Crystal Cruises: An Unprecedented Immersion in Asia


Crystal Cruises, through its Grand Journeys, offers the opportunity to embark on extended voyages that allow for a deeper and more meaningful immersion into some of the most beautiful parts of the world, from discovering Northern Europe to exploring the diverse cultures of Africa and Asia.

The Grand Journeys by Crystal are designed to maximize destination exploration, especially thanks to their partnership with Abercrombie & Kent, offering meticulously curated excursions that immerse guests in the rich cultural heritage of each destination, along with exclusive events guided by regional experts.

In January 2025, Crystal Symphony will set sail for Asia on a 47-night Grand Journey from Singapore, offering the chance to discover extraordinary destinations ranging from the vibrant shores of Taiwan to the tropical beauty of Ko Samui, the mystique of Ha Long Bay, the dynamic energy of Hong Kong, and the lush jungles of Tokyo. This journey through Asia includes overnight stays in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Shanghai, and Singapore.

This voyage, which spans the first three months of the new year, begins on January 18, 2025, in Singapore, a vibrant, multicultural city-state in Southeast Asia known for its architectural style, food culture, and bustling street markets. During January, guests will visit destinations such as: Koh Samui, an emerald island off the southeastern coast of Thailand surrounded by stunning beaches and bays, where visitors can see the beautiful Hin Lut and Na Muang waterfalls or admire the enormous Buddha statue on Fan Island; Laem Chabang (Bangkok), globally renowned for its street food and impressive list of Michelin-starred restaurants, home to the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the ornate Grand Palace, and the towering Wat Arun temple; Sihanoukville in Cambodia, characterized by sunny beaches and a rich culture, where guests can visit the beautiful Wat Leu temple, explore unique spots like Bamboo Island, or simply relax on its expansive beaches; Ho Chi Minh City, known locally as Saigon, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s tumultuous past and its hopeful future, with opportunities to explore sacred temples and French colonial buildings; Chan May, the gateway to the cultural, historical, and natural wonders of Central Vietnam, renowned for its beautiful beaches, fragrant food, and lush rainforest; and Ha Long Bay, famous for its stunning natural landscapes, including thousands of limestone karsts and islets rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf.

In February, the journey aboard Crystal Symphony will continue, exploring more gems of this beautiful region, including Hong Kong, famous for its vibrancy and numerous skyscrapers; Keelung, the gateway to the modern and lively city of Taipei, where visitors can explore colorful night markets and the majestic Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall; Miyako-jima, dubbed the “Hawaii of Japan,” a tropical paradise known for its white beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving, while the island’s botanical gardens, spectacular cliffs, and scenic landscapes offer plenty of opportunities for exploration and photography; Kagoshima, the southernmost city of Japan, where guests can stroll through Japanese gardens, explore historical sites, or shop for traditional ceramics; Tokyo and its bustling port of Yokohama, where visitors can tour the Meiji Shrine, the Ginza district, the towering Tokyo Tower, and much more; Nagasaki, a thriving city on the northwestern coast of Kyushu island, where visitors can see Japan’s oldest Gothic-style wooden church and the Peace Park; and Shanghai, located just inland from the mouth of the mighty Yangtze River, where guests can visit the Jade Buddha Temple and the tranquil Yu Garden, impressive monuments to China’s history and style, and much more.

The voyage continues and concludes in March, with final stops before returning to Singapore, including Kota Kinabalu, the capital of Sabah, a sprawling and bustling city set between Tunku Abdul Rahman National Park and Mount Kinabalu, ideal for snorkeling and fascinating excursions; and Muara, a lively port city offering insight into the country’s maritime industry and trade, as well as numerous attractions, including Muara Beach, where guests can relax and enjoy the sea breeze. Nearby is Lumut Lagoon, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers, while Muara Town’s historic mosque showcases elegant Islamic architecture and provides a glimpse into the local culture.

Throughout this journey, guests can choose from various detailed excursions that offer a 360-degree exploration of each destination, combining culture, food, history, and modernity, all enhanced by Crystal Cruises‘ first-class service. This makes the Grand Journeys a perfect blend of exploration, luxury, and relaxation.

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Giorgia Lombardo

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