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Crystal Cruises launched its newest ship --
the 62-passenger yacht, Crystal Esprit -- in the Seychelles yesterday.
 The
debut marks a milestone for the line, as it expands from its longtime fleet of
two luxury cruise ships into the yachting world (and to river cruising in 2016).
The elegant ceremony took place at Eden Island Marina in Mahé, Victoria, and was
attended by local dignitaries, travel partners, and executives from the line's
new parent company, Genting Hong Kong (GHK). (Click to
enlarge - Image; David Fiske "World of Cruising)
The yacht's godmother, Lady Gaenor Anne Meakes, fiancée of Mark Richards, an
eight-time champion skipper of the 628-mile Sydney-to-Hobart yacht race,
christened the ship by breaking a bottle of Louis Roederer, Cristal Brut 2004,
against the hull. The evening finished with an elaborate fireworks display.
 Crystal's
president and CEO, Edie Rodriguez said "Since joining Crystal just over two
years ago, a personal goal of mine has been to see Crystal realize the next step
in continuing to pioneer luxury travel and hospitality; and today I am seeing
that dream fulfilled."
The majority of passengers booked on the sold-out sailing are actually new to
Crystal. The maiden voyage is a seven-night cruise around the Seychelles
islands, followed by a two-night land program in Dubai, in time for New Year's
Eve.
Crystal Esprit's inaugural season will feature itineraries in the Mediterranean
and Adriatic Coast, Holy Land and Middle East, and the Seychelles and Indian
Ocean. Complimentary cultural and adventure tours are available in port, as well
as extra-fee, more boutique excursions.
The all-suite yacht will feature multiple dining venues (main restaurant,
outdoor café, grill and a self-serve snack spot, as well as 24-hour room
service), a couple of bars and an aft marina, with complimentary kayaks, jet
skis, and fishing and snorkeling equipment. It also carries a small submarine
that will offer 30-minute rides to two passengers at a time for the rate of $599
per person. Bicycles are available for passenger use in port. |
