Crystal is entering 2026 with strong commercial momentum, high guest satisfaction and renewed confidence from both guests and the global travel advisor community, marking the next chapter in the brand’s revival.
Following its acquisition by A&K Travel Group in 2022, Crystal has undergone a methodical transformation. The brand’s two ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, returned to service in 2023 after multi-million-dollar refurbishments, with larger, refined suites, enhanced public spaces and a renewed focus on service and elegance.
2025 marked Crystal’s second full year of operations. During the year, the brand achieved net positive profitability, translating into strong demand. Looking ahead to 2026, Crystal enters the year from a position of strength, with bookings tracking ahead of prior years and a clear concentration of demand across its itineraries. The 2026 Asia season is sold out, Alaska is approaching capacity, and the Mediterranean and Northern Europe continue to perform strongly. Select sailings remain available, particularly on summer and fall voyages, including in The Americas and Caribbean and Europe and the Mediterranean.
“For more than three decades, Crystal has represented a very particular standard of luxury at sea. What we are seeing now is the result of deliberate investment in the things that matter most to our guests: space, service, thoughtful design and experiences that feel genuinely enriching. The momentum heading into 2026 reflects both the strength of our heritage and the relevance of the Crystal experience today,” said Matias LIra, senior vice president, trade sales – Americas, UK & EMEA.
Life Onboard
Crystal offers an experience that feels closer to staying in one of the world’s greatest hotels than a conventional cruise. With one of the highest guest-to-space ratio at sea and nearly one crew member per guest, life onboard is defined by sophistication, intuitive service and a sense of being genuinely looked after.
Dining remains a cornerstone of the Crystal experience, with nine restaurants across the fleet, including Umi Uma, the only dining venue at sea by chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the ocean’s only Beefbar in collaboration with restaurateur Riccardo Giraudi, and a curated Osteria d’Ovidio menu by three-time Michelin-starred Italian chef Massimiliano and restaurateur Raffaele Alajmo. Each vessel offers Le Casino de Monte-Carlo, created in partnership with Monte-Carlo Société des Bains de Mer. Wellness and enrichment are equally integral, from the Aurōra Spa to Broadway-standard entertainment and curated cultural programming.
Abercrombie & Kent Partnership
Crystal’s partnership with sister brand Abercrombie & Kent, extends the experience far beyond the ship. Throughout 2025, Crystal expanded this portfolio of A&K-curated journeys, integrating immersive shore experiences, overland adventures and pre- and post-cruise extensions directly into its itineraries.
Additionally, the brands announced a new chapter for A&K’s Expedition Cruises division through a strategic partnership with Crystal collaborating to deliver A&K’s cultural voyages aboard Crystal’s fleet. The initial August 2026 sailing sold out within weeks and 10 more voyages are scheduled for 2027.
Continued Investment and Industry Recognition
Crystal’s momentum in 2025 was reinforced by continued investment in the fleet, including a drydock for Crystal Symphony in late 2025.
In 2025, Crystal was named the Top Midsize-Ship Ocean Cruise Line in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, a title the brand held for nearly 30 consecutive years prior to its pause and relaunch.
Looking Ahead: Crystal Grace and the Future Fleet
Crystal’s confidence in its long-term future is underscored by the announcement of Crystal Grace, the brand’s first new ocean ship in 25 years, scheduled for delivery in May 2028. The 650-guest, all-suite vessel will represent a natural evolution of Crystal’s design and service philosophy. Crystal Grace’s 2028 inaugural season is set to go on sale in April 2026.
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