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March 28, 2025

For 35 years, Crystal has redefined luxury cruising, offering an unparalleled blend of exquisite service, sophisticated accommodations, and world-class dining experiences.

Since its inception, the brand has consistently set new benchmarks in the cruise industry, known for its meticulous attention to detail and its ability to craft personalized and immersive voyages for discerning travelers. To mark this extraordinary milestone, Crystal has announced a series of exclusive 2025-themed sailings aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity, each designed to celebrate the company’s legacy and continued dedication to excellence.

These special voyages will bring together some of the most revered names in fine dining, travel, and entertainment, giving guests the opportunity to engage with renowned figures who have played an integral role in shaping the Crystal experience. Among the distinguished guests set to join these anniversary sailings are Michelin-starred Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa, Abercrombie & Kent Founder Geoffrey Kent, and several of Crystal’s most beloved captains and cruise directors, including John Oekland, Egil Giske, Paul McFarland, and Gary Hunter.

Beyond the presence of these esteemed personalities, the anniversary sailings will feature an array of exclusive events, intimate reunions, and captivating performances that celebrate Crystal’s rich heritage. According to Keith Cox, Vice President of Entertainment and Enrichment, these themed voyages offer more than just a journey—they provide an immersive experience designed to ignite passions, whether through live music, exquisite dining, or cultural exploration. He emphasized that the 35th-anniversary celebration represents a unique opportunity for Crystal to honor its loyal guests and esteemed partners while continuing its legacy of delivering extraordinary travel experiences.

Exclusive 35th Anniversary Sailings Aboard Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity

The first of Crystal’s celebratory voyages will take place aboard Crystal Symphony, embarking on an unforgettable nine-night Mediterranean journey from Tarragona (Barcelona) to Civitavecchia (Rome) from June 4-13, 2025. This itinerary will be enriched by the presence of Geoffrey Kent, former Captain John Oekland, and Cruise Director Paul McFarland. Guests will visit some of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque and culturally significant destinations, including Palma de Mallorca, Mahón, the breathtaking coastal villages of Cinque Terre, Livorno (gateway to Pisa and Florence), and Porto Santo Stefano. The voyage concludes with an overnight stay in Rome, allowing guests ample time to explore the Eternal City’s timeless wonders.

On July 10-18, 2025, Crystal Symphony will embark on yet another remarkable journey, this time from Thessaloniki to Civitavecchia (Rome). This eight-night voyage will welcome the return of former Cruise Director Paul McFarland alongside Broadway performer Christine Andreas and renowned musician Salvatore Hasard. Ports of call include the idyllic islands of Mykonos and Santorini, the historic city of Heraklion in Crete, the volcanic landscapes of Lipari, and the vibrant port of Naples before the ship’s grand arrival in Rome.

Aboard Crystal Serenity, guests will also have the chance to partake in exclusive anniversary sailings. One of the most highly anticipated voyages will be a seven-night roundtrip journey from Copenhagen, set to sail from July 15-22, 2025. This itinerary will be particularly special as it features the presence of Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa, former Captain Egil Giske, and Cruise Director Gary Hunter. Guests will enjoy an extraordinary culinary experience, including live cooking demonstrations and an intimate, one-of-a-kind Vintage Room dinner hosted by Chef Nobu himself. Reflecting on his long-standing collaboration with Crystal, Chef Nobu expressed his deep appreciation for the brand, noting that sailing with Crystal always feels like coming home, as they share a mutual passion for excellence and innovation in hospitality.

As the year’s celebrations continue, Crystal Serenity will embark on yet another spectacular journey, this time exploring the vibrant fall landscapes of Canada and New England. From October 22-31, 2025, this nine-night voyage will take travelers from Québec City to New York City, offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s most breathtaking seasonal displays. Guests will enjoy an overnight stay in Québec City before continuing on to the charming town of Baie-Comeau, the historic region of Gaspé, and the lively maritime city of Halifax. The voyage will then include two overnight stays—first in Boston, where travelers can soak in the city’s rich colonial history, and finally in New York City, providing the perfect conclusion to this unforgettable journey. Former Cruise Director Gary Hunter will be part of this sailing, adding to the refined entertainment and signature hospitality that Crystal is known for.

A Tribute to Excellence and a Vision for the Future

As Crystal marks 35 years of innovation and excellence at sea, these commemorative voyages stand as a testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to crafting extraordinary travel experiences. From its inception, Crystal has set itself apart by offering more than just luxurious accommodations—it has created a distinctive lifestyle at sea, where guests are treated to world-class dining, immersive cultural programs, and personalized service that goes above and beyond expectations.

The anniversary celebrations are not just about looking back at past achievements but also about embracing the future with renewed passion and dedication. As Crystal continues to evolve, it remains steadfast in its promise to deliver transformative journeys that enrich the lives of its guests. These 2025 voyages serve as a bridge between Crystal’s remarkable legacy and its bright future, bringing together longtime guests, distinguished personalities, and new travelers eager to experience the magic that has defined the brand for over three decades.

With a lineup of carefully curated itineraries, exclusive events, and the presence of industry icons such as Chef Nobu and Geoffrey Kent, these anniversary voyages offer more than just a luxurious escape—they provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate a legacy built on excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to delivering the finest experiences at sea. As Crystal sails into the future, it does so with the same pioneering spirit that has made it an icon in the world of luxury cruising, ensuring that every journey remains as extraordinary as the last.

Don’t miss updates, news and reviews about Crystal Cruises on Cruising Journal.

Ronan Ryan

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