Crystal gives sneak peek into river raptures

Crystal Cruises has revealed more details into its luxurious foray into river cruising, which will set sail in Europe in March 2017.

Hot on the heels of its Crystal River Cruises announcement, the cruise line has announced its collection of two river vessels will boast a yacht-like design featuring larger accommodations and space-to-guest ratio than any other river cruise ship.

The ships will also include the signature all-inclusive six-star service, plus a fresh twist to the traditional river itineraries and experiences.

“We continue to listen to what our guests and the luxury traveller want, and river cruises are what they’ve been telling us they want for some time – it’s a natural extension of the exceptional ocean cruise Crystal has offered for the past 25 years,” Crystal’s president and ceo Edie Rodriguez said.

“But more importantly, they want to experience river cruises on a luxury Crystal vessel, and their desires will be fulfilled on our luxury Crystal river yachts.”

The 70-suite luxury river yachts, which will be built by German shipyard Lloyd Werft, will surpass current and planned river boats or ships, are shooting for the stars, launching a number of industry firsts when it comes to amenities and itineraries.

These include:

250 square-foot guest suites with walk-in wardrobes, American king size beds and bathrooms with double vanities
Two 500 square-foot Penthouse Suites with added comforts and conveniences
Spacious public areas, including Palm Court with a dance floor and glass-domed roof and a well-appointed fitness centre and spa

Itineraries, fares and bookings for Crystal River Cruises will be available beginning December 1 2015.

Crystal’s itineraries will intentionally deviate from traditional river cruise routes to avoid congestion of other vessels in port, while using its large suites to avoid the packing/unpacking hassles associated with pre and post hotel stays, as is common with other river operators.

Crystal will dedicate a portion of each cruise to sailing along some of the most picturesque rivers in central Europe – including destinations such as France, Germany, Switzerland, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria – during daytime hours, allowing travellers to relish the extraordinary scenery.

This timing also gives guests the chance to dance their way through the nightlife in select destinations with port overnights, which will include things like culinary experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants and local eateries, and exclusive evening events and entertainment.

“The beauty of river cruising is not only that travellers enjoy close-up access to more fascinating inland locales, but also that the rivers themselves are coveted destinations that shouldn’t be overlooked,” Rodriguez added.

“Our guests will have the opportunity to revel in the unique environment that sets river cruising apart from other travel experiences.”

During days spent in port, Crystal River Cruises will offer guests a bevy of the immersive Crystal Adventures as well as launch its newest shore-side programme called Active Exploration Adventures.

Tailored for guests wanting a high-intensity shore-side activity, Crystal is offering a complimentary active excursion for guests to explore the splendid European landscapes while staying fit on their vacation.

Travellers can also create their own active adventures using the many bicycles (electric or manual), segways and other active gear available on the ship for independent exploration. A luxury yacht tender will also be available for private yachting experiences that take guests to even more secluded areas within the destinations.

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