take thousands of pictures. It’s very much about having a relationship with the subject while I’m standing in front of it, freezing a moment in time which is never going to be the same again. It’s a kind of memento mori, I suppose. People think of shipyards as stark, gritty places. How did you approach finding beauty in this environment? It’s an old adage, but there’s beauty to be found everywhere. You only have to look. Over the past 25 years, I’ve done a lot of work in construction sites, including shipyards, and I don’t find them stark or gritty at all. I love the contrast between enormous industrial spaces and intimate, tiny corners – between big objects and small ones. I also enjoy the accidental sculptures that are created by the workers, made without any artistic intent but which are often astonishingly beautiful. A good example of this would be the blue canvas that I found tossed over the ship’s propeller, which couldn’t have been done more aesthetically if they’d tried. And the point is, they hadn’t tried at all… it was only there to perform a function. Photography is a powerful medium for storytelling.What stories or messages do you hope Metamorphosis conveys to your audience? I’ve never seen myself as a “storyteller.” I’m more interested in making individual pictures that contain many layers of detail and information to suggest a number of issues. I try to imagine myself as an alien, looking at the pictures for the first time and finding interest in everything equally. In other words, everything within the image is of equal importance, and I’m not telling the viewer exactly what to look at. How did you attempt to capture the scale of Crystal Symphony? You’re very aware of the size of ships when you stand close to them because you rarely see a ship like this out of water. They are enormous; everything is on a gargantuan scale. Sometimes – often – a photograph struggles to convey scale accurately. So where possible, in Trieste, I used people to give a sense of scale. ZH ZH ZH ZH MP MP MP MP Do you still use a large-format film camera, or do you prefer digital media? I used a large-format film camera (5” x 4” negatives) for more than 20 years but made the switch to digital in 2013. I managed to find a digital version of my technical camera, with the same movements I was used to. It meant that I was able to make the same kind of pictures digitally as I used to make on film. This was important to me because I had developed a way of looking, and of making pictures, that I didn’t want to lose. All photographers are in search of their individual voice, something that – if you find it – makes your photographs instantly recognizable. I like to think that after all these years, I have managed to find my own voice. What’s your next big project? I’m currently putting together a book that uses pictures from the many, many diªerent industrial/manufacturing sites I’ve had the pleasure to photograph over the years. I’ve mixed them up, and there are no captions, so we’re never sure where we are or what we’re looking at. I’m trying to make the point that it’s possible to make powerful, beautiful, eloquent, and deeply personal work within the corporate sector. I want it to be a celebration of the possibilities to make good work when trust exists between the company and myself. Crystal gave me complete freedom to photograph whatever I wanted on board their ships. I was never told what to do, and I was very grateful for that. Were you surprised to be invited to photograph a ship mid-restoration? I was really pleased that I was being encouraged to photograph this process. Normally all you would see is the finished article, in all its glory. But it was recognized that there’s a real beauty in this act of change. There’s a strange beauty to these images, a kind of splendor to them that harks back, perhaps, to the way travel used to be. A limited edition of Mark Power’s images of Crystal Symphony are available to buy from Magnum Photos, priced at £3,000 for a 20" x 26.5" image on 24" × 30.5" paper (edition of eight, plus two artist’s proofs), and £5,000 for a 32" x 42.5" image on 40" × 50.5" paper (edition of four, plus two artist’s proofs). Prints are oªered as archival pigment prints, signed by the artist on the verso. Please contact londongallery@magnumphotos.com for more information. ZH ZH ZH MP MP MP CRYSTAL THROUGH THE EYES OF… CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 24
CRYSTAL THROUGH THE EYES OF… Clockwise from above CRYSTAL SYMPHONY VII, JULY 2023, MARK POWER; CRYSTAL SYMPHONY VIII, JULY 2023, MARK POWER; CRYSTAL SYMPHONY V, JULY 2023, MARK POWER; CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 25 IT’S AN OLD ADAGE, BUT THERE’S BEAUTY TO BE FOUND EVERYWHERE.YOU ONLY HAVE TO LOOK. I’VE DONE A LOT OF WORK ON CONSTRUCTION SITES AND SHIPYARDS AND I DON’T FIND THEM STARK OR GRITTY AT ALL “ ”
Left CRYSTAL SYMPHONY IX, JULY 2023, MARK POWER CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 27
THERE IS NO LIMIT Gorilla safaris, chartered helicopter rides, authentic farm-to-table cuisine in incredible settings – Crystal’s new portfolio of Unique Experiences by Abercrombie & Kent will elevate guests’ adventures on land as well as at sea, to enrich and enhance every voyage. CRYSTAL + ABERCROMBIE & KENT Words FRANCES FOX TO WHAT WE CAN DO CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 28
Explorers have always been great storytellers – with tales of exotic lands, curious encounters, and incredible experiences brought home like souvenirs. In recent years, travelers have told their tales on social media. Our feeds are filled with the impressive adventures of friends and influencers, fueling our appetite for increasingly immersive, oªbeat, daring ways to experience the essence of a destination. For many, it is enough to simply stand and stare at the pyramids; but some of us have a desire to delve deeper, to duck through narrow passageways in search of ancient treasures, accompanied by an Egyptologist who will translate the stories painted within. Why walk through the rainforest when you can zipline through the tree canopy, surrounded by the rainbow-flash of hummingbirds? Unique experiences have become the ultimate luxury and the most precious social currency of travel. Which is why, when Crystal joined A&K Travel Group in June 2022, it was a game-changer for the cruise company’s shore excursions. Crystal has always been a leader at sea; but now, with A&K’s longstanding expertise and global network of people all passionate about travel – polar explorers and wildlife experts, society fixers and the best local guides all over the world – Crystal will be able to deliver the kind of next-level shore experiences other cruise lines cannot match. “What we are bringing to Crystal is the accumulation of six decades of creating unique travel experiences, through an in-depth knowledge of each of the destinations, and the connections that our people have,” says Fernando Delgado, Chief Product Oºcer at Abercrombie & Kent, who is helming the operation to elevate Crystal’s shore excursions to the next level. “It is through those connections that we can get access to places that other travelers cannot go.” With Crystal now part of the A&K family, guests will have the flexibility to craft a bespoke journey that encompasses more than just a cruise. Cruise itineraries can be topped and tailed with Pre- and Post-Cruise Extensions, seamlessly curated by one global team at every stage of the journey – whether that’s spending a few more nights in the departure port town, or something more adventurous. “Let’s say you are taking a cruise from Mombasa to Dubai; that is a perfect opportunity to take a pre-cruise safari at our Olonana camp in Kenya, or Gorilla Forest Camp in Uganda,” says Delgado. It will even be possible for guests to insert a bespoke overland interlude into their cruise, flying oª for a private adventure before rejoining their ship later. “On a cruise along the coast of South America, for example, from Manta in Ecuador we could charter one of our Ecoventura yachts for 20 guests, and give them a week in the Galápagos while the ship continues to sail down to Lima.” As part of the project, Delgado’s team and A&K’s global network of local guides are devising a revolutionary series of out-of-this-world Unique Experiences and Overland Adventures, finding innovative ways to engage guests in the essence of a destination while presenting it in a new light. “What I want is to move away from what everybody is doing, over and over again,” Delgado says. “More exclusivity, more uniqueness, more authenticity.” “We really want to surprise the guests, give them the kind of experiences you wouldn’t be able to find in a guidebook,” says Stefanie Schmudde, Abercrombie & Kent’s Senior Vice President of Global Product Strategy, who is working with Delgado on the project. “We want them to turn a corner and say ‘Wow! I was not expecting that!’” A&K’s team have been brainstorming ways of layering elements of the native culture – whether it’s an unusual mode of transport, local cuisine or music – so that experiences become diverse and multi-sensorial. The sky really is the limit. “I love the idea of taking a chartered helicopter ride to a destination a few hours away, and getting our guests into a completely new setting,” Schmudde says. “Or arriving in Italy and having a row of luxury cars like Ferraris to drive oª to an activity – perhaps a cookery class, or a farm-to-table culinary experience in an incredible setting; or high-adrenalin activities such as flying a fighter jet. There is no limit to what we can do.” The result is Crystal’s portfolio of Unique Experiences and Overland Adventures by Abercrombie & Kent, which launches in 2024 in countries ranging from Australia to Argentina. Each is a one-oª, with group size strictly limited to a maximum of 18 Crystal guests, on a first-come, first-served basis. “We want to get back to the pioneer mindset that Abercrombie & Kent had at the very beginning, when Geoªrey Kent had the vision of doing safaris in a completely diªerent way,” Delgado says. “Central to everything was the experience of the guest.” CRYSTAL + ABERCROMBIE & KENT Visit our website to discover more about Crystal’s portfolio of Unique Experiences and Overland Adventures by Abercrombie & Kent. CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | +1-800-446-6620 29
THE MASTER Nobu Matsuhisa is one of the world’s most celebrated chefs, which is why we’re proud to announce that his unique onboard restaurant concept, Umi Uma, has returned to Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. In this exclusive interview, the sushi master talks about his passion for cooking. Interview PAUL FEINSTEIN NOBU MATSUHISA CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 30 The name “Nobu Matsuhisa” conjures many things for many people. It represents one of the first modern sushi restaurants in Los Angeles: Matsuhisa, opened in 1987. It’s famous for the ground-breaking Japanese/Peruvian fusion cuisine served at his eponymous Nobu restaurants, found in more than 50 locations internationally. And it’s a byword for luxury accommodation at the 18 Nobu hotels dotted around the globe. Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa is arguably the world’s most celebrated Japanese chef for a reason. He’s been honing his craft in restaurants since the 1960s and has been greatly influenced by time spent living in places like Peru, Argentina, and even Alaska. He’s won a much-coveted James Beard Award, and his hospitality empire continues to grow and grow with no end in sight. Which brings us to his collaboration with Crystal, and his one-of-a-kind restaurant Umi Uma. The name roughly means sea horse in Japanese, mirroring the Crystal double sea horse logo, and the menu features a cornucopia of Nobu specialties like his Crispy Rice Cake with spicy tuna and his uber-famous Black Cod with miso. It’s one of the most desirable dining options for any cruise ship on the high seas, and it’s exclusive to Crystal. We chatted with the superstar chef about the return of Umi Uma to Crystal and what keeps him inspired as he continues to grow his thriving restaurant and hotel businesses.
How would you describe the Umi Uma experience? Umi Uma is a 60-seat restaurant, so not too big. It’s a mix of homey, friendly, and comfortable, with really good food and service. Because it’s on a cruise ship, it’s homier – as you get to know the same customers every day. That means you get to make it more like a family. What first attracted you to working with Crystal to create a restaurant concept at sea? Well, I started it in 2003, and in the beginning, it was a big challenge for me. We have restaurants in cities, but we never did it on a cruise ship because I worried about how I could get fresh products and how I could do business every day. So, I started the challenge little by little, just to understand more than before. But I already had the concept with Matsuhisa with exactly the same menu, and the same service, which I started with Crystal Cruises. When you were creating this restaurant, what was your number-one priority? It’s quality. Because again, my concern from the beginning was, “How can I get fresh products?” You know, I like to go to another country, and I like to see the market, even the fish market and vegetable market. I like to find new products and bring them to the restaurant and start cooking for myself. And as for sustainability, from the beginning, I don’t want to waste anything. I appreciate what it means to catch fresh fish and to find good quality vegetables and meat. But I really don’t want to waste anything and as much as possible, use everything. When you think about the concept of ikegai (the things that give your life worth, meaning, or purpose), what does it mean to you as a restaurateur? I started when I was 18, and a career as a chef was my dream. I’m in the restaurant business not only to make money, but to have customers coming, enjoying their dinner, smiling, and then coming back again. This is what I want to do every day, so this is my ikegai. When did you know you wanted to do this for a living? When I was a kid, my brother took me to a sushi restaurant. This was my first experience. This was the first time I sat at the counter and watched the chef make [the sushi] one by one. This experience wowed me, and I knew then I wanted to be chef. Is it possible to become a sushi master if you don’t have that singular focus and commitment? Anyone can make sushi, but if people want to go to the next level, it has to be with passion. Without passion, they’re just doing the job. When you hire people, how can you tell if they have that passion? In the beginning I interviewed new people myself. My first question was, “Do you like to make sushi and do you like cooking?” Some people, before I asked the question, said, “How much will you pay me?” That means I’m not going to hire them. Can you talk a little bit about the design of Umi Uma and your thinking behind it? In the restaurant business, the most important things are good food, good service, and good atmosphere. For me, the design is important and it’s part of that combination of good food, good service, and good atmosphere. How would you describe the style of service at Umi Uma? Umi Uma is only 60 seats, so you have to pay close attention. But I’m not looking for Michelin-style service; it’s more casual, with good food and people eating while they’re comfortable. Will you be cooking on any of the cruises? Can we expect to see you behind the counter at Umi Uma? Of course. I go on cruises, and I’m a guest chef. I cook, I do a cooking demonstration, and I stay in the kitchen to create new dishes with the chefs. Cooking is my life; cooking is my job. The original Nobu opened in New York in 1994, so this year marks its 30th anniversary. Looking back, what are you most proud of? I started training as a chef at 18, after finishing high school. Now, 56 years later, we have 56 Nobu restaurants and 16 Matsuhisa restaurants. We’re on five continents. I have so much that I’m proud of. At the same time, all the teams grew like my family. So, I’m proud of that, too. Japanese and Peruvian cuisine fusion was a new concept in 1994. What inspired you to bring those flavors together? I was born in Japan, and I started training in Japan. Japan is very simple. For sashimi you use soy sauce and wasabi. But when I moved to Peru when I was 24, I tasted a ceviche. And ceviche is the same fish but cooked with lemon juice. They never use soy sauce. And then they use garlic, chili paste, cilantro, all the same fish, but cooked in a completely diªerent way. After this experience, my eyes opened, and it meant cooking with more freedom. Then I started to create more while keeping the simple product but cooking in a diªerent way. Black Cod with miso is the dish you’re most famous for.Why do you think it struck a chord with so many people? The miso cod is basically a very traditional Japanese food. In Japan, we didn’t use to have refrigerators. To make the fish keep longer, you marinated or salted. With the black cod, I started to marinate one day, two days, three days. And finally, after three days, I cooked it for myself, and it tasted great. Then I put it on the menu and started recommending it to customers. The first one ate it and loved it. Then the second customer loved it. After a while it became my signature dish and the most world famous. Do you think you’ll ever retire? I like to keep working and I like to keep spending time with my team. I like to see my customers as much as possible. You know, life is beautiful. And I enjoy my life. That means no retirement. NOBU MATSUHISA PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM PF NM CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 32
NOBU MATSUHISA Clockwise from top left NOBU’S FAMOUS BLACK COD WITH MISO; SUSHI BAR PREPARATION; UMI UMA, CRYSTAL SYMPHONY CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 33 ANYONE CAN MAKE SUSHI, BUT IF PEOPLE WANT TO GO TO THE NEXT LEVEL, IT HAS TO BE WITH PASSION “ ”
DINING ONBOARD A WORLD OF FLAVORS THE BISTRO Inspired by a classic Parisian bistro, this spacious and airy coªee bar with panoramic sea views is open from dawn to dusk, serving fresh coªee, pastries, bagels and fruit in the morning, and a selection of international cheeses, pâtés, prosciutto, smoked salmon and desserts through late afternoon. WATERSIDE RESTAURANT Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and oªering elevated international cuisine from a daily changing menu, Waterside is the perfect place to enjoy creative, seasonal cooking in a stylish setting with beautiful ocean views. OSTERIA D’OVIDIO Authentic Italian fine dining takes center stage at Osteria d’Ovidio. With a menu created in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Stefano Di Gennaro, this specialty restaurant oªers a modern twist on traditional Italian cuisine, showcasing a blend of the best of northern and southern Italy. UMI UMA Umi Uma is one of Crystal’s awardwinning specialty dining oªerings, and the only Nobu restaurant at sea. A signature Japanese-Peruvian fusion menu, developed by Master Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa in his world-famous restaurants around the globe, is served in our elegantly reimagined dining rooms and sushi bars. MARKETPLACE Oªering freshly prepared buªet dining with floor-to-ceiling windows and an expansive open-air seating area, Marketplace serves breakfast and lunch, including a carving station, with a dizzying array of hot and cold choices, from appetizers to desserts. CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 34
DINING ONBOARD Dining with Crystal is the ultimate culinary experience. With nine distinct options, ranging from the only Nobu restaurant at sea to a relaxed poolside grill, or 24-hour in-suite dining, there’s something to suit every taste and mood. THE VINTAGE ROOM This private gourmet food and wine pairing private-dining space o ers the opportunity to sample some of the best vintages available at sea, with expert guidance from Crystal’s Head Sommelier and access to the vast collection in the ship’s onboard cellar. TRIDENT GRILL Our poolside grill serves lunch and snacks throughout the day, with a casual menu of comfort classics that includes burgers, melts and strip steak cooked to order, accompanied by crispy fries and freshly made salads. 24-HOUR IN-SUITE DINING Dine in the comfort of your own suite 24 hours a day, with a broad selection that includes everything from our extensive Waterside Restaurant menu to gourmet sandwiches, burgers, and succulent steaks. Penthouse guests can also enjoy in-suite dining from our specialty restaurants, during opening hours. SCOOPS GELATO BAR Enjoy authentic Italian gelato with a spectacular sea view. Scoops serves delicious, fresh, homemade gelato and frozen yogurt in an array of innovative must-try flavors – alongside tried and tested favorites – all liberally sprinkled with tasty toppings. TASTES KITCHEN & BAR From swordfish tacos to a classic Reuben sandwich, Tastes Kitchen & Bar takes you on a dining tour of the world, serving an exciting mix of global, tapas-style sharing dishes in an elegant and relaxed setting. CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 35
Words HORATIO CLARE “The true peace of God,” Joseph Conrad wrote, “begins at any spot a thousand miles from the nearest land.” Conrad knew the oceans, their rages and their might, but when you talk to master mariners it is the wonder and the balm of the seas that moves them, not the storms. I went around the world on freighters, [ith the captains and cre[s oJ container ships 1] Árst captain [as liOe a (anish Fear, gri^^led [ith FulO and taciturnity. Great seas and hard-working ships make and reward strong, unsentimental people, and 'aptain 0arsen [as such a Qan ,e e\pressed his orders curtl] and his Oindness gruJfl], and taOing our ship across the %tlantic, across the 1editerranean, through 7ue^ and the -ndian 3cean, through the 1alacca 7traits, across the 7outh 'hina 7ea and across the 4aciÁc Oept hiQ ver] Fus] &ut in the Qidst oJ a liJetiQe of voyages he was still as delighted as I was by the universe that is the sea. We came across whales several tiQes to encounter those great citi^ens oJ the Flue [orld is to understand ho[ trul] rich and strange our planet is. “I want to get that whale and take him home to my wife!” the captain said. I knew what he
ON OCEANS Qeant, Fut [e settled Jor photographs 8he fl]ing Ásh, the sOidding shear[aters and the voyaging terns, the sweet quiet of the fo’c’sle, where you cannot hear the engine, only the hiss off the bow cutting on through the water, as if forever, through all the moods and colors of the sea, moved him as they did me. There are moments on a voyage when you experience the quiet harmony of transcendence. It comes from the ocean’s giJt oJ proportion its scale returns ]ou to ]our true si^e 3nl] love Qatters then, and ]ou do not have or need [ords Jor ]our Jeelings at that QoQent, as ]ou ga^e upon the sea 3ne evening on the 4aciÁc the captain said, “When you get home you will tell them where you have been, and they will imagine sunsets and sunrises, but they will never understand, however much you tell them, how vast the oceans are.” It was as if the sea itself had spoken! But you will know what he meant. The great secret of the ocean is out there, and it is much, much bigger than any landed life can see. HORATIO CLARE is the award-winning author of “Down To The Sea In Ships: Of Ageless Oceans and Modern Men,” and other books.
LONG-TAILED MACAQUE, SRI LANKA
The Spice Routes have connected the East and the West since ancient times. Ships sailed these trade routes from Indonesia to the Mediterranean, via India and Egypt, the Arabian Peninsula and Africa’s spice islands, threading together destinations through flavor and fragrance. The souks of Dubai and Muscat and Old Jeddah are perfumed with frankincense and rose petals; while in India and Sri Lanka, tamarind and cardamom scent the air, and trails lead through vivid seas of green to hilltop tea plantations. In the streets of George Town, capital of Malaysia’s Penang Island, the heady scent of jasmine mingles with aromas from food stalls where sizzling seafood is wrapped in banana leaves. The markets of Mombasa are heaped with cinnamon and grains of paradise; while the Indonesia island of Sabang is a picture-book paradise, where monkeys play in the palm trees leaning out over white-sand beaches. These are destinations intertwined not just by sea routes but by myths and storytelling, each ripe for exploring. AFRICA ANDASIA CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 39 ITINERARIES ABU DHABI, UAE
ITINERARIES CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 40 MUMBAI, INDIA Embark on a voyage of discovery through the cultural riches and natural wonders of South and Southeast Asia. Setting o from Mumbai, your first stop is the enchanting city of Cochin, a kaleidoscope of vivid colors and picturesque vistas that was once a key hub on the ancient spice routes. Then, after a restful sea day and the chance to fully unwind, immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s culture and traditions in the island’s former capital, Colombo. On day eight, savor the celebrated local cuisine on the tropical island paradise of Sabang, nestled in the stunning Indonesian archipelago. End your voyage in Singapore, where an overnight stay allows plenty of time to explore this cosmopolitan city’s historical heritage and contemporary attractions. MUMBAI to SINGAPORE
41 ITINERARIES CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA EXPLORE SINGAPORE Make the most of an overnight stay in Singapore to delve into this vibrant multicultural citystate, famed for its architectural style, foodie culture, and hawker markets. Immerse yourself in the elegant mansions and polo greens of colonial Singapore, the mystique of Chinatown, and the heady aroma of spices along Arab Street. Date Destination Arrival Departure JAN 7 MUMBAI, INDIA — 7:00 PM JAN 8 DAY AT SEA — — JAN 9 COCHIN, INDIA 9:00 AM 8:00 PM JAN 10 DAY AT SEA — — JAN 11 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA 7:00 AM 6:00 PM JAN 12 DAY AT SEA — — JAN 13 DAY AT SEA — — JAN 14 SABANG, INDONESIA 9:00 AM 5:00 PM JAN 15 DAY AT SEA — — JAN 16 PORT KLANG (KUALA LUMPUR), MALAYSIA 8:00 AM 6:00 PM JAN 17 SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE 10:00 AM OVERNIGHT JAN 18 SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE — — 11 NIGHTS January 7 – 18, 2025 CRYSTAL SYMPHONY SINGAPORE Port Klang Colombo MUMBAI Sabang Cochin Indian Ocean
CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 42 ITINERARIES SINGAPOREto MUMBAI 12 NIGHTS March 6 – 18, 2025 CRYSTAL SYMPHONY Date Destination Arrival Departure MAR 6 SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE — 11:00 PM MAR 7 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 8 PENANG, MALAYSIA 7:00 AM 5:00 PM MAR 9 PHUKET, THAILAND 8:00 AM 5:00 PM MAR 10 SABANG, INDONESIA 9:00 AM 7:00 PM MAR 11 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 12 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 13 COLOMBO, SRI LANKA 9:00 AM 10:00 PM MAR 14 TUTICORIN, INDIA 9:00 AM 6:00 PM MAR 15 COCHIN, INDIA 9:00 AM 6:00 PM MAR 16 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 17 MUMBAI, INDIA 9:00 AM OVERNIGHT MAR 18 MUMBAI, INDIA — — VISIT THE ORANGUTANS A day in Penang allows you time to travel to the wonderful Orang Utan Island Sanctuary, which serves as a breeding, rehabilitation, and conservation facility for these endangered primates. While on the island, you can safely observe orangutans up close in their natural habitat – an unforgettable experience. SINGAPORE Colombo Tuticorin Sabang Penang Cochin Phuket St.John's MUMBAI Indian Ocean Explore coastal gems and enchanting island destinations on this fascinating 12-night voyage, with each port revealing a di erent aspect of Asia. Discover the vibrant Malaysian island of Penang, and its colorful capital, George Town. Marvel at the palmfringed paradise of Phuket, the cultural tapestry of Colombo, and the scenic allure of Cochin – where each vista reveals a new photo opportunity.Your voyage ends with two days in Mumbai, allowing ample time to visit its remarkable UNESCO treasures. PHUKET, THAILAND
Date Destination Arrival Departure MAR 18 MUMBAI, INDIA — 7:00 PM MAR 19 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 20 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 21 MUSCAT, OMAN 9:00 AM OVERNIGHT MAR 22 MUSCAT, OMAN — 7:00 PM MAR 23 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 24 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 25 SALALAH, OMAN 8:00 AM 6:00 PM MAR 26 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 27 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 28 DAY AT SEA — — MAR 29 JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA 8:00 AM OVERNIGHT MAR 30 JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA — — 43 ITINERARIES CRYSTALCRUISES.COM | 1-866-945-3594 MUMBAI to JEDDAH 12 NIGHTS March 18 – 30, 2025 CRYSTAL SYMPHONY PAST AND PRESENT As the most historic port in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is filled with cultural riches. Although today the city buzzes with modernity, the past is very much present, largely thanks to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Jeddah, where you can wander through quaint streets lined with traditional 19th-century architecture. MUMBAI JEDDAH Salalah Muscat Arabian Sea Red Sea Follow the intrepid adventurers who braved uncharted waters to establish the spice routes and, with extended sea days reminiscent of historical voyages, allow the rhythm of the waves to transport you back to the golden age of exploration. Overnight stays in picturesque Muscat andSalalah add a modern twist to this journey of yesteryear, while your voyage ends with an overnight inJeddah, gateway to the marble-clad mosques of Mecca. JEDDAH, SAUDI ARABIA
CALL OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR PRICING, ITINERARIES, AND MORE 44 ITINERARIES Make time for an overnight stay in Mombasa, Kenya’s coastal capital with a vibrant mix of African, Indian and Arabian cultures. Then sail across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean to the paradise archipelago of the Seychelles. Drop anchor at the islands of Mahé, Praslin and Digue. Try Creole cooking, walk through the verdant interior to hidden waterfalls, spot tortoises and kick back on exquisite beaches of white sand. Onwards, to the luminous waters of the Maldives. Next stop, Colombo, Sri Lanka’s eclectic capital, where colonial houses sit beside skyscrapers, mosques and Buddhist temples. In Goa beaches beckon, or explore temples and churches. Finally Mumbai, with all its Bollywood razzle-dazzle and UNESCO treasures. Overland journeys can be arranged to the Taj Mahal and Jaipur. MOMBASA to MUMBAI SPECIAL GUEST: GEOFFREY KENT We are thrilled to announce that Georey Kent, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Abercrombie & Kent and a luminary in the travel industry, will join us on this cruise from Mombasa, Kenya to Colombo, Sri Lanka. This journey is special for Georey as it begins in Kenya, his childhood home and the birthplace of Abercrombie & Kent. His presence on board gives our guests a rare insight into his extraordinary experiences and captivating stories of his life in travel. BAA ATOLL, MALDIVES
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